Deuteronomy 5-6, Luke 7:11-35, Psalms 68:19-35, Proverbs 11:29-31

What God said to me – Throughout history you see men called “titans of industry” or inventors who invented incredible things or kings who build vast kingdoms or generals who led great armies and inevitably they are called “self-made men” who came from nothing and rose to great fame or accomplishment.  In reality, however, there is no such thing as a “self-made man”.  All talent and intelligence and ability and health come from Me.  I created each person with a specific plan in mind for them so it’s not what they did or made themselves into, it’s My sovereignty that makes the difference.  Take the nation of Israel for example.  When they went into the promised land, I gave them land they did not earn.  I gave them cities they did not build.  I gave them cisterns they did not dig.  I gave them vineyards and olive trees they did not plant.  It was not because of anything they did to earn or deserve it, but it was by My grace and My plan.  All that you have and are, is because of My grace and My plan for your life.  Whether you are intelligent or not, whether you are healthy or not, whether you are wealthy or not – it’s all by My grace and My plan.  What are you doing to bring glory to Me with who you are, where you are, and what you are?

Deuteronomy 4, Luke 6:39-7:10, Psalms 68:1-18, Proverbs 11:28

What God said to me – One of the greatest illustrations and confirmations of My sovereignty and plan for the world and for your life is the nation of Israel.  They were created because of My promise to Abraham.  I led them into Egypt, and I led them out of Egypt by signs and wonders and by a mighty hand and outstretched arm.  I spoke to them from the midst of a fire and gave them My law.  I led them by a cloud and a fire to the promised land.  I disciplined them and scattered them among the nations according to My word.  In these last days I have brought them back to the land according to My promise and they will never leave it.  “I AM” a faithful God.  So, when things in the world or in your life seem to be going crazy and you feel like I’m nowhere around, remember the example of Israel.  I have a plan that “I AM” working out for Israel and for the world and for you.  When you can’t see My hand or feel My presence, remember your senses are not what gives you assurance of My nearness or My sovereignty – it is My word.  Even when you can’t see Me or feel Me, “I AM” with you because I said I would never leave you or forsake you.  Look to My word – look at the example of Israel and believe.

Deuteronomy 2-3, Luke 6:12-28, Psalms 67:1-7, Proverbs 11:27

What God said to me – Have you noticed that rage and hatred have become an everyday part of life.   When you were young you never heard of road rage much less people shooting off guns in public and running cars into crowds of people.  What has happened to change society so drastically?  You are living in the last days and people have exchanged My truth for a lie and they are reaping the consequences.  There is hatred and anger and polarization, and no amount of discussion or logic can change it because they are succumbing to the delusion prophesied to come in the end days.  They truly believe the lies and that any means is justified to gain their end.  Men will hate you and ostracize you and insult you and scorn your name as evil for My sake.  So, what are you to do?  You are to leap with joy and be glad for great is your reward in heaven when men hate you for My sake.  You are to love your enemies and do good to those who hate you.  You are to pray for them and bless them and treat them the way you want to be treated.  Will it be easy?  Absolutely not!  This time with Me is more important than ever for you to draw strength and to stand firm and walk in a manner worthy of your calling.