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.

Hosea 11-12, Proverbs 25:1-14, Matthew 6:19-34

What God said to me –Where is your focus?  Where is your treasure?  What do you think about when your mind wanders?  The answer to all of these questions is the same and it will tell you a lot about where you are spiritually and your relationship with Me.  Is the focus of your activity and thoughts to please Me and to minister as I direct or is it self-gratification and success.  I know you have to work and provide for your family and take care of yourself but even in these basic mundane things your focus should be on Me.  I should be the focus of your work – you should work to please Me and show good character and work ethic as a witness to others.  I should also be the focus of your down time, whatever the activity – that means you must guard your mind and heart in what you read or watch or do – that means that good character and fellowship and encouragement are more important than winning.  So, whatever you are doing, do all for My glory.