Jeremiah 37-38, 1 Timothy 6, Psalms 89:38-52, Proverbs 25:28

What God said to me – There is one method of training dogs where every time they obey or accomplish a task they receive a treat.  They obey because they want the treat.  There is another method where when they obey, they are petted and praised.  They obey because they want to please their master.  So many of My children are like the dog and the treat – they think if they are “good” then I will bless them – they obey and follow Me for the “treat” not because they love Me and want to please Me.  So often they misconstrue My blessing on their lives to be financial success or career success or good health or good children when My true blessing is peace and joy and faith and hope no matter what your circumstances.  Godliness actually is a means of gain, just not material gain – it is spiritual.  Walking in obedience and seeking to please Me because you love Me brings joy and contentment because you trust that “I AM” at work for your good in every circumstance.

Jeremiah 35-36, 1 Timothy 5, Psalms 89:14-37, Proverbs 25:25-27

What God said to me – Reputation is important.  Are you known as a person who obeys My word and follows Me no matter what happens in your life or in the world around you?  Taking a stand and speaking up for the truth is difficult when no one else around seems to agree with you, especially when you are bombarded on every side.  So few of those who claim to be Mine actually listen and obey My word.  They are like someone who hedges his bets and plays both sides.  They want the eternal benefits of being Mine without the commitment and obedience that causes the world to turn on them so they water down and change My word so as not to be offensive.  You cannot straddle the fence and still please Me.  Choose you this day whom you will serve.

Jeremiah 33-34, 1 Timothy 4, Psalms 89:1-13, Proverbs 25:23-24

What God said to me – No good thing do I withhold from those who walk uprightly.  Do you truly believe that?  The problem is you think good things are success and not having problems and having possessions are happiness.  Your definition of good things and Mine is often totally different.  When I say good things, I don’t just mean what you would consider as blessings, I also mean those things I use to transform you and teach you, including trials and difficult times because these things lead you into a closer relationship with Me.  I can use even the worst things in your life for your good and My glory.  That is what it means to work “all” things together for good to those who love Me and are called according to My purpose.