Ezekiel 7-9, Hebrews 5, Psalms 105:1-15, Proverbs 26:28

What God said to me – In the movie Aladdin, Aladdin finds a “magic” lamp and when it is rubbed in a certain way a genie appears to grant him his wish.  So many of My children treat Me like that – like a genie here to grant your wishes.  “I AM” not a genie and your prayers shouldn’t be wishes.  “I AM” Almighty God, your everlasting Father.  I want a relationship with you, and I want you to come to Me in prayer pouring out your heart – telling Me your yearnings and longings and hurts and disappointments.  Don’t think that because your prayers are not answered the way you wanted that I didn’t hear you or answer your prayer.  You must realize that even though your prayer is sincere, it may not be according to My will – the way I answer, in the time I answer is always the perfect answer.  My Son, Jesus, offered up prayers and supplications with loud crying and tears to Me because He knew I was able to save Him from death and His prayers were heard by Me.  Note that I didn’t answer His prayer the way He wanted, but in the way that was best.  He was a faithful Son who changed His wants to align with My will – He said, “not My will, but Yours be done”, and because of it He became the source of eternal salvation to those who believed and obeyed.  Trust that My answer and My timing are perfect because “I AM” perfect and I always hear you.

Ezekiel 3:16-6:14, Hebrews 4, Psalms 104:24-35, Proverbs 26:27

What God said to me – When you are going through difficult times, whether it’s health issues or financial problems or loss of a loved one or temptation of some kind – well-meaning people can give you advice or try to encourage you, but if they have never gone through what you are experiencing, often their words are not helpful.  However, when someone who has gone through the same things reaches out to you, it means so much more because you know they understand and they can help you and encourage you in ways others can’t.   When I sent My Son, Jesus, He was tempted in all the things you are, yet He did not sin.  He can sympathize with you and encourage you in whatever you are going through because He went through the same things.  Don’t try to go through it on your own – draw near to the throne of grace with confidence and you will receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Ezekiel 1:1-3:15, Hebrews 3, Psalms 104:1-23, Proverbs 26:24-26

What God said to me – There is a small non-profit that was founded by Julie Norton Jackson after her youngest son, Brock, died in a car accident.  Everyday Julie would tell her two sons when they would leave the house, “Go be great”.  That simple encouragement morphed into the bedrock principle of the foundation – Go (Take action), Be (Make the choice), Great (Share your light).  The GoBeGreat Foundation gives scholarships to celebrate those who serve with kindness and selflessness while sharing their gifts, talents, and opportunities with others.  It encourages perseverance, leadership, and community.  If a secular foundation can offer such encouragement to others, how much more should My church do so.  You should encourage one another day after day.  Encourage one another to remain steadfast.  Encourage one another to exercise your gifts in ministry.  Encourage one another to share your faith.  Encourage one another to walk in a manner worthy of your calling.  In a world that is becoming more confrontational and every man for himself, you be known for kindness, selflessness, and encouragement.  You be known for looking like Me.