NOTE:  On mobile devices, the Morning Devotionals will follow the Evening Devotionals.  Please scroll down to view.

(Devotionals written by Pastor Tim Franklin and Ismael Otero.  New devotionals will be added weekly)

EVENING DEVOTIONALS:
Theme: Strong & Courageous

SEPTEMBER 5
Day One: 
Joshua 1:6,7,9,18
​
Ever face a giant? In Joshua chapter one, God says four  times to Joshua, His newly positioned warrior, "Be strong and courageous!" Anytime that God repeats Himself, it is worth taking note of. For more than forty years, Joshua followed Moses' lead. Now Moses was dead and the weight of a nation rested on Joshua. Moses was gone and the weight of the mission, "take the Promised Land," was Joshua's sole responsibility. 

He who carries the weight of responsibility needs to hear, repeatedly, "Be strong and courageous!" Let those words sink into your spirit. Whatever you are facing, whatever you will face, the need is the same: strength and courage!

The two Hebrew words that are used there are very similar. The first word means to be strengthened to make hard. God is saying to Joshua, "Make up your mind to do this!" "Strengthen your resolve!" "Harden your will to accomplish the mission." The second word means to "be stout, secure, feeling strong, make yourself alert." 

Often we find ourselves facing things in life that, in the moment, seem very threatening. The call of this fast is to hear the Word of God to Joshua and take it personally to our own hearts. God is giving us the invitation to join Him in possessing the things that He has promised. Yes, the land has giants but "Yes and Amen!" God has given us His promises!
SEPTEMBER 6
Day Two:
Joshua 1:7-9

Giant Slayers, who are strong and courageous, know two things:  One, the Word works for those who work the Word.  And two, when God is with you, you do not have to be afraid.

God’s command to Joshua was to meditate on the Word day and night.  If you do this, you will be prosperous and successful.  If you meditate on the Word, you will know what I, the Lord God, have promised you.  You will walk with confidence having this knowledge of me.  And you will not be afraid because you know I am with you, you know I am for you, and you know I am the Life giver…abundant life giver.

The Word is alive (Heb 4:12) and the Word is Spirit and Life (John 6:63).  If you are going to walk in life, experience life, and overcome death with life, you will have to have the Word at work in your heart.  God’s instruction was setting Joshua up for success in the promised land no matter who or what he would face there.  The question is:  Are you positioned for success in the instruction of the Lord?  What will you face your giants with?  I am telling you…the Word works for those who work the Word!  

I believe that one of the things God wants to do during our fast is to get His Word inside of us in greater measure.  He wants us to experience the amazing testimonies that are available to all who will work His Word.
September 7
Day Three:

“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.” (Hebrews 10:23, ESV)

Giant slayers have one thing to say: They say what God has already said without wavering. What has God said that you too can say? The Hebrew writer exhorts us to hold fast. What loaded words ‘hold fast’ are. They mean to hang on tightly, to consider nothing else. In a nautical situation, 'hold fast' means to steer towards or land at. Confession means to say the same thing to agree to the same thing.

The Hebrew writer is exhorting us to say the same things that God has already said. He is telling us to hang on tightly to what He has said, to consider no other opinion but God’s Word. He is commanding us to steer towards His Word and to land there.  

When I face giants, the success of the Lord in my life is based upon my ability, in faith, to say the same things that God has already said. For example, the Word says, “…By his wounds you have been healed.” (1 Peter 2:24, ESV) This is God talking! If God has said it, therefore, I can say it too! What has God said that I too, can say? “BY HIS STRIPES, I HAVE BEEN HEALED!”  

I am to hold fast, hang on tightly, steer towards and land on the truth. “By His stripes I have been healed!” I have to agree with God if I am to see God’s grace work in my life. This is the reason God stressed to Joshua that he meditate on the Word day and night. And if he did, he would be successful and prosper!
SEPTEMBER 8
Day Four:

Note to self: Fear is probably the sharpest and most used weapon in the devil's arsenal.

My father-in-law used to joke around with the boys saying, "I'm not scared of the dark! I am afraid of what's in it!" Isn't it true in life that the things that are unknown, unseen, and uncontrollable cause us the greatest anxiety? Satan uses fear to control. If I am in fear and Satan is in control, God is not leading me. This is the reason God says to Joshua three times, "Be strong and courageous!" God also gave Joshua the answer: Stay in the Word! If you stay in the Word, you will experience being led by God. How would you rate your ability to stay in the Word? What can you do to change it?

Jesus addressed the subject of fear and worry on three different occasions. In the sermon on the mount (Mt 6:25-34), He asked, "Why do you worry...? Later after quieting a storm (Mk 4:40), Jesus asked His panicked disciples, "Why were you afraid?" And once, while speaking about the end of the world, He told them, "Don't panic." (Mt 24:6)

Worry is fear, and it is a thief that steals from us. If I am being robbed, I am not prospering. But, if I continue in the Word, I am led by God and His ways are prosperous. God gives us His Word that we may know His ways and be led by them. That is the path of true understanding.
SEPTEMBER 9
Day Five:

"…Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's." (2 Chronicles 20:15, ESV)  There are times when life is just overwhelming! It appears that everything is going wrong, and everything is happening at once. Fear is knocking on your door.

Say it out LOUD! "FEAR HAS NO HOLD ON ME!” I am not afraid, and I am not dismayed. God has said, do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Therefore, I say what God has said! "I am not afraid, and I am not dismayed.” We know what it is to be afraid. But what does it mean to be dismayed? The Hebrew word means to be broken or shattered. Fear causes many people to 'fall apart' or be dismayed. God has given us His Word and His Spirit. Together, the two make us solid believers who do not fall apart easily, if at all. 

Jehoshaphat and the people of his nation were afraid. But they directed themselves toward God. They humbled themselves in fasting and prayer before God when they were afraid. The result was that God spoke to them. God gave them direction. And God made clear that it was not their battle to fight but His. God wants to fight our battles. He wants to fight for us. We must stay in the place of humility before Him. Trust Him when He speaks. And worship God for who He is!

Say it out LOUD! "FEAR HAS NO HOLD ON ME!” I am not afraid, and I am not dismayed.
SEPTEMBER 10
Day Six:

"He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was as good as dead (since he was about a hundred years old), or when he considered the barrenness of Sarah's womb." (Romans 4:19, ESV)

"He did not weaken!" Those words are so encouraging to hear! Abraham was a trailblazer for you and me. He rested in a place of strength through his faith, patience, and obedience to God. Oh God, give us the faith of Abraham! The fantastic thing that Abraham does when he considers (thinks about) his own body is that he does not let what he sees and knows to be true, nullify the Word of God. He believed in God's unseen Word more than in his own body.

It is so easy to trust in or listen to our five senses. But God is calling us to grow into the faith of Abraham. He wants us to be people who do not weaken in faith when we consider our bodies or the things around us. How does that happen? You have to trust God. Abraham trusted God and later entered into a covenant with God. He became known as a friend of God! And as a covenant partner with God, all things became possible to him! Purpose in your heart to become a friend of God. And know that you have a better covenant with Christ Jesus your Lord! In doing so, you will consider (think about) God's Word, and it will speak more loudly than your senses are speaking. “Word of God, Speak!”
SEPTEMBER 11
Day Seven

"No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God.” (Romans 4:20, ESV) 

Abraham is an example of true faith; he accepts God's promise without distrust or wavering. To waver means to bounce back and forth between two opinions and not land on either one. We call that doubt. It also means to hesitate. James 1:7-8 says that man who wavers is doubleminded, unstable, tossed about, and will not receive anything from the Lord. Jesus asks his disciples in Mt 14, "Why did you doubt?" Later in Mk 11:22-24 He states: "Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him.”  (Mark 11:23, ESV)

God desires us to hold fast to the promises and grow strong in faith. "He grew” describes a process Abraham was involved in. Abraham gave himself to God and God's Word. The result was he grew in faith. It is the only way we can grow in faith. We have to hear God's Word and give ourselves to understanding it. 

I believe the Word of the Lord is to hold fast to the Word of God. Like Joshua, consider it (think on it) day and night. Don't waver at the promise! Give God glory! And you, too, will prosper and be successful! Your giants are going to fall! Your mountain is going to move! You, my friends, are destined to overcome!
SEPTEMBER 12
Day Eight:

“But I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:32, ESV)

Such hope and encouragement filled my heart the first time I read this! Jesus had already prayed! Notice what Jesus prayed for Peter; he prayed that his faith would not fail. I believe that Jesus is still praying this way for us today.

Have you ever been in that place where you have “messed up?” You know that you have sinned. You failed Jesus. And you feel like you are counted out.  I am sure Peter felt that way when he heard the rooster crow and remembered Jesus’ words, “You will deny me three times before the rooster crows.” But Jesus had already prayed that Peter’s faith would not fail!

Peter was key to the team. Jesus knew that Peter was going to fail in following Him. And the typical response to failing Jesus is to quit, give up, or withdraw. Note: Jesus did not pray for Peter’s self-esteem. Jesus did not pray for Peter’s shame. He prayed for Peter’s faith! He prayed that Peter’s faith would not fail. Jesus has prayed and is praying that our faith will not fail. 

In the life of a believer, faith is so important. Jesus made it a priority of his prayer for Peter. In your worst failure, when you feel that you are letting Jesus down, know that He has prayed that your faith will not fail. Therefore, turn to Him again and strengthen your brothers!
SEPTEMBER 13
Day  Nine:

"But my servant Caleb, because he has a different spirit and has followed me fully, I will bring into the land into which he went, and his descendants shall possess it." (Numbers 14:24, ESV)

It pays to follow God! "And without faith, it is impossible to please Him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him." (Hebrews 11:6, ESV) Believing that God exists and rewards those who seek Him is true of both Joshua and Caleb.  What made them of a different spirit is they had faith. In the face of giants, fortified cities, and obstacles, Joshua and Caleb were convinced that God would do what He said they would do. Faith in God and following Jesus makes you of a different spirit! It makes you strong in the Lord and the power of His might. In faith, all things become possible for those who believe. In faith, you can move mountains! In fact, 1 John 5:4 says you can overcome the world through faith!

It pays to follow God. Notice God's two-fold response to the one with a different spirit following after Him. "I will bring Him into the land I have promised. And his descendants shall possess it." In light of this scripture, we should be strong and courageous. We should be a people of a different spirit. Use this fasting time for the purpose of becoming that person of faith who follows Jesus wholeheartedly!
SEPTEMBER 14
Day  Ten:

“So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17, ESV)

Some have said that faith comes through trials. It is not true! Faith comes from hearing God’s Word. Faith is tested in trials and tested faith produces endurance. But arriving in a place of faith requires that we know who God is and what He has said. F.F. Bosworth, a healing evangelist, said: “Faith begins where the will of God is known.” And, “It’s God’s Word that lets us know what to trust Him for.” He went on to say, “Power of God can be claimed only where the will of God is known.” 

Faith comes by hearing and hearing through the Word. Why did Paul repeat the word hearing? I believe he is telling us that we have to expose ourselves to the Word and literally hear it. When we hear the anointed written Word in our spirit, it produces faith. The Passion Bible says it best, “Faith, then, is birthed in a heart that responds to God’s anointed utterance of the Anointed One.” (Romans 10:17)

Remember what God said to Joshua in Joshua 1:8? God was telling Joshua what Paul was telling the Romans. Faith comes by hearing the Word of God. Therefore, position yourself constantly to be hearing the Word. God's Word is Spirit and it is Life! (John 6:63). Being strong and courageous requires us to grow in faith all the time. Faith lets us access the things that God has promised!
SEPTEMBER 15
Day Eleven:

"But charge Joshua, and encourage and strengthen him, for he shall go over at the head of this people, and he shall put them in possession of the land that you shall see.'" (Deuteronomy 3:28, ESV)

Never underestimate the power of encouragement!  In our passage, God is instructing Moses to encourage and strengthen Joshua. God is seeing what Joshua cannot see and He knows that Joshua will need extra courage and strength to lead when these things are visible.  
The word encourage means to make strong or to cause to make courageous. It is often used in the context of battle with the understanding of prevail! The word strengthen means to make firm, strengthen, and harden. God is telling Moses, you have the power of your words and position to cause Joshua to become strong in his resolve and prevail in the midst of adversity or overwhelming odds.

​I want you to think for a moment about who you might encourage and strengthen today. How do these people need encouragement? Never underestimate the power of your words and position in their life to cause others to become strong and overcome. The Greek word for encourage is best illustrated by a gardener who places a stake beside a young plant or tree. The plant is tied to the stake. When the wind blows, the plant draws strength from the stake. Who in your life can draw strength from you by being connected to you? Use your words today and cause someone to draw strength from you.
SEPTEMBER 16
Day Twelve:

"Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!" (Psalm 27:14, ESV)
The Hebrew word for 'wait' means to hope. It is looking with eager expectation. Sometimes we think of waiting as delayed activity or wasted time. In reality, to wait, implies being like a young child at Christmas waiting to open presents. There is lots of activity, but the 'expectations' are set on opening the gifts. Ps 27:14 tells us that we can find strength and courage in putting our hope in the Lord!

"Waiting with steadfast endurance is a great expression of faith. It means enduring patiently in confident hope that God will decisively act for the salvation of his people." (Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament) I would encourage you to read all of Psalm 27! It is so good! Read it several times before bed and throughout the week.

As you read Psalm 27, write down what stands out to you in the chapter. The things you highlight are meant for you to know. They are a treasure from God to you. God desires to take you deeper into those things that are standing out. We must learn not to 'rush over' something that stands out but to meditate on what God is 'shining the light on.'  It makes a huge difference when you understand that God is talking to you and He is encouraging and strengthening you!
SEPTEMBER 17
Day Thirteen: 

"... and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.”  (Esther 4:16, ESV)

Fasting is to be a part of the believer's spiritual arsenal. It is one of the leanest (no pun intended) weapons of our warfare in times of crisis. In the Old Testament, we often find the response of people in crisis or significant spiritual burden to be fasting. Esther is one of those examples. The whole nation of Jews was about to be annihilated. Esther's response was to call for a three-day fast, no eating or drinking. Afterward, she would go to the king to make him aware of Haman's evil plan. The issue at hand for her was that you could not just go into the king’s chamber. Doing so could mean death. Taking a stand for what is right can be scary.

Fasting is an act of intentionally humbling one's self before God to encounter Him, to get into His presence. Our fast is about experiencing Him in a place of weakness so that we might be made strong through His presence. When God backs you up, it is a good day! I trust you are encountering God on your fast. Amp up your worship today! When your praise goes up His presence comes down!
SEPTEMBER 18
Day Fourteen: 

You are about to finish the last day of your second week of fasting! Hang in there. You can do this. Or, as my grandson says, "You got This Pawpaw!"
"And Jesus said to them, "Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast." (Matthew 9:15, ESV) Jesus seems to be saying, "When I am gone, my disciples will fast because that will then be the place of greatest encounter with me." Fasting is an act of humility. It is a statement that you are more hungry for Jesus than your next meal. Fasting, in Mt. 9:15, is an intimacy-with-Jesus passage. It is one way of showing Him how much you love Him with your actions. I don't do it to earn His love. I do it because I love Him. I would rather spend time with Him in His presence than sit down for a meal.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, "When you fast..." He was implying that this was a common practice. But He also added, "And your Father who sees in secret will reward you." (Matthew 6:18, ESV) Now that is a good Father! He rewards those who diligently seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6.) Both Mt 9:15 and Mt 6:18 have 'relationship' with God at the epicenter of fasting.  

We are doing this fast because we want more of Him!
SEPTEMBER 19
Day Fifteen:

"Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong." (1 Corinthians 16:13, ESV) The Passion Translation also reads nicely, "Remember to stay alert and hold firmly to all that you believe. Be mighty and full of courage." (1 Corinthians 16:13, TPT) It sounds like God talking to Joshua, but it is Paul speaking to the Corinthians. 
As we start this last week of fasting, let our resolve to finish be solid. If you stopped, jump back in. Do not quit. Your breakthrough is right at hand. The desire and command to be strong and courageous are at the heart of our fast. Paul, as he exits from Corinth, exhorts the Corinthians like Moses exhorted Joshua:
•  Stay alert.
•  Hold firmly to all that you believe.
•  And be mighty and full of courage.

The charge from Paul is to be vigilant in watching. Don't allow yourself to drift away from the truth. Instead, hold firmly to the truth which you have received and believed. By holding firm, you will be mighty in Him and full of courage. In the face of the giants you encounter, you will overcome and win a testimony for the Lamb!  
We are upgrading our spiritual operating systems during this fast. The spiritual technology you have downloaded into your heart will be crucial when hell rages. But you will have the winning edge! "Remember to stay alert and hold firmly to all that you believe. Be mighty and full of courage." TPT
SEPTEMBER 20
Day Sixteen:

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits." (Proverbs 18:20–21, ESV) I also like how the Message Bible reads: "Words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit—you choose." (Proverbs 18:21, The Message)  
With His words, Jesus cursed a fig tree. The next day it was found dead from the roots up. With his words, Abraham called things that were not as though they were. Jesus called Lazarus, a dead man, out from his tomb by His words.  It is evident from the scripture that our words have power.  What are you speaking over yourself, life or death? What are you speaking over your family, life or death? What are you speaking over your health, life or death? Whatever is in your heart, your mouth will speak.
Jesus taught it this way, "The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks." (Luke 6:45, ESV) Faith has a voice, speaks to mountains, and commands them to move. You will speak death if your heart is filled with doubt and fear. You will speak life if your heart is filled with faith in God's Word.  What has God said that I can say?   Part of the purpose of this fast is to fill our hearts with His Word so we will be ready to speak to the mountain and see it move.  "Words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit—you choose."  Message Bible
SEPTEMBER 21
Day Seventeen:
"Beloved friend, I pray that you are prospering in every way and that you continually enjoy good health, just as your soul is prospering." (3 John 2, TPT) Soul prosperity is badly needed in the church today. With so many believers being influenced by secular and social media, fear has become the enemy of our souls, creating doubt and unbelief in hearts everywhere. This condition causes anxieties, sickness and depression. These things ought not to be in believers.
What does a prosperous soul look like? A prosperous soul is made visible by inner faith, hope and love. Returning to Joshua 1, we hear God telling Joshua, "meditate on the Word day and night. Then you will be successful." God was addressing the condition of Joshua's soul if he is to finish strong and successful.

Here is a thought to ponder: Negative reactions like fear, anger and jealousy are not healthy for the soul. They show us we need to grow in our souls. A poverty spirit in our soul will create a lack in our future. But a healthy, generous soul will create blessing and prosperity. An angry soul will create bitterness, division and pain in our future. But a healthy, loving and kind soul will build deep, joyful and fulfilling relationships.  

The Word of God teaches me His ways. And His ways lead to a satisfying life. My dear friends, "may you prosper and be in health even as your soul prospers!" Make a list of areas where your soul needs to prosper. Now, pray: Holy Spirit, help me.
SEPTEMBER 22
Day Eighteen:
The Way of the Kingdom is when you see a giant, RUN! Run to the giant not away from him! People of faith face their giants and win!

"When the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet the Philistine." (1 Samuel 17:48, ESV) David is not the only person in scripture to run to the giant.   Joshua, in Numbers chapter thirteen, declared to the fearful people, "The giants are our bread!” Caleb declared at age 80, "Give me my mountain!" One of David's mighty men jumped into a pit on a snowy day and killed a lion. Moses got into the face of the most powerful man in the Egyptian empire and said, "Let my people go!"  

These men were brave, strong and courageous. Not because they were born that way. They grew into it. While watching sheep on a hillside, David recited God's Word until he owned it. The Lord tested him with lions and bears. David passed the test and killed lions and bears. Who was this uncircumcised Philistine to defy God's people? When you know God personally and trust what He said He would do, you become courageous in battle. Like Jehoshaphat, you take God at His Word; "The Battle is mine tomorrow, not yours." Jesus endured the cross despising its shame and won our salvation.
The next time you face a giant, RUN! Run right at him with the Word of God! People of faith always face their giants and overcome!
SEPTEMBER 23
Day Nineteen:
"I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls. If I love you more, am I to be loved less?" (2 Corinthians 12:15, ESV) You have been going after God for nineteen days with all your heart. I trust you are hearing His voice, finding direction and most of all, are encouraged in your faith. Most of these things are personal, for yourself. But today, God wants to awaken you to an even greater purpose: For others!

When God spoke to Joshua in Joshua chapter one, He wanted Joshua to be strong and courageous not just for himself but for an entire nation that God entrusted to him. God wants you to be strong and courageous, too, because there are people looking to you right now for strength, direction and comfort. You, my friends, are being filled up to be poured out. You can hear it in the apostle Paul's voice and heart, "I will gladly spend and be spent for your souls!" He was willing to empty out his very life for the people God sent him to.  

Remember, you are that stake being driven down beside someone's life. God is tying them to you so they can draw strength from you. Joshua was the stake placed amid the tribes of Israel. He wanted a nation to draw strength and courage from a man who remained in God's presence after Moses left. Paul gladly poured out his life for others to hear the Gospel. Something is satisfying about pouring your life out for others. Who are the people who are drawing strength from you? Maybe you are sent to them???
SEPTEMBER 24
Day Twenty:

Two days left in our fast! Time to get some "Praise On!"

"Praise the Lord! Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens! Praise him for his mighty deeds; praise him according to his excellent greatness! Praise him with trumpet sound; praise him with lute and harp! Praise him with tambourine and dance; praise him with strings and pipe! Praise him with sounding cymbals; praise him with loud clashing cymbals! Let everything that has breath praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!" (Psalm 150:1–6, ESV)  

Praise silences the enemy!  (Psalm 8:2) Some translations say, Praise stills the enemy. That means he is no more, so there is silence!  Praise binds the enemy!  (Psalm 149:6-9) "The Lord will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before you.  They shall come out against you one way and flee before you seven ways." (Deuteronomy 28:7, ESV) Run devil, run for I am an anointed son of God! Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world! I don't fight flesh and blood and I don't fight fair, for God is for me, in me, and all about me. His Word is in my heart and upon my lips. I am the righteousness of God in Christ! He is my full armor!  

“And I got it, thank God! In the Messiah, in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade. Through us, he brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance.” (2 Corinthians 2:14, The Message)
SEPTEMBER 25
Day Twenty-one:
On this final day of our fast, let us come to God with a humble heart, bow before Him, and declare Him worthy of all praise. Let Jesus give you a big hug...receive His love. Thank Him for the strength He has given during this fast. Thank Him for the grace to fast. Thank Him for not counting you out when you ate. :) Love Him because He sure loves you! Take the words of this old chorus and let it be your heart to Him.
On Bended Knee I Come,
With A Humble Heart, I Come,
Bowing Down Before Your Holy Throne;
Lifting Holy Hands To You,
As I Pledge My Love Anew,
I Worship You In Spirit,
I Worship You In Truth,
Make My Life A Holy Praise Unto You.
On Bended Knee We Come,
With A Humble Heart, We Come,
Bowing Down Before Your Holy Throne;
Lifting Holy Hands To You,
As We Pledge Our Love Anew,
We Worship You In Spirit,
We Worship You In Truth,
​Make Our Lives A Holy Praise Unto You,
Make Our Lives A Holy Praise Unto You.

I want to say "Thank you!" for participating in this corporate fast. It has been an honor to prepare these daily devotionals for you. I trust they have strengthened you and positioned you in the Spirit to face any and all giants that may seek to intimidate you. Stay in His Word! And be strong and courageous! Someone is counting on you!

MORNING DEVOTIONALS:
Theme: One Another

SEPTEMBER  6
Day 1 Thought of the Day:
Consider this: you can become strong, pure, and holy in your heart as you deliberately pursue increasing in love for one another.

Scripture:
1 Thessalonians 3:12-13 — And may the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow and overflow, just as our love for you overflows. May he, as a result, make your hearts strong, blameless, and holy as you stand before God our Father when our Lord Jesus comes again with all his holy people. Amen.

Commentary:
As we journey through life, while there may be aspects of our knowledge of God and His Word that we acquire through osmosis (a gradual, often subconscious process of assimilation or absorption), it is likely that much, if not most, of what we learn is achieved through intentional means. Reading and studying the Bible, spending time with God in prayer and times of worship, attending church services to hear anointed preaching and teaching are some of the things we can choose to do to develop into a mature disciple of Jesus.

How amazing it is, however, that we can also develop the inner man of the heart by being intentional in our pursuit of loving one another, especially our brothers and sisters in Christ. Let’s ask the Lord to help us learn and grow in our ability to love one another. In time, we will begin to notice how our own hearts have become stronger, purer, and holier before God.

Declaration:
Lord, I declare you’re causing my own heart to become more like yours as I devote myself to loving like Jesus.
SEPTEMBER 7
Day 2 Thought of the Day:
I have all the power to reach my neighbor in his need, to whom God has sent me.

Scripture:
John 14:12 – “Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.”

Commentary:
If we’re to help one another, make a list of some of the things that the Holy Spirit was sent to do. What are those “greater things”? How has the Holy Spirit empowered you in your life? Are you taking advantage of the power and potential of the Holy Spirit you have received in your life? Seek God for more power and opportunities to use the Holy Spirit in your life and ministry.

Declaration:
I declare my community of faith bears one another’s burdens in the power of Holy Spirit.
SEPTEMBER 8
Day 3 Thought of the Day:
We’re called to exercise the power of forgiveness towards one another that’s bestowed to us as new creatures in Christ.

Scripture:
2 Corinthians 5:17 – “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.”

Commentary
Make a list of what has “become new” in your life? How has your nature changed? How is your mind (thoughts) different? How has your will changed? How has your disposition changed? How have your affections changed? Anyone you need to forgive? As you inventory the magnificent changes that have occurred in your life because of your new birth, praise God for each of them.

Declaration:
I declare I have a forgiving heart as a new creature in Christ.
SEPTEMBER 9
Day 4 Thought of the Day:
To put on the mind of Christ is to choose to think in accordance to His Word.

Scripture:
Matthew 3:8 – “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.”

Commentary:
Repentance is not just about confessing your sins; it is about “turning” 180 degrees from your old life to your new life in Christ. It’s the choice to think as Jesus thinks. Think of the ways that you have repented (turned) from your old life to your new life. Rejoice in what God has done in your life. The scripture indicates that the turn should cause us to bear fruit, in keeping with what God has done. What fruit are you bearing? Could you be more fruitful? Thank God for your fruitfulness and ask Him to make you even more fruitful. What fruit can you offer to one another? Kindness, love, a helping hand, encouragement, joy or a word of appreciation are all fruit from a good and honest heart.

Declaration:
I’m a fruitful branch bearing golden fruit for I’m firmly attached to Jesus, the vine.
SEPTEMBER 10
Day 5 Thought of the Day:
The need to discern right from wrong, true from false is as great a need as it has ever been.

Scripture:
1 Corinthians 2:14 – “But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”

Commentary
Thank God for the work that He has done in your mind, for you’re no longer foolish. Identify areas in which you have become spiritually wise. Consider areas in which you were once foolish and now you are able to spiritually discern the things of God.

Identify areas of spiritual insight that you would once have missed. Set your soul to engage with Holy Spirit in discerning the times and the issues of the day. We’re to discern the body in wisdom and share with one another these insights provoking one another unto good works.

Declaration:
I have all the wisdom of God to discern rightly and I’m able to build one another in our most holy faith.
SEPTEMBER 11
Day 6 Thought of the Day:  
Grace is the power/ability of God in me to do those things I can’t do in and of myself.  

Scripture
1 Peter 5:5b-6 Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble”.  Therefore, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.

Commentary
When you consider the extraordinary ways God worked through men such as Moses and Paul, you may think, I can’t measure up to people like them. I don’t have what they had. 

But you must realize these heroes of the faith were just common, ordinary people. It was their obedience, their complete yielding in humility to God, that gave them uncommon strength and faith. They humbly submitted their lives to God, which freed God to work through them. 

I don’t know about you, but their examples inspire me to re-evaluate my own obedience. Am I reluctant to listen to God because I think he is asking the impossible? Am I failing to make myself available to Him because I am doubtful or afraid? Your part is to simply obey, humble yourself and God will do His part to empower you with His grace. 

Declaration
Lord, I see now that You can do anything through me if I will simply yield myself to you. I’ll make myself more available to You today!
SEPTEMBER 12
Day 7 Thought of the Day:  
"God does nothing but in answer to prayer." John Wesley

Scripture: 
"Then He (Jesus) spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart." Luke 18:1

Commentary
If Wesley is right then every righteous act, every salvation, every revival is the result of prayer. Our Lord and Master tells us to pray and not lose heart. We’re to pray for one another as well.  You will see, as you read Luke 18:1-8 that Jesus promises that God will answer speedily. Then He challenges us: when I come again will I find faith on the earth? We answer with a resounding YES, LORD!  We will pray for one another and trust God to answer in all aspects of our lives.  This includes our families, our cities, and our nation. God has given us authority and dominion over this earth and we will implement His will through prayer. We will see righteousness overtake evil. We will see Revival and Awakening in our land.

Declaration
We will pray in faith.  Holy Spirit is moving on the hearts of the people of America to convict of sin, grant repentance and bring them to salvation. 
SEPTEMBER 13
Day 8 Thought of the Day:  
It is possible…

Scripture: 
Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you.  He will not leave you nor forsake you.   Deuteronomy 31:6

Commentary
We have received word from Father God how we are to be and that's "strong and courageous"!  It’s possible to be strong and courageous and not afraid as it is written.  Joshua was encouraged by God and we’re God’s representatives on the earth.  We are also to encourage one another to be strong and courageous, to think of the possibilities we have in God, for the soul is the soil of all possibilities.  As we share our strengths and courage with one another we build ourselves in our most holy faith and bring the possible into manifestation on the earth.  Fear says, “what if”, but faith says, “so what”.  Surely God is greater and His grace sufficient for every possible situation or challenge we might face in life.  Let’s grab hold of that dream God has placed in our hearts and run counting on Holy Spirit and on one another by our side.

Declaration
​(Say it to another person)  I am strong and courageous and so are you!
SEPTEMBER 14
Day 9 Thought of the Day:  
God has equipped us for this journey of life

Scripture: 
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].  2 Timothy 1:7 (Ampified translation)

Commentary
So many of us are faced with situations in life that threaten, challenge, or shake our status quo of comfort, routine, ease and familiarity.  Yet, God has already equipped us with tools to prepare, plan and expect these situations and have victory in each one of them.  So equipped we can not only experience the victory but also cheer one another into similar victories and experiences of the goodness of God.  We must think of love as a power to wield and overcome the spirit of this world and all it throws at us.  We are to develop discernment (sound mind) through relationship with Holy Spirit in prayer and meditation of His Word.  Finally, we’re to exercise self-control witnessing to one another of the power of God to change our lives into the image of the Master Himself, our beautiful Jesus.

Declaration
I decree, God has given me a spirit to be fearless, loving and discerning, therefore, I am.
SEPTEMBER 15
Day 10 Thought of the Day:  
Wait patiently, His touch is worth it

Scripture: 
Wait on the Lord; be of good courage and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord.  Psalms 27:14 

Commentary
So many circumstances in our lives demand our time and attention.  Someone described it as the “tyranny of the urgent”.  Yet, this passage reminds us of that which is necessary, essential, and critical, to wait on the Lord.  Oh, that we might value and thirst for His presence, His touch, and His attention such that waiting would be more precious than gold.  We can encourage one another in the pursuit of these times of waiting, of intimacy and of oneness.  That His love might enthrall us in the silence of seclusion or the secret of private conversations.  Would our hearts not overflow then in love for one another?  Would not strength, hope, and encouragement fill our hearts?  Our vision of His Kingdom will become clear in our spirit.  Peace will overflow our souls even amid the storm.  Creative ideas and answers will surge in absolute confidence of His faithfulness in all circumstances for our hearts were anchored in His presence.

Declaration
In the secret place I’ll wait till He’s satisfied
SEPTEMBER 16
Thought of the Day:  
Are You Fireproof?

Scripture: Daniel 3:17-18
If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."

Commentary
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego dwelt in a place with God that allowed them to declare, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter” (Daniel 3:16). They faced many challenges in exile, yet their hearts, minds, will and strength were fixed on the Most High God.  Their faith didn’t waiver.

In the challenges life brings, what is your gaze upon?  Is it on the One Who Burns with a Holy Fire and can bring you to a new level in Him?  We’re to exhort one another to a fiery faith and stand together amid the challenges.

We live in a better covenant than Daniel. What are you struggling with? What can you lay down? Or perhaps, what do you need to stand for? Ask Holy Spirit to highlight an area you may surrender to Him.  You’ll experience His salvation and He’ll rescue you from the hand of your enemy. Write down what He shares.  Surrender.  Then share with one another the mighty acts of God.
​
Declaration/Prayer
Father, we confess we have not kept our eyes on you. We humble ourselves before you and receive your forgiveness. We believe, show us your glory amid our trials.  Give us eyes to see that when things heat up you’re there with us. To you be all honor and glory. Amen
SEPTEMBER 17
Thought of the Day:  
"If you want to go quickly… go alone. If you want to go far… go together."

Scripture: Rom. 12:9-11 New Amplified 
Love is to be sincere and active [the real thing-without guile and hypocrisy]. Hate what is evil [detest all ungodliness, do not tolerate wickedness]; hold on tightly to what is good. Be devoted to one another with [authentic] brotherly affection [as members of one family], give preference to one another in honor; never lagging behind in diligence; aglow in the Spirit, enthusiastically serving the Lord;

Commentary
Greek translation of honor: Your honor and your reputation would outlive your earthly existence.

Hebrew word for honor: Kavod, which means Glory of The Lord

One of the richest word pictures for diligence is found in the Hebrew word charuwts. It signifies a trench that is dug or gold that is mined.

The California Gold Rush of 1849 provides a powerful illustration of diligence. Men living on the East Coast of California dropped everything and rushed out to the West Coast to dig for gold.

Brothers and sisters, what a beautiful display of God's Glory here on earth when we come alongside one another, giving preference and honor.  What a powerful force to corporately pursue Jesus during this time of prayer and fasting.  Continue digging the trenches with prayer and fasting.  As more come alongside you'll be able to look back and see how God moved on your behalf because you never gave up and you pursued Him with everything you had!

Then [with a deep longing] you will seek Me and require Me [as a vital necessity] and [you will] find Me when you search for Me with all your heart…Deut. 4:29 New Amp.

Declaration
With honor and diligence we will pursue You, standing with one another!
SEPTEMBER 18
Day 13 Thought of the Day:  
 Today, let us reflect on how we can love one another the way Christ has loved us.

Scripture: John 13:34-35 KJV
A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

Commentary
As Jesus loves us, we are to love one another. What sticks out to me is “as” He loved us. Day unto day as we awaken, we perceive the love of Jesus directing us and giving us daily provision. He loves us, not only with a love that comforts us but that empowers us as well to fulfill our destiny in Him. Let’s consider today how to love one another in that manner.  A love seasoned with grace (power) and counsel for the road ahead. This is the type of love that sticks out, it’s noticeable to those seeking the way. It takes a little more to love in this manner. While the world has its view of love, the love of Christ is honorable, selfless, and unconditional. Let us therefore thank Him by seizing the opportunities He gives us to love one another “as” He loved us.

Declaration
We will look for every occasion to love one another as you have loved us. By this the world will know we are your disciples.
SEPTEMBER 19
Day 14:  Thought of the Day:  
Peace is a power that stills a storm.

Scripture: 
Mark 9:50b NASB
Have salt in yourselves and be at peace with one another.

Commentary
Jesus is addressing how we are to be salt of the earth in order to have impact and further the Kingdom’s advance.  Isn’t it amazing that he drops this phrase – “be at peace with one another” – as a necessary addendum?  If we’re to be true influencers in this world we must strengthen the bond of peace by preserving our unity with one another (Eph. 4:3).  Peace is a power not just a state of being.  If it’s a bond, then it provides strength like a link in a chain.  Jesus Christ is our “Prince of Peace” and He’s mighty in us, just as He was when He faced the storm while in a rocking boat.  He said “Peace, be still”.  These aren’t just words; they are powerful to change our internal turmoil and the circumstances as well.  If you find yourself in rocky times then know you’re part of a chain of faith filled, peace carrying, and word speaking people combatting turmoil with peace.  Won’t others around you stand in amazement at your power to face the day in perfect peace? For HE IS your Prince of Peace.


Declaration
We’ll speak to the storm, standing with one another, and overcome with peace.
SEPTEMBER 20
Day 15: Thought:
No man is an island. 

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:27 --
All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it. (NLT)

Commentary:
Compared to many parts of the world, Americans rank personal privacy as something of great value. We live behind our privacy fences, each family member has their own bedroom, and we often don’t know our neighbors. We pride ourselves on our independence and self-sufficiency. None of the aforementioned things are evil. Yet, as born-again children of God, something we must value more than our privacy is the fact that we are part of a large, eternal family, referred to in scripture as the body of Christ. And as such, the fact is we NEED one another. We need each other’s strength.  We need each other’s wisdom. We need each other’s prayers. At any given moment, we may need to choose to need what other’s have that we do not. What is required of us to allow ourselves to need one another? Humility. Vulnerability. Instead of cringing when we read/hear these words, let’s embrace them. They are keys to living a beautifully inter-connected life as we journey together—a joyfully inter-dependent people, desirous of exemplifying Christ’s love to the world. 

Declaration:
I set aside my self-sufficiency and independence and rejoice that God made me to need others.
SEPTEMBER 21
Day 16. Thought of the Day 
Love is a mighty power. 

Scripture: 
Gal. 5:13 NASB - For you were called to freedom, brethren; only don’t turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. 

Commentary: 
We have a call, brethren, a call to love which engenders service. Why? Because power can’t be just contained, it must be expressed. Scientists say that when there’s difference in potentials (power) in the sky then lightning is produced. Love will be expressed where it’s needed. It’s not only a motivator but a strength that is expressed through service to one another. God is love and He’s the most powerful being and none can compare to Him. Jesus said that He didn’t come to be served but to serve. In other words, He came to express the power of God, to express God. “For God so loved the world that He gave (sent) His only begotten Son…” When you love you’ll give your all. You’ll clean as many diapers as necessary, work the hours needed to provide for your family, cook as many meals as needed, help your sister move even when it’s exhausting, go to the ends of the earth as a missionary to preach the gospel, or even pastor a stiff necked people, because you love. Jesus gave us the perfect example of service even unto death. Let us serve one another out of the same power that resides in Jesus, now residing in us, love. 

​Declaration: 
We’ll serve one another with the power of love.
SEPTEMBER 22
Day 17 Thought: 
T. E. A. M. = Together Everyone Accomplishes Much

Scripture: 
Genesis 11:6 (NLT) - “Look!” he said. “The people are united, and they all speak the same language. After this, nothing they set out to do will be impossible for them!

Commentary: 
If you’ve ever played competitive team sports, you’ve likely experienced the dynamics of like-mindedness. Some examples are shared mindsets of commitment to the end goal (winning), giving 100%, and having each other’s back, as well as the heartfelt sense of personal connection to teammates. Combined, these are powerful forces that can make the difference between winning or losing. As members of Christ’s body, we are called to live in harmony with one another (Ro. 12:16 NLT). This harmony actually speaks of being of the same mind, that is, being like-minded. And just like the sports teams, when we as individuals come together with the same mind and heart - the same end goal - we become a mighty force in the earth for the Lord. Even as God acknowledged in the above focal Scripture, we are essentially unstoppable! Selah. Imagine the glorious feats we can accomplish together as we live in harmony with one another. 

Declaration: 
I am a vital part of God’s team here on earth. Together, my teammates and I accomplish much for the Kingdom.
SEPTEMBER 23
Day 18 Thought:
The words we speak to one another have significance and impact. 

Scripture:
Matthew 18:18-19 (MSG) - "Take this most seriously: A yes on earth is yes in heaven; a no on earth is no in heaven. What you say to one another is eternal. I mean this. (19) When two of you get together on anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, my Father in heaven goes into action.

Commentary:
As we engage in the myriad of life’s circumstances, we frequently find ourselves in seasons of challenge or trial. They can be as simple as meeting an important deadline at work or as critical as receiving a devastating report from the doctor. As disciples of Christ, we are invited and and even expected to bring these situations before Him as we seek His leadership. It’s not unusual, especially in the extremely difficult times, for the Lord to exhort us to call upon the brethren to link hearts and prayers in faith as we search out what God has already said in His Word that we too can say. It’s not simply a dutiful exercise of camaraderie or even of love, though both are good. More so, God is granting us the great responsibility and privilege of uniting our faith in who He is and what He has said so we can participate in and manifest His Kingdom on earth. Our faith-filled prayers (words!) and declarations (words!) spoken with, to, and for one another exert a multiplied force to bring about changes that glorify God and change circumstances. 

Declaration:
I choose my words carefully so that I only speak in love those things that are true, that bring life to others, and that build up. My words are useful and powerful. 
​
SEPTEMBER 24
Day 19 Thought:
A good and honest heart will always triumph over evil

Scripture:
1 Thessalonians 5:15 NASB
See that no one repays with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people.

Commentary:
The ways of God, of the Kingdom, are way above those of the world.  Hence, to conquer evil. good must be truly good.  (It sounds like a “Lord of the Rings” quote.)  Only a good and honest heart will drive us to “seek after good for one another”.  Oh, how the people, who suffer injustice in this world, desire to see such kindness, such goodness, such a heart, extending a helping hand to them.  I’m reminded of my missionary friends, who reached out to neighboring communities in Zambia by providing them with seed (food producing) in the time of drought.  The seed was a loan, to be repaid at cost and no interest, until such a time as they could repay.  It brought hope to many in a time of need.  It brought a vision of goodness; it brought life when death (evil) was knocking at the door.  The impact of the gospel was deep and wide in days ahead through this one single act.  Where the gospel (good) makes inroads, evil is scattered, a culture is transformed and hearts are forever changed. 

Declaration:
We’ll seek to do good to one another and manifest the heart of God.
SEPTEMBER 25
Day 20 Thought:
We’re the body of Christ on the earth.  Am I conscious of this reality?

Scripture:
1 Thessalonians 5:11 NASB
Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing.

Commentary:
Paul is encouraging us to build up one another.  Aren’t we doing that already?  Yes, he acknowledges that in this passage, yet he is emphasizing that we can and should do more.  The body of Christ (the ecclesia) on the earth is that important to Jesus Christ Himself.  Even in the passage where He showed Himself to Saul (later named Paul), at the time of Saul’s trip to Damascus, Jesus so identified with the Church that He said “why are you persecuting Me?”.  Wow!  Do we look upon each other as verily looking at Jesus Himself?  Are we spending time and energy to encourage one another in the faith?  Since this is priority to Jesus it must be so in our lives.  Every part of His body has a function, a gifting, a calling, a body with which to serve one another.  If the Holy Spirit is in you, if you’re born again, then you have treasure in you to share with one another.  Commit to share the riches of His love, kindness, goodness, and His beauty, with one another. 

Declaration:
I will express my anointing in its fullness, building the body of Christ and pleasing the lover of my soul.
SEPTEMBER 26
Day 21 Thought: 
What was the first miracle of Jesus?...  A miracle of humility.

Scripture: 
1 Peter 5:5b NASB
And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble

Commentary: 
Let’s ponder this: God is humble.  What?  Bible scholars may rightly say the first miracle of Jesus was at the wedding at Canaan, turning water into wine.  I submit to you another thought, the incarnation, a miracle of humility.  Unorthodox? Yes.  Impacting?  Definitely.  Even as Jesus showed us, from His very first moment on the earth, that humility was absolutely necessary to fulfill the plan of God, we must be humble to fulfill His plan for us.  Peter says to “clothe” (to gird oneself, to put on oneself as in a garment) ourselves “with humility toward one another”.  Humility really means to “make low our minds”.  I like to thing of it as the ability to think of myself as lower than others (to receive from others, to be taught by others, to hear them before I speak.  Surely, it’s a Kingdom way, for the world would never think that way.  Furthermore, I desire to walk in His grace and a sure way is to walk in humility before one another and before God.  Just think of how many family reunions or gatherings with friends would be so much more enjoyable if all were clothed in humility.  How much more we could learn and grow if clothed with humility toward one another?  I see the culture of heaven in this vision of a church clothed with garments of humility

Declaration: 
I will embrace humility, put on humility, in my every interaction with others.
THE PDF VERSIONS FOR WEEK 3
​WILL BE ACTIVE AT A LATER DATE: