Daily Wisdom

Lk 12:48 “… For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.”

Being a Christian is much more than claiming a title. It requires the embodiment of something much greater than self. It calls into existence the shaping of one’s soul into mirroring all the characteristics of Jesus and all that He represents. It’s not a spiritual smorgasbord, choosing which attribute we like but rather embodying each individual one in our walk. As a Christian one doesn’t get to make claims that certain thoughts and acts are just the way they are in attempt to avoid accountability to humility, selfishness and servitude of others. Quite the opposite, labeling oneself as a Christian he or she is choice fully taking accountability of their own heart and making genuine change in Christ-likeness that allows all others, regardless of their heart to see the love of Jesus through them.  Christianity calls one to love not just the lovable (Lk 6:32-42), but all men where they are as an example of Jesus and His worth.

It’s more than a title, it requires a testimony that embodies the worth of One much greater than self… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Rom 15:1 “We that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.”

Two precepts Paul charges the Christian with, 1.) Bear the infirmities of the weak. Christ bore with the weakness of the disciples. We all have our infirmities; but the weak are more subject to them than others. Doing so calls for sympathizing with the weaker, concerning oneself for them and ministering strength to them. 2.) In doing so we must not please ourselves, but our neighbors (vs 2), and deny personal wants or needs in consideration of another’s weakness (Mt 16:24). The stronger is not called to entertain the selfish needs of others but to educate the weaker in the knowledge of grace and in the edification of Christ and His goodness.

We all have something to give, but is it worth taking is the question? … HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Gen 28: 7-8 “Jacob obeyed his father and his mother… Esau seeing that the daughters of Canaan pleased not Isaac his father. Esau went unto Ishmael and took a wife…”

Having already married against his father’s will, Esau sought to marry another, who God had already rejected, in hopes of pleasing his father. Esau rested in a partial reformation by pleasing his parents in one thing, to atone for all his other misdeeds. Esau didn’t learn from Jacob’s obedience, but only sought to please his father (i.e. man) and not God, in hopes of obtaining only what he wanted. Carnal hearts are apt to think themselves as good as they should be, because perhaps, in some one particular instance, they are not so bad as they have been. Micah (Jdg 17) retains his idols but thinks himself happy in having a Levite to be his priest. “No man knows how bad he is till he has tried very hard to be good.”

The right thing, with the wrong motive, is the wrong thing… HSAY

Hos 5:15 “I will go and return to my place, till they acknowledge their offence, and seek my face: in their affliction they will seek me early.”

The perceived offence that occurs in one’s life by the reveling of their opposition towards God’s truth is not intolerance or self-righteousness. It’s not the individual that’s the offence it’s the cross that’s offensive to them (Gal 5:11). The scriptures tell us the truth will be a stumbling-block to a wayward heart and true self-righteousness, but it’s not to be shameful to those who believe (Rom 9:33). Don’t apologize for the truth or make the Gospel appeasing. If the truth offends, then let it offend in love. If one has been living their life in offense to God and truth; let them be offended for a while. In their acknowledgement, God will act on their behalf.

Offend no one, but don’t apologize for the truth and if the truth offends, so be it… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Rth 1:21 “I went out full, and the LORD hath brought me home again empty…”

Naomi had experienced severe hardships. She had left Israel married and secure; she returned widowed and poor. Naomi was not rejecting God by expressing her pain. However, it seems she lost sight of the blessings she had in her relationship with Ruth and with God. When you face bitter times, God welcomes your honest prayers, but be careful not to overlook the love, strength and hope that He provides in the storms through your relationships. Don't allow disappointment to blind you to your opportunities, there is a divine fullness which we can never be emptied of in which our hope lies (Psa 25:5).

Hold to hope, it’s never shameful (Rom 5:5). If you have God, you have hope… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

1 Cor 9:24 "Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain."

Winning a race requires purpose and discipline. Paul saw life sort of like a "spiritual Olympics" (vs 25) and urged Christians everywhere to stay in spiritual shape (2 Tim 2:5). No race, if won, is ever run without a "training schedule" (bring it into subjection - vs 27). The race will hurt, expect it. You don't train so it won't hurt, you train so you can endure it.

Those who fail to train spiritually run pitifully; you run the race you train for... HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Heb 6:1 “Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,” 

The foundation of faith that we lay in our life is what God will use for another to stand on. In (1 Chron 20:8) we see David’s servants slaying the giants from Goliath with the strength of faith they saw and garnered from David himself. The Father himself lifted us out of a miry pit and placed us on a solid foundation and established our goings (Pro 40:2). We too need to lay forth a solid foundation of faith for others to see and stand upon.

Don’t shine so that others can see you, shine so that others can see Jesus through you… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

2Ti 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

Paul encourages Timothy concerning his personal ministry not to succumb to fear and the anxiety associated. It was fear that the servant buried his talent (Mt 25), illustrating the poor stewardship, in fear, of the gifts God’s given us in order to minister to others. God counters our fears through the power of His Spirit, the promise of His Love and a sound/peaceful mind. Like the promise of His “power” which comes from the Greek word (dynamis) from which we get the word dynamite; God has given us an explosive spirit in which to overcome our fleshly fears.  

Fear arises when we imagine that everything depends on us… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Heb 12:11 “Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless, afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. 

We will always grow greater in character and wisdom through pain than we will prosperity. And yet man labors and lusts after prosperity while exerting great effort in avoiding the pain of correction. When unavoidable we’re prone to accept it with resignation, self-pity or anger. But those who learn to accept it with gratefulness have grown to learn the blessing it is; knowing the Father’s love. Correction is the judgement of faith, declaring that a sanctified affliction at the hand of the Father produces the fruits of righteousness.

We must allow the Word of God to correct us the same way we allow it to encourage us…HSAY  

Daily Wisdom

Gen 21:6 “And Sarah said, God hath made me to laugh, so that all that hear will laugh with me.”

Has the miraculous work of God’s hand ever caused you laugh in bewilderment! God’s providence is the brightest when compared with His Word and measured against man’s inability to replicate it. Such was Isaac’s birth, promised and delivered in God’s perfect time. He is faithful who has promised, and God’s faithfulness is the stay of our faith. God is purposeful and punctual in His promises. Be patient and be ready to laugh so contagiously in God’s providence that others laugh (rejoice) with you!!

A lack of laughter in your faith is a lack of hope in God faithfulness… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Gen 20:17 “So Abraham prayed unto God: and God healed Abimelech, and his wife…; (18) For the LORD had fast closed up all the wombs of the house of Abimelech, because of Sarah Abraham's wife.”

Why did God punish Abimelech for Abraham’s sin, he had no idea Sarah was married?  Even though Abimelech's intentions were good, as long as Sarah was living in his harem he was in danger of sinning. A person who eats a poisonous mushroom, thinking it's harmless, no doubt has perfectly good intentions—but will still suffer. The effect of sin can fall on those around us as well. Abimelech’s house suffered infertility as long as the sin was ever present. But God’s punishment was not in wrath but to protect the innocent caught in the sin. Be grateful, God’s mercy protects us from not getting what we deserve… our sin or not.

God’s mercy is bigger than any of our mistakes (Lam 3:22-23), knowingly or unknowingly … HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Eph 4:15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.

Speaking truth in love sounds simple, but often it’s only perceived by the one speaking it and not by him who’s receiving it. Some of us are good at being loving, but we don't have it in us to level with others if the truth is painful, the instruction here is to do both. Don’t let your problems with others in the church family be planted in the ears of another. In (Gal 6:1) we’re told to restore each other in meekness, considering we ourselves could stumble. With humility that is wrapped in love let us encourage each other and help them to correctly carry their as we correctly carry our own.

Don’t look down on another unless you’re extending a hand to lift them up… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Acts 28:11-16… (vs 14 “… we found brethren; (vs 15) “… thanked God and took courage.”)  

Though Paul’s travels to Rome were treacherous and troublesome, there was and can be strength amidst the storm. Paul, like Christ, often found himself standing alone (2 Ti 4:16 “At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me…”). Yet, just prior to his arrival in Rome Paul found fellow believers who brought him encouragement. Like Abraham in (Gen 18) you never know when strangers (Heb 13:2) will stroll into your path to strengthen you in a storm. In the seasons of life when storms don’t rage are you a spiritual greeter of encouragement? These strangers contributed to the gospel by strengthening Paul to continue in the Lord’s work.

Mat 25:35-36 “For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Mt 25:40 “… Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”

Christ didn’t die because man was worth dying for, He died to make them worth it. Make sure your heart beats for what Jesus heart beats for – people… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

1Cor 1:10a; 13a “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; 13 Is Christ divided?

The most destructive force in any body of work is disunity. And there was no body more fractured and separated than the Triune Godhead when Christ stepped out of eternity into the time. Separating Himself from the Father and Holy Spirit for the first time in all of eternity. But this worked beautifully because they were in unity in their purpose. The Triune Godhead sacrificed what had been eternally bonded for the good of man coming to know their need of the Saviour, and though while separated they were never dis-unified in the greater good for man and Heaven. When man becomes possessive of the work of God, the work will become personal and not purposeful (Acts 26:26) and divided in Christ’s sacrifice for it.  

God never called man to make churches, He called them to make disciples (Mt 28:19) … HSAY  

Daily Wisdom

Rom 9:2 “That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. 3 For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren…” 

Can you comprehend such an extraordinary love for others to know Christ that you would forgo your own salvation for another’s good? While such a statement is filled great conjuncture, only Christ can save, Paul’s love for them and the gospel was compelling. Are we willing to sacrifice self and earthly resources for another to come to know the goodness of Christ?

Be cautious in hoarding what you you’ve been gifted (Rom 6:23) at the expense of others not gaining what you’ve been given. HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Rom 8:15 “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.”

Let’s be ever mindful of our eternal inheritance and know that fear is a liar!  Not called to be debtors to the flesh (vs 13), but sons of God empowered with authority by the Spirit of God (vs 14). And while the glory and fullness of our inheritance is beyond the grasp of our full understanding, know in every difficulty we face, and every waiting place, we’re given the chance to trust in the things unseen (Heb 11:1) and patiently hold to the promise of His abundant blessings.  

Fear corrodes our confidence in Christ goodness by hiding our inheritance… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

1Pt 2:2 “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:” 

Fall is upon us and another change of the season and with it another year of growing older, but the question is are we growing up? Are we growing closer to God, are we growing in our Christ-likeness?  While life continually evolves many are stagnant in their salvation and sanctification. We visually change our appearance like the seasons, by choice or nature, but our spirit remains stuck in spiritual adolescence and immaturity. We naturally grow in our physical diet, but to grow in our spiritual diet requires an appetite for the God’s Word!

Be careful, it’s easy to grow up in church and still not grow up in Christ… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Isa 54:17 “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.” 

Isaiah speaks to God’s covenant of peace for His children. Man’s attack with weapons and words will not prosper long. The righteousness of God will deliver the just man from both the physical and spiritual attacks. Man’s greatest form of attack is judgement from the tongue, as if they possess a dominion or spiritual authority over another and falsely accuse or misrepresent (Ezr 4:12). Do well and God will do well by you (1 Pt 2:15 “For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men.”)

No danger can come so near that God is not nearer still… HSAY 

Daily Wisdom

2Co 2:14 “Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.”

Paul acknowledges God’s opening of doors in (vs 12), causing him to give thanks unto God which brings victory in Christ. Are our victories self-edifying our profitable for others as well? Notice Paul’s conviction: (2Co 2:15 For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish.) Does our life offer a sweetness that is palatable for others to grow in? God, give us an ability for our life to be a pleasant, sweet victory for others to partake.

Our life should embody victory in Christ, not an occasional lucky coincidence… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

2 Cor 10:4 “For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. 5 destroy arguments… take every thought captive to obey Christ”

Ever heard the statement, don’t bring a knife to a gun fight? Like Paul, we’re merely weak humans, but we mustn’t rely on human plans and methods to win our battles. The Lord’s arsenal (Eph 6:13-18) is mighty to the pulling down of strongholds against us and our faith. Our weaponry is empowered by the Holy Spirit through the gospel which neutralizes carnal attacks.

David didn’t use the weapons of man to defeat Goliath, his arsenal was empowered by God through his faith… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

1Pe 4:8 “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” 

One’s goodness or sin will never be any better worse than another’s. Because man at best is just man and a fallen creation that offers no righteousness within ourselves (Rom 3:10). But when hearts unit in Christ and politics, selfish purpose & agendas are set aside, beautiful things can happen. All the madness will stop at Heaven’s gates. There will be no more independent affiliations, political parties, social platforms or man’s agendas.  The only thing going on will be a hallelujah party where we will “all” be worshiping One Jesus as one body.

The more we learn to love Jesus the more we learn to love others, as He has loved us (1 Jn 4:19)… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

1 Pt 1:9 “Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.”

Paul encourages us to live above our circumstances. Knowing our inheritance is eternal (vs 4), and enduring our trials are more valuable than gold (vs 7). God wants us to live in a “lively hope” (4:6) and grow in our salvation (2:2). Daily we’re receiving the salvation promised us in Jesus. With the hope of our eternal future promised our faith should prosperous in it. You may feel you’re on the loosing side in this world, but you’ve already won in Christ. Victory is yours!

I’m far from what I once was and ever closer to what Jesus has promised… HSAY  

Daily Wisdom

Psa 31:19 “Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee…”

God is good … extreme are the counsels of it! rich are the treasures of it! and extensive are the imparting of it! What man loads with slander God loads with blessings. Such blessings of goodness are laid up for those who rely upon His grace and promise (1 Pt 1:4 “To an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you”). God’s goodness spills forth in this world as well, just as one would benefit today from a father’s future inheritance.

We don’t have the capacity to exaggerate God’s goodness, only to doubt it… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Rom 14:21 "It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble."

The greatest exercise of our rights is doing what is right for the benefit of another. This thought changes everything when I when ask myself: How can I live in a way that helps to encourage others in Jesus? Don't be afraid of sacrifice unless your sacrifice is self-serving rather than sanctifying.

sacrificing self for the good of others; no greater way to show the love of the suffering servant (Isa 53) ... HSAY

Daily Wisdom

1 Tim 1:5 “Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned.”

The fulfillment of God’s Word through Jesus Christ was rooted and wrapped in charity (love). Likewise let us be conscience about personal evidence of Christ presence in our life with a pure heart and unwavering faith. These efforts require a daily exercise in love and faith: (Acts 24:16 “herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.”). Be cautious not to undo subconsciously what God did consciously; doing so blinds others to the love of Jesus.

Action speaks louder than words; words teach actions speak. The cross is love, and little was said upon it… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

1 Tim 1:2 “Unto Timothy my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and Jesus Christ.”

Grace grants us what we don’t deserve, Mercy delivers us from what we do deserve, and Peace provides us what we can’t produce. Meaning one will not obtain the peace of God without finding the grace and mercy of salvation. God’s grace is immeasurable, His mercy is inexhaustible, His peace is inexpressible. Wallowing in guilt, remorse, or shame over our past only produces disdain in God’s gift of grace and mercy and robs us of our peace in Jesus.

In the midst of our failed attempts in loving Jesus, His grace provides mercy so we can still find peace… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

1 Thess 1:12 “That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.”

We’re familiar with walk-a-thon’s and their ability to generate interest and resources for the needs of others. How much more should our walk generate hope and illustrate God‘s love for others (Col 1:10)! There are two great mistakes Christians suffer in their walk for the Lord; not ever starting and not going all the way. One prevents others from being able to find the right path, the second prevents them from reaching all that the Lord has for them.   

Don’t fear walking where others haven’t, be willing to leave a trail worth traveling… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

2 Tim 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 

Timothy found himself in great opposition to his message, leadership, youth and association with Paul, but was still urged to be bold. A passive, intimidated faith neutralizes our effectiveness for the Lord. The Spirit within us is vibrant and victorious. God has given us power, love and a sound mind. Therefore, we can walk unafraid, live unafraid, and can be unafraid in holding to our faith.

We’re more flawed and sinful than we can believe, yet at the same moment we are more loved, accepted and empowered in Jesus than we can hope… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Isa 29:16 “You turn things upside down! Shall the potter be regarded as the clay…”

Man is not short on motivation to mold and manipulate their own affairs, thinking to make God’s providence give attention to our projects. The great work of redemption (Rom 3:24) is to set the world right side up; God above, man below.  It requires the potter to hold and mold the clay of man’s soul. Man is to be the malleable material (Rom 9:20-21 “hath not the potter power over the clay?)  Just because we’re molded with hands, don’t mistake yourself as the Potter!

If life is currently upside down, someone other than the Potter has been allowed to get their hands on the clay… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Col 2:6 “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Christ.”

Paul goes on to say that as a believer we’re called to be rooted, built-up and established in our faith with thanksgiving (vs 7). To ensure such a walk we’ve been gifted with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4). But with thanksgiving should compel us to open our mouth and proclaim the good news to those around us. Christ walked in our shoes so we would have a clear path to follow, be cautious in seeking your own paths others may be following you!

Be careful the direction you’re walking, you may end up where you’re headed… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Col 1:19 “For it pleased the Father that in him (Jesus) should all fulness dwell.”

A brief or occasional investment of time or effort concerning our desires seldom leads to experiencing a satisfying fullness or contentment. In most cases it leaves us longing for more time and opportunity to experience fulfillment.  The same is true for our spiritual desires, remaining grounded and settled in our faith leads to contentment and fullness in our spirit (vs 23). Father help me to remain steadfast, unmovable (1 Cor 15:58) and dwelling in your fullness.

Don’t wait to need God till you need God. Your faith in Jesus will determine our fullness in Him … HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Jn 20:31 “But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.”

We’re called to experience life in Christ, and according to (Col 1:10) walk worthy, being fruitful in every good work and increase in His knowledge. To do so, we must wage war against any temptation that would cause us to retreat into complacent Christianity. And instead strengthen ourselves in His power with all patience, long-suffering and joy (vs 11).

A victorious life lived can never be separated from the victorious life sacrificed on the Cross… HSAY  

Daily Wisdom

Col 1:5 “For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven… (vs 6) … and bringeth forth fruit…”

Does our hope create a hunger for others, does it produce a fruit that is appealing? Paul states the truth of the gospel is fruit producing, providing evidence of the promise for eternal life. The gospel is not informational, it’s transformational for those who accept it. For those who have accepted it, should be producing a fruit (Gal 5:22) that is inviting, not irritating. Once one sees and tastes the fruit of hope in the gospel today find hope for tomorrow.

Your hope may be the only light that allows another to see hope in their darkest of moment… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Gen 50:20 “… ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass…”

Sometimes the enemy possesses what we need, and we don’t know we would need it? Consider David and Goliath (1 Sam 17:50 “… but there was no sword in the hand of David.”). The fact is David never would’ve obtained the sword that Goliath possessed if he didn’t engage in the battle. Like Joseph, and his brothers ill will against him, what man was going to use for evil God used it for both Joseph and David’s good. Be faithful in your battles, the grace God has for you may be possessed by your enemy.

The best vision is (50/20), it allows you to see what God sees… HSAY  

Daily Wisdom

Isa 40:8 “The grass withers, the flower fades: but the word of our God shall stand forever.”

God’s Word is perfect, tried and a shield for those who stand behind it and trust in it to sustain them (2 Sam 22:31). So much so, that bread is the second cause; the words of the Lord Himself is the first (Mt 4:4). In comparison, as people are cautious in always searching and staying connected to Wi-Fi, should be the same way they want to be connected to God spiritually.  God’s Word is our ultimate connectivity and hotspot to assure that we’re in the know. It makes everything easy, effortless, faster and it comes in bundles of hope, joy and peace.

Lord, help me to see the supremacy of your Word over everything else in the world… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

1 Cor 15:57 “But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

There may be a battle ragging within you but know there was a greater battle that was fought and won in the grave for you. While Christ was laid in death and darkness and the weight of ever sin upon Him, there the war on eternal death was waged; so great of a battle that Heaven looked away (Mt 27:46). And the power that death possessed was forever defeated. Showing us that His perfect love could not be overcome. Every battle we face has already been defeated eternally and the power has been given us to face it in the flesh. Our sin and pain may run deep, but God’s grace runs deeper. Not lacking sympathy for one’s pain and thoughts of loneliness, but we must understand no one, except Christ, has ever been truly abandoned (Isa 53:10). But to Christ’s glory He told us in (Jn 19:30) “teleo” meaning: “it is finished.”  He won the battle/s for us!

“And forever He is glorified, forever He is lifted high and forever He is risen” … HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Psa 34:17 “The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.”

The stature of the trial may be larger in appearance, but you have the Holy Spirit - Gods promise within you- the advantage is yours. Never fear to trust an unknown future to a knowing God. Though there may be a storm on the horizon or in your midst, rise above it and you’ll see the Son (1 Pt 5:10). It’s easy to praise Him in the sunshine, but your breakthrough comes when you praise Him in the storm. (t. evans)

Learn to praise Him in the storm and you’ll find you can dance in the rain… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

16:33 “… I have overcome the world.”

The scriptures tell us “rain falls on the just and the unjust.” Even with faith we encounter difficulties but just because we experience a defeat does not mean we’re defeated. If we’ve grown our faith through the battle, then we didn’t lose. Do not, for a second, believe you’re defeated. Lift-up your eyes, you’re a child of the King who has overcome the world and conquered death. The Father will never lead us to a battle He hasn’t given us victory over.

We’re not defeated by our enemies, but by losing hope and faith in the work Jesus… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“… David encouraged himself in the Lord his God.” 1 Sam 30:6

When David and his men were faced with the tragedy of losing their families they began to turn against David. Instead of looking to God for an answer, they looked for someone to blame. But David sought God for a solution instead of a scapegoat. Often the problem is not as much the problem as it is our attitude towards it. Blaming others robs us of victories when we try to find our encouragement and hope in others instead of God. Encouragement can change the course of another’s life, don’t “dis” on it!

Blame is the result of discouragement by others being bigger than our encouragement in Jesus…        HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Php 4:19 “God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” 

If God called you to it:

                   He will grace you in it.

                   He will equip you in it.

                   He will empower you in it.

                   He will strengthen you in it. (c. caine)

He is our provision... (2 Cor 9:8 “God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.)  We can trust that God will always meet our needs. He allowed David to face giants, Paul to face death. Provision is God’s promise that allows us to persevere and find prosperity in His will.  

Faith at any given time is strong or weak depending upon our perspective of provision… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Jer 33:6-7 “Behold, I will bring it health and cure, and I will cure them, and will reveal unto them the abundance of peace and truth.  I will cause the captivity of Judah and Israel to return and will build them, as at the first”

There can often be a big difference between what the Lord wants to accomplish, and what we want to attain. The Lord is not as interested in restoring the physical (vs 4), as He is the spiritual. He’ll accomplish an abundance of peace and truth without need of the physical. What we may want replaced the Lord is going to restore what we have to its right condition, starting with the heart (vs 8). The Lord’s more interested in the heart of the matter than the appearance of it.

When you’ve reached your end go to prayer and the Lord will take it from there… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“You are the salt of the earth…; You are the light of the world…” Mt 5:13-16

Salt and light, we are, it’s not optional but opportunities to saturate and illuminate the goodness of Jesus (Zec 9:17). Seasoning without flavor offers little value and a hidden light offers no hope of direction. Let’s season our words with the love and hope of Jesus as to be palatable to all that hear, and be sure we’re not shinning our own light, but instead reflection His (Acts 13:47).

Lord help me to live a life that allows others to taste and see that the Lord is good (Psa 34:8)… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Now the Syrians on one of their raids had carried off a little girl from the land of Israel, and she worked in the service of Naaman's wife. She said to her mistress, “Would that my lord were with the prophet who is in Samaria! He would cure him of his leprosy.” (2 Kg 5:2)

Interesting the very people Naaman attacked was his only hope for being cured. And it came at the direction of a young girl who would appear just in being bitter concerning what was taken from her. Yet, while this very young girl never got all she wanted she gave all she had.  And God was so impressed that He recorded what she gave despite her circumstances.  It’s one thing to serve out of abundance and completely different challenge to serve during affliction.  

It’s not what you take out of life but what you give to it that’s of real value… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did.” Jn 4:39 (Jn4:1-49)

Seeking encouragement, I encourage you to seek Jesus! A simple encounter at a well was all that was needed to testify of hope in Jesus. She was able to over come her reputation, struggles and feelings of unworthiness. Jesus overcame her faults, sins and gave her a testimony of hope. It’s not what we are but who He is. If we seek to encounter Jesus, it won’t matter who else has rejected or neglected us. God’s favor outweighs all opposition.

A worthy encounter is not something you wait for, it’s what you search for…HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“… Beware ye of the leaven (reveling) of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” Lk 12:1

Hypocrisy is the self-righteous act of conformity to religion without an inner spirit of obedience and servitude to others. Example: one may carefully tithe his income but be rude and obnoxious to coworkers. An act of holiness with a heart that is hollow is like pouring water into a funnel, it can appear full for a moment but quickly reveals itself empty. Obedience without love is brutality, and love without obedience is hypocrisy.

Lord, help us practice what we preach or change our speech… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” Pro 27:6

Man has become so thirsty for applause and “likes” he would be willing to accept them from an enemy; esteeming the approval of man over the Master. Beware of kisses of approval; it was Judas who kissed Jesus (Mk 14:44). What seems encouraging to the flesh is not always beneficial to the spirit. Be less concerned with the kisses you receive and more so whom you’re kissing… Psa 2:12 “Kiss the Son, lest he be angry… Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.”  The rebuke of a friend is always more valuable than the reward of man (Ecc 7:5)!

Man tends to hear what he wants to hear, even if an enemy is the only one willing to say it… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.” Pro 28:26

While feelings are real, they’re only feelings still. Satan wants you trapped in your feelings not your faith. This is the spiritual battle we face (Eph 6:12), falling to our feelings rather than fighting in our faith. Stop trying to feel good and trust in Him who can make you good. Don’t be a prisoner to your feelings, it only creates fatigue for fighting the good fight (2 Tim 4:7-8).

Keep your face towards the Son and you’ll never see the shadows… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself…” Mt 6:34

Our answer to anxiety is to worship until the worry is absorb into the assurances of the Father (vs 33). Worry is paralyzing to the spirit, offering no virtue in our thoughts of hope. Depression resides in the past and anxiety dwells in the future, live in the blessing and gift of today! Every tomorrow has two handles, we can take hold of it by the handle of anxiety or by the handle of faith.

Father help me to prosper in the peace of your promised provisions… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see you good works, and glorify the Father which is in heaven.” Mt 5:16

There is no darkness that light cannot overcome, as long as your switch is tuned on. We must be willing to allow God’s promises to shine on our problems, allowing others to see His glory! Showing others that His Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light for our path (Psa 119:105). The beauty of light is that it doesn’t require us to shout about it. A lighthouse doesn’t fire cannons in offering direction, it just shines its light and others are drawn to it.

When Christ’s goodness fills your heart, it shines through your eyes… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.” Mt 3:8

John the Baptist calls us to repentance that is rooted in the heart allowing spiritual fruit to flow freely in our lives. As a tree is known by its fruit, so is repentance known by its good works and sincere repentance (2 Cor 7:11). This call requires more than words or rituals, it’s a change of behavior that is seen in life changes that bring forth obedience and servitude in our life. God looks beyond words and religious activities; comparing our walk with our words?

Father open my eyes to see areas of temptation and sin in my life that spoil the fruits of your spirit… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“… godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” 1 Tim 4:8

Let us not confuse earthly wealth with eternal wealth. According to (Pro 11:4) riches profit not in the day of God’s judgement, but righteousness delivers us from His wrath. We increase the value of our days by focusing on value, not valuables. When I set my mind on the things Christ that offer eternal value, the proprieties of my investments change. Father help me to know where true value and treasures lie and fully abandon everything else to secure it (Mt 13:45-46). Where your treasure is so follows your heart (Mt 6:21)!

Those who lay up treasures in Heaven looks forward to the wealth of eternity… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“… Simeon was just and devout, waiting for the consolation (Christ) of Israel…” Lk 2:25

Patience is not the ability to wait, but the ability to keep a devoted and righteous spirit of worship while waiting. A waiting season is not God’s invitation to be lethargic or sluggish. Anyone can say I love you, but not everyone can wait and be devoted to proving it’s true. Help me to wait on You Lord, I know to be still (Psa 46:10) … its then You will show me what is Your perfect will!

If God is making you wait maybe you should be preparing yourself  to receive more than what you asked for… HSAY

“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” Rom 12:12

The key to running your race is not the speed in which you run but the patience to endure and don’t stop. At times God will plant you for a season, and like a tree, the deeper your roots grow in your faith the sweeter the fruit. But the growth requires patience, prayer and hope in the harvest to come. Maintain patience in the process and God’s purpose will prevail. And when hard times come and you wonder where the Lord is, remember the teacher is always silent during the test.

Don’t be so impatient with a storm that you miss sight of the Savior in it … HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness (Christ) arise with healing in his wings…” Mal 4:2

At times life (physical/spiritual) can be on life support and hope, joy & peace are vanished blessings. But in Christ we can anticipate the day when true healing appears. For those who turn from sin and trust in Christ righteousness will find the light which brings forth healing on its wings. God is the great physician (Who forgives your iniquity, heals all diseases.” Psa 103:3). What life robs God restores, and that which is terminal in the temporal is eradicated in the eternal, “He heals the broken in heart and binds up their wounds.” (Psa 147:3)

Life support is still promising for those who trust in Him who supplies life… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Lord, thou wilt ordain peace for us: thou hast wrought all our work is us.” Isa 26:12

If any kindness has been shown us, or our affairs be prosperous and successful, it’s God that works it for us (Jms 1:17). And whatever good work is done by us, it is owing to a good work wrought by the grace of God in us; it's He that puts good thoughts and affections into our hearts that works in us both to will and to do of His good pleasure. Christ died for men precisely because men are not worth dying for, He died to make them worth it (Rom 5:8).

It was the work of Christ that determined the worth of man… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” Jos 1:5

Christianity is not man surrendering to the power of God but surrendering to the love of God. It’s not that man’s will is crushed, but that man’s heart is broken. Doing so is not a sign of weakness, but acknowledgment that God can bring a power into our lives that can accomplish greater things than we can in the flesh. Which then empowers our faith that He will never fail us or forsake us!

God can only work with what you give Him, don’t expect a mansion if you only give Him a brick to work with… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Est 4:16 “… I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.”

When God blesses us, why do we increase our standard of living rather than our standard of giving! Esther became queen which greatly increase her standard of living and yet she was willing to give her life for the well-fare of God’s people. Are we willing to lay down our lives that others may know of God’s great love? Father give us a heart like Esther to give sacrificially and unconditionally as you have given to us.

We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give – no one has ever become poor by giving… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Psa 103:10-11 “He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.” 

God is sovereign over the details of our lives and has put us where we are for our good and to share the Lord’s renown.  Like Esther, we can’t let our past hinder our future in the Lord (Est 4:14; 16). It’s the invincible sovereignty of God that the presence of hope drives out all fear. There may by-products of our past sins, but we’re not to be prisoners to it.

The very sins we can’t seem to forget are the very sins that God can’t seem to remember (Psa 103:12) … HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Ezra 7:10 “For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it, and teach…”

God is preparing you for the thing He has prepared for you. Our job is to prepare our hearts as a fertile field ready to receive the seed of His Word so that it brings forth a crop that allows us to obediently feed others. May God’s Word be ever constant on our hearts and lips. Are you hungry for the things of God or the things of the world?

Know that what you plant today will be what you have to offer others tomorrow… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Ezr 3:12 “… old men who had seen the first house, wept with a loud voice when they saw the foundation of this house being laid, though many shouted aloud for joy.”

Because the church has lost the capacity to weep over sin, it lost its joy to shout over salvation. Even though the Temple was being rebuilt they compared it to the first Temple and wept that it wasn’t as glorious. But the external building wasn’t as important to God as their hearts. God is always more concerned about who we are than what we accomplish. In too many ways the church today avoids calling sin, sin and focuses more on how it looks and thus less concerned about salvation and more concerned about style.  

When the church learns to weep over sin, man will start hearing a louder shout over souls from the church instead of self-interest… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Mt 8:26 “And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.”

Would you be willing to venture into a storm with a captain whose never weathered a storm? I can assure you a captain’s ship without a few scrapes and repairs to its hull has no experience in sailing. Sometimes the Lord allows us to go through storms in order to teach us how to navigate so that we can show others likewise during their storms. Don’t focus on your scars and damaged goods, rather focus on how the Lord led you, protected you and provided wisdom through it. It’s then you’re able to help others sail their ships effectively.

Your purpose in God and value to others is learning to stand in the storm and let the Lord adjust your sails. Remember ships aren’t designed to float in the calmness of the harbor… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

Isa 7:13 “…Is it a small thing for you to weary men, but will ye weary my God also?”

Nothing is more grievous to God than man’s distrust in His power and sovereignty (Mal 2:17).  King Ahaz was hesitant to seek a sign from God concerning His promised protection against Syria, claiming he didn’t won’t to tempt the Lord. It’s one thing to weary (burden) man with doubt, but don’t confuse or disguise your lack of faith in God under the pretense of being a burden to Him. It’s not man’s request that weary the Lord, it’s his asking amiss (Jm 4:3) with the wrong motive or in doubt. The only danger or sin in challenging God is when we don’t involve our faith! Are you willing to be All-In with God? He’s not afraid of a fight, if you’re not afraid to live in your faith. Ask David and Goliath… HSAY    

Daily Wisdom

“God is my strength and power: and he maketh my way perfect.” 2 Sam 22:33

Consider, to an ant on the ground an airplane would look like an ant. It’s said an ant on the move does more than a dozen ox. Strength doesn’t have to appear as a lion’s roar… it’s also the silence of an ant working patiently, persistently in the power and promises of the Lord. Like the ant, it’s not about doing great things but rather do small things in a great way. The matters that lie behind us and before us are of little value compared to what lies within us.

When our capabilities are of God, we’re never incapable… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“But rise, and stand upon they feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose…” Acts 26:26

You’re not saved without purpose and great reason, but understand, it wasn’t just for your well being only. Our salvation is for the Glory of the Lord to be seen by others, opening their eyes from darkness (vs 18).  In doing so, we make the invisible kingdom visible in life through our grace story (AFA). The beauty of God’s grace is that it meets us where we are but doesn’t leave us where it found us. It offers us a spiritual GPS “God’s Plan of Salvation” and our purpose is to show others its coordinates. Your purpose is greater than your problems, don’t let one distract you over the other!  

Live purposely one day at a time. Today, after all, is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Sanctify the Lord… let him be your fear, let him be your dread (awe).” Isa 8:13

For Judah, fear of invasion was a constant threat. Yet, Isaiah said “The Lord of Heaven’s Armies” … is the One you should fear. Fear causes our faith to falter and is a great deterrent to our peace, joy & strength. Fear originates when we imagine that hope depends on us. In the presence of fear, RUN; just make sure you’re running towards the Lord. Then you’re freed up to serve, love and give thanks without guilt, worry or fear. Run anywhere else you’ll probably find you just took a short cut to meet your enemy, fear, again!

Outside the will of God, I want not; inside the will of God, I fear not… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“… take heed, and be quiet; fear not, neither be faint-hearted…” Isa 7:4

God’s promised Judah that evil will not prevail against them. Doesn’t mean the enemy won’t try, just that they won’t prevail. One mustn’t let their spirit weaken and fail when attacked, be patient and courageous in the Lord (Psa 27:14); the evil man has no future (Pro 24:20).  In our patience in the Lord, no matter the evil, we’re to respond and overcome it with good (Rom 12:21). It’s out of a good heart, that good things prevail amidst evil (Mt 12:25). In the sorrow, faith draws the string of good out of the enemy’s garment.

Even in the darkest of valley, God promises the brightest of victory (Psa 23)… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“… Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not.” Isa 6:10

Isaiah uttered these words to hearts that had become spiritually fat and out of shape. They saw and heard the truth, but they perceive not their own concern in it; it’s as if God’s Word is a fairy-tale that renders little truth. There are many Christians whose eyes have become shut and their ears heavy to truth. Causing their restoration and repentance to become utterly impossible by being unable to see and hear the danger their in. The worldly chatter is causing Christians to become callous to the truth for their life. Hearing and ignoring the truth is the slowest killer.

Listening to the world isn’t the problem it’s refusing to live in the truth that’s dangerous… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“And the LORD will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.  Isa 58:11

Even if life’s storms may come from the enemies wishes, they still must pass through God’s will. The question is what will you do with them? If the Lord allowed you to experience it then He has given you the strength to endure it! Not all storms come to disrupt your life, some come to clear obstruction in your life. Let Him who allowed the storm to sail the vessel.

Rise above the storm and you’ll find the sun is still shinning… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.”  Psa 26:2

David’s desire was for God to examine his heart, though he was not sinless he was declaring innocence in his heart. The health of the heart determines the depth of our devotion. And when the Lord is searching for servants, like Isaiah we can then say, “here I am; send me.”  Allow God to continually examine your heart so that it beats in rhythm with His heart – for people.

A heart with the Word of God hidden in it is a stubborn voice to suppress… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Phl 1:6

God will bring everything to completion, don’t let your past pain prevent you from God’s promised provisions and pleasure (Psa 111:2). Don’t be discouraged by what feels like a lack of progress, press on it may the last key on the key chain that opens the door God has for you. Know that you may not be provided the answers you wish, sometimes Jesus simply provides Himself. But, the more we encounter His presence, the more we experience His promises and realize that His presence is all we truly need.

Everyone who gets where he is had to begin where he was… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” Jm 4:10

The most nullifying act against victory in our life is the unwillingness to surrender. “The Christian life is the only battle where surrender brings victory” (Debra). The extent of our willingness to surrender to the Lord’s purpose will proportionally determine the victories experienced. God’s desiring to build Ark’s with our life, like Noah, and we’re thinking rafts. That’s the problem, rafts don’t deliver victory against the storms. Surrender the pieces of your life to the Lord, He’s got the blueprints to build something beautiful and victorious with them!

Absolute surrender is absolute success… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“… they regard not the work of the Lord, neither consider the operation of his hands.” Isa 5:12

Man is failing concerning his regards towards God’s providence; the good things by which man abuses for his lusts. Refusing to acknowledge “the work of the Lord” and instead redefine what is good in man’s own eyes. But, “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil” (vs 20). Man must bring every thought captive and subject unto Christ (2 Cor 10:5). Godly- Goodness has already been defined by the Author, man is called to act the part not rewrite the script. Goodness is defined in God’s promises not man’s pleasures, know the difference.

A little knowledge of God is worth more than a great deal of knowledge about Him... HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“My well beloved hath a vineyard in a very fruitful hill… and he looked that it should bring forth grapes, brought it forth wild grapes.” Isa 5:1;4

What God tilled and planted (vs 2) in man (vineyard) for the purpose to bear much fruit in order to disciple others, produced wild fruit instead. Jesus said, "Just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions" (Mt 7:20). God expects vineyard-fruit from those that enjoy vineyard-privileges, not leaves only.  Don’t have a bare profession, no matter how green. There must be more than buds and blossoms, we must be fruit bearers (Gal 5:22). In a fruitless life praises don’t matter, in a fruitful life neither does criticism.

Busyness does not mean one’s a fruitful, simply means you’re busy like everyone else… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Say ye to the righteous, that it shall be well with him: for thy shall eat the fruit of their doings.” Isa 3:10

Here’s our only hope (it shall be well), things will only be right when we want what is right. God’s promised protection is towards those who desire righteousness (Acts 10:35). King David didn’t always do what was right (2 Sam 11), but he wanted what was right (2 Sam 12:13). Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, they shall be filled (Mt 5:6). Faith is not believing God will do what you want, but rather God will do what is right.   

Finding God gets you right, continuing to seek Him will keep you right… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils: for wherein is he to be accounted of?” Isa 2:22

Man is prone to entrust their life and future more readily to mortal man than to an omnipotent God. Cautious with a boisterous man who lobbies your dependence in them rather than the Lord (Psa 118:8).  Before you trust in the wisdom of man, consider you have access to Him who created man. There’s no storm God won’t carry you through. No bridge He won’ help you cross. No battle He won’t help you win.

One who directs you in the Lord’s wisdom and not their own, is worth your investment… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

“Their land is full of idols; they worship the work of their own hand…“ Isa 2:8

While as a society we may not worship carved images today, we have replaced it with man and objects of power; paying homage to self, materialism and power.  But the wise man would take his seat in the back of the banquet rather than boasting of his seat in the front (Lk 14:10). Allow your choices to be filtered through the hands of God, then what falls before you will be by His will. And by putting everything in God’s hands you’ll see God’s hands in everything.

The greater use of our hands would be in lifting others up and escorting them to the front… (HSAY)   

Daily Wisdom

“… Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord…” Isa 2:3

Though it rests on the mountain, it’s established on God’s Word… “out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord.” (vs 3b). While His kingdom isn’t physically established, His Word in which the Lord will teach by is, and eventually nations will flow unto it (vs 2). Point being, have you already started your climb? The higher we climb, the more we see of God and strengthen our faith. The best view comes after the hardest climb.

But know that one on top of the mountain didn’t fall there! … (HSAY)

Daily Wisdom

“…  wine mixed with water.” Isa 1:22

Judah had lost its influence as a nation. Once faithful & righteous in its judgment (vs 21), was now described by Isaiah as harlot given into worldly influence. Their faith had become impure, worthless and diluted, as “wine mixed with water.”  Don’t let worldly opposition influence or dilute your faith. Remember a kite fly’s the highest against the wind. Kites don’t fly in spite of the opposition; kites fly because of the opposition. In fact, they can’t fly without it.

Our greatest opposition often comes from within, when by faith we either hold to the Word or the world… (HSAY)

Daily Wisdom

“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord…” Isa 1:18

If God and His Word are anything, they’re reasonable. We must be willing to approach God not as hard and demanding, but rather as just and fair, acknowledging our ways are not equal to His (Eze 18:25). James tells us in (4:8) “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you…”  Yet, we can’t approach a murder trial with blood stained hands (vs 15) and reason our innocence. Israel fasted, sacrificed and keep the feast without acknowledging their stained hands. If mom won’t let you come into the house dirty and eat, why expect the Father (vs 19).

It’s not about cleaning yourself up for salvation, it’s about trying to put on a wool clothing with blood stained hands; it won’t work… (HSAY)

Daily Wisdom

“The ox knows its owner, the ass his master’s crib; but Israel doth not know… “(Isa 1:3); “To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifice unto me...” (vs 11); “Bring no more vain oblations…” (vs 13); “Learn to do well… “ (Isa 1:17)

Sadly, the animals can be smarter than we are at times (Jere 8:7). And yet we tend to try and overcome it by increasing our sacrifices of religious worship. But this is nothing more than vain efforts through religious acts, and an abomination to God. Israel wasn’t sorry for their sins, and yet continued to offer up sacrifices.  The Lord instead directed us to “do well” by self judgement (humility), relieve the oppressed (provision), provide for the fatherless (justice), plead for the widow (servitude).

A great man is always willing to be little for others to grow… HSAY

Daily Wisdom

"Blessed is the man whom thou chastenest, O Lord, and teachest him out of thy law. That thou mayest give him rest from the days of adversity..." Psa 94:13-14

Some of the most peaceful sleep can be had while spring storms are heard falling. In the same peace we can sleep amidst adversity storming around us. Such peacefulness comes for those who are trained in His way (Heb 12:11). When you feel God's hand of correction, accept it as proof of his love. Realizing the same God that corrects you also controls the storm.

To be a great sailor requires great storms... (HSAY)

Daily Wisdom

"Those planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of God." Psa 92:13

The cedars of Lebanon grew to 120' in height and up to 30' in circumference (vs 12). Allowing them to withstand the winds of circumstances and continue to "bear fruit in old age" (vs 14). You may think you're being buried, when you're really being planted. God's using this season to grow you and prepare you for a fruitful season to come. Stay planted in God's promises.

Don't dig up in doubt what you planted in faith with God... (HSAY)

Daily Wisdom

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?” Rom 8:35 (vss 36-39) 

Don’t let life make you forget why you started in Christ in the first place.

Stay connected and true to your faith long after the emotion has left; knowing that which got you well is what keeps you well. Allowing you to testify to His goodness.

Some people don’t need you to preach of hope; they need you to deliver it, by living it.

Life’s circumstances change, don’t let your choice in Christ!

HSAY… Todd

Daily Wisdom

“They remembered not his hand, nor the day when he delivered them from the enemy.” Psa 78:42

It should not be a surprise that when one loses their humility hurt is soon to follow.

By Israel’s lack of humility “their days did he consume in vanity, and their years in trouble.” (vs 33)

While we don’t want to linger in the past and its mistakes, we do need to keep them close to mind and grow wiser through them.

The Israelite's they failed to learn from their past wondering from God that lead to their bondage.  And now delivered by God, they lost their humility and forgot again “… that God was their rock; and their redeemer.” (vs 35)

The past must be used to expound on lessons learned; allowing us to live wiser and humbler in the present and for tomorrow.

Don’t let our lack of humility in yesterday hinder the promises God has for us today.

Failing to remember from whence you came is a sure path to end up back where you started.   

HSAY… Todd

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them…” Mt 7:12

Forgiveness doesn’t excuse another’s behavior; Forgiveness prevents their behavior from damaging your own heart.

David found himself, while already in betrayal by Absalom his own son, caught again in betrayal by either Mephibosheth (Saul’s grandson) or Ziba (Saul’s servant). 2 Sam 16; 19

But David’s reaction shows he’s come a long, long way since the glory days of ten chapters ago -  he’s better and wiser, and recognizing that this is partly his fault.

In one of his more Christ-like moments, David at the end of his civil war with Absalom takes upon himself all the sorrows of his people, and all their guilt as well, and discharges the conflict in himself.  He is the peacemaker now, at his own expense. He’s now a covenant mediator.

One who doesn’t know the value of loyalty can never appreciate the cost of loyalty.

And sadly, betrayal never comes from your enemies.

The knives of betrayal cut deep and hurt… but they also trim away the nonsense and reveals the most valuable truth of all.

When you’ve been cast out alone into a sea of betrayal, there is only One who is able to be out on the water with you.

David’s story shows us that betrayal brings forth either bitterment or betterment?

But before we choose our course against those who betrayed us remember it was our own betrayal that put Christ on the Cross and yet He isn’t bitter with us, only the better!

Before bitterness sets in, remember Jesus couldn’t get to the cross without Judas’s betrayal!

HSAY… Todd

Daily Wisdom

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” 2 Tim 3:16-17 

What one aspires to have and what one is inspired to be can be quite the opposite.

Longing to obtain that which changes circumstances only, and not one’s character is the difference between aspiration to have and inspiration to be.

The significance of a man’s life is not what he aspires to attain, but rather what he’s inspired to be.

Aspiration is of man; Inspiration is of God. One is externally generated, other is internally stimulated.

The achieve the latter requires steadily deepening one’s humility in Christ and rising above one’s selfish aspirations to desiring the Holy Spirits spiritual inspiration in their life.

Worldly success comes by aspiration, spiritual success comes by inspiration. One changes what you have and the other who you are!  

HSAY… Todd

Daily Wisdom

“… the just shall live by faith.” Habakkuk 2:4

The question isn’t how long God will “hold off” His judgement on the wicked, but how long will we “hold on” to His righteousness and promises.

We long for answers we can’t fathom, but He promises to provide them… (Hab 1:5)

Faith calls us to live in worship, not worry! Holding to God’s faithfulness and finding the joy in everyday, not because life is always good, but because God is!

Judgement will come on the unjust (Hab 2:3). Remain Joyful in hope, Patient in affliction, Faithful in prayer knowing our justification lies in His righteousness and promises!

HSAY… Todd  

Daily Wisdom

“He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeatheth a matter separateth very friends.“  Pro 17:9

The key to a Christian based and love growing friendship is in the ability to be fault forgiving and not fault finding.

Choosing to cover another’s transgression, as difficult though that may be at times, is desiring to better his relationships rather than becoming bitter in them.

Pro 17:9 “A friend loveth at all times…” Not dwelling with the irritation and iteration of past offense. Choosing rather to bury them in love.

This perseverance comes by making the better of every situation before it gets the better of you.

If another’s actions or words were an oversight, then simply overlook it; forgetfulness, forget it. If it perhaps made nothing of you, then make nothing of it.

You can give without loving, but you can never truly love without giving.

HSAY… Todd

Daily Wisdom

“Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand.” Pro 19:21

If we’re honest with ourselves, we often feel insecure. Those who hide it best often feel it most.

But our insecurity is an invitation of choice in Christ to escape the danger of false beliefs about who we are and find true peace and purpose in who He is.

We cannot experience anything greater than the fullness of union with Christ. Nothing reaches higher or is more theologically comprehensive.

This fullness is bound to our choices. Yet, while we have a choice, we cannot choose our consequences.

One great choice we make daily is the lust for life today verses the promises of tomorrow.

If you choose to live like the chickens don’t be surprised when you catch yourself clucking!

HSAY… Todd

Daily Wisdom

“For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the Glory of God by us.” 1 Cor 1:20

Know that neither life nor man can never disrupt God’s promises for us, only we can do that.

It’s not what others have done to you, but what God has done for you that must capture your focus!

Never let another’s actions control your reactions; man may interfere in our plans but never God’s promises.

While Joseph was forced to live within man’s selfish actions against him, he was never without or removed form God’s promises and blessings for him.

God doesn’t give us our plan for life, He gives us our purpose for life. Man can disrupt our plans,

but we should never let it disrupt His purpose in us and the promises that come from it.

What man plans for evil, God purposes for good. (Gen 50:20)

HSAY… Todd

Daily Wisdom

“Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” 1 Cor 2:9

Consider the fact that today is limited, but tomorrow isn’t!

Yet, man is prone to put more value on what he wants now verses the promises tomorrow holds.

Esau saw greater value in a need today than he did his promises of tomorrow. (Gen 25:33)

Today is already gained, but tomorrow’s promises are ours to win or lose.

Don’t devalue the promises of tomorrow based on what you can see today. (Gen 5:32)

Many things about tomorrow I don’t seem to understand. But I know who holds tomorrow’s promises, He that holds my hand.

HSAY… Todd

Daily Wisdom

“… and none can keep alive his own soul.” Psa 22:29

Psalm 22 records David’s soul crying in anguish, so much so he gives an amazingly accurate description of the Lord’s coming suffering and sacrifice on the cross for our soul.

To which David illustrates that both the plentiful and the Plenti-less have one thing in common, neither can keep alive their own soul. (vs 29)

Meaning all have great need concerning Jesus and salvation; as no man can quicken themselves when dead in trespasses and sins. Thus, when man is made alive in Jesus, he cannot preserve his life on his own.

Point being… the only thing can get me right and is the only thing that will keep me right. Or easier said; the medicine that gets me well, keeps me well.

It was God’s Word that created us; is it any wonder that His Word should sustain us?

God will give us the strength for every battle, wisdom for every decision and the peace to sustain us in both.

HSAY… Todd

Daily Wisdom

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction…” Pro 1:7

In the information age today, knowledge is plentiful, but wisdom is scarce.

Wisdom is far more empowering than simply knowing, it affects every aspect of life.

We will only see things in the world wisely when we seek God worshipfully… God-fearing worship leads to God-given wisdom

Trying to apply wisdom in life apart from Christ, is as foolish as applying wall paper without glue.

Never mistake knowledge for wisdom. One helps you make a living; the other helps you make a life.

HSAY… Todd