2 Chronicles 2-3, Proverbs 26:13-28, Matthew 8

What God said to me – We all encounter storms in our life, difficult times and circumstances beyond our control.  The question is are you in the storm because you were following Me or because you went off on your own?  The answer to that question should determine your mindset throughout your trials and your response to them.  The disciples were in the middle of the storm because I got in the boat with them and told them to follow and they obeyed.  When they cried out in fear, I rebuked them – they were with Me and following Me so their response should have been trust, not fear.  However when you are in a storm because you went off on your own, you should be afraid because you are walking in disobedience.  You need to cry out to Me, but in repentance and seeking My guidance to get you back into My will.  Being in My will is the safest place for you to be no matter what is happening around you.

2 Chronicles 1, Proverbs 26:1-16, Matthew 7:12-29

What God said to me – Just because someone calls Me “Lord” doesn’t mean they are Mine.  Remember in the end every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that “I AM” Lord, and most of them will not be My children.  Just calling Me Lord doesn’t cut it – it doesn’t mean you are saved or are My child – you must also believe in your heart that “I AM” Lord and that belief will be validated and demonstrated by your repentance and obedience.  Your walk matters.  Your obedience is important.   You were not saved by works and you are not kept safe by works but good works are the natural outflow of walking in obedience and faith.

Hosea 13-14, Proverbs 25:15-28, Matthew 7:1-20

What God said to me – Have you ever had your child ask for a gift that you knew was not good for them?  What was your response?  If you are a good parent you would never give them something that you knew was bad for them no matter how much they cried or begged.  Think about this when your prayers are not answered in the way you think they should be.  There are many times that you ask Me for things that I know are not what you need.  “I AM” a perfect Father and I give you what is good for you and what is necessary to move you to where you need to be or to change you and conform you into My image.  Look at each day as a gift from Me and whatever you encounter is what I have determined is the very best thing for you.  Instead of asking “why”, trust that “I AM” at work as a good Father to give you what you need for your good and My glory.