Name Above All Names

Recently, my daughter got a puppy. Yes, he is adorable but like all puppies he requires a lot of attention and care. The puppy of course needed a name. There were so many to choose from and the final decision was important since his name would be around for a long time. A friend warned my daughter to select the name very carefully noting that she had named her dog chewy and it ate through the door. Another dog named Houdini could never be found and their dog named Bear, well.... you get the idea. So, after much discussion and contemplation the puppy received his name. He is named Tucker because he runs and runs, and then just plain tuckers out! 

Yes, names are important, whether it is for a new puppy, a new baby or a new business. There is one name that is above all names and that name in Jesus. He is the Mighty One, Counselor, King of Peace, Lord of Lords. He is Savior, High Priest, Hope, Bread of Life, Everlasting. His name can move Heaven and earth. There is no other name now, in the past, or to come that is as glorious, majestic, or  powerful. When you pray in the name of Jesus you can be confident that your prayer is heard. You can be sure that He knows your name and that His love for you will sustain you always. Call on the name above all names. Call on  Jesus and be blessed.

"In his name the nations will put their hope." Matthew 12:21

Storytelling

Everyone enjoys hearing a good story. Usually the best stories include some drama, a bit of intrigue, a little humor, and a happy surprise ending. Jesus was the all time best ever story teller. He knew exactly what to say to have a story come alive and make the most impact. The stories he told were relevant, contemporary, and powerful, just like he is.

There are many stories that you can tell others about Jesus. You could start by telling them about the time he changed water into wine, gave sight to a blind man, raised Lazarus from the dead, or fed a crowd with just a few loaves of bread and some fish. All of these stories, and the story about his death and resurrection, are powerful and compelling. Still with all of the miraculous stories that speak of the wonder of Christ, there is none more priceless and significant then the story of Him and you. That is the story that you should tell. Let those that you encounter meet Jesus Christ through the story of your life, in all you demonstrate, say and are. Tell them of the way he has transformed you and provided a life beyond words. Speak of the relationship, joy, peace, and strength you have in Him. The story of your life in Christ is a classic that will live on forever. Have you shared your story with anyone lately?  Isn't it time you did?

"This is why I speak to them in parables: Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand." Matthew 13:13

The Daily Journey is celebrating its 9th anniversary! 

Please keep this ministry in prayer as you continue to enjoy weekly Christ centered inspirational messages.

Begin With the End in Mind

Stephen Covey is a well known author of the book "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People". On of the principles he discusses in the book is "beginning with the end in mind". In other words, when you set out to do something, you should first determine just what it is you are trying to accomplish.  You should ask yourself, "What is the goal?" or, "What exactly does success look like?" By first understanding what you desire to achieve, you can set the process in motion to plan and attain the desired results. Put quite simply, hope is not a plan. You need to have an outcome in mind and develop a plan to achieve what you want.

As profound as this may sound, it really is a basic principle clearly stated in God's Word. God's design began with an end in mind and we are living in the midst of His perfect plan. God's plan is to have His kingdom come. There is no stopping it. The design and happy ending are set. He has developed the game plan from the beginning of time and has all the players lined up and in place to allow His grand finale to be realized. God is going to make all things new again. This is exciting news to all following His Son Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is coming again and He reigns forever and ever! We look forward to His perfect ending where we will see Him in His Glory and live with Him in eternity forever.

"But then the Ancient of Days will come and open his court of justice and take power from the vicious king, to consume and destroy it until the end. Then every nation under Heaven, and all power, shall be given to the people of God; they shall rule all things forever, and all rulers shall serve and obey them."  Daniel 7:26-27

 Immovable

Mountains are immovable. Yes, then can be taken down with a lot of work and a bunch of dynamite but they really are pretty set in their place. Roads are built around them, tunnels are created through them. They stand firm in any case. Mountains stand up to the weather be it hot or cold, wet or dry. They are noticeable from far away as they reach way up in the sky pointing toward Heaven. You can expect to see them exactly where they are tomorrow and the next day, and the next.

Be just like a mountain when it comes to your faith and commitment to Jesus Christ. Things that go on around you, and to you, should not sway you from trusting Him. As you face difficult times and situations, keep standing firm. You too are immovable by virtue of your belief, knowledge, and spiritual understanding.  You stand out from non-believers as you demonstrate your love, strength, and gentle spirit. Just like a mountain, you are a magnificent sight for others to see. Others will stand in awe of your relationship with God as they watch your resilience, patience, and grace. Mountains are immovable but so are you when put your faith in the Almighty God of the Universe.

 "So my dear brothers and sister, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you ever do for the Lord is useless." Corinthians 15:58

A Little R&R

Summer is the perfect time to pause and enjoy some much needed R&R. No, not rest and relaxation, although that would be welcomed. This R&R is restoration and refuge. Restoration for the soul and refuge from the things that come against your spirit. It can be quite overwhelming walking in the world every day. If you are not careful you will find your spirit is down and your heart is aching. Soon, you may begin to ask why things happen as they do, and find yourself doubting and questioning God.

Do not be discouraged and dismayed! Reach out to God and take refuge in Him. He will give you the strength, rest, and peace you are seeking. His ways are perfect. He will provide all you need and restore your soul. With His mighty hand upon you and His perfect love, you will find that you are ready to stand up against life's storms with grace and poise. Yes, a little R&R is exactly what you need. Jesus Christ is the One that will fill your need each and every time. Nothing is too much for Him to handle or too tough to overcome. Lord, God thank you for your glory.

"So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. Hebrews 6:18