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.

Hosea 9-10, Proverbs 24:17-34, Matthew 6:1-18

What God said to me – Each one of My children is different and I call each to different ministries and services and gift them with the talents and abilities to fulfill their callings.  But there are some things I expect of all My children.  Notice My instructions in My word – “when” you give – “when” you pray – “when” you fast.  Although each of you are different, there are some basic things I expect from all of My children – giving, praying, fasting – and when you do them in the way I instruct you, like a proud Father, I will reward you.  There is blessing in obedience, but My heart’s desire is for your obedience, not for the reward you will receive, but out of your love for Me and your desire to please Me.