Esther's Blog

Book Review + Author Interview + Giveaway : FIRST Wildcard Tour : McKenzie by Penny Zeller

2010-09-01T02:26:00.003+08:00

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card author is:

Penny Zeller

and the book:

McKenzie (Montana Skies series #1)

Whitaker House (September 1, 2010)

*********************************

My Review

McKenzie is a wonderful read. Full of drama, love and emotions. Deceit, hurt and forgiveness. How God works through it all to bring about His expected end. Penny Zeller had me captivated. I read the whole book in one sitting. I just could not put it down. In my 2010 list of best Christian Fiction books, McKenzie has gone up straight to No.1. and I can't wait for book No.2 in the series. You have to read it. Do scroll below to the end of this post to see how you can win a copy or just go out to your the nearest bookstore and get a copy. You will not regret it.

***Special thanks to Cathy Hickling of Whitaker House for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Penny Zeller is the author of four books and numerous magazine articles in national and regional publications. She is an active volunteer in her community, serving as a women’s Bible study small-group leader and co-organizing a woman’s prayer group. Her passion is to use the gift of the written word that God has given her to glorify Him and to benefit His kingdom. When she’s not writing, Penny enjoys spending time with her family and camping, hiking, canoeing, and volleyball. She and her husband Lon reside in Wyoming with their two children.

Visit the author's website.

Product Details:

List Price: $6.99

Paperback: 320 pages

Publisher: Whitaker House (September 1, 2010)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1603742166

ISBN-13: 978-1603742160

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

September 18, 1881

Boston, Massachusetts

Clutching the envelope that had just been delivered to her home, McKenzie Worthington walked into the parlor and closed the doors behind her. Sitting down, she ran her finger over the familiar, hasty penmanship on the outside of the envelope. There was no return address, but McKenzie already knew who had sent the letter. Bracing herself for the words on the pages within, she carefully opened the seal and unfolded the tattered, soiled piece of stationery.

My dearest sister McKenzie,

I write this letter with a heavy heart and a fearful spirit. I am convinced that Darius is not the man I thought him to be when I married him. He drinks almost continually, and when there is no more money to purchase his whiskey, he places the blame on me. He used all the money in my trousseau long ago, and we are constantly on the run to avoid the law. His threats are many if I dare turn him in to the local sheriff.

We are without food much of the time, but Darius always finds funds for his alcohol. All the money sent to me in the past, he has found a way to spend. I wish more than anything that I could find a way to leave this place and return home. However, Darius has threatened my life if I leave and has arranged for several of his friends at the saloon to keep an eye on me. One of his friends, Bulldog, lives nearby and watches my every move. He scares me to death, McKenzie.

Please, help me get away from Darius. He is such a mean man with a horrid temper. I fear for my life, at times. If Darius knew I was writing to you, I know he would kill me. I ask again that you please not tell Mother and Father the seriousness of my situation, since they will surely say that I deserve it for running away with Darius. But please come, and come quickly.

With much love,

Kaydie

When she had finished reading the letter, McKenzie clutched it to her chest. She could feel a tear threatening to fall, and she diverted her attention to the mantel above the fireplace. A large, three-foot-square oil painting hung proudly in the same place it had for the past ten years. McKenzie stared at the three people in the portrait and suddenly yearned for things to be as they had been then. Time had passed so quickly; the years of her childhood seemed barely a whisper in the conversation of life.

On the left-hand side of the painting, McKenzie’s younger sister, Kaydie, posed in her pink satin gown. Her long, blonde hair flowed over her shoulders, and her brown eyes seemed to hold a sparkle that McKenzie knew was long gone due to Kaydie’s present circumstances.

Sitting on a higher stool in the middle, McKenzie’s older sister, Peyton, emphasized her role as the eldest and most favored Worthington daughter. Beneath her dark, rolling locks, her large, green eyes held the look of arrogance and superiority that she continually flaunted over her less-preferred sisters.

On the right-hand side, her head tilted toward Kaydie’s, sat McKenzie, then fourteen years old. Her long, strawberry blonde hair was pinned up at the sides, and she wore her favorite turquoise gown. The smirk on McKenzie’s face had caused her mother great disturbance. “Proper ladies never smile in a portrait. Your father will be so disappointed,” her mother had scolded her. “We shall have to insist the painting be redone.”

The artist had been paid a reduced fee for failing to change McKenzie’s smile to a look of solemnity and had never been asked to paint any further portraits for the Worthington family. So, the portrait of Arthur and Florence Worthington’s daughters had never been repainted.

Once the servants had hung it above the mantel, there it had remained, serving as a memory in different ways to the different members of the Worthington household. To Peyton, it was a reminder that she was the eldest and the most obedient. To McKenzie and Kaydie, it was a reminder of enjoyable days past, when they would secretly embark on adventures that were considered unbecoming for young women from families of prestige and wealth. To McKenzie’s mother, the portrait was a disgrace because of McKenzie’s smirk, and to her father, it was the observance of a costly tradition that had been carried on from generation to generation.

McKenzie scanned the portrait again, her focus stopping on Kaydie’s face. Hang on, my dear Kaydie. I promise I will figure out a way to save you from Darius. Please don’t give up hope, she silently begged her sister. I don’t know how I will do it or when, only that I will. This much I promise you.

McKenzie sat for a moment longer in the quietness of the parlor. She recalled her parents’ disturbance when their youngest daughter had eloped with Darius Kraemer and moved West with him.

McKenzie’s mother had covered her mouth with her left hand and fanned herself with her right, clearly indicating her dismay at the situation. “I am so distraught by Kaydie’s marriage that I can barely manage day-to-day living,” she’d lamented.

“She never should have married a man so far beneath her. Now we’ll likely never hear from her again,” Peyton had said, sipping her tea. “Of course, Kaydie was always the one who thought she could do whatever she pleased and face the consequences later.” Peyton’s voice had done little to hide her smugness. “I would never do such a thing. Not only was it an unwise decision to marry someone without a pedigree and move far from civilization, but it has brought nothing but shame to the Worthington family. I can’t begin to count the number of times I’ve had to make up stories to explain her absence in order to preserve our family’s impeccable reputation.”

McKenzie had glared at her older sister. “Now, Peyton, not everyone can marry such a fine gentleman as Maxwell Adams,” she’d said with more than a hint of sarcasm, thinking of how grateful she was that she herself hadn’t married Maxwell, or anyone like him. While he was polite and treated Peyton well, he was also stuffy and prudish, and he seemed incapable of doing anything for himself. It had been Peyton who had secured his position at their father’s law office. Maxwell hadn’t even been able to apply for the job himself. In McKenzie’s opinion, Maxwell was a helpless, spineless, sorry excuse for a man.

“At least I am married,” Peyton had said, glaring at her sister, “unlike some people I know.” Peyton never missed an opportunity to rub in the fact that McKenzie, as an unmarried woman, was an oddity in a society that held marriage as the highest priority for women—marriage to a man from a wealthy family and with a thriving career, of course. The fact that Peyton had been successful on both accounts gave her an edge over a sister who in most other respects won the competition war.

“Now, girls, please. This bickering between the two of you must stop,” their mother had said, wringing her hands.

“You’re right, Mother. It is a shame that McKenzie doesn’t conduct herself in a manner more in line with our upbringing,” Peyton had said, smiling smugly at her mother.

McKenzie shook her head now and pictured her mother. With the exception of her long, gray-blonde hair and the age difference, she and Peyton could be twins. Her mother’s large, emerald eyes made her look as though she were in a constant state of surprise. Her pert, upturned nose further conveyed the air about her that she knew she was from one of the wealthier families in the Boston area, both by birth and by marriage.

“Marry a man of wealth, have children, attend social gatherings, and busy yourself with acceptable volunteer work” were the maxims McKenzie’s mother sought to instill in her daughters. Kaydie had managed to fulfill one of those wishes—she’d married. Yet, it had been in defiance of her parents’ desire, for Darius was hardly wealthy. Yes, they had met while doing volunteer work, but, based on what McKenzie knew now, it had probably been a ruse.

The chiming of the tall, mahogany clock in the corner brought McKenzie back to the present, and she again focused her attention on Kaydie’s predicament. She knew that mailing money to Kaydie to secure her fare to Boston would be impossible, as she had no access to any funds; the money in her dowry would be passed to her husband alone.

Poor Kaydie had thought her normally calm and complacent life would be so full of adventure when she’d agreed to marry the wayward Darius. He’d captured her heart and taken her from security and wealth to the dangerous, uncivilized Wild West. Granted, he was an attractive man with allure brimming in his erratic personality. He’d even said all the things Kaydie had longed to hear, making the men of Boston pale in comparison. Only after it was too late had Kaydie discovered that Darius made his living by swindling and robbing. When things didn’t go according to plan, he took out his fury, both verbal and physical, on Kaydie, essentially holding her hostage in her own marriage.

Now, Kaydie was suffering because she’d fallen in love with what had turned out to be a mere façade. Her dowry, which Darius had been after from the beginning, had been spent while Kaydie had been blinded by the love she’d thought she had found.

McKenzie had always been closest to Kaydie and knew that there must be a way to help her. Besides, she knew Kaydie would do the same if the situation were reversed. She reached up to twirl one of her tendrils between her finger and her thumb, as she habitually did when she was in deep thought. Not one to allow discouragement to defeat her, McKenzie knew she had to be the one to concoct a plan to rescue her sister. Kaydie’s life depended on it. No one else knew of the four letters Kaydie had mailed intermittently to McKenzie. McKenzie had been sworn to secrecy regarding Kaydie’s predicament, and, besides, her parents would no doubt have no shortage of words regarding their judgment of their youngest daughter’s poor choice. No one else knew the way her life had taken a turn for the worse. No one else knew of Kaydie’s desperation. McKenzie was the only one who knew and the only one who could help. But how would she afford the trip west? And, once she got there, where would she stay? Who would protect her while she searched potentially dangerous towns for her sister?

Just then, it came to her—an idea so crazy, she thought that it just might work.

Interview with Penny Zeller

Hi Penny, first of all let me congratulate you on a wonderful book, McKenzie goes to the No.1 spot of my favorite books for this year. Also I want to thank you for doing this interview.

Hello, Esther! Thanks for having me here. I am so glad you enjoyed McKenzie. What an honor to have it place first on your list of favorite books this year!

Now lets dive in to the questions :)))

Who / What was your inspiration to start writing?

I was bitten by the writing bug at age seven when I began writing Bible stories in my own words. (I suppose you could call it grade-school commentary!) My second grade teacher, Mrs. Vernon, encouraged me to continue writing about Jesus. In fourth grade, I began to write fiction stories about a dog named Muffie and her adventures, as well as, other short stories neatly composed in homemade wallpaper-covered cardboard books. I loved telling stories at a young age and enjoyed sharing those stories with my sister and cousin. In fifth grade, I won in the Young Authors contest at our school and had my first poem published in a children’s magazine shortly thereafter. My parents bought me my first typewriter (ok, I’m dating myself!) when I was 10 years old. I would sit and type up stories on that electric gray typewriter for hours on end.

Years later, my inspiration continues to come from the Lord and I pray daily that the path I have chosen in life will glorify Him. I get ideas from the Scriptures often and I build my book around certain biblical themes, such as, forgiveness and redemption. My Christian characters pray and seek God for direction. And as a writer I am in constant prayer for wisdom, guidance, and that my books would be life-changing – that they would bring others to the Lord or closer to the Lord. Writing is my ministry, and I have chosen Psalm 19:14 as my life verse: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”

I loved the how McKenzie and her sisters were named , the part where they were named after their famous male family members. It’s very unique. Where did you get this idea from?

I love unique names so that always influences my choices in names for characters. In McKenzie, her family is aristocratic, high society, and seeped in tradition. The naming of the three Worthington daughters after highly respected male family members fit in nicely.

Was there any part of the book that was the hardest to write?

The sad parts are the hardest to write, such as the conflict between McKenzie and Zach after the arrival of her mother in Pine Haven. This scene is so full of emotion that I felt as though I was actually witnessing the scene while writing it.

Do tell us how you came to know Jesus? Please share your testimony.

I would love to share my testimony! I asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior at a church camp when I was 16 years old. Later, at 26, I rededicated my life to the Lord…

My brother-in-law is an avid fisherman, casting his line and reeling in the fish. The line being cast and the fish being reeled in has similarities to an event in my life. Only this time, God was the fisherman and I was the fish.

I became a Christian at age 16 at a church camp. I will never forget that powerful moment of surrendering my life to Jesus and putting my faith and trust in Him.

However, as time went on, I moved from the relationship I’d found with God and lived my life the way I wanted to. While I still prayed once in awhile, overall, God took a backseat in my life.

In August 1999, my husband and I found out I was pregnant with our daughter. In September, I became so sick nothing I ate stayed in my stomach. In October, I was admitted to the hospital with hyperemesis gravidarum for severe dehydration and weight loss.

The months following were difficult. The doctor placed me on complete bed rest. My body rejecting everything I ate, fainting twice, severe weakness, and a bout with pneumonia that again hospitalized followed. My husband, family, and doctor were concerned for my baby and me.

I became depressed. I feared my baby would be born unhealthy. I was consumed by frustration and there was nothing I could do about it.

The doctor prescribed anti-nausea medicine, but I’d been hesitant to take it because of the possible harm to my baby. After the doctor’s ultimatum, I took the medicine.

One night, something came over me. I prayed for God’s healing, that He would let my precious baby be healthy, and that the medication wouldn’t harm her. My tears fell like heavy rain.

Peace I hadn’t known in years came over me. I realized God was there and would take care of me. He never left me – it was me who had left Him.

I continued to seek God and build a relationship with Him. He continued to heal my body. Soon, I gave birth to my first daughter – a healthy and precious blessing.

After my daughter’s birth, God became more and more an integral part of my life. I began reading the Bible, singing worship songs with my daughter, and attending church regularly. I submitted my life to Him, asked for His guidance in everything, and sought a relationship with Him I’d never had before. In the years following, He changed. I continue to grow in the Lord knowing that He who began a good work in me will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6.

Two years later, God blessed my husband and me with another gift – our precious second daughter.

I’m thankful God took the time to stand on the banks of the river, cast the line, and reel His little lost fish back to Him again.

If you could meet 1 person from the bible, who would it be?

(besides Jesus, of course)

Wow, I don’t think I could narrow it down to just one person! There are so many amazing people in the Bible. I would have to say there would be a three-way tie between Esther, Daniel, and John the Baptist. All exhibited such courage in the face of adversity, and I love how God brought them through that adversity. What testimonies and what inspirations to us all!

What event in the bible would you like to be at, it can be in the past or in the future?

That’s a great question, Esther! Again, I can’t just narrow it down to one event! I would say that it would be a three-way tie again between the days of Creation, Jesus’ birth, and the Transfiguration.

Do you have any words of wisdom you would like to share with your readers?

When I meet a reader or fan face to face, I love to chat with her about what she envisions herself doing for God’s Kingdom and how can I pray and encourage her in that pursuit. If she is pursuing her dream as a writer, I tell her that one of the most important things to remember in being a writer is that if God has called her, He will guide her. In November of 2000, I gave my writing to the Lord. I quit my fulltime job with a social service agency to stay home with my infant daughter. That was the start of my writing career, beginning with the magazine articles. I speak from experience when I say that when He closes one door, He opens another (much better) one.

What are your upcoming titles/projects that we should be on the lookout for and when should we expect it?

McKenzie is the first book in the Montana Skies series contracted with Whitaker House. The second book is set for release in 2011 and is titled Kaydie. I’m excited also for Kaydie’s release as it is such a touching book of trust and God’s provision. There is also a third book in the series, which is currently under development. I recently started a second Christian fiction series with characters during the Civil War era.

How can your readers connect with you?

I love to connect with my readers through my website at www.pennyzeller.com or at my humor blog “A Day in the Life of a Wife, Mom, and Author” at http://pennyzeller.wordpress.com/ I’m also on Twitter at http://twitter.com/pennyzeller Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Penny-A-Zeller/96391560959 and Shoutlife http://www.shoutlife.com/profile_view.cfm?uid=164106

Book Giveaway

Now for the giveaway, Whitaker House, publishers of Mckenzie are graciously giving away 3 copies of this book.

Mandatory entry : You have to read the first chapter in this post and tell me what you think of it in your comment.

For additional entries :

* Be a follower of my blog + 2 entries

* Visit Penny's blog here and post a comment and then come back here and tell me + 5 entries

* Read any of my posts under the "Encouragement" or "Sharing" tag and leave a comment. Come back here and tell me . + 5 entries (each post you read and comment on earns you 5 entries, if you read 2 , you get 10 entries)

Please remember to leave your comments, if you don't come back here and tell me what you have done I will not know and it wont go into your tally of entries. So don't forget. This giveaway starts today and ends on the 15th of September 2010.

* This giveaway is open to residents in the US only

** Thank you to Whitaker House for providing me with a review copy of this book. My review is my own thoughts and I was in no way compensated in any way for this review.

Stay blessed.

Esther

A Higher Anointing by Randall J. Brewer

2010-08-25T23:06:00.000+08:00

This was sent to me by a brother in Christ and I felt led to share with you with his permission. Thank you Randall for sharing this wisdom that the Lord has imparted to you.

“A HIGHER ANOINTING”

RANDALL J. BREWER

What would you ask for if God appeared to you and said He would grant you one wish? It happened to Solomon. We read in 1 Kings 3:5, “At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night; and God said, ‘Ask! What shall I give you?’” The truth is, God asks each of us that very same question every day of our lives.

Jesus said in John 15:16b, “…whatever you ask the Father in My Name He will give you.” Again He said in John 16:23,24, “And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My Name, He will give you. Until now you have asked nothing in My Name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.” So, what would you ask for?

Solomon’s answer to this offer gives us the pattern for how we also should respond. He said in 1 Kings 3:9, “Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?”

This great man, the son of David, asked God for the wisdom and the anointing to better serve God and His people. He sought first the kingdom of God and not his own interests. And because of his unselfishness, God also blessed him with riches and honor. To this day Solomon is known as the wisest and richest man who ever lived.

In 1 Chron. 4:9,10 an unknown man named Jabez prayed a daring prayer that contains the key to a life of extraordinary favor with God. Jabez doesn’t stand out like a Moses or a David in the Old Testament or light up the book of Acts like those early Christians who turned the world upside down. The fact is you’ll find him hiding in the least read section of one of the least read books of the Bible.

The first nine chapters of 1 Chron. gives us a boring history of the Hebrew tribes beginning with Adam and proceding through thousands of years to Israel’s return from captivity. From this long list of unfamiliar and difficult names a story of great importance suddenly breaks through.

“Now Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, ‘Because I bore him in pain.’ And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, ‘Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!’ So God granted him what he requested.”

Notice where he asked God to “enlarge my territory.” This was not a request for more real estate. In essence, what he was saying was this, “O God and King, please expand my opportunities and my influence in such a way that I touch more lives for Your glory. Let me do more for You.” Because his heart was right, God granted him his request.

One more story that should be of special interest to all of us is that of Elijah and Elisha. The great prophet Elijah was about to be taken to heaven in a fiery chariot and God had chosen a farmer named Elisha to carry on the role of prophet in the land. Before his departure “Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask! What may I do for you, before I am taken away from you?’” (2 Kings 2:9a).

Once again, this very important question is asked. “And Elisha said, ‘Please let a double portion of your spirit be upon me’” (2 Kings 2:9b). Elisha, along with Solomon and Jabez, wanted the opportunity and the anointing to serve God to a greater degree. We must all hunger for the same thing.

God desires to lift you up to a new and higher level in Him where you will experience your full potential. Hungry believers can step into a higher dimension of the anointing that is so great that all those who walk in it will be filled with the glory and power of God. Jesus said in Matt. 5:6, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

Hunger and thirst is a sign that you are about to be filled. Your cup is about to overflow with the anointing of God. Elisha wanted a double-portion of Elijah’s anointing but first his mentor led him on a journey to four destinations that shows us what must happen first if this special anointing is to become a reality in our lives.

There are no meaningless details in the Word of God. Scriptures are not put in the Word just to fill up space. No, each and every verse of scripture has great significance to our lives and so it is with Elisha’s journey to a new anointing.

2 Kings 2:1 tells us that Elijah first took Elisha to Gilgal. Josh. 4:19,20 tells us that Gilgal was the first camp of Israel after crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land. It was here at Gilgal where the manna stopped falling from heaven to feed the people. Now they had to walk by faith and not by sight. For forty years they saw the manna on the ground outside their tents but all that stopped at Gilgal.

Elijah brought Elisha to Gilgal to show him that living by faith is the first step that will lead you to your full potential. When you walk by faith life gets a little more difficult. The Israelites now had to plow the ground and plant seeds if they were going to have food to eat. Faith demands work on your part because faith without works is dead.

God wants to strengthen your spiritual muscles and this is what walking by faith does for you. Also, in the wilderness Moses was their mediator with God but at Gilgal you stop depending on others to tell you what God is saying. By faith you hear from God yourself.

Next, Elijah took Elisha to Bethel (2 Kings 2:2). At Gilgal you lose what you can see and at Bethel you lose what you can feel. On your journey to a higher anointing you come to a place where the presence of God is no longer felt and you enter into a season of silence.

It was at Bethel that Jacob met God and wrestled with Him all during the night. Often God tried to pull away but Jacob held on even tighter. What was God doing? He was trying to find out how badly Jacob wanted his blessing. God said “No!” but Jacob said “Yes!” Over and over again this happened. God said “No!” but Jacob said “Yes!” God said “No!” but Jacob said “Yes!”

Gen. 32:28 tells us that Jacob struggled with God and prevailed. At Bethel you learn that if you don’t wrestle with God you’ll wrestle with man. Saul didn’t wrestle with God so he wrestled with Samuel. If Jacob had not wrestled with God he would have wrestled with Esau who came with an army of 400 men to kill him. Likewise, if we also want to prevail in life and come out on top then we also have to enter into a struggle with God.

Like Jacob we need to grab hold onto God and not let go until we receive the full manifestation of what has been promised. There is, however, one aspect of this story that often gets overlooked but has great significance to our walk with God. Let’s take a moment and focus on Jacob’s limp.

After a long night of struggling with God the heavenly agent whom Jacob held on so tightly to touched his hip and threw it out of joint. For the rest of his life Jacob walked with a limp because of his wrestling match with God. Why did this happen? Was Jacob getting the best of his visitor so God had to do this in order to get the advantage? Of course not! The ole boy had wrestled all night and was near exhaustion as it was. So what was the reason for Jacob’s limp?

First of all, we know Jacob wanted to get blessed. He said with bold determination, “I will not let You go until You bless me!” What happened next? The blessing? No, the limp! Jacob received his limp before he received his blessing.

Let’s analyze what it means to have a limp. It means that you will always need someone or something to lean on and you will also have to struggle doing what you want to do. The meaning of Jacob’s limp is that if you want to walk in the blessings of God and have a higher anointing then you will have to learn to lean on Him because many struggles will come your way.

Forget the idea that being blessed by God means you’re on a beach somewhere drinking pineapple juice as you swing on a hammock between two palm trees. This is not reality. We are in a war and being saved and anointed does not mean that you will live on “Easy Street.”

Jesus said to “count the cost” and He told Peter you could have a hundredfold return on your giving “with persecutions.” There always has been and there always will be a struggle to walk in the perfect will of God. The decision we all must make is whether or not we want to confront these struggles in order to fulfill the call of God on our lives.

Contrary to what the misinformed may believe, receiving a higher anointing is not a joy ride in the park. It’s a journey into a war zone where strength and endurance will be needed with each step you take. Every morning Jacob had to lean on a cane when he got out of bed. It was a struggle to get from one place to the next. But…the man was blessed!

Experience teaches us that the rewards of getting blessed by God far exceed whatever struggle you may go through if, that is, you are willing to pay the price. And what price is that? You must learn to lean on God and not the arm of the flesh. Success is not free nor is it cheap. Indeed, there is a price to pay for success.

We all need to realize that success is born out of adversity. Tests, trials, and oftentimes failure come to all who believe. When they do, a decision must be made as to what your attitude will be in the midst of these afflictions? Do roadblocks signal the end of your journey or are they stepping stones that lead to a place that is “exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Eph. 3:20)?

Success that is birthed as a result of tests and trials can be compared to a farmer putting manure in a cornfield before the planting season begins. As manure is used to fertilize the soil so the seeds can grow, so do tests and trials help develop within us that special character trait that causes us to never give up and press on in the good fight of faith.

It will also help to realize that adversity is the devil’s response to your progress and this is why James 1:2-4 instructs us to “count it all joy” when tests and trials come our way. Paul gives us the assurance that “if God be for us, who can be against us?” In Christ we always win if we don’t quit.

As wonderful as the blessings of God are, it is a certainty that these blessings are not for the faint-hearted. God said in Ps. 89:19, “I have given help to one who is mighty…” and the book of James tells us that the unstable and double-minded man should not “suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord.”

If a struggle comes your way, rise up above it and know that you and God are stronger than anything the devil throws at you. Remember, Jacob’s limp came before his blessing. Likewise, the cross came before the empty tomb. Any struggle can rightfully be called “a prelude to a blessing.” It’s always darkest just before the dawn. If you are in a struggle then hold on tight like Jacob did because a blessing is on the way.

Every time something goes wrong use your faith and focus on the blessing that is about to follow. The difference between losers and winners is that losers focus on the limp whereas winners always focus on the blessing. This is the key to having a higher anointing and living a victorious life.

Rejoice over the fact that your cup is half full instead of complaining that it’s half empty. With this attitude you’ll breeze through anything the devil throws your way. Anything! Just don’t lose your focus. Yes, the struggles will be there. They will always be there. Jacob’s limp never went away and Paul had his “thorn in the flesh.” But thank God, His grace is sufficient for all of us.

It is true, the more you focus on something the bigger it gets. Little molehills turn into giant mountains when all you do is focus on them. The same applies to the blessings of God. Wimps focus on limps whereas overcomers focus on the blessings.

Jacob was tired and exhausted but when he spoke he focused on the blessing. He said, “I will not let you go until you bless me.” Also, no where in scripture does it say he ever spoke one word about his limp. Wimps with limps always gripe and complain about their problems. They say “woe is me!” and by doing so their struggle gets bigger and bigger.

But winners are different. They see the light at the end of the tunnel and they focus on the prize at the end of the race. Winners focus on the blessing and if we will do the same then the blessings will flow into our lives on the crest of every wave.

In life circumstances rarely go as we’d like but in Jesus we can rise up above those roadblocks that hinder our walk with Him. Being blessed with a higher anointing does not mean you will have no more struggles. Jacob still had his limp. Being blessed does mean you can rise up above your trials and live on a higher plane than where your problems are.

The good news is that once the blessing is manifested the pains of your struggle are quickly forgotten. Jesus said in John 16:21, “A woman, when she is in labor, has sorrow because her hour has come; but as soon as she has given birth to the child she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world.” The key is to focus on the blessing and not the struggle.

Many Christians fail to grow because they never see the connection between their problems and their future dreams and victories. A crisis is a signal for you to learn and grow, not lose. Your problem is your promotion. A problem will introduce you to yourself and cause you to find out what you’re made of.

Every obstacle will bring change into your life. You’ll either be stronger because of it or you’ll be weaker. Great leaders are those who refuse to quit and rise above their problems.

All born-again believers should view the tests and trials that come their way as opportunities for their lives to be built up and molded until they become mature in the Lord. This is how holiness comes and God Himself said, “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). Do not let your head hang low and confess that you’re walking through the valley. In Christ there are no valley experiences. Some mountains are just higher than others.

At Bethel you learn to lean on God even though His presence is not felt. It is so vital that we learn this lesson because the next city Elijah took Elisha to was Jericho (2 Kings 2:4).

Historians tell us that it was near Jericho that Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the wilderness. Jesus went to Jericho alone and waiting for Him there was the devil himself. At Jericho you face your toughest battle, your biggest obstacle. The devil always shows up when the presence of God is gone from your life.

At Gilgal you don’t see anything. At Bethel you don’t feel anything. At Jericho you experience the darkest moment of your life. Jesus met the devil in the wilderness of Jericho and so will you. The temptation will be there to cry out in anguished frustration, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me? Why are You so far from helping Me, and from the words of My groaning? O My God, I cry in the daytime, but You do not hear; And in the night season, and am not silent” (Ps. 22:1,2).

Every demon in hell will show up at Jericho and nobody will be there to help you. Like Jesus you also will be all alone but we learn from our Savior that at this critical point in our lives all we can do is follow His example and say, “It is written…”

During Job’s Jericho experience he confessed, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him” (Job 13:15). This is how we defeat the enemy at Jericho. David wrote in Ps. 34:17, “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles.”

Great battles bring great victories. After going to Jericho Elijah then brought Elisha a short five miles to the Jordan River. It was at the Jordan that Elijah asked his protégé, “What do you want?” God also will ask you this question but not until after you have passed through Jericho.

The Jordan River played a significant part in the history of Israel as well as in the earlier days of our Lord’s ministry. It was a place of new beginnings. It bordered the land that was flowing with milk and honey and it was here that Joshua and Caleb began their quest to conquer the Promised Land.

Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River and immediately the Holy Spirit came down like a dove and filled Him with anointed power and majesty. And it was here that Elisha asked for and received a double portion of the spirit that was upon Elijah.

Seven miracles were performed by Elijah but the story of Elisha records that fourteen were accredited to him. He received a double portion but first he had to go to Gilgal, Bethel, and Jericho and so also must you if you want to walk in a higher anointing. As you make this journey never take your eyes off of what awaits you at Jordan. It’s the place where your destiny begins.

His Mercy Endures Forever

2010-08-25T01:31:00.000+08:00

Mercy. I have always heard topics preached about mercy. Everywhere you turn in the bible, it speaks of God's mercy. When I was saved I knew that grace saved me. Grace - unmerited favor. However I never understood the lesson of mercy till recently.

Ever since I was saved I had successfully avoided situations full of temptations. Every morning we pray " Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one. However the night of the 21st of August was totally a test of my faith in which I fell short of God's mark and sin came in. I succumbed to the spirit of alcohol.

It was my cousins wedding and I had a few drinks. I could very well say that I did not drink myself to a drunken stupor but the main fact here is that I gave in to the spirit of alcohol. The next day however I begged God for forgiveness as I worshiped Him at church. Then only did the verse " His mercy endures forever " and
"His mercies are new every morning " make sense to me. I had a wonderful time in worship with Him, He did not leave me nor forsake me even though I know I hurt Him. However, everything we do has consequences. So the door I opened by letting in the spirit of alcohol opened a door for satan to enter. Praise God because even for that He has given us our spiritual leaders to see these things in the spirit and pray over us and nullify and cancel many things that we ourselves do not see.

For the last few days I was wondering why God allowed this to happen, then I realized that I was the one who was in dire need of a lesson in mercy. Now when I read the verses below it is real to me. His mercies are so very real. He could very well have said, "No you had alcohol last night, so I am taking away the spiritual gifts I have given you and you have to suffer a few days without your best friend the Holy Spirit". But instead of that my Merciful One, cleansed me of my sin and made me righteous, to stand and worship Him amongst His people and continue to use me for His glory.

Ps 106 :1 - Praise ye the LORD, O give thanks to the LORD of heaven because His mercy endureth forever.

Ps 136:26 - O give thanks to the God of heaven: for His mercy endures forever.

Ps 107: 1 - O give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy endureth forever.

Lamentation 3: 22 - 23 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

I do not know how some people will react to this post. I am sharing this because I believe this is a very important lesson I have learned. God's mercies. Also I am glad that instead of shying away from the Lord, I just asked for His forgiveness and came before Him. In His throne room there is a seat, its called the Mercy Seat, and I believe if we were in heaven now, you would see me run time and time again to Him , to this seat. I cannot live this live without my Saviour, one day without fellowship with Him and my entire day will be rotten. Everything I do does not turn out right, so I'd rather just admit the fact to Him that I am indeed a sinner and I need His grace and mercy day in and day out, time and time again to live this life I have been called for.

I hope this post moves you too, to draw closer to our Saviour. No matter what our sins are, in His throne room He has a special seat for His children, His children in Christ. He welcomes us with open arms to sit on this seat whenever we need to. Nothing we do surprises Him for He knows it all and He also knows that we are but clay, mere mortals. He does not expect us to be perfect, He does not need us to be perfect, He only wants us to be His, to acknowledge that we are sinners and are in need of Christ in our lives.

All we have to do is admit that we are sinners and we believe that Christ died for our sins and through Him we have eternal life. If you have never said the sinners prayer before I would encourage you to do so now. Right now, just say this in your heart or out aloud:

" Abba Father, in Jesus name I come to you. I confess with all my heart that I am a sinner and I am in need of Your grace and mercy. I believe and confess with all my heart that Jesus is the Son of God and through Him I have eternal life. I now renounce all my sins and accept Christ Jesus as my personal Lord and Saviour. In Jesus name. Amen."

Welcome to God's family!

All you have to do now is read your bible daily and start attending a spirit filled church. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to write to me at estherisblogging@gmail.com

Even if you don't have any questions, I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment or drop me an e-mail.

Stay blessed

Esther

Psalm 55 - Hope for the hopeless

2010-08-16T23:22:00.002+08:00

* picture credit to creatingfutures.net

King David sang this song when his best friend and counselor Ahithophel. At this time Absalom, David's son had already turned against his father and was planning to overthrow David's rule. So when Ahithophel joined forces with Absalom, it was the last straw for David, too hurtful and painful. Betrayed by his own son and also best friend. So David sang this out loud to God.

Listen to my prayer, O God, do not ignore my plea;

hear me and answer me.

My thoughts trouble me and I am distraught

at the voice of the enemy, at the stares of the wicked;

for they bring down suffering upon me and revile me in their anger.

My heart is in anguish within me; the terrors of death assail me.

Fear and trembling have beset me; horror has overwhelmed me.

* picture credit to mccallcolors.com

I said, "Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest

I would flee far away and stay in the desert;

I would hurry to my place of shelter, far from the tempest and storm."

Confuse the wicked, O Lord, confound their speech,

for I see violence and strife in the city.

Day and night they prowl about on its walls; malice and abuse are within it.

Destructive forces are at work in the city; threats and lies never leave its streets.

If an enemy were insulting me, I would endure it; if a foe were raising himself against me, I could hide from him.

But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend,

with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship as we walked with the throng at the house of God.

Let death take my enemies by surprise; let them go down alive to the grave, for evil finds lodging among them.

But I call to God, and the Lord saves me.

Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, and he hears my voice.

He ransoms me unharmed from the battle waged against me, even though many oppose me.

God who is enthroned forever, will hear them and afflict them- men who never change their ways and have no fear of God.

My companion attacks his friends; he violates his covenant.

His speech is smooth as butter, yet war is in his heart; his words are more soothing than oil, yet they are drawn swords.

* picture credit to beautifulbible.blogspot.com

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.

But you, O God, will bring down the wicked into the pit of corruption;

bloodthirsty and deceitful men will not live out half their days.

But as for me, I trust in you.

* picture credit to diserio.com

Lord Jesus, if David could trust in you when his whole reign was as stake then we all can too.

When David's counselor and most trusted friend jumped ship to David's enemy, he took with him much, He took away the wisdom that counseled David's rule, he took away David's peace and joy, he took away David's sleep and David's trust. David was not only hurt emotionally but also, he must have been sick with worry that Ahithophel would reveal some governmental secrets to Absalom and how will that effect David and the people. Lord, I can't even begin to comprehend what kind of stress David was going through at this point.

But one thing I know is that my issues seem small in comparison with King David's. If You could sustain King David and give him peace at such a turbulent time of his life, you can do the same for me. As I write this I feel as if You're looking down at me and smiling and I know what You may be thinking, "Good, she finally got it."

Yes Lord Jesus, I got it, just help me remember it. May your peace, joy and happiness stay in my heart and all our hearts. In Jesus name, Amen.

I thought this was worth sharing with you'll. Hope you are blessed and as I embark on this journey to get to know Him more and more, I hope you will join me too. All of us go through hard times, some more than others, at a different magnitude. However, He doesn't allow us more that we can bear. Sometimes, just as Paul had a thorn in his flesh to remind him of his weakness as a man, so we might have certain thorns in our lives to remind us that we are but men only. So just as Paul said, I thank the Lord for the thorns in my flesh too, because it reminds me that I am a weak human being with nothing but a great big God who loves me. Life seems sunnier when we realize this fact.

Stay blessed,

Esther

Book Review : Missing Mabel by Nancy Melh + Interview with Nancy Mehl + Book Giveaway

2010-08-14T23:09:00.004+08:00

About the book

"Miss Higgins, Druther's Funeral Home is not in the practice of mixing up bodies"

Hilde Higgins knows hair and she knows the hair on her client doesn't match that of the person originally identified as Mabel Winnemaker. How can she make the funeral home director acknowledge the mix-up when they think she is creating a distraction to cover for stealing Mabel's diamond ring? Now her reputation and career are on the line. The only way to salvage her future is to find the missing Mabel. Can an old boyfriend be of help, or will he just add to the complications in her tangled life?

My Review

Missing Mable was a delightful read to me. Nancy really brought the characters alive and you could relate to a particular character. You could be like this person or may know someone like them. Also there are certain things that Nancy writes, certain things that just pops out and stays in your mind. I loved Sherlock. You've got to read a figure out why. Mystery for you :))

I would suggest you read this if you are into mystery. Romance buffs would also probably enjoy it.

About the author

Nancy Mehl lives in Kansas with her husband and son and enjoys volunteering at Wichita Homebound Outreach.

Interview with Nancy Mehl

Where did you get your inspiration to write Missing Mable?

Actually, the idea came from a conversation with my agent. We were talking about all the “hooks” mystery novels have. The main character seems to always have an offbeat job or hobby. I mentioned the rash of hairdresser mysteries that had recently come out and then told my agent I’d been thinking about a series set in a funeral home. She told me about another author who was writing the same thing. I laughed and said, “Okay, then how about a hairdresser who works in funeral homes?” We both giggled about it and ended our phone call. But a short time later, the idea popped back into my head. And the “Curl Up and Dye” mystery series was born!

Why is mystery your genre?

I’ve always loved mysteries, ever since I was a child. I grew up on Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys. I’d rather write mystery than anything else. However lately I’ve moved into romantic suspense. I find I enjoy it as well. There’s a fine line between suspense and mystery, but except for the final solution, they are very similar. The romantic suspense I’m writing now fulfills my “mystery side” so I’m quite satisfied.

Please share with us how you came to know Jesus? Do share your testimony with us.

I grew up in church and always believed in God. I was even baptized while attending a particular denomination. However, it wasn’t until I was in my twenties that I realized that just knowing who Jesus is, isn’t the same as understanding the cross and actually accepting His offer of forgiveness and restoration. I’d been reading a series of books by Hal Lindsey and when I got to his book, “The Liberation of Planet Earth,” I finally understood what salvation really was. I accepted “the great exchange,” and at that point, He came into my heart. It’s been a wonderful journey ever since.

If you could meet 1 person from the bible, who would it be? (besides Jesus, of course)

Didn’t even have to think about the answer. Joseph. (The one with the colorful coat!) I am in awe of this man. His faith and stability amaze me. Even though time and time again it looked as if God had deserted him, he kept believing. He never gave up. Never felt sorry for himself. Never railed at God for the injustice he endured. And when he could have exacted justice for the evil done to him by his family, he reacted with love. I want to have that kind of spirit and attitude.

What event in the bible would you like to be at, it can be in the past or in the future?

Again, easy question to answer, and I will definitely be at this event! I live for the moment when God says, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” That is the moment I live for.

What is the scripture that pops into your mind during times of distress?

There isn’t just one, but I guess I’ll pick: Romans 8:28 – “All things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose.” I have to qualify this though. Sometimes Christians throw attacks of the enemy into this definition of “all things,” and believe God is using evil to bring about His purposes. Now God can and does use the enemy’s strategies against him, and He will work those situations out for our good. But I think it’s important that we not call evil good and good evil. We need to know the difference between God and the devil. Unfortunately, a lot of people don’t and Satan is eating their lunch!

What is your idea of an ideal vacation?

Actually, I think I’m preparing for the perfect vacation! A cabin on Table Rock Lake in the Ozarks. A fishing pole. And nothing to do for several days but relax with my family. (And Watson, my puggle!)

Do you have any words of wisdom you would like to share with your readers?

Yes. God has a wonderful plan for your life. (Jeremiah 29:11) You’ll only find it if you’re willing to surrender your own plans and desires to Him. But trust me, His plan is far beyond anything you’ve ever imagined. You won’t lose anything that’s worth having, but you will find your purpose and passion! God is so good!

What are your upcoming titles/projects that we should be on the lookout for and when should we expect it?

In my Harmony series, Simple Secrets is already out. Simple Deceit, the second book, is due out in December. The last book, Simple Choices, will be out in June of next year.

The second book in my Curl Up and Dye series, Blown Away, will be out next February. I don’t have a date for the third book in that series, but it should also be out next year.

How can your readers connect with you?

They can visit my Web site at www.nancymehl.com for all my contact information. I love to hear from readers!

Thanks for the interview, Esther. God bless you!

Thanks for being here Nancy, its been great and yes God is good ans stay blessed always. May the good Lord bless you with more great writings for His glory.

Nancy is graciously giving away a copy of Missing Mabel to one of you. Just post a comment to be in the running to win a copy. This giveaway starts today and ends on the 31st of August 2010.

For extra entries :

* Follow my blog + 2 entries
* Follow Nancy's blog here + 2entries

* This giveaway is open to residents in the US only

** Thank you to Barbour Publishing, Inc for providing me with a review copy of this book. My review is my own thoughts and I was in no way compensated in any way for this review.

Stay blessed,

Esther

The Many Names of Jesus : Day #7

2010-08-07T01:45:00.002+08:00

This is a continuation of a study I am doing on "The Many Names of Jesus". This name was quite difficult for me to do because I looked up the scripture as usual on my most favorite online bible study tool. Biblos.com and as I read the scriptures, nothing seemed to make sense.

So I just left it for a bit and thought of skipping this name of doing another name of Jesus, but somehow it did not work quite like that.

So I just left it for a few days.

On Tuesday I went on a 3 day fast for a specific reason and on Thursday (the last day of my fast), during my quiet time with Him went back to this name and this time around when I read the scriptures, what a revelation it was. It was like once read and so much received.

I stand in awe of God, who even though when we don't really ask, He blesses us. He really sees the big picture that we don't and miracles like this; that some of us witness daily and some of us take for granted; remind us time again of what an awesome God we serve.

So the arrangement of the post goes as below and if you missed the other posts just go back and read them.

NAME

Scripture for reference

My thoughts (if any)

ANGEL OF THE LORD

Exodus 3:2 There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up.

Reminds me of the worship song "Consuming fire fan into flame"

Judges 13: 15- 18

vs 15 Manoah said to the angel of the LORD. "We would like you to stay until we prepare a young goat for you"

vs 16 The angel of the LORD replied, "Even though you detain me, I will not eat any of your food. But if you prepare a burnt offering, offer it to the LORD" (Manoah did not realize that it was the angel of the LORD)

vs17 The Manoah inquired of the angel of the LORD, "What is your name, so that we may honor you when your word comes true?"

vs 18 He replied, "Why do you ask me my name? It is beyond understanding."

There is only one Name and one Name only that is beyond understanding, be it in the world or in heaven. The name of JESUS. This was the verse that stuck through my head the entire day. All I could think was what an

awesome God I serve. JESUS. A name beyond all understanding. And in verse 16 Jesus shows that Jesus always puts His father first and that is something all of us should follow of His example.

Joshua 5:14 "Neither," he replied, "but as commander of the army of the LORD I have now come." The Joshua fell face-down to the ground in reverence, and asked him "What message does my LORD have for His servant? "

Commander = Leader

Army of the LORD = Angels

Who is the Leader of Angels = JESUS

Stay blessed.

Esther

Book Review : FIRST Wild Card Tour : Prayers that Bring Healing by John Eckhardt

2010-08-06T01:02:00.004+08:00

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card author is:

John Eckhardt

and the book:

Prayers that Bring Healing

Charisma House; 1 edition (June 1, 2010)

***********

My Review + Personal Testimony

Basically I did a whole declaration of the first chapter in one sitting and I thoroughly enjoyed myself.
However they were a few declarations that even though done based solely on scripture but it was too "me" and "I".
I would have preferred them to be more "God" and more "in Jesus". One thing I can say about the book is excellent scripture references, and on the whole very motivating and inspiring. My own testimony, about an hour after starting to read this book I was led to pray for a family member overseas with some health issues and I believe that she is totally healed and will enjoy good health always.

*************

Special thanks to Anna Coelho Silva | Publicity Coordinator, Book Group | Strang Communications for sending me a review copy.

*************

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Apostle John Eckhardt is overseer of Crusaders Ministries, located in Chicago, Illinois. Gifted with a strong apostolic call, he has ministered throughout the United States and overseas in more than eighty nations. He is a sought-after international conference speaker, produces a weekly television program, Perfecting the Saints, and has authored more than twenty books, including Prayers That Rout Demons, Prayers That Break Curses, and God Still Speaks. Eckhardt resides in the Chicago area with his wife, Wanda, and their five children.

Visit the author's website.

Product Details:

List Price: $9.99
Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Charisma House; 1 edition (June 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1616380047
ISBN-13: 978-1616380045

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

Chapter 1

How Much Is It Worth?

And when the unclean spirit had convulsed him and cried out with a loud voice, he came out of him. . . . And immediately His fame spread throughout all the region around Galilee. . . . Now at evening, when the sun had set, they brought to Him all who were sick and those who were demon-possessed. And the whole city was gathered together at the door. Then He healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons.

--Mark 1:26, 28, 32-34, emphasis added

When people got word that Jesus was coming to their region, they made way to meet Him. Some traveled far on foot or donkey. Some tarried with Him for days on end with no food. Some who were crippled or maimed were carried into town by friends and family. One person's friends tore up somebody's roof and lowered him into the house Jesus was visiting. Multitudes of people pressed and prodded against each other at the risk of being trampled just to get close to Jesus. Their healing, deliverance, and hunger for the Word were so valuable to them that they put their lives on hold and safety at risk. They knew that if they could just get into Jesus's presence, all their worries would be subsided and their needs met.

How much is your healing worth to you? Are you willing to travel long distances, go without food, brave large crowds, and do whatever it takes to get to the place where the anointing is active and effective?

People came to hear Jesus because He created a demand by setting people free. When people hear of miracles, they will gather to hear the Word of God. They will come with expectancy and faith and draw from the anointing of the servant of God. There is no substitute for miracles. They will cause a hunger to come into the hearts of people. Hungry hearts will always gather and put a demand on the anointing.

If we want hungry people, we must have miracles. Some churches wonder why their people are so unconcerned and apathetic about serving God. People drag to service. Some pastors will try all kinds of programs to raise the excitement of the people, but there is no substitute for doing it God's way. Where there are miracles, there will be people gathered. Miracles increase the authenticity of our salvation, and people come to value the presence of God more and more. Faith levels rise when miracles happen.

And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them.

--Mark 2:2,kjv

As people gathered to hear the Word, there was not enough room. This was the result of His fame spread abroad throughout all the region around Galilee. I like ministering in packed houses. When a church is filled up, there is a higher level of expectancy and faith among the people. It shows how much the people in that area value the anointing and how much they desire to be healed. When a church is half empty, it seems to be harder to minister. We need the anointing to build churches--but we also need the anointing to fill them. I have been to churches that seated a thousand and only a hundred showed up.

Some only show up because the pastor tells them to, or they are just in the habit of going to church. Miracles, prophecies, and healing will not flow out of the servant of God to the extent that they will where there is a demand. Of course, a minister can stir up the gifts of God and minister by faith. However, when the faith of the people is high, it is much easier to minister. The giving and receiving of the anointing is a give-and-take relationship. The more you want to receive and the more value it has for you, the more you will demand it and draw from it, and the more the Holy Spirit will flood the minister with the anointing so that all who are touched will be healed.

Jesus could, in His own hometown, do no mighty work because of their unbelief. Unbelief hinders the flow of the anointing. Faith releases the flow. Unbelievers will not put a demand on the anointing, but believers will.

The more people hear and are taught about the anointing, the greater will be their capacity to put a demand on it. As a pastor of a local church, I teach the members about different gifts and anointings. When I teach about the gift of healing, this builds their faith for healing. When ministers come to minister at our church, I tell the members about the anointing on the person's life. They then have the responsibility to draw from and put a demand on that anointing by their faith.

You will find that most of the people who received miracles from Jesus either came or were brought to Him. Many beseeched Him.

And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him. So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island, came, and were healed: who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary.

--Acts 28:8-10, kjv

After the father of Publius was healed, the whole island of Melita came to be healed. That one miracle increased the value of Paul's anointing. It caused the people to do whatever they could to get some of what Paul had. Notice, they honored Paul with many honors. Honoring the servant of God is a key to receiving from the anointing in his or her life. We will talk more about honor in a later chapter. The scripture states that the people came. They came with the sick, expecting to be healed. They put action on their faith and came.

Passive, apathetic saints do not receive from the anointing. We cannot be passive and expect to receive from these gifts. We must be active with our faith. People have to have a hunger and thirst for the things of the Spirit. Hungry souls will always draw from the anointing.

How much is your healing worth to you? How far will you follow the leading of God to capitalize on all He has for you?

Prayers That Increase Hunger for the Healing Anointing

O God, let me see You face-to-face so that my life will be preserved (Gen. 32:30-31).

I will follow the instructions of the man of God, so that my body is restored like that of a little child and I will be clean (2 Kings 5:14).

I declare that it is well with my family and me, no matter what it looks like to my natural eyes. I will go and seek out the man of God that he may stretch his anointing over the dead places in our health. He will breathe into us, and we will rise up to new life (2 Kings 4:8-37).

I will follow You, Lord Jesus. I cry out to You, Son of David, have mercy on me! I believe that You are able to heal me and restore me. Touch me and let it be to me according to my faith (Matt. 9:27-30).

Son of David, have mercy on me and do not send me away. I have come from a far region crying out to You for healing. I worship You, O Lord. Help me! I am hungry for even the crumbs that fall from Your table. Let my healing come to me as I desire (Matt. 15:22-28).

Jesus, I come to You in the midst of the multitude. I am hungrier for Your healing than for food. I feel Your compassion for me and know that You will heal me (Matt. 15:30-33).

I will fast according to Your leading. Then I know that my healing will break forth like the morning. My healing will spring forth speedily (Isa. 58:6-8).

I have walked before You, O Lord, in truth and with a loyal heart. I have done what is good in Your sight. I weep bitterly before You. I know You have heard my prayer and have seen my tears. Surely You will heal me (2 Kings 20:3-5).

I humble myself before You, O God. I pray and seek Your face. I turn from my wicked ways. Then I know You will hear from heaven. You will forgive my sin and heal me (2 Chron. 7:14).

Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am weak. Heal me, for my bones are troubled (Ps. 6:2).

Lord, be merciful to me and heal my soul (Ps. 41:4).

I declare that this is my time to be healed (Eccles. 3:3).

You have seen my ways and will heal me. You will also lead me and restore comforts to my mourners and to me (Isa. 57:18).

Words of praise are on my lips. May peace be unto me, for the Lord will heal me (Isa. 57:19).

Heal me, O Lord, and I will be healed. Save me and I will be saved. You are my praise (Jer. 17:14).

You will restore health to me and heal me of all my wounds (Jer. 30:17).

You will bring health and healing to me. You will heal me and reveal to me the abundance of peace and truth (Jer. 33:6).

You have said, I will come and heal him (Matt. 8:7).

The power of the Lord is present to heal me (Luke 5:17).

Let news of Your healing power, O Lord, be like a ripple effect, causing all those near and far to come so that they will be healed (Acts 28:8-10).

Let many gather together so that there be no more room to receive them, that they may hear the preaching of the Word and be healed (Mark 2:2).

I will press against the crowds, fight my way through traffic, and let no one stop me until I get into Your presence. If only I can touch the hem of Your garment, I know I will be made whole (Mark 5:27-28).

I hunger and thirst for Your righteousness, and I know I will be filled (Matt. 5:6).

Healing by Putting Away Anger, Bitterness, and Unforgiveness

Anger

I will cease from anger and put away wrath to stay connected to God. If I wait on Him, I will inherit the earth (Ps. 37:8-9).

My whole body is sick, and my health is broken because of my sins. But I confess my sins and am deeply sorry for what I have done. Do not abandon me, O Lord. Come quickly to help me, O Lord my Savior (Ps. 38:3, 18, 22, nlt).

I will speak soft words, kind words, and words of life to turn wrath and anger away from me. I will not grieve anyone with my words (Prov. 15:1).

I will appease the strife against my health and my family by being slow to anger (Prov. 15:18).

I am better than the mighty because I control my anger. There is more gain in ruling my spirit than conquering a city (Prov. 16:32).

I use discretion to defer my anger; I earn esteem by overlooking wrongs (Prov. 19:11).

I will not sin against my own soul by provoking the King to anger (Prov. 20:2).

I will silence anger with a secret gift (Prov. 21:14).

I declare that anger's reign in my life will come to an end (Prov. 22:8).

I cast out the cruelty and destruction of wrath and anger. They will not flood my emotions any longer (Prov. 27:4).

I will be slow to anger and will keep its clutches from resting in my bosom (Eccles. 7:9).

Let all wrath and anger be put away from me (Eph. 4:31).

I am a new person, having been renewed after the image of Him who created me; therefore, I put off anger (Col. 3:8-10).

I will not discourage my children by provoking them to anger (Col. 3:21).

Bitterness

Lord, I give the bitterness of my soul to You. Please look upon my affliction and remember me. I will go in peace because You have granted my petition (1 Sam. 1:10-11, 17).

I will speak openly to You, O Lord, and release all of my bitterness to You (Job 7:11).

I will speak to You, God, in the bitterness of my soul. I will find the root of why my spirit contends with Yours (Job 10:1-2).

I declare that I will not die in the bitterness of my soul, and I will eat with pleasure (Job 21:25).

My heart knows its own bitterness (Prov. 14:10); I release it to You.

I will raise wise children who will cause me no grief or bitterness (Prov. 17:25).

I had great bitterness, but in love You delivered me from the pit of corruption. For You have put all my sins behind Your back (Isa. 38:17).

I was in bitterness and in the heat of my spirit, but the hand of the Lord is strong upon me (Ezek. 3:14).

I repent of my wickedness and pray to God that the thoughts of my heart be forgiven, for I am bound by bitterness and iniquity (Acts 8:21-23).

My mouth is full of cursing and bitterness, but You have shown me a better way and I have been made right in Your sight (Rom. 3:14, 21-22).

I diligently look within myself so that I will not be defiled by any root of bitterness that may spring up (Heb. 12:15).

Forgiveness

I will go to my brother and ask that he forgive me of my trespasses against him (Gen. 50:17).

I pray that my brother will forgive me so that when I go before God, He will take this death away from me (Exod. 10:17).

Like Moses, I come to You asking Your forgiveness on behalf of Your people and myself. Thank You, God, that You forgive all those who sin against You, for You have blotted them out of Your book (Exod. 32:32-33).

God, I thank You that when You hear our prayers You also forgive us (1 Kings 8:30).

You have heard from heaven, forgiven my sin, and have delivered me into the land You promised my fathers (1 Kings 8:34).

You have heard from heaven, forgiven my sin, and have taught me the good way in which I should walk (1 Kings 8:36).

You have heard from heaven, forgiven my sin, and will do and give me according to my ways because You know my heart (1 Kings 8:39).

Forgive me of my sins, and have compassion upon me (1 Kings 8:50).

I am called by Your name and have humbled myself before You. I pray and seek Your face and have turned from my wicked ways. Now You will hear from heaven and forgive my sin and heal me (2 Chron. 7:14).

Look upon my affliction and my pain, and forgive all my sins (Ps. 25:18).

You, O Lord, are good and ready to forgive. Your mercy is plentiful to all those who call on You (Ps. 86:5).

The Lord declares that He will forgive my iniquity and remember my sin no more (Jer. 31:34).

O Lord, hear. O Lord, forgive. O Lord, listen and do! For I am called by Your name (Dan. 9:19).

As I forgive others, Lord, I pray that You will forgive me (Matt. 6:12).

I will forgive those who have wronged me, because if I don't, God will not forgive me (Matt. 6:14-15).

You have healed me and said, Arise and take up your bed so that I will know that You have the power to forgive sins on earth (Matt. 9:6).

Like the servant who owed the king ten thousand talents, I too have been forgiven much. Therefore, I will go and forgive all those who have sinned against me so that I will not be given over to the tormentors (Matt. 18:23-35).

I will forgive any person with whom I have fought, so that when I stand praying, my Father in heaven will forgive me also (Mark 11:25).

If I forgive others, I will be forgiven (Luke 6:37).

Forgive me of my sins because I also have forgiven all those whom I felt were indebted to me. Keep me from temptation, and deliver me from evil (Luke 11:4).

If my brother hurts me, I will tell him that he hurt me. Then if he asks for forgiveness, I will forgive him. If he continues to hurt me and asks for forgiveness each time, I will forgive him every time (Luke 17:3-4).

With Jesus, I pray, '"Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do" (Luke 23:34).

I declare that Satan will not get an advantage over me, because I walk in forgiveness just as Christ did. I am not ignorant of the devil's devices (2 Cor. 2:10-11).

I confess my sins before God, and I know that God is faithful and just to forgive me and to cleanse me from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

I confess my faults to my fellow believers, and we pray for one another so that we will be healed, because the earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful results (James 5:16).

I have been sent to the Gentiles to open their eyes, turn them from darkness to light, and deliver them from the power of Satan, so that they may receive forgiveness (Acts 26:18).

Through Christ's blood, I have been redeemed and have received forgiveness for my sins and riches according to His grace (Eph. 1:7).

Father God, you have delivered me from the power of darkness and translated me into the kingdom of Your Son in whom I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins (Col. 1:13-14).

Healing through Obedience

I will obey the voice of my Father according to all He has commanded me (Gen. 27:8).

I will arise and obey Your voice and flee from my enemies (Gen. 27:43-44).

I have a special treasure in the Lord because I obey His voice and keep His covenant (Exod. 19:5).

I will obey the voice of the angel of the Lord to keep me in the right way and bring me to a place that God Himself has prepared for me (Exod. 23:20).

I will obey the angel of the Lord, for he will not pardon my sin because the name of the Lord is in him (Exod. 23:21).

As I obey the angel of the Lord and do all that God has spoken through him, my enemies will be God's enemies (Exod. 23:22).

I am blessed because I obey the commandments of the Lord (Deut. 11:27).

I will walk after the Lord my God and fear Him, keep His commandments and obey Him. I will serve Him and cleave to Him (Deut. 13:4).

I will obey the voice of the Lord my God and do all of His commandments and statutes that He has commanded me this day (Deut. 27:10).

I will be left in number if I do not obey the voice of the Lord (Deut. 28:62).

I will return to the Lord my God. I will obey His voice according to all He commands me. With all my heart and soul, from generation to generation, my children and I will obey God. Then the Lord will set us free from any captivity of the enemy, and He will have compassion on us (Deut. 30:2-3).

The Lord my God will put curses on all my enemies because I obey His voice and do all that He has commanded me (Deut. 30:7-8).

The Lord my God will make me plenteous in all the work of my hand, in the fruit of my body, and in the fruit of my land. He will rejoice over me because I obey Him and hearken to His voice (Deut. 30:9-10).

I obey the voice of the Lord, for He is my life, and in Him are the length of days (Deut. 30:20).

I will serve the Lord my God, and His voice I will obey (Josh. 24:24).

I will not refuse to obey the voice of the prophet of God (1 Sam. 8:19).

I will fear the Lord, serve Him, and obey His voice. I will not rebel against the commandments of the Lord. The hand of the Lord is with me (1 Sam. 12:14-15).

My obedience to the voice of the Lord is better than any sacrifice (1 Sam. 15:22).

I will not be like the fathers of Israel. I will be humble and submit to obeying the Lord. I will be mindful of the wonders that God does on my behalf, for He is gracious and merciful, ready to pardon, slow to anger, and of great kindness. He has not forsaken me (Neh. 9:16-17).

I will spend my days in prosperity and my years in pleasures. I will not perish and die without knowledge, because I obey and serve the Lord (Job 36:11-12).

As soon as I heard of the Lord, I submitted myself to Him and obeyed (Ps. 18:44).

The ravens shall not pluck out my eye, neither shall the young eagles eat it. I do not mock my Father, neither do I despise to obey my mother (Prov. 30:17).

I will obey Your voice, and You will be my God. I will walk in all the ways that You have commanded me, and it will be well with me (Jer. 7:23).

I will obey the voice of the Lord, and He will give to me the land that He swore to my fathers--a land flowing with milk and honey (Jer. 11:4-5).

You have risen early, O God, and have pleaded with me, "Obey My voice" (Jer. 11:7).

Lord, You have said that if I do not obey You, You will pluck me up and destroy me (Jer. 12:17).

If I do not obey You, You will withdraw the good that You have extended to me (Jer. 18:10).

I will amend my ways and my doings. I will obey the voice of the Lord my God, and the Lord will relinquish the evil that He had pronounced against me (Jer. 26:13).

I will obey the voice of the Lord so that it will be well with me and my soul will live (Jer. 38:20).

Whether I like it or not, I will obey the voice of the Lord my God, that it may be well with me (Jer. 42:6, nlt).

Kingdoms and dominions shall be given to me because I obey and serve the Most High (Dan. 7:27).

I have transgressed the law and departed from God by not obeying His voice. Now a curse has been poured on me and the oath that God made to me (Dan. 9:11).

Those who are far off shall come and build the temple of the Lord, because I diligently obey the voice of the Lord my God (Zech. 6:15).

I declare that as the winds and seas obeyed Jesus, the winds and seas that rise up in my life will obey me (Matt. 8:27).

With authority I will command even the unclean spirits and they will obey me (Mark 1:27).

All those who surround me will fear exceedingly, saying to one another, What kind of person is this that even the wind and the sea obey him?(Mark 4:41).

With my mustard seed of faith, I will speak to the mulberry tree and command it to be plucked up by the root and planted in the sea, and it will obey me (Luke 17:6).

I obey God rather than man (Acts 5:29).

God has given me the Holy Spirit because I obey Him (Acts 5:32).

I will not be like the fathers of Israel who would not obey but rejected the man of God and turned their hearts back to Egypt (Acts 7:39).

Let me not be like those who obey unrighteousness, indignation, and wrath, for tribulation and anguish is their portion (Rom. 2:8-9).

Let no sin reign in my body that I should obey its lusts (Rom. 6:12).

Whatever I submit myself to obey, I am slave to it, whether it be sin unto death or God unto righteousness (Rom. 6:16).

I cast off the enemy of my soul, who tries to bewitch me that I should not obey the truth. Before my eyes Jesus Christ has been clearly portrayed before me as crucified (Gal. 3:1).

Let me not run well, then find out at the end that someone or something hindered me from obeying the truth (Gal. 5:7).

My children will obey and honor their father and mother so that it will be well with them and that they may live long on the earth (Eph. 6:1-3).

My children obey me in all things because this is well pleasing to the Lord (Col. 3:20).

I will obey those for whom I work, not with eye service or as a man pleaser, but with sincerity of heart, fearing God (Col. 3:22).

I know God and obey the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ; therefore, I will not be punished with everlasting destruction and banished from the presence of the Lord and the glory of His power (2 Thess. 1:7-9).

If I do not obey the word of the apostles, I will have no company with the people of God and I will be ashamed (2 Thess. 3:14).

Let me be reminded to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable and gentle, showing all humility to all men (Titus 3:1-2).

Let me be a son like Christ, who learned obedience by the things He suffered and was made perfect (Heb. 5:8-9).

I will obey those who have rule over me. I will submit myself to them because they watch out for my soul, as those who must give account (Heb. 13:17).

Like we put bridles in the horse's mouth, let me bridle my whole body that it may obey (James 3:2-3).

Let the wife be subject to her own husband so that even if he is not obedient to the Word, he may be won by the conduct of his wife (1 Pet. 3:1).

For the time has come that judgment must begin at the house of God. And if it first begins with us, what will the end be of those who do not obey the gospel of God (1 Pet. 4:17)?

I have received grace and discipleship from Jesus Christ my Lord so that I can be obedient to the faith among the nations for His name (Rom. 1:3-6).

Jesus, I thank You that by Your obedience many have been made righteous (Rom. 5:19).

My obedience has become known to all, but I still must remain wise in what is right and simple concerning evil (Rom. 16:19).

The mystery of the gospel is now made manifest and made known to all nations for the obedience of faith (Rom. 16:26).

The man of God has greater affection for me because he remembers my obedience (2 Cor. 7:15).

I cast down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and I bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ (2 Cor. 10:5).

I punish all disobedience when my obedience is fulfilled (2 Cor. 10:6).

I have been elected according to the foreknowledge of God the Father and sanctified with His Spirit for obedience, and have been sprinkled with the blood of Jesus Christ (1 Pet. 1:2).

Healing Through Wisdom, Knowledge, and Understanding

I have been filled with the spirit of wisdom (Exod. 28:3).

I am filled with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and all manner of workmanship to design artistic works (Exod. 31:3-4).

I have been filled with wisdom of heart to do all manner of work (Exod. 35:35).

I have been brought to the sanctuary of the Lord with other wise-hearted men, for the Lord has put wisdom and understanding to know how to do all manner of work for the service of the sanctuary according to all the Lord has commanded (Exod. 36:1).

I will be careful to observe the statutes of the Lord, for they are my wisdom and understanding in the sight of the nations, who will hear them and say, "Surely you are wise and understanding,for who is the person that God is so near that I may call upon Him for any reason? (Deut. 4:6-7).

Like Joshua the son of Nun, I am full of the spirit of wisdom (Deut. 34:9).

I am wise, according to the wisdom of the angel of the Lord, to know all the things that are in the earth (2 Sam. 14:20).

The wisdom of God is in me to administer justice (1 Kings 3:28).

Like Solomon, God has given me wisdom, exceedingly great understanding, and a heart as large as the sand on the seashore (1 Kings 4:29).

My wisdom excels the wisdom of men (1 Kings 4:30).

Because the wisdom of God is in me, people will come to hear my wisdom, even the kings of the earth (1 Kings 4:34).

The Lord has given me the wisdom He had promised to me, as He did with Solomon (1 Kings 5:12).

Because of the wisdom of God upon my life, people will come from all around to see the true report of my acts and wisdom and prosperity. People who work with me are happy and will stand before me continually to hear the wisdom of God (1 Kings 10:6-8).

Because of the wisdom of God upon my life, my riches and wisdom will exceed all the kings of the earth. People will seek out my wisdom, which God has put in my heart (1 Kings 10:23-24).

Only the Lord gives me wisdom and understanding that I may keep the law of the Lord my God (1 Chron. 22:12).

Give me now wisdom and knowledge that I may go out before Your people (2 Chron. 1:10).

Because it was in my heart to ask God for wisdom and knowledge that I may serve God's people, and not riches, wealth, honor, the life of my enemies, or long life, wisdom and knowledge have been granted to me (2 Chron. 1:11-12).

After the wisdom of my God that is set in my hand, I will set magistrates and judges for the people of God, so that they may know the laws of God (Ezra 7:25).

May I not die without wisdom (Job 4:21).

May God show me the secrets of wisdom, for they double my prudence (Job 11:6).

Let me be like the aged men, for wisdom, understanding, and strength are with them (Job 12:12-13).

With the Lord are strength and wisdom (Job 12:16).

The price of wisdom is above rubies (Job 28:18).

I fear the Lord, for in that is wisdom, and to depart from evil is understanding (Job 28:28).

Age speaks to me, and the multitude of years teaches me wisdom (Job 32:7).

God, You are mighty in strength and wisdom (Job 36:5).

God, only You can put wisdom in my mind or give understanding to my heart (Job 38:36).

I am made righteous; therefore, my mouth speaks wisdom and my tongue talks of justice (Ps. 37:30).

My mouth will speak of wisdom, and the meditation of my heart will be understanding (Ps. 49:3).

You, O Lord, desire truth in my inward parts, and in the hidden part You will make me know wisdom (Ps. 51:6).

Teach me to number my days so that I may apply my heart to wisdom (Ps. 90:12).

How manifold are Your works, O Lord. In wisdom You have made them all. The earth is full of Your possessions (Ps. 104:24).

I will fear the Lord, for in that is the beginning of wisdom, and all those who do His commandments have good understanding (Ps. 111:10).

I will know wisdom and instruction. I will perceive words of understanding (Prov. 1:2).

I receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, judgment, and equity (Prov. 1:3).

I am wise; therefore, I will hear and increase my learning. I am a person of understanding; therefore, I will attain wise counsel to understand a proverb and its interpretation and the words of the wise and their riddles (Prov. 2:5-6).

I will fear the Lord, for in that is the beginning of knowledge. I will not be a fool who despises wisdom and instruction (Prov. 2:7).

I will turn to the reproof and cries of wisdom. I will not be simpleminded or delight in scorning. I will not be like the fool who hates knowledge, but I will receive wisdom that pours its spirit out upon me. I will receive the words that it has made known to me (Prov. 1:20-23).

I incline my ear to wisdom and apply my heart to understanding (Prov. 2:2).

I cry out for discernment and lift up my voice for understanding. I seek after it as if it were silver or a hidden treasure. Now I know that I will understand the fear of the Lord, and I will find the knowledge of God, because He gives wisdom, knowledge, and understanding out of His mouth (Prov. 2:3-6).

God has stored up wisdom for me, and He shields me because I walk uprightly (Prov. 2:7).

Wisdom has entered my heart, and knowledge is pleasant to my soul. Now discretion preserves me and understanding keeps me, delivering me from the way of evil and from the man who speaks perverse things (Prov. 2:10-12).

I am happy because I have found wisdom and understanding, for it is better than the profits of silver, and its gain than fine gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing I have can be compared to it (Prov. 3:13-15).

Length of days is in the right hand of wisdom, and riches and honor are in the left. The ways of wisdom are pleasant, and all her paths are peace (Prov. 3:16-17).

I lay hold of wisdom, for she is a tree of life to me, and I am happy when I retain her (Prov. 3:18).

By wisdom, the Lord founded the earth, by understanding He established the heavens, and by knowledge the depths are broken up and the clouds drop dew (Prov. 3:19-20).

I will not let sound wisdom or discretion depart from my eyes, for they are life to my soul and grace to my neck. With them, I walk safely in my way, and my foot does not stumble (Prov. 3:21-23).

I will get wisdom and understanding. I will not forget nor will I turn away from the words of Your mouth. I will not forsake wisdom because she preserves me. I will love her, and she will keep me (Prov. 4:5-6).

Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, I will get wisdom. And with all my getting, I will get understanding (Prov. 4:7).

I am promoted because I exalt wisdom (Prov. 4:8).

Honor comes to me because I love wisdom (Prov. 4:8).

An ornament of grace and a crown of glory are placed upon my head because I embrace wisdom (Prov. 4:9).

You have taught me in the way of wisdom and have led me in the right paths. When I walk, my steps are not hindered. When I run, I do not stumble (Prov. 4:11-12).

I pay attention to the wisdom of the Lord. I lend my ear to His understanding so that I may preserve discretion and my lips will keep knowledge (Prov. 5:1-2).

I love wisdom like a sister, and insight is a beloved member of my family. They hold me back from immoral behavior and from listening to the flattery of strangers (Prov. 7:4-5, nlt).

Wisdom cries out to me, and understanding lifts up her voice so that I can hear (Prov. 8:1).

I am of a prudent and understanding heart (Prov. 8:5).

I speak of excellent things, and from the opening of my lips are right things. My mouth speaks truth, and wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are righteous. There is nothing crooked or perverse in them, because I operate with the spirit of wisdom (Prov. 8:6-8).

The words of wisdom are all plain to me because I have understanding; they are right to me because I have knowledge (Prov. 8:9).

I receive wise instruction and not silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold (Prov. 8:10).

For wisdom is better than rubies, and nothing that I desire can compare to it (Prov. 8:11).

Because I have wisdom I dwell with prudence and find out knowledge and discretion (Prov. 8:12).

Because I have wisdom, counsel and sound wisdom are mine. I am understanding, and I have strength (Prov. 8:14).

I have the beginnings of wisdom because I fear the Lord, and the knowledge of His holiness is understanding (Prov. 9:10).

Wisdom is found in my lips because I have understanding (Prov. 10:13).

I store up knowledge because I am a wise person (Prov. 10:14).

I am not a fool who dies in want of wisdom, but the words from my mouth feed many (Prov. 10:21).

I am person of understanding; therefore, I have wisdom (Prov. 10:23).

My mouth brings forth wisdom (Prov. 10:31).

I am humble, and wisdom is with me (Prov. 11:2).

As a person who has wisdom and understanding, I hold my peace (Prov. 11:12).

Let me be commended according to my wisdom, but I keep my heart from perversion so that I will not be despised (Prov. 12:8).

I till my land and am satisfied with bread. Yet if I follow after frivolity, I will be void of understanding (Prov. 12:11).

Wisdom is with me because I am well advised (Prov. 13:10).

Knowledge and wisdom come easily to me because I have understanding (Prov. 14:6).

I will leave the presence of foolish people when I do not perceive in them the lips of knowledge (Prov. 14:7).

My wisdom is in understanding my way (Prov. 14:8).

Wisdom rests in my heart because I have understanding (Prov. 14:33).

I walk uprightly because I have understanding (Prov. 15:21).

I am instructed of wisdom because I fear the Lord (Prov. 15:33).

It is much better that I have chosen wisdom rather than gold, and understanding rather than silver (Prov. 16:16).

I will not be like the man void of understanding and agree to secure a friend's debt (Prov. 17:18).

I set my sights on wisdom because I have understanding (Prov. 17:24).

I spare my words and have a calm spirit, because I have knowledge and understanding (Prov. 17:27).

I hold my peace and keep my lips shut; even then I appear wise and perceptive (Prov. 17:28).

I will not be like the man who isolates himself and seeks his own desire, raging against wise judgment, for he is a fool who does not delight in understanding but delights in expressing his own heart (Prov. 18:1-2).

The words of my mouth are like life-giving water. In it are words of true wisdom that are as refreshing as a bubbling brook (Prov. 18:4, nlt).

I am one who gets wisdom because I love my own soul. I will keep understanding so that I will find good (Prov. 19:8).

None of my human wisdom, understanding, or counsel can stand against the Lord (Prov. 21:30).

I will not overwork myself to become rich. I must cease from trying in my own understanding (Prov. 23:4).

I will not speak in the hearing of a fool, because he will despise the wisdom of my words (Prov. 23:9).

I will buy truth, wisdom, instruction, and understanding and will never sell them (Prov. 23:23).

Through wisdom my house is built, and by understanding it is established. By knowledge the rooms will be filled with all precious and pleasant riches (Prov. 24:3-4).

I am strong because I am wise and full of knowledge (Prov. 24:5).

Let me not be like the fool for whom wisdom is too much, but let me be able to speak wisely in the presence of leaders (Prov. 24:7, nlt).

The knowledge of wisdom is my reward, and my expectations for it have been surpassed (Prov. 24:14).

My father rejoices in me because I love wisdom, and I do not keep company with immoral people (Prov. 29:3).

I receive the rod of correction, for it imparts wisdom, but I disgrace my mother if I am left to myself (Prov. 29:15, niv).

I open my mouth with wisdom, and on my tongue is the law of kindness (Prov. 31:26).

I have given my heart to seek and search out wisdom concerning all things that are done under heaven (Eccles. 1:13).

I see that wisdom excels folly and light excels darkness, for my eyes are in my head but a fool walks around in darkness (Eccles. 2:13-14).

I am good in the sight of the Lord, for He gives me wisdom, knowledge, and joy (Eccles. 2:26).

The wisdom that God gives me is good with an inheritance, and both wisdom and money are a defense, but only wisdom gives me life (Eccles. 7:11-12).

I am stronger than ten mighty men because I have wisdom (Eccles. 7:19).

I am wise and able to analyze and interpret things. Wisdom lights up my face and softens the hardness of my countenance (Eccles. 8:1, nlt).

Day and night I applied my heart to know wisdom and to see the business that is done on the earth. It was then that I beheld all the work of God (Eccles. 8:16-17).

I deliver whole cities with my wisdom, for wisdom is better than strength and weapons of war (Eccles. 9:15-18).

I will not give in to even a little folly else my reputation for wisdom and honor will send forth a foul odor (Eccles. 10:1).

My heart leads me to do right because I am wise (Eccles. 10:2).

Let the wisdom of God bring me success (Eccles. 10:10).

Let me not be like the king of Assyria, thinking that by the strength of my hands I have done it, or by my own wisdom I am prudent (Isa. 10:13). For it is the Lord my God who makes me strong and wise.

The Spirit of the Lord rests upon me, and the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge, and the fear of the Lord also rest on me because my delight is the fear of the Lord (Isa. 11:2-3).

Wisdom and knowledge are my stability in these times. They are the strength of my salvation, and the fear of the Lord is my treasure (Isa. 33:6).

I will not reject the word of the Lord, for what wisdom is there in that? (Jer. 8:9).

I do not glory in my own wisdom, might, or riches, but I glory in knowing and understanding the Lord. He is the I AM, who exercises loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. In these things I do delight (Jer. 9:23-24).

I thank You, Lord, for You have made the earth by Your power, established the world by Your wisdom, and stretched out the heavens by Your understanding (Jer. 51:15). I know that You will extend Your power, wisdom, and understanding to heal me.

Let it not be to me that I get rich through my own wisdom and understanding. Let my heart not be lifted up because of worldly riches (Ezek. 28:4-5), but let me humbly receive the wisdom and understanding that God gives, so that I will be made whole--body, mind, and spirit.

Let it not be to me that strangers or the most terrible of nations come upon me to draw their swords against the beauty of my wisdom and defile me (Ezek. 28:7), but let me be wrapped in humility and covered by the mighty hand of the only wise God so that all of His promises to heal me will come to pass.

Like Daniel, I am presented before the king as a child with no blemish. I am well favored and gifted in all wisdom, possessing knowledge, and quick to understand (Dan. 1:4).

Like Daniel and his friends, God has given me knowledge and skill in learning and wisdom and understanding in all dreams and visions (Dan. 1:17).

In all matters of wisdom and understanding, I am found ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers in this realm (Dan. 1:20), for by His might God has empowered me with His Spirit and healed my mind.

Like Daniel, I will answer those who inquire of me with counsel and wisdom (Dan. 2:14).

With Daniel I bless the name of God forever and ever, for wisdom and might are His. He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and sets them up. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to them who have understanding. He reveals deep and secret things; He knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with Him (Dan. 2:20-22).

I thank You and praise You, God of my fathers, for You have given me wisdom and might. You have made known to me what I have asked of You (Dan. 2:23).

Secret things have not been revealed to me to show that I am wiser than anyone else, but they have been revealed to benefit the people so that they will understand what is in their own hearts (Dan. 2:30).

Kings and rulers will hear of me and the Spirit of God that dwells in me. They will know that light, understanding, and excellent wisdom are found in me (Dan. 5:14).

I will listen for the voice of the Lord that cries out in my city. I will fear His name because I am wise. I will heed the rod and the One who appointed it (Mic. 6:9, niv).

Like the queen of the south, I will arise from wherever I am to hear the wisdom of the One greater than Solomon (Matt. 12:42).

Like Jesus, I have been sent out to teach in my own city, and they will ask, Where did this person get such wisdom and these miraculous powers?(Matt. 13:54).

Many will wonder where my wisdom and gifts of teaching, healing, and miracles come from (Mark 6:2), and they will know that they come from the Lord God who has healed me.

Like Jesus, I go forth in the spirit and power of Elijah to turn the disobedient to the wisdom of the just (Luke 1:17).

I grow and am strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God is upon me (Luke 2:40).

Like Jesus, I increase in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man (Luke 2:52).

The fruit of my life shows the wisdom of God that dwells in me (Luke 7:35).

For the Lord will give me a mouth and wisdom, which none of my adversaries will be able to contradict or resist (Luke 21:15).

I am a person of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom (Acts 6:3).

Those who rise up in dispute against me will not be able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which I speak (Acts 6:9-10).

Like Joseph, God has delivered me from all my afflictions. He has given me favor and wisdom (Acts 7:10).

Like Moses, I am learned in all wisdom and am mighty in words and deeds (Acts 7:22).

O God, how deep are the riches of Your wisdom and knowledge! Your judgments are unsearchable, and Your ways are past finding out (Rom. 11:33).

I will not be wise according to the flesh, for God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put the wise to shame, the weak things to shame the mighty. No flesh will glory in His presence. I glory in the Lord (1 Cor. 1:26-31).

I do not come with excellent speech or my own wisdom, for I am determined to know nothing else except Jesus Christ and Him crucified (1 Cor. 2:1-2).

My speech and my preaching are not with persuasive words of human wisdom but in demonstration of the Spirit and power, that faith will stand in God and not in the wisdom of men (1 Cor. 2:4-5).

I speak wisdom among those who are mature, but not wisdom of this world or of the princes of this world. I speak the wisdom of God that He ordained before the world for our benefit (1 Cor. 2:6-7).

The things I speak are not in the words of man's wisdom, but those that the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual (1 Cor. 2:13).

The wisdom I have is not the wisdom of this world, for it is foolishness with God. Therefore, I do not glory in men, because all things are God's (1 Cor. 3:19, 21).

Let it be that I profit from the gifts of the Spirit, for He gives to one the word of wisdom and to another the word of knowledge (1 Cor. 12:8).

I am conducting myself in the world with simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God (2 Cor. 1:12).

God has poured out to me all wisdom and prudence, having made known to me the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure (Eph. 1:8-9).

May God give me the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him. Let the eyes of my understanding be enlightened so I will know the hope of His calling and the riches of the glory of His inheritance (Eph. 1:17-18).

I preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ with the intention of making known the manifold wisdom of God to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places (Eph. 3:8, 11).

I preach Christ, the hope of all glory, warning every man and teaching them in all wisdom so that they may be presented perfect in Christ Jesus (Col. 1:28).

I will not impose upon myself religious regulations, for in them are the appearance of wisdom, humility, and neglect of the body, but they have no value against the indulgence of the flesh (Col. 2:23).

Let the Word of Christ dwell in me richly in all wisdom, and I will teach and admonish my fellow believers in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with grace in my heart to the Lord (Col. 3:16).

I will walk in wisdom toward those who are without, redeeming the time (Col. 4:5).

I will ask God for any wisdom that I lack, and He will give it to me liberally (James 1:5).

Let me not be filled with bitter envy and strife in my heart, for this wisdom does not come from above but is earthly, sensual, and demonic (James 3:14-15).

Let me be filled with the wisdom from above, for it is pure, peaceful, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, and without partiality and hypocrisy (James 3:17).

I say with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power, riches, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and blessing (Rev. 5:12).

Stay blessed.

Esther

Author Interview with Shawna K Williams and Giveaway of No Other

2010-08-03T15:59:00.001+08:00

Today I'm having Shawna K. Williams, author of No Other visiting us. Read on to see how you can win a copy of No Other at the end of this post.

Interview with Shawna

First of all thanks Shawna for taking time to be here.

How long did it take you to decide to start writing books ?

I actually had never planned to write books until I had this dream that was such an intriguing story I was compelled to.

Even then I mostly started writing just to satisfy my own need to understand the story in my head. I thought about it for six months, and then started writing. It took me two years to complete it because :-

a) My kids were very small and I had a limited amount of time, and

b) The book was VERY long.

I played with the story off and on for several years - at one point even putting it away for over a year, About two and a half years ago was when I really decided to work toward publication.

Did you face much rejection before publishing?

Yes. It's just part of the process, but it's still tough to take.

What helped you pull through?

Hearing other people's stories helped me, because I realized that it happens to everyone, and the key in perseverance.

What or who is your inspiration to write?

This is a good question and I'm not sure I can verbalize the answer. I just have this deep passion inside of me to share stories that reflect God's grace. I guess "grace" is the inspiration. I know how much I need it, and I see others hurting because they don't know it's there for them too. I want people to know about it.

As far as Christian authors go, Francine Rivers is a great inspiration to me for this very season. I recommend Redeeming Love to everyone.

What is your favorite childhood memory?

They lived on a wooded, mountain in Arkansas. When I was growing up we used to spend every Christmas with them. All of our extended family would come too. I especially enjoyed the feel of winter, which was something we didn't get much of where I lived on the coast of Texas.

My grandparents' house has these wonderful wood floors that creaked when you walked around, but it was a really comforting sound. My grandmother also had this beautiful chandelier that mesmerized me as a child, and I used to sit and stare at it. Nonnie doesn't know this, but sometimes at night I'd creep into the dining room, sneak off a crystal to look at it, and then put it back.

Nonnie if you read this, I'm sorry. They were just so pretty and I was very careful. I still should have asked though.

Esther, you might remember in No Other, the part where Jakob took down the chandelier in the abandoned house to give to his mother. Well my grandmother's chandelier in the inspiration for that.

Yes, Shawna I do remember and how wonderful to know this.

If you could meet 1 person from the bible, who would it be? (besides Jesus of course)

King David. I marvel at his fearless faith and complete devotion to God.

What event in the bible would you like to be at?

Christ's resurrection, when He appeared to the two Mary's after the angel had told them Jesus wasn't at the tomb.

What is your favorite shade of lipstick and your favorite fragrance/perfume?

Tinted lip gloss is my thing. My absolute favorite fragrance as perfume is Aquolina Pink Sugar, but I love Bath and Bodyworks Warm Vanilla Sugar body lotion.

Do you have any words of wisdom you would like to share with your readers?

I like to think of Christian fiction as a way to learn through characters. People may day, "But it's make believe," and that would be true in a sense. While the characters may be fictional, the situations and lessons come from insights the author has gained through life experience, whether it be their own or through someone they know. There is truth in fiction, and if a fictional story can give guidance and direction to someone who's seeking, that's a wonderful thing. So when readers pick up a story, I hope they'll keep this in mind, and look for that message to take to heart.

My personal hope is that No Other is that readers might consider how ignoring one's conscience when it comes to small things, can often lead to much larger temptation down the road. However, if someone did find them in this situation, God always provides a way back. Also, to trust God's way, even when we want something else. He sees the big picture. We only see the here and now.

What are your upcoming titles/ projects that we should be on the lookout for and when should we expect it?

In November In All Things releases. If you read No Other, you really need to read In All Things too. It picks up with Jakob and Meri ten years later, and many elements from No Other come full circle in this story.

In December Orphaned Hearts comes out. It's a much shorter book, but sweet and heart-warming as can be. It was inspired by my granddad, who grew up as an orphan in the late '20s and 1930s.

How can your readers connect with you?

My website : http://shawnakwilliams.com/

My personal blog : http://shawnawilliams-oldsmobile.blogspot.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/shawnakwilliams

Facebook fanpage : http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Shawna-K-Williams/236629884245?ref=ts

So to win your copy of No Other just post a comment to say you would like to enter the giveaway.

For extra entries :-

*Become a follower of Shawna's blog here + 2 entries

* Read any of my post under the encouragement tag and leave a comment + 5 entries

Please post separate entries for each that you do. Its easier for me to tally up your entries this way. This giveaway starts today and ends on the 15th August 2010.

Stay blessed.

Esther

Book Review : No Other by Shawna K Williams

2010-08-02T18:13:00.003+08:00

ABOUT THE BOOK

In the aftermath of WWII all Jakob Wilheimer wants is to get over his pain, get on with life, and if at all possible, forgive those who've wronged his family -- including himself. But it's hard to do when there are constant reminders. One of them being his former schoolmate, now teacher, Meri Parker -- Miss Port Delamar Pearl, Mayor's daughter, Belle of the town -- Meri Parker.

After enduring the stigma and isolation associated with the internment camp, the awkwardness of going back to school should've been a cake walk. But Jakob didn't expect to find himself inexplicably drawn to Meri. Or to discover that the pain and loneliness of her life surpassed his own. She needed to be rescued from the wretched people seeking to control her life. And more than anything, he needed to be the one to save her.

MY REVIEW

No Other is a story of God's grace, no matter how you screw up whatever God has promised He will never take it away from you. It may take a little longer or take some additional twists to get there but it happens no matter what.

I also loved the way author Shawna K Williams incorporated Jakob's conversations with God into the book.

The fact that God's word in mentioned much in the book also made me a happy Christian book reviewer.

The only par of the book I was not so keen on was the kissing scenes. But I guess for the author to make her point on God's grace, some sin had to be written clearly.

I totally enjoyed the book and would recommend it to you.

Join me here tomorrow where I will be interviewing author of No Other , Shawna K. Williams and I will also be giving away a copy of No Other.

Stay blessed.

Esther

The Many Names of Jesus Day #6

2010-07-31T21:21:00.002+08:00

Continuing from The Many Names of Jesus Day # 5

The post is arranged in this arrangement :

NAME

Scripture for reference

My thoughts (if any)

ANOINTED ONE

Matthew 1:16 - and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary of whom was born Jesus, who is called the Christ

Christ is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew Messiah which simply means Anointed One. The chosen one.

Psalms 2: 1-2 - Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the LORD and against his Anointed One.

Lord God, I thank You this day that you sent Jesus, the Christ, your Anointed One to pay for my sins, and to die in my place that I may have eternal life. That I may one day see You face to face and stand in Your presence. O what an awesome God You are, You the Creator of all the heavens and the earth could have chosen to just wipe out the entire population at Adam's time itself. There would have never been an me, Esther.

You could have created another man and woman and had them be sinless, but instead You chose, You chose to continue and have us each one from Abel, Cain, Seth, Nahor, Terah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, all the way down to Mary and Joseph.

Then You sent Your One and Only Son, Jesus, the Christ, The Messiah, You Anointed One to pay for my price so that me, my family, my Pastor and his family, my friends, my little niece and the new baby just born on this earth right now this second could go to heaven and be with you. You chose us.

You could have not had to have us and even now You endure much pain and sadness when Your children choose to ignore You, when I don't sit with You so often, when I don't come into Your presence as often as You would like, when I sin and make You sad. You can wipe me out of this planet earth any which time You choose. But You choose to love me .

I am forever thankful. I will forever praise You holy Name, in the assembly will I lift up my hands to heaven and sing out praises to the God Most High, the Anointed One of God, KING JESUS CHRIST.

There is nothing that we can do or don't do that will make God love us more or less than He already does. He just loves us with this love that no one can comprehend. I will never understand this love, neither do I think any other human being will, because it is Godly and only He can understand it and only He is capable of loving this way. But even so I pray that I can mirror His love as much as possible, and as much as He allows me and ables me too. But someday I know when I am in heaven with Jesus, at that time I will be able to love Him the same way He loves me and I can't wait for that. I hope you will be there with me too.

Stay blessed.

Esther

The Hope Chest Giveaway

2010-07-28T16:00:00.001+08:00

The Hope Chest Giveaway

Check it out at Raising Homemakers

The Many Names of Jesus : Day #5

2010-07-27T14:11:00.002+08:00

Hi, its been a week I have been doing this study and I am loving every minute of it. And the best of part of all is I get to share everything with you'll too.

The post is arranged in this arrangement :

NAME

Scripture for reference

My thoughts (if any)

ADVOCATE

Job 16:19 - Even now my witness is in heaven; my advocate is there on high

1 John 2:1 - My little children, these things I write to you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.

We are sinners no matter what. We cannot live according to the law. Maybe for a day or two and then we are back to sin. Sometimes we only choose to look at the "big sins" as we term it. In God's dictionary there is no big sin or small sin, sin is just sin. And even in our daily thoughts we sin. We are sinners no matter what.

But the Word of God gives me hope in 1 John 2:1, John says, my little children I write to you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. It just plainly means that even though I were to sin, I have an advocate, the Righteous One, His name is Jesus. He is in heaven fighting my case for me. In God's eyes, I have sinned, so Jesus there pleads my case.

Just imagine a courtroom (only a heavenly one, more glorious). The judge presiding is Father God. The Public Prosecutor is satan and the Defense Attorney is Jesus the Righteous One. And of course, me the client, the sinning daughter - to Father God and the saved yet sinning sister to Jesus the Righteous. And not to worry in this series, the defense always wins. :)))) I am smiling and laughing as I write.

It may seem a silly story to you, but it is the truth. And, boy am I glad that " my witness is in heaven; my advocate is there on high (Job 16:19).

I am blessed tremendously by the Word of God and I hope you are too. And take it easy, don't be too hard on yourself, the deceiver will continue putting guilty thoughts in your mind, rebuke it in the name of Jesus and tell him that "MY WITNESS, MY ADVOCATE, MY LAWYER, JESUS CHRIST THE RIGHTEOUS IS HIGH IN HEAVEN FIGHTING FOR ME" Actually don't even say anything, because your lawyer said not to say a word, He'll do the talking for you.

Stay blessed.

Esther

The Many Names of Jesus : Day #4

2010-07-26T20:54:00.002+08:00

If this is the first post you are reading, it happens to be the 4th post of my sharing called The Many Names of Jesus. I would suggest you also read the previous 3 posts. Most of all I pray that these posts blesses you and inspires you to cry out His name. The Name above all other names.

Arrangement:

NAME

Scripture for reference

My thoughts (if any)

ALPHA AND OMEGA

Revelation 1:8- I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is,and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty." (NIV)

Rev 1: 11 - Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. (KJV )

Rev 21:6 - He said to me: It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life. (NIV)

Rev 22:13 - I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.

Alpha is the first letter in the Greek language- the letter A in the English language and Omega is the last alphabet in the Greek language. The word Omega literally means Great O ( O-mega , mega meaning great) How's that for knowledge, in the word Omega itself the meaning great.

And yes, great is He the One who calls Himself the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. He is the First and the Last. If He is the Alpha and the Omega , the Beginning and The End, then who cares about what happens here.He is in control even of the End, He Himself is the end and our journey here just happens to be the middle. He is our beginning and He will be our end. Even when we die, its not our end. Our real end comes when The Alpha and the Omega comes and then it will be a glorious end for us.

In Rev 3:21 Jesus says "To him who overcomes, I will give the right sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on His throne.

What a wonderful promise we have from Jesus Himself. Not only will we be with Him in heaven, He even tells us that we will sit with Him on His throne. There is no word to express how I feel when I think that my Lord, my great Master who went on the cross for me will allow me to sit on His throne with Him. This is the promise for us , His children, His disciples here in this earth, who overcome.

You have heard the saying, "keep your eyes on the prize" well I'm keeping my eyes fixed on the promise the Master has promised me, and so my eyes are going to be fixed on Him and Him alone. What are you going to keep your eyes on. I hope it will be Him and His promise that you fix your eyes on too. And I am planning on overcoming because my Master who is the Alpha and the Omega will help me overcome. I know it and I believe it and it is the same for you too, for He is not a man that He should lie.

So fix your eyes on Him and don't even look anywhere else for even for a nano-second.

God bless you and your family. Keep your eyes firmly fixed on Him and Him alone.

Stay blessed,

Esther

* Video credit to Hillsong United taken from YouTube.

The Many Names of Jesus : Day # 3

2010-07-25T20:23:00.001+08:00

If you are new, or are reading this post, this is a continuation of a series of posts I am doing about the many names of Jesus. This is the 3rd post and I am tremendously blessed by this study and I hope you will be too.

Arrangement:

NAME

Scripture for reference

My thoughts (if any)

ANCIENT OF DAYS

Daniel 7:9 - "As I looked, "thrones were set in place, and the Ancient of Days took his seat. His clothing was as white as snow; the hair of his head was white like wool. His throne was flaming with fire, and its wheels were all ablaze.

Rev 1:14 - His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow and His eyes were like blazing fire.

Mark 9:3 - His clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them.

Ancient of Days is another name for God in Aramaic, Atik Yomin. It is used in the book of Daniel, where Daniel receives a revelation from God. If you go on to read the bible you will know that the very book that God told Daniel to seal up was eventually revealed to John and was given to us as the Book of Revelation.

Daniel saw this vision of God in His dreams. On His throne with the exact description as given in the scripture.

In the book of Revelation, which is the Revelation of Jesus Christ, John paints to us this same description and we know that the one called Ancient of Days in the book of Daniel is with no doubt Jesus Christ. The hair on His head as white as wool, speaking of His authority to judge, which He will eventually, judge the world. His clothing as white as snow, as also in Mark 9:3, speaking of righteousness, that's why He is also called the Righteous One.

Brothers and sisters, Jesus, the Ancient of Days will be coming soon. To judge this world, me you and everyone else. While I take comfort that I am in Him, I am also grieved about the souls who do not know Him. I urge you to pray for your friends and family who and not saved, testify Jesus to all you know, invite them to church and invite them into God's family for the day will come when the Ancient of Days will come back and we will be accountable.

Do your part in all ways possible. In my church we have something called a "Wall of Salvation". We write down names of all our unsaved family members, friends, foes, and just about anyone who is not saved and these names are prayed over all the time. You could suggest it to your Pastor or church leader, you could even make it a fun activity to do at home with your kids, and I believe that every name found in the wall of salvation anywhere in the world, God will save them, for He is the Merciful One, full of love and compassion.

Do not give up ever and God bless you all.

Esther

The Many Names of Jesus : Day # 2

2010-07-23T14:10:00.001+08:00

* This is a continuation from yesterday's post " The Many Names of Jesus"

Today's post was all about 1 name. I remember the message I received was someone needs to pray this one name. Yes, we all pray in the name of Jesus but sometimes, we got to make that extra effort, go the extra mile and cry unto our maker, The LORD.

Arrangement :

NAME

Scripture for reference

My thoughts (if any)

ADONAI (Ahdonay)

Exodus 6:3 - That appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, by the name of God Almighty; and my name ADONAI I did not shew them ( Douay-Rheims Bible)

Exodus 6:3 - and I appeared to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as God Almighty, but by my name, LORD, I did not make Myself known to them. (American Standard Version)

Scripture for cross reference:

Psalm 68 : 4 - Sing to God, sing praise to His name, extol Him who rides on the clouds. His name is the LORD- and rejoice before Him.

Psalm 83:18 - That they may know that You alone, whose name is the LORD, are the Most High over all the earth.

and more Genesis 17:1, Jeremiah 16:21, Ezekiel 37:6, Ezekiel 37:13

My thoughts : What an awesome God we serve who just introduces Himself as "LORD". If you notice the world is moving towards a direction where all is about titles. It always goes like , The Honourable, The so and so and so. The Royal yada-yada-yada.

Here as usual God puts all human thinking and ways to shame, but just appearing and saying " I'm LORD". That's it. He doesn't say I am the Honourable, Dignified, Most Powerful , King of all Kings, and Lord of all Lords, the LORD".

In Genesis He shows Himself to Abraham, to Isaac, to Jacob, the Almighty but I did not tell them my name. "The LORD".

Grow in His likeness, be as simple as we can in life and just be confident in the knowledge that we belong to and serve an Awesome God, simply known as the LORD. All might and power is in Him, but all He desires is our obedience to Him. That's all. Simple and powerful.

Stay blessed.

Esther

The Many Names of Jesus

2010-07-22T14:31:00.003+08:00

I was blessed at a prayer meeting in one of my elders home and received a message on how to pray in Jesus' name. God [Jesus] has many names and each with a special meaning and I started reading up on all His names and meanings. Since I concentrate better when I write I thought why not share it in a post. As I was typing though I realized that there is too many to share in one post so I will write everyday till I cover all His names, the scripture for reference and how the scripture spoke to me.

I hope this will bless you as it is blessing me.

Arrangement :

NAME

Scripture for reference

My thoughts (if any)

ALMIGHTY

Rev 1:8 - "I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, " who is, and who was,and who is to come, the Almighty."

Jesus is the Almighty One. He is Almighty, He Himself is Almighty, He doesn't need anyone or anything to make Him mighty because He is Almighty - All might is in Him.

AUTHOR AND FINISHER

Heb 12: 2 - Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

He will be the one who refines me and perfects me until my end or until He comes. Honestly I would like to be around for the rapture. See Him when He comes in all majesty and glory. At the same time, we need more time, so many people in the world need to be saved before the end. If He is the author who has created me I shall not have to worry. Just like any other author who has control over the end of his/her created character, the same way Jesus has total control over me, my journey, my end. He can choose to change my course as He sees fit. I am thankful that He is my author, for there is no other greater author than He.

Till tomorrow...stay blessed...

Esther

Winner of Scars and Stilettos by Harmony Dust

2010-07-19T21:46:00.005+08:00

AND

THE WINNER

BARBARA

Congratulations Barbara !!! I'm sending you an e-mail so be sure to get back to me within 48 hours.

Thank you all for entering the giveaway. Do check out the other giveaways going on now.

God bless you all and have a wonderful day

2010-07-15T01:23:00.002+08:00

Inspirational E-book Challenge

Ok, so my friend Joy @ Edgy Inspirational Romance is hosting this reading challenge. And since I've started reading e-books, I've decided to join in. And you can too :)))

To participate in this challenge:

1. Grab a challenge button and post it in a blog entry or your sidebar.

2. Blog about this challenge, then link your blog entry or challenge page to the Linky Tool here so we can hop over to follow your progress.

3. Start reading your six (or more) inspirational e-books. They don't have to be romance. But it would make her (Joy's) heart sing if you chose at least one inspy romance for the challenge, and bonus points if it's edgy!

4. In the comment section of this post at Joy's (click here), come back and tell us which books you've completed. And if you review them in your blog, leave links so we can follow. To be eligible for the prizes, make sure to update your original post when you've finished the challenge.

5. Joy will have blog award buttons available for everyone who completes the challenge. One person from the Linky Tool who finishes 6 ebooks will also win a $10 Amazon gift card from Joy. The winner will be chosen 31st December 2010.

Here's my list of inspirational ebooks (I'll update it each time I read one):

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

So lets get reading.

Stay blessed and don't forget to link your blog to the linky at Joy's here.

Esther

July Book Giveaway No.1

2010-07-15T00:35:00.002+08:00

Its time for the my 1st giveaway of the month. I'm giving away 2 e-books. They are not new releases. However I recently purchased them and since I enjoyed them I would like to share them with you.

The 1st book I'm giving away is " A Promise For Breanna by Al Lacy "

The Angel of Mercy series follows the adventures of certified medical nurse Breanna Baylor as she seeks to serve her fellow man and restore her relationship with her true love-John Stranger of the Journeys of the Stranger series-in the post-Civil War West. A Promise for Breanna finds the heroine face to face with Frank Miller, the man who once broke her heart and led her to mistrust men, sabotaging her relationship with John Stranger. Suspense, danger, romance, and spiritual truth each play a part in this compelling story that draws readers into the life of an angel of mercy.

And the 2nd book I'm giving away is " Yellow Rose Bride by Lori Copeland "

Seven years ago, seamstress Vonnie Taylor's husband of twenty-four hours, Adam Baldwin, had their marriage annulled. Now she faces the ultimate indignity: sewing the wedding dress for his new intended!

Vonnie hasn't gotten over the handsome Texas rancher, though she'd tried to put him out of her mind after a family feud had doomed their love. Now, as past secrets are uncovered and danger unleashed, Vonnie is thrown together once more with the man who broke her heart. And as the difficulties bring the pair ever closer, this Yellow Rose of Texas discovers that love is always worth the wait.

Giveaway details :

1) You must be a follower.
(Not to worry if you are not, just follow me and enter the giveaway, just make sure you tell me in your comment.)

1) Since I own these e-books, I have decided to give it away to ALL of you. That's right everyone who is a follower and answers the following question gets both books!!

Question : Which verse of scripture that motivates you most when you're feeling down/low ?

*If you are not a Christian or have never read the bible then click here and tell me what you think.

So basically its as simple as that. This giveaway ends on the 25th of July 2010. I will send you your copy via e-mail after the giveaway ends.

* Images credit to Amazon and Christianbook.com

* E-books were purchased and paid for and belong to me.

God bless you and have a great week ahead!!!

Love in Him,

Esther

PLAN B & 5 book giveaway @ Abi's

2010-07-13T22:14:00.002+08:00

Hey all,

There's a book called Plan B which I am waiting to read written by Pastor Pete Wilson and my friend Abi is hosting as 5 book giveaway at her blog Scraps of Life and one of the pick is this book.

So hop over to Abi's to enter this book giveaway.

Enter this giveaway at Scraps of Life

Have a blessed night / day.

Love in Him,

Esther

Winner of " The Power of The Cross" and "I Am The Resurrection & The Life" by Rev. Aloysious Lopez

2010-07-10T23:55:00.002+08:00

AND

THE WINNERS

ARE

DEBBIE F

SARAH

Congratulations DEBBIE F & SARAH !!! I'm sending you both an e-mail so be sure to get back to me within 48 hours.

Thank you all for entering the giveaway. Do check out the other giveaways going on now.

God bless you all and have a wonderful day

I am His Beloved and so are you!

2010-07-09T11:11:00.003+08:00

I was talking with my mum this morning via yahoo chat and suddenly my mother who never has called me any pet name besides "monkey" and "piggy" [this is how my family bonds] , anyway she suddenly said good morning Sweetie. And I was like, where's my mother and who's this alien talking to me?
haha...
[that's my mum in the picture]

No, actually the honest truth is I come from a family which doesn't show much affection for each other emotionally and with words. I mean ya, my mum loves me and my sister more than anything, but showing it directly. Nope...not in our family books. She (my mother) has bailed me out many times in life and for that I'm ever grateful and I thank God for her. But growing up I was really hurt when everyone's mum was so sweet to them and mine wasn't. Now its ok because Jesus taught me how true love is.

So going on, we were talking and I realized something, I'd rather her not call me "sweetie", i felt it too weird. I was happy with "monkey and piggy". Told her to keep the "Sweetie and the Cutie" for my niece who is just 2 months old, and being a grandma is the real reason behind my mother's mellowing and softening. Haha.
[my little niece in the picture]

But really, I'd rather not be anyone's sweetie because I am His beloved. You see I come from a non-believing family background and when I met Jesus, He turned my life around 180 degrees. How did that happen? By reading the His Word (Bible) day and night.

As I read the bible, time and again Jesus expressed His love for me. A love so great that He was willing to carry His cross and die a cruel death for me. So that I may live for ever with Him someday (eternity) . And suddenly it did not matter that my mom did not call me darling or sweetie like other mom's called their children. I am the Most High's beloved. And the best part is YOU ARE TOO!

So as our conversation went on like this :

Me: Jesus calls me His beloved.

Me: And you are His beloved too.

My mom : I was His beloved from the time I was born.

Me : Ma, you were His beloved even before you were born. He conceived you in your mother's womb.

My mom : :) [smiley face] [a big one]

You may ask where I get this ? Sounds too good to be true.

But let me tell you my dearest, the truths that God has given us in His word, this is the truth that takes me through all the trials and tribulations and it makes me a stronger person. And this is the same truth that can take you through and lift you up when it seems like nothing can. When all things and people fail you He never will. It's His own promise to us.

"I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations." (Jeremiah 1:5)

"..... for He has said, I will never leave you, nor forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5)

"..... "I will call them 'my people' who are not my people; and I will call her 'my loved one' who is not my loved one," (Romans 9:25)

There are many more scriptures that clearly tell us how much we are loved, how much God loves us and as you read it day and day He will encourage you, tell you to be strong when you are afraid (happens to me alot I'll tell you) and that He will never leave you. So turn to scripture daily. One of my favorite online tools to read the bible is this :

Biblos

(thanx Shyju)

So turn to God's truth today for encouragement & loads of love. Not like the world gives it but Jesus style!!!

Love in Christ,

Esther

My Friend Shawna's New Blog

2010-07-08T01:36:00.001+08:00

Hi , this post is to introduce my friend and favorite author Shawna K. William's new blog Inspirational Ebooks.

Its a brilliant blog. As a out of US person I find it hard to get copies of good Christian / Inspirational books. However e-books make it possible.

I've started reading e-books now . And when I received Shawna's mail telling me about her new blog I was all "yay! Shawna"

Then i visited her blog and realized she was also doing weekly drawings where the winner gets pdf copies of all the e-books featured that week. And I was "double yay".

So be sure to visit her blog Inspirational Ebooks.

Stay blessed.

Esther

Update on the Scars & Stilettos Giveaway

2010-07-03T16:03:00.002+08:00

Hi,

Just to update you'll on the Scars and Stilettos giveaway. Due to the low entries, I'm now opening the giveaway to all my international friends too.

Those of you who have posted comments previously are also automatically entered. All other giveaway rules still apply.

If you would like to enter the giveaway please post your comments here and not on this post.

The giveaway will be extended to the 18th of July 2010.

God bless you all.

Love In Him,
Esther

Welcome Wednesday Blog Hop 30/6/2010

2010-06-30T16:59:00.002+08:00

Welcome Wednesday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The "Welcome Wednesday" blog hop, hosted by Take It From Me!

Welcome Wednesday is a great way to meet new people and learn new things as well as increase your blog followers!

Interview With Delia Parr Plus 3 BOOK Giveaway!!

2010-06-30T15:29:00.001+08:00

Interview With Delia Parr Plus 3 BOOK Giveaway!!

Interview With Leann Harris!! Plus Giveaway!

2010-06-30T14:59:00.001+08:00

Interview With Leann Harris!! Plus Giveaway!

Interview With Ginger Garrett Plus Book Giveaway!!

2010-06-30T14:34:00.001+08:00

Interview With Ginger Garrett Plus Book Giveaway!!

Winner of Finding Jeena by Miralee Ferrell

2010-06-30T14:06:00.005+08:00

AND

THE WINNER

JULIA

Congratulations JULIA!!! I'm sending you an e-mail so be sure to get back to me within 48 hours.

Thank you all for entering the giveaway. Do check out the other giveaways going on now.

God bless you all and have a wonderful day

Giveaway of 2 Life Changing Sermons - "The Power of The Cross" & " I Am The Resurrection And The Life" by Rev. Aloysious Lopez

2010-06-26T13:58:00.002+08:00

Hi,

Those of you that have read my post "Good monday morning" will remember that I mentioned upcoming giveaways of life changing sermons by Reverend Aloysious Lopez, senior pastor and shepherd of The Breath of God Church, Kuala Lumpur.

The Breath of God Church happens to be my home church and Rev.Aloysious is my shepherd and spiritual father. I am also blessed to be a student in his bible study class. Currently we are doing the Book of Revelation and I will be giving away a set of CD/DVD's of the whole course once we finish the course.

However, today I wanted to share with you two sermons that made an impact on my life. "The Power of The Cross" and " I Am The Resurrection & The Life" . The Power of The Cross was the message we received on Good Friday 2010 and I Am The Resurrection & The Life was the message we received on Resurrection Sunday 2010.

A little about Rev. Aloysious Lopez

Rev Aloysious Lopez is the senior pastor of The Breath of God Church in Jalan Loke Yew Kuala Lumpur. Rev. Aloysious is a gifted teacher with an apostolic and prophetic calling and has ministered throughout Malaysia as well as internationally. Also his experience in the area of deliverance and healing has made him a highly sought after preacher for seminars and conferences. Many rural and laid back communities throughout Malaysia have been impacted and transformed by his teachings.

Rev. Aloysious is happily married to his wife Christine, who also serves as a Pastor at the The Breath of God Church and they have 3 wonderful children, Michelle, Kenny and Jacklyn.

Now for the giveaway

Today I am giving away 2 life changing sermons by Rev. Aloysious. The Power of The Cross and I am the Resurrection and The Life. The Power of The Cross.

I will be choosing 2 winners for this giveaway via Random.org. You can then choose if you would prefer an audio CD or a video CD or DVD. ( That means each of you get both sermons)

To enter the giveaway just post a comment that you want to enter.

You can also get an extra entry by becoming a follower. If you are already a follower, it also counts.

Anything you do to spread the word about this giveaway also counts. Each will get one entry. Just make sure to come back and tell me in a comment.

You can comment separately for each entry or you can put them all in one comment.

This giveaway is open internationally and will run from today till the 10th of July 2010.

Stay blessed.

Esther