A New Self by Ann Broughton

“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:22-24 NIV).

   The New Year is here and during this time, I take some time to reflect on my Christian walk during the past year.  I am hoping that you also will look back on the old year and think of ways your walk with Christ brought hope to others. Can you say that for the most part you put off your old self or were your desires more important than what God wanted for you?

It is tough to look back, but important so that you can see your mistakes and learn from them. It is also good to think on the ways that you served God. Did you show His love to others? Did you give to others without expecting anything in return?

   Now, let’s talk about our new attitudes. We are “to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” Eph. 4:24 NIV). Now I think that would be an excellent resolution for the New Year.  I think everyone has something that they would like to fix on their body for the New Year. It usually revolves around a new body that looks like a fitness instructor. You know, all muscle for the guys, and a perfect hour glass firm body for the gals. Well, I think that is a great goal, but without work it won’t happen. Our new self and attitude takes work too. It means being just as dedicated to prayer and reading the Bible, as you are to exercising and eating healthy. Your spiritual self needs to be made new, along with your body. 

    So for the New Year, think about really putting on the new self and being like God in true righteousness. Be humble, pray, read the Bible, give to others, have a positive attitude, and be forgiving.

Dear Lord,

I know you created me with a specific purpose in mind. Help me to fulfill that purpose by putting off my old self and putting on my new self. Help me to strive to serve others with humility and compassion.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Be Kind by Ann Broughton

“Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else” (Thessalonians 5:15 NIV).

   ‘Tis the season to be jolly. Ever heard that before? Sometimes the Christmas season can bring out the worst in some people unfortunately. I was appalled when I heard that people got into fist fights over an item during the Black Friday shopping. As Christians we are called to be kind no matter what, even when someone does something wrong to us. It is hard, but we must. Also, when we go shopping we are to represent the Lord in all we say and do.

I always treat the cashiers with deepest respect, because they have a difficult job. I asked one once about how people treated her. She said some people are so rude and nasty. After learning that, I make it my priority to treat them with respect and kindness.

    Other ways you can show you are a Christian during this season is by letting other people go ahead of you in lines. Don’t complain if you have to wait awhile. Take time to pray for those around you while you are waiting. Chances are they need it. Once I saw a lady waiting in line at the pharmacy and she was crying. I asked her what was wrong and then told her I would pray for her. There are so many people who are hurting who need someone to just take time and care.

     Look for ways while you are shopping to help others out. If you see an elderly person, ask if you can help in some way. Take their cart back to the corral or help them load their groceries. There are so many opportunities to help others, but so many times we are all about our own business and miss opportunities to serve the Lord in a special way.

     My challenge for you this week is to look for ways to help others every day, and especially when you are shopping. People need a smile, a caring heart, and someone to help them. You be that person. You can show others the kindness that Christ demonstrated to others in His ministry.

   Dear Lord,

Help me to show your kindness to others this season in everything I do and everywhere I go. Let me be aware of opportunities to help others and make a difference in someone else’s life.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Be a Giver This Christmas by Ann Broughton

“And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward” (Matthew 10:42 NIV).

   So here we are in the heart of the Christmas shopping time. So I have decided to help you get a new perspective about giving for Christmas. Since my husband and I went to the missionary convention my perspective has changed so much because of the videos I saw of people in desperate need. I want to share with others in need this Christmas in a big way. One of the missions was a house that houses young women who have been saved from sex slavery. They showed young girls being found in a brothel and saved. It touched my heart so much. I went to their booth and bought something so that all the money would go to help the girls at the house. I was so convicted in my heart to help others and not want things for myself this Christmas. Let’s face it. We are adults and what we need, we can buy. Why not help someone else this Christmas instead. Ask others to contribute to a charity instead of buying you a gift, or buy a toy and clothes for a needy child instead. The gifts I give this year will be from sites that help feed the hungry and help support those who are helping others.

    Jesus’ whole ministry was one of helping others. He himself went around healing the sick and helping others. He told us to help others also. People, there are those who are suffering all around us, and we truly need to meet their needs. Jesus spoke about helping others. He said, “Come you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in. I needed clothes and you clothed me” (Matthew 25:34-36 NIV). I truly challenge you to make others’ needs your first priority this Christmas, and that you think about others more than yourself. It truly is better to give than to receive.

Dear Lord,

There are needs all around us. Help us to help others and truly fulfill your mission here on earth. Give us the opportunity to bring happiness to those who do not know your love by giving them hope that someone cares about them. Let us be your hands and give to others with unconditional love.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

What a View by Ann Broughton

“The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field” (Matthew 13:44 NIV).

   The kingdom of heaven is waiting for all those who love the Lord and do according to His purposes. Chapter 13 of Matthew contains many parables spoken by Jesus on what the kingdom of heaven is like. Jesus knew it would be very difficult to explain this, so he told people stories to explain what heaven is like. I would urge you to read this chapter.

What does the kingdom of heaven mean to you? According to many of these parables it is so wonderful, you would sell everything you had to have it. Revelation speaks more about heaven. “It shone with the glory of God and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal” (Rev. 21:11 NIV). “The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass” (Rev. 21:18 NIV). Now won’t that be something to behold.  What a view!

   Once my husband and I went to Holmes County and decided to climb this huge hill to see the view. Well, let’s just say, I am out of shape and it was quite difficult for me to make it up that hill. I rested a lot and by the time I got up there I was bent over gasping for breath.

Then Rick told me to look around. Well, after I got my breath back, I looked all around at the beauty of hills surrounding me and was amazed at the breathtaking view. It was worth the struggle to get there.

   You see our journey in this life can be so difficult: full of pain, grief, betrayal, persecution, and struggle. But if we prevail, trust in God, do His will, and believe in His love for us, at the end of our lives we too will behold a view that is breathtaking; the view of heaven.  It definitely is worth the struggle. “Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made the good confession in the presence of many witness” (1 Timothy 6:12 NIV). Heaven is for real and is at the end of the road for Christians.

Now that you know this, tell others so that they too will be able to witness this glorious view at the end of their lives.

 Dear Lord,

Sometimes life seems so difficult. Help us to remember what awaits us at the end of our lives. Heaven is worth waiting for and we know that you will always be with us along the way to help us be strong. Help us to keep our eyes on you.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen                             

Jesus is Knocking at Your Door by Ann Broughton

“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.”

(Revelation 3:20-21 NIV).

   Have you heard His knock on your door? Have you answered it or are you turning a deaf ear? One of my favorite pictures of Jesus is of Him knocking on this huge door. I went to church in North Baltimore at the Church of the Good Shepherd. I can remember being a little kid sitting by my mother in the pew with my hankie filled with coins clutched in my hand for the offering. Every Sunday I would stare at that picture hanging in the church. It made a big impact on my life. I noticed that there was no door knob and wondered how He would get in. My mother explained that we must ask Him into our hearts. We must open the door to let Him come in.

   So have you done that? Have you asked Him into your heart? I was fortunate to have a mother who took me to church so I could learn about my loving Father who doesn’t force Himself by bashing down locked doors, but gently knocks and whispers my name, wanting me to open the door of my life so that He can fill it with His love. I have watched others who haven’t let Him in, and how their lives are filled with things to make them happy. You know: it could be materialistic things, drugs, alcohol etc. It is interesting to watch how they really aren’t happy, but are trying to fill a place in their heart with something that only God can fill. It is the truth. I have seen lives ruined by searching for love in wrong places. It is so sad when it could be so different if they could just open the door to Jesus and let Him fill their lives with His love and purpose. He wants so much for them to know the peace that only He can give.

   If you know someone who is floundering and needs to open the door to the Lord, please share with them how the Lord has helped you. I know that when life has been tough for me, God has always been there to give me peace and His comfort.

Dear Lord,

Help us to open the door of our hearts to you. Help us then to lead others to you so that they too will find the peace and love that is waiting for all those who open the door to you.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Serve the Lord and Follow Him by Ann Broughton

“Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am my servant will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me” (John 12:26 NIV).

  Jesus asked his apostles to follow Him. They left their jobs immediately when He asked them to come with Him. They didn’t just follow him for a day, they stayed with Him until He was crucified. They wanted to learn from Him, and in order to do that they offered everything they had to serve Him. So, since becoming a Christian, can you say the same? Do you follow Him every day and try to please Him?

   Have you ever had to follow someone to a place that you have never been before? We went to Hungary on Dec. 31, 1992 to visit our son and daughter-in-law because they had gone there as missionaries in September. We couldn’t wait to see them again. They met us at the airport at Budapest on New Year’s eve night. We hadn’t slept at all during the trip over and were exhausted, but our little gal who was our tour guide and interpreter wanted to show us some of Budapest. New Year’s Eve there is wild. All the people were in the streets with masks on. The little gal we were following was very short. My husband kept his eye on her stocking cap as we weaved in and out of the crowd. We would have been lost if we lost her. She was quick too and was far ahead of us. When we reached our destination we all sighed in relief.

She had lead us to the hostel and we were safe.

    Jesus urges us to follow Him too and keep our eyes on what He wants us to do for Him, but in order to do that we must know Him. In order to know Him we must read the Gospels of the Bible. We must do what He says and act the way He would act in every situation. It is not enough to say, “I believe in Jesus.” It is how you follow Him every day of your life that is the most important. He promises that God will honor you for serving Him. You must be committed enough to fulfill His plan for you every day and serve Him and others.

Dear Lord,

Help us to follow you in every way during each day. Help us to study the Gospels to really know you better, and then let us step out in faith to serve you in wonderful ways.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Stand Firm by Ann Broughton

“Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58 NIV).

    Whatever you do for the Lord is not in vain. God has a specific plan for your life and you must do it and stand firm. Jesus walked this earth during his last year with a purpose, to do His Father’s will no matter what. Jesus expects the same of us. No matter what. Your purpose is to also do the work of the Lord even when it appears hopeless. But all things are possible with God and you can be sure that if God has placed you in a certain position, He will help you and give you wisdom to handle any problem that is before you. One of my favorite verses is:

“He who began a good work in you will carry it to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6 NIV). God has placed upon you a commission that only you can fill. It is imperative that you do it and finish the work He has for you to do.

   I am reminded of Gideon, who was appointed by God to lead a very small army, 300, to defeat a very large one. God did this to prove to Gideon and all the others, that God had it all under control. Gideon did what He was told to do by God. He told his men to encircle the camp, blow their trumpets, break their jars, and shout, “For the Lord and for Gideon’. The enemy ended up killing each other and running away. Gideon did what the Lord asked him to do and succeeded.

   God is with you always, especially if you are doing His will in your life. He can work miracles into situations that seem impossible. But you must trust Him, be calm, and draw your strength from the Lord. Sometimes in the midst of crisis, it is so very hard to take a deep breath and be calm, but that is the exact time when you should do this. When faced with a crisis, remember who is for you and believe that He will give you the answer. God never fails.

Dear Lord,

We are put on this earth for a purpose that you foreordained for us. Help us to seek your will and do it, even when it looks hopeless. We know that you have given us the strength and courage to face anything that befalls us. Help us to take time every day to seek your will and be calm, knowing you will give us the answers we seek.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

 

Be Strong and Courageous by Ann Broughton

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV).

   Are you facing something in which you must have courage? The above verse will help you if you memorize it. God is with you always and will give you the strength you need to face anything. The word “them” could be replaced with: cancer, divorce, foreclosure, death of a loved one, just to name a few. It is so comforting to know that the Lord will never leave you or forsake you.

   I have known several women who have fought breast cancer. They are such an example to me of trusting God and having courage. They underwent countless chemo treatments and radiation, but they continued to have a positive outlook. They quoted scripture, and told everyone that their lives were in God’s hands. I admire these ladies for their faith and courage.

   Now what I want to know is, if something like this would happen to you, how would you handle it? Do you have enough faith in God that you could tell everyone that you trust God and know that your life is in His hands? Would you lean on His strength to sustain you through the future, whatever lies before you? The Holy Spirit lives within you and will give you the strength you need to face anything, but you must be in constant communication with the Lord in order to tap into His power. It is so important to keep your relationship with God an ongoing commitment. It is like a marriage: if you stop talking to your spouse, your relationship with him/her will suffer. So it is with God.

Dear Lord,

I know that this life is full of worries and that a crisis could hit at any minute. Help me to be in constant communication with you so that my faith will sustain me through whatever the future holds. Thank you for never leaving me or forsaking me.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Walking the Paths of Righteousness By Ann Broughton

“If the Lord delights in a man’s way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand”

(Psalm 37: 23-24 NIV).

    Have you ever stumbled in your Christian walk?  Did you give in to temptation?  Did you repent right away or did you continue to stumble along in the darkness?  None of us are perfect and it is inevitable that we stumble and sin, but if we walk with the Lord, He will convict us of our sins so that we can get back on the right path.

    My husband and I like to hike by the Maumee river. I love to stare up at the trees and watch the clouds float by. Now if I try this on my own I have a tendency to stumble over roots. One time I even fell. But if I put my hand around Rick’s arm, he guides me around obstacles so I won’t fall down. I blissfully stare up at the leaves and clouds, not worried because he is guiding me down the path. If I stumble a little he holds me up so I won’t fall. I know I am safe in his hands because he loves me and would never let me get hurt.

    My Father in heaven is my guide as I walk along the paths of righteousness, especially when I give Him the control of my life. When I wander and do my own will, I find myself falling down and feeling sad because I sinned. But then my Savior reaches out His hand to me as I repent and shows me mercy. One of my favorite verses is: “I lift my eyes to hills. Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip” (Psalm 121: 1-3 NIV). If I trust God, pray, read the Bible, and try to live a life pleasing to Him, he will always be there for me, even when I stumble and sin.

    This week if you find yourself stumbling and sinning, make sure you repent immediately and ask God to help you walk in His way instead of the world’s way.

Dear Lord,

Please always be my guide in this life on earth. Catch me when I stumble and lead me back to the paths of righteousness. Thank you for loving me and showing me your grace and mercy when I fall.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Serving God Together by Ann Broughton

“Let us not give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another” (Hebrews 10:25 NIV).

    Do you attend church regularly? Is it important to you to worship the Lord one day a week and take that time to lay aside your thoughts about your work or home and just concentrate on God?  When God made the commandment “Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy”, He knew that everyone needs to rest and remember who God is.

    When I go to church I am there to worship my wonderful Savior, who loves me in spite of my weaknesses. I worship Him in song and think about the words as I lift up praises to God. The words of the praise songs are so powerful and meaningful. That part of the worship time is so very important to me. It makes me feel so very close to God.

   The sermon is from the Bible and helps me learn more about God and His love for me. Communion helps me remember the sacrifice Jesus made for me for my sins. I recall my sins from the past week and repent during this time. I pray that God will give me the strength to handle the challenges of life and not give in to temptation.

   I love to talk to my Christian friends and encourage them after the service. That is what is so very important about meeting every week. We all need encouragement and prayer just to get through the tough times in our lives. My Christian friends have never failed me when I needed them to pray with me over concerns. They are glad to pitch in and help out with any worthy cause to help out others in need also. You see people are the “church”, and it is those people who can show others what being a Christian really is about: serving others. It is all about service and loving others as you would want them to love you. I hope that you are a member of a loving congregation and that you attend every Sunday to worship God and encourage one another.

 Dear Lord,

Help me to be committed to you and take time each week to attend services and meet with my Christian family. I know that we all need to serve you together so that others will see our love for one another and want your love in their hearts also.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

 

Are You Listening by Ann Broughton

“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry..” (James 1:19 NIV).

    When was the last time you really listened to someone with compassion?  I believe that listening has become a rare art in our society, mainly due to texting. So many people are texting to one another instead of talking to someone one on one. How can you see what the other one is thinking with their gestures and eyes? A lot of communication is just not the words spoken, but by facial expressions and body gestures. Everyone has the right to be heard fully, and to feel like what they say is very important. It is called respect, and I am afraid it isn’t taught to our children near enough. When someone is speaking to you, listen, do not interrupt, look into the person’s eyes, and don’t think about anything else except what that person is saying to you. Summarize what they said, “So you are saying…..”  Then think before you answer. It might be good to even pray for wisdom when you are answering someone who needs advice.

    Sometimes people just need someone to unload their problems onto. That is where Christians can be so very helpful. We are to be compassionate just like Jesus, so listening to problems and truly caring for the person is so very important. Tell them that you will pray for them too. Sometimes you will not have the answers, but some people don’t necessarily want answers, they just want someone to empathize with them.   Ephesians tells us to “Be kind and compassionate to one another…” (Ephesians 4:32 NIV). It is through listening to others’ problems that we, as Christians, can show the love of Christ to others.

    My challenge to you this week is to truly listen to those around you. Focus on what they say, look at them in their eyes, and show compassion. Refrain from speaking until the person finishes what they are saying. Respect the person who is speaking to you, and behave towards them as you would want them to behave to you.

 Dear Lord,

Help me to be a good listener to others. Help me to treat everyone with respect and compassion knowing that is exactly what you did when you were here on the earth. Help me to show restraint when I want to interrupt when someone is speaking. I want to show your love in everything I do.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

A New Life in Christ by Ann Broughton

“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:22-24 NIV).

   Have you ever traded something in that was very worn for something brand new? Remember the feeling of happiness you felt? My car is in bad shape. You might say I am a little hard on vehicles. I have taken off both rear view mirrors and had them replaced. I hit a deer and had to have the door and fender fixed. I backed out of the garage and took my bike with me so the front fender got bent up. So you see I am anxiously awaiting the chance to get a new car so I can start all over again and try really hard not to put one dent on it. It is like I will have been given a new chance to prove that I can actually have a car and not get it dented whatsoever. I will keep you informed of my progress.

    This analogy can be related to our lives in Christ. When we accept Christ as our Savior we are given a new life. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV).

Isn’t that wonderful? Our sins are forgiven. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9 NIV).

It is as if we have a clean slate in front of God all due to the fact that Jesus gave His life as a sacrifice for our sins. Now we can stand before the Lord and say that Jesus took our sins and blotted out all of them. It is a wonderful feeling.

    This week thank God for the new life He gave you as a Christian. Walk in this new life as a witness to Christ. You are a new creation and can show His love to others in an outstanding way. JUST DO IT!!!

Dear Lord,

Thank you so much for the new life you have given me through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Help me to be a living example of showing your love to others, and help me to always display your character in everything I do. 

In Jesus' name,

Amen

Find Rest for Your Soul by Ann Broughton

“Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him” (Psalm 62:5 NIV).

   Do you need rest? I am not just talking about physical rest, but rest for your soul. Here are some signs that I have noticed when I have felt unrest in my soul: anxiety, insomnia, being irritable, having stomachaches, panic attacks to name a few. When these occur I know that I need to take time to be still, pray, and be quiet. I believe there are many of you reading this who are having problems with a restless soul. It is so easy to get your priorities so messed up that time spent in quiet, alone with God, becomes an issue. In order to have a calm spirit you must take time to pray, quiet your mind, and then be still for at least 15 minutes in your day, preferably 30 minutes. If you do this you will find out that peace and rest for your soul is very real.

   I have gone to bed being so very weary with the problems that surround me in people’s lives that it seems as if I am totally weighed down with the burdens. But then I lie in bed and calm my mind and recite the 23^rd Psalm. I concentrate on the Lord being my shepherd and how he is leading me by the still waters. After I recite this I am already feeling calmer. Then I pray and lay my burdens down at Jesus’ feet and ask Him to give me the peace I so desire. When I awake I feel refreshed and am able to greet the day with a smile. I promise you this works.

   God alone can give you the rest you need because your hope comes from him. You must be the one to take the steps to change your restless soul. You must be quiet, pray, and believe that He will restore your soul in ways that nobody else could.

Dear Lord,

Help me to take time each day to quiet my soul and pray to you. I know that my body yearns for peace. Help me to remember to follow Jesus’ example because He always took time in his busy schedule to talk to His Father in Heaven in solitude. Thank you giving me peace in my soul.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

His Glorious Light by Ann Elaine Broughton

"God is light, in him there is no darkness at all." I John 1:5

"You are the light of the world........In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14,16

    Our church has a beautiful stained glass window of the nativity with Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus in the manger.  If you look at it in the evening from inside the sanctuary the whole window looks black. There is no indication of the beauty at all that’s hidden in the darkness. On Sunday morning the sun shines through the window, displaying beautiful colors and the manger scene. The gold in the windows literally glitters and sparkles as the sun dances through it.

    I imagine that seeing the stain glass window in the evening is like our lives without Christ, full of darkness.  I Peter 2:9 NIV says: "But, you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." Without Christ in our lives we live in darkness, but when we surrender our lives to Him, His light shines through us. This light purifies us. I John 1:7 NIV tells us: "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin." Isn't that reassuring?

    Why would people want to stay in darkness when Jesus can bring light into their lives and bring them peace? Just as the light shines through that window and reveals its beauty, so does the Son of God shine through us to reveal His glory to others.     May you shine His love into other people's lives so that they will be blessed and glorify God for your kindness. Do an act of kindness for someone this week in the name of Christ and smile.....You are the light of the world.

Dear Lord,

Thank you so much for bringing us out of our darkness and purifying us from our sins. Let us shine our lights before men so that others will know your love and be drawn to your glorious light.

In Jesus' name,

Amen

God Looks At Your Heart by Ann Elaine Broughton

“The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7 NIV).

    God looks at our heart and judges us by our inner beauty. He sees us for who we really are. So is that the way you judge others or do you look at someone and make rash judgment calls on people by their looks? I recently saw a movie called “Shallow Hal”. It was about a man who only wanted to date beautiful women and would not even consider looking for inner beauty. Well, a man came into his life who gave him the ability to see a woman’s inner beauty. From that time on Hal dated women who his friend considered losers because they were heavy or not so attractive. But Hal didn’t understand because to him they looked beautiful because he was viewing them for their inner beauty.  That is exactly what we are to do. We are to look at others as Jesus does.

    Since I have problems with my weight, I am very sensitive to those people with this problem. I know people make fun of heavy set people and it makes me sad. There are reasons people are heavy. It could be a hormonal problem, a thyroid problem, medicines, or depression. Sometimes it is just so very hard to lose weight. I have many friends with this problem who are so very kind and sweet, and I am glad that they are my friends. If I would have judged them by what their outward appearance was and rejected them, I would have missed out on a wonderful friendship.

    Do you have problems with judging people before you get to know them? God tells us, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged” (Matthew 7:1 NIV). God looks at your heart. “For the Lord searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts” (1 Chronicles 28:9 NIV). So just as God looks at your heart, it is important for you to see people in the same light.

Dear Lord,

Help me to see others as you see them. Help me not to judge them by their outward appearances, but to treat them as you would treat them. Let me show them your love and kindness.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

  

   

   

Rescue Me, O Lord A devotion by Ann Elaine Broughton

“Rescue me and deliver me in your righteousness; turn your ear to me and save me” (Psalm 71:2 NIV).

   Are there times when the storms of life seem to engulf you so much that you have no hope? Let me tell you about the disciples’ trip on a boat and how they learned rather quickly that Jesus is the one who can calm the storms.

   The disciples went on a little boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. The Sea of Galilee is 680 feet below sea level and the mountains that surround it are over 2000 feet high. So when the cool air from the mountains meets the warm air of the sea a strong storm can occur. One such storm occurred without warning while the disciples and Jesus were crossing the sea. (Matthew 8:23-27) The waves were being swept over the boat. Jesus was sleeping during this whole event.

  I have been on a boat on Lake Erie when the waves were pretty high.

I can’t even imagine sleeping with the waves rocking the boat like that. It would be twice as bad if there was a storm with thunder and lightning. But you see Jesus knew the source of His strength. He had spent enough time in prayer talking to God so that He could remain at peace in any situation. So when the disciples woke Him up and declared that they were going to drown if He didn’t save them, He gave them a lesson on faith. First, He rebuked them and asked them why they were afraid. After all the miracles they witnessed, they still didn’t believe that Jesus had Godly power. Jesus rebuked the winds and waves and everything became calm. The disciples were amazed. Are you?

    So if you have faith in God, you should know that God will help you during your storms of life. These storms can be from within you or brought on by others who have left you reeling with hurt and sadness.

But you see God is bigger than all the storms that envelope you in life. He is the one who can calm your soul in ways that nobody else can.

It is so important to pray and ask Him to help you when you are in the midst of terrible doubts. He will erase your fear and give you peace.

Dear Lord,

I know that the storms of life will surround me, but I know that you are bigger than these storms and can still my soul. Help me not to be afraid, but to have the faith to know that you will never leave me or forsake me when my life is tossed with despair and fear.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

  

Run From Temptation By Ann Elaine Broughton

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7 NIV).

   Do you have an escape plan ready when temptation rears its ugly head? I hope you do because it is a given that temptation will come your way and you must have a plan in order not to give in to it. 

Escape plans are part of our routine in life. When you go to the theater there are big arrows on the screen informing you of where the exit doors are in case of an emergency. When you are on a plane, the flight attendant goes through a long speech about escape procedures in case of an emergency. Have you noticed how many people really pay attention to them? Most people don’t even listen to the escape plan.

They should because it might just save their lives.

   God has given us an escape plan in the Bible in order to confront temptation and win. Following God’s plan will literally save our lives also because sin separates us from God. Are you ready? First it is important to realize what tempts you and avoid it if at all possible. If you can’t, then you must decide what to do. Joseph when tempted by a woman, ran. That might be a good idea for you too. Run away from temptation so you won’t get caught in sin. Also, Jesus recited scripture when he was tempted by Satan. He said, “Away from me Satan!” (Matthew 4:10 NIV). Remember that God always has an escape hatch waiting for you. “And God is faithful, he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand under it” (1 Cor. 10:13 NIV). Look for the way out and pray with all your heart that you can be strong in God’s strength and not give in and sin. Remember “the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1 John 4:4 NIV). The Holy Spirit can give you the strength you need to overcome temptation.

Dear Lord,

I know that temptation will come to me. Help me to not give in to it.

Give me your strength to stand up to it. Help me to run away from sin and into your arms.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Be Reconciled By Ann Elaine Broughton

“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift” (Matthew 5: 23-24 NIV).

  Jesus wants you to be reconciled with whoever you have something against. That is a tough one isn’t it? But Jesus spoke these words and He was pretty adamant about it. He said that you are to leave your offering and go and reconcile right then. This verse follows His speech in regards to the fact that you should not be angry with your brother or you will be subject to judgment. He went on to say that if you call someone a fool you will be in danger of the fire of hell. Being angry and having arguments are not pleasing to God. Jesus’ whole message is about loving one another as you love yourself (Matthew 19:19 NIV). If you love someone you try very hard to get along and talk about problems in a calm manner. Anger only escalates a bad situation and causes hurt feelings. It is so important for you to pray for help with this, if you have an issue with anger. God can help you control this.

   So if you are in need of reconciliation. I would urge you to do this as soon as possible. God wants you to be at peace, and you cannot be at peace if you are having a disagreement with someone. Pray and ask God to give you the right words when you speak and ask Him for guidance on how to go about it. You could even go to your pastor for some ideas on how to reconcile with someone you have had a disagreement with, especially if the person is a family member, spouse or a friend. Please know that you cannot have a right relationship with God either if you are holding a grudge against someone else.

Dear Lord,

Please help me to do what you would want me to do in regards to my relationships. I know you want me to love them as I do myself, but sometimes it is hard. Help me to view others through your eyes and love them as you do.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

  

Remember What God Has Done For You By Ann Elaine Broughton

“I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. I spread out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land” (Psalm 143:5-6 NIV).

   Are you going through a trial at the moment or know someone who is? The above verse can give you comfort. I have had many trials in my life and every time God has given me the strength and faith to make it through them. I prayed with all my heart and found peace in the midst of a crisis. When I am in a difficult situation I recall how God helped me through those tough times. I survived and learned valuable lessons about faith through it all. It gives me comfort to know that my God will never forsake me.

    Does your soul thirst for God? Have you ever been so very thirsty that you couldn’t wait to get a cool drink? That is how we are to thirst after our Father in Heaven. When we are in trouble He wants us to go to Him as one who is thirsty for His comfort. He alone can quench the deep thirst that our spirit longs for. When Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman at the well, he told her: “Whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (John 4:14 NIV). You see the drink that Jesus gives you fills you with the peace that only God can give in the midst of trials. Thirst after God with all your heart, and He will meet your needs.

    I would encourage you to remember all the ways God has helped you in the past and know that He will get you through whatever you face today. Seek Him with a thirsty soul, ready to drink up all the peace and love He has to give you. He will never fail you in this respect.

Dear Lord,

When I am going through a trial, help me to remember all the times you have helped me. Help me to thirst after your love and peace as one who is in a parched land. Thank you for never failing me.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

God's Grace is Sufficient by Ann Elaine Broughton

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9 NIV).

   Do you have a thorn in your life that keeps bothering you? It could be an illness, fibromyalgia, arthritis, any condition that hurts and won’t go away. Jesus spoke the above words to Paul because he had a “thorn” and what he called “a messenger of Satan to torment him” (2 Cor. 12:7) He had prayed three times that God would take it away, but the Lord responded with the fact that His grace was sufficient for him. You see sometimes God says no, and we are to rest in the fact that just having His grace is enough. We need to be thankful that Jesus came and gave His life as a sacrifice for our sins. Heaven is enough. What ever else we have is a bonus. Sometimes the thorn we have actually makes us closer to God. It can make us more sympathetic to those who suffer from a “thorn”.  It helps us not become conceited and proud. It can make us totally humble.

    I have had fibromyalgia for over 37 years. Sometimes it is just a dull ache and sometimes it can be excruciating. Believe me when I say that I too prayed that God would take it away from me, but it has not happened. Instead, I have learned through each time of terrible debilitating pain to trust God to give me the strength to make it through it. He never failed me. Eventually, it would ease up and go back to that dull ache, which I have learned to live with. Because of my thorn, I have grown closer to my God. I am more sympathetic to those who hurt. Nobody can understand unless they have been through it. God is my strength when I am weak, just as He promised Paul.

    Maybe you are sitting there and nodding that the thorn is there and that you are having problems dealing with it. Please pray to God that He will help you accept it and that He will give you the strength that only He can give to overcome despair. Please reach out to others who have the same problem and tell them that you care and understand.

Also, tell them that you are praying for them. Sometimes if you take the focus off of yourself, you will feel so much better. It always is good to reach out to others.

Dear Lord,

Please let your grace be sufficient for me. Help me to go through life knowing that life wasn’t meant to be easy, and that I am to rely on your strength to support me when my strength is gone. I know that life is full of “thorns”. Help me to trust you in any situation that comes my way.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Strive for Perfection by Ann Elaine Broughton

“Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48 NIV).

 

    So how are you doing on your way to perfection? Jesus said the above words during His famous Sermon on the Mount. The point that Jesus was making is that we must strive to be perfect as God is in our daily life. The Sermon on the Mount goes into great detail on how we are to live. It is a very important passage to read as you strive to live a Christian life. Jesus put the bar very high in regards to living a life that is pleasing to God. But the thing is, you must read it in order for you to live it. It is in Matthew Chapters 5 through 8.

    An illustration about raising the bar to aim for perfection can be made in regards to pole vaulting. A pole vaulter is continually raising the bar in order to try to break a record. A pole vaulter practices every day and trains hard in order to get over the bar at the highest point possible. It takes stamina, courage, strength, precision, and perfection in order to get across the highest bar without touching it.

    Just like the pole vaulter, we too are to continue each day to read the Bible, pray, and learn how to live a Godly life so that we can try to be perfect just like Jesus said. The pole vaulter fails many times too. But gets back up and tries again. We too will fail, but we must then repent and try to do better the next time. We can count on God’s strength to help us reach for that high bar and find success. This never ends, because we will always have weaknesses in our lives that needs worked on.

    Ask God to show you where you can improve in your Christian walk.

He will reveal it to you so that you can grow in faith. Then thank Him for helping you. As long as you live, there will be ways that you can change and grow as a Christian. But you must continue to ask God to help you.

Dear Lord,

Help me as I strive to do your perfect will. I know that you can help me grow as a Christian. I want to keep raising the bar to be the person you want me to be.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

   

Wait for the Lord by Ann Elaine Broughton

“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:14 NIV).

    Have you ever wanted to push ahead with your own plans instead of praying and asking God for guidance? Or maybe you got an answer from God and you decided your way was far better. My husband and I pushed through closed doors once and found ourselves in a bad situation. We then learned that when God closes doors you don’t pound them down yourself. Anything you do in life needs to be preceded by prayer asking God to show you what His will is in this situation. Then be open to what happens and accept it if the answer is no. That is when it is so important to wait for God’s perfect timing.

    I once went to a Twila Paris concert and was impressed by her testimony. She said that she sensed that she should tell her story about trying to have a baby. She told all of us that it was so important to wait for God’s timing in your life. It could take years before you see results, but you need to keep the faith and believe that God is in control. She said it took them 12 years before they were able to have their first baby. It seemed like forever but God knew when the right time was for them to have it.

   You see in our human ways we want everything right now, but God knows when the exact right time is for something to happen for you. You must trust Him. You must believe that He knows what is best for your future and give it all into His hands. It could take awhile, but waiting will help you develop patience and perseverance.

    You know in this life it seems like we are always waiting for something. But instead, maybe we should be living in the right now, and believing that God has control in whatever happens in our future. With His strength and love we can face anything. So remember to: “be strong and take heart” God is always with you.

Dear Lord,

Help me as I wait and believe that you know what is best for me. Give me peace in my heart to know that you will always be there for me as I strive to do your will.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen