Joshua 15, Luke 18:18-43, Psalms 86:1-17, Proverbs 13:9-10

What God said to me – Since the beginning people have tried to straddle the fence between walking with Me and being accepted in the world.  Immature believers try to determine how far they can go and yet not sin, but mature believers ask what they need to do to be holy – polar opposites in heart and in attitude.  You will have a constant struggle when your heart is divided between following Me in holiness and following the world.  To win this battle you must first realize that you cannot change your heart – only I can.  Joshua admonished Israel to choose this day whom they would serve, but as for he and his house, they determined to serve Me.  Are you determined to serve Me also – to walk in a manner worthy of your calling so you will please Me?  Then devote yourself to this time and to My word so I can teach you My ways and you can quit flirting with the world and walk in My truth.  I will unite your divided heart so you can follow Me wholeheartedly and glorify Me in your life.

Joshua 13-14, Luke 18:1-17, Psalms 85:1-13, Proverbs 13:7-8

What God said to me – Have you ever worked on a project or at an event where a lot of stuff was need or a lot of things were needed to be done and people were talking and complaining, but they never went to the people in charge who could actually help?  You are that way many times when you have needs or have a lot to do and you go to friends or family either for help or to just complain rather than going to the One who can actually so something – Me!  You need to learn to make prayer your first resort and not the last.  Pray at all times about everything and do not lose heart when you do not see immediate results.  My timing is always perfect so keep praying and trusting Me.  When you pray, you do not need elaborate words or eloquent recitals – you need a sincere heart.  When the Pharisee stood praying loudly in the temple, he was not praying to Me, he was praying to himself to show others how pious he was.  Make sure when you pray that you are directing your prayers to Me and not just reciting words or trying to impress others.  Pray about everything – I always hear.

Joshua 11-12, Luke 17:11-37, Psalms 84:1-12, Proverbs 13:5-6

What God said to me – You are living in a time where a sense of entitlement is the norm, and few people take time to express their gratitude or thankfulness for anything.  Children tear through their birthday or Christmas gifts without any acknowledgement to the giver.  You send a baby or wedding shower gift, and you are left to wonder if they ever received it because you hear nothing in return.  When My Son, in His mercy healed ten lepers, only one returned to express gratitude.  What about you?  Do you take for granted the things people do for you as something to be “expected” because you are their parent or child or friend?  My Apostle Paul was constantly giving thanks for people he encountered in his ministry – not just for the things they did for him, but because their faithfulness was an answer to his prayer and brought glory to Me.  All that you are and have is because of My grace and mercy upon you.  Come into My presence with thanksgiving and into My courts with praise. Do you want to closer to Me – express your gratitude.  Do you want to minister and deepen your relationship with others – express your gratitude.  Look around you and find opportunities to express gratitude and thankfulness.