Reading The Holy Bible

I encourage every member within the body of Christ to read The Holy Bible also known as The Word of God on a daily basis. Without regularly reading it, people revert back to their old or former selves. It becomes evident in the way people think, talk, and act in life.

God's word is meant to help people to actually live the Christian life; learn and grow in a personal relationship; walk by faith and not by sight; learn and grow in new identity; learn and know specific purpose; gain knowledge about the Kingdom; receive personal revelation; and so much more.

There are a variety of options in the goal to reading the Bible whether through personal devotionals, a Bible reading plan, Bible studies, and/or a combination of the different options. Every person needs to intentionally read God's word for your mind, your health, your life. Choose to learn and grow spiritually and otherwise. As a result, you will reap the benefits and be the best person that God has created, called, chosen you to be for His purpose and plan.

(See Joshua 1:8; Isaiah 53; Jeremiah 29:11-13; Psalm 103:1-5; Matthew 4:4; John 19; Acts 1:8, 17:24-28; Romans 12:1-2; 3 John 2)

Copyright 2022 by Dawn Freeman. All Rights Reserved.

The Narrow Way

When we originally receive the free gift of salvation, we begin the journey of faith.  It also begins us on the narrow way.  (See John 3:16-17; Romans 3:23, 6:23, 10:8-10)

"Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it." (Matthew 7:13-14, NKJV)

As a believer and follower of Jesus, I have been learning more about the narrow way in my own walk with Him.  

The longer we are on our faith journeys, the more narrow becomes the path.

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."  (Romans 12:2, NKJV)

"But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord."  (2 Corinthians 3:18, NKJV)

We become more holy in our behavior.  We become more obedient to our Father.  (See 1 Peter 1:13-16)

Ultimately, we become more like Him in every way.  As He is, so are we in this world.  (See 1 John 4:17)

Jesus is the way, the truth, the life.  (See John 14:6)

Copyright 2020 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

Eternal Salvation

Actress Naya Rivera who portrayed a high school character in the television program, Glee, recently drowned in Lake Piru physically located in Southern California.  According to an investigation report, she and her very young son had been swimming in the lake earlier in the afternoon.  They swam back to the pontoon boat rental, when they were done for the day.  Naya helped her son get back onto the deck of the boat.  Then, she disappeared under the water.  Her adult-size life vest was later found on the boat.

The life vest had been available to her all day.  However, she chose to go without it.  Perhaps, she thought it was unnecessary and cumbersome.  Maybe, she was an excellent swimmer.  Therefore, she didn't think of the possibility of getting too physically tired to make it into the boat later.  After all, she had probably been relying on her own self and ability in the lake.  And, she had done just fine earlier.

God has made eternal salvation available to every person in this world.  Yet, numerous people choose to go without it every day of their lives.  Maybe, they too think it is unnecessary like Naya thought of the life vest.  Perhaps, they think they are doing fine in life on their own.  They do not realize they are going to get tired of doing everything for themselves in their own limited strength.  They will come to a point in life where they know they need an eternal Savior.

I am sure that was the case with Naya when she did not have the energy or strength to pull herself up into the boat after helping her young son get into the boat.  There are always days and times when we in our own limited strength do not have the energy and strength to pull ourselves up by the boot straps so to speak whether into a boat, out of a pit, out of a fiery furnace, or out of the wilderness (Read Genesis 37:18-24; Exodus 13:14, 16-18; Daniel 3; Matthew 4:1-11).  We all come to a point in our lives where we know we need Almighty, all-powerful God to eternally save us from the enemy of our souls. 

It is too bad that Naya did not know and understand that specific principle before reaching the point of no return.  Unfortunately, we do not know whether she reached out to Jesus before drowning in the lake.  She may have made that decision at the last minute like the thief on the cross who Jesus accepted into Paradise with Him.  That choice was between her and Him then. 

Will you make the same decision though?  Will you wait too long --- until the very last minute of your life?  Or, will you choose to put your faith and trust in Jesus now? 

(Read Isaiah 53; John 3:16-17; John 19; Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23, Romans 10:8-10)

Copyright 2020 by Dawn Freeman. All Rights Reserved.

Faith vs. Fear

We have been in the midst of a health-related crisis which has affected thousands of people, many relationships, numerous lives, hundreds of businesses, and the economy in this country.  We have been in isolation, doing social distancing, and basically in quarantine for over a month now.  Many people wear masks when going out to run personal errands and going to medical appointments.

We as God's children don't have to fear catching the global virus, because of Jesus' sacrifice and atonement on the cross.  He was punished for all sin once and for all time (See Isaiah 53:4-5).  We are protected from all sickness, disease, illness by the blood of the Lamb.  Therefore, we already have divine health in this life. 

 

The world wants people to be afraid, because they live in the physical and the natural.  That includes the five senses of seeing, hearing, tasting, touching, and feeling.  There is nothing and no one chasing after any person in this world, but there are people who are afraid and run for cover like they are fearful of getting the virus.  

"Fear of man will prove to be a snare..."  (Proverbs 29:25a, NIV)



"The wicked flee when no one pursues... " (Proverbs 28:1a, NKJV)

God wants us to put our complete faith in Him.  The kingdom of God is supernatural.  We walk by faith and not by sight (See 2 Corinthians 5:7).  We live by the Spirit of God within us.  We are in this world but not of this world (See Romans 12:2).  

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."  (2 Timothy 1:7, NKJV)

God tell us hundreds of times in His word, "Do not fear... Do not be afraid..."  (See Deuteronomy 31:6, 8)  We can believe Him and trust Him.  He is trustworthy and faithful.

"...but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe."  (Proverbs 29:25b, NIV)

"...But the righteous are bold as a lion." (Proverbs 28:1b, NKJV)

However, we use wisdom and walk in love towards other people which includes those who are weak in faith (See Romans 14; James 1:5).  Therefore, we wear masks when we are out and about in order to love ourselves and others in the world (See Matthew 22:37-40; Luke 6:31).  We keep our distance from others.  We isolate ourselves from other people.

But, ultimately we believe and know that God is our protector (See Psalm 91).

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe." (Proverbs 18:10, NKJV)

Copyright 2020 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

Believing God

What do you believe God for which will come to pass in your life?  I believe Him for His purpose and plan to be accomplished in my life personally and professionally (See Jeremiah 29:11-13).

Unfortunately, I am still waiting on the physical manifestations in this natural world.  I am doing what I know to do for now.  Over the course of this time, I have been taking little steps here and there in different areas of my life.  As joint heirs with God and co-heirs with Jesus, I am reminded that we have to do our part (See Romans 8:17).  His good, perfect, pleasing will does not happen automatically (See Romans 12:2).  It certainly does not happen overnight.  I can definitely testify to it now.

It has been more than three years, since I ventured out of my home state on this part of my faith journey.  It was definitely a huge leap of faith on my part.  I had never lived in another state by myself away from my immediate family before.  Way back in the latter part of 2009, I believed God for the physical manifestations of His perfect will.  I had been seeking Him for some time (See Matthew 6:33).  He had put it on my mind and heart to relocate to North Carolina from Tennessee.  I knew that part of His purpose and plan was located in the state of North Carolina.  In order to fulfill it, I went in search of my Promise Land.

My Father had spoken to me about it beforehand.  He told me that “everything would be provided” for me.  I did not expect to have so many obstacles or problems along the way to my Promise Land.  Looking back now, I should have expected it though.  Anytime that we really want to do our Father’s will, the devil will try to hinder or prevent us from doing it.  However, my Father has been faithful.  He has showed up and showed out many times for me.  I have experienced much more of His provision and blessing during these times.  My eyes have been more opened to Him and His work in my life.  I have learned to depend on Him even more during this part of my journey.

It has not turned out exactly the way I had expected or hoped at that time.  Nevertheless, I am still here in North Carolina.  I still believe my Father is taking me closer every day to my Promise Land.  It is just taking longer than I thought it would take initially.  I know even more now that His timing is not always our timing.  What is it?  God’s one day is like a thousand days?  Whatever the rule of time, I am still standing on His word and believing for His promises to come to pass in my life.  In the meantime, He is molding me and making me more into the person that He created me to be for Him, His purpose, and His plan for me (See Jeremiah 29:11-13).

Before this part of my faith journey, I believed that I was a strong person.  Now, I am even stronger.  Knowing what I know now, I cannot say that I would do it all again the same way.  However, I know that I am a better person for having gone through the testing period with all of its trials (See James 1:2-4).


Copyright 2020 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

Jesus Paid It All!

I recently spoke with a man about him having to pay out-of-pocket his parole officer in order to remain out of prison for the next 5 months. I personally thought that idea was ridiculous. I asked the Christian man whether he realized that Jesus paid it all on the cross for him. He seemed to think that his parole officer wouldn't care about it though. However, I sang a few words of the song, "Jesus paid it all...All to Him, I owe..." before leaving and telling him "Good night!"

That man does not owe a parole officer money. Unfortunately, he wasn't receptive to the truth of God's word at that moment though. He owes everything to Jesus! Now, I am praying for him and others who find themselves in similar situations to get a true revelation of what Jesus actually did on the cross for them. We don't owe people anything but the love of Jesus. However, we owe Jesus everything---our minds, our hearts, our whole beings, our very lives.

You know...Everyone has the opportunity to tell people about Jesus. Every situation that people temporarily experience in life is to not only share our stories with others but to share His story with others.

Don't miss the opportunity to tell and share with others. It may also be exactly the way God delivers you from some or possibly all of the situations in your life. I cannot help but think that is what God wants to accomplish in this particular man, his specific situation, and his life.

Those type of natural circumstances are not only to draw closer to God but to also learn and grow more spiritually. He uses those temporary circumstances to develop more of His character in us, more of our faith, more patience, more endurance, etc. It is all for our good, His purpose, and His glory.

(See Genesis 50:20; Isaiah 53; Romans 8:28, 13:8; James 1:2-4)

Copyright 2017 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

God's Girl

"That's God's girl!" said a young man as I came up towards a door on crutches. I turned around and looked at him. I didn't recognize him. I didn't even know his name. Evidently, he had seen me around in the local community though. He asked about my injury. He apparently had heard through the grapevine about it. I mentioned that I was in some pain. Then, he offered to give me some medication to which I declined since I didn't personally know him. Plus, I already had some over-the-counter medication that I was using temporarily. I thanked him. He opened the door for me, and I went on my way into the lobby of a local community agency.

I was really surprised by this recent, brief encounter with a stranger near downtown in my local city. As I have had a little time to reflect back though, it occurred to me. There are people who are always watching us. They watch the way we talk to others. They watch the way we act towards others. They watch the way we interact with others. They watch us the way we live out in our local community. They watch the way we live out in this world.

Does your speech say that you are a child of God? Do your interactions with others show that you are a daughter of the King? Does your life reflect the very life of Jesus Christ?

"For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing." (2 Corinthians 2:15, NKJV)

"I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me." (Galatians 2:20, NKJV)


Copyright 2017 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

Father, Forgive Them

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”  (Luke 23:34, NIV)

These words that Jesus spoke to His Father have become more my own over recent months.  I know more about what the Son of God was thinking and praying for His enemies---those who had done Him wrong towards the end of His 33-year life on this earth.  (See Luke 6:27-28)

It saddens me now to think about it.  To not only think about the way people have mistreated me, abused me, hurt me, rejected me, and disappointed me but to also remember the way people mocked Jesus, persecuted Him, tortured Him, and crucified Him over 2000 years ago.  I definitely can identify more with Him, His pain, His sorrow, and His sufferings in this world.  (See Isaiah 53; John 15:18-25, 19)

"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."  (Galatians 2:20, NIV - emphasis added mine)

I am not always comfortable with the physical locations He allows me to enter into in this world.  And, I don't always like receiving the harsh treatment, persecution, or whatever else.  I am doing what my Father would have me to do in this world though.  I am shining His light ever more sooo brightly.  I am speaking the truth in love.  I am preaching in and out of season.  And, whatever else He desires of me.  (See Matthew 5:13-16; Ephesians 4:15; 2 Timothy 4:2)

Consequently, I can expect opposition.  [I will use an analogy in my own words that a pastor of mine used during one of his sermons a couple of years ago.]  When a fish is going downstream with the current and the other fish, there isn't anything really getting in its' way.  Sure, there may be some debris floating by in the water.  There may be some leaves and branches from the trees that have fallen into the river.  There may even be some dead fish floating in the water as you pass them by downstream.  However, there truly isn't any real opposition because they are going the same way as everything else.  When you repent and turn away from the world's systems---their mindsets, their ways, their processes, their behaviors---you will be totally going the opposite way.  You will be going against the current of the river or the world in this case.  You will experience a lot more resistance.  A lot more opposition.  You will be going upstream now.  You will be going God's way.  Doing His work and His will.  There will be debris passing you by going the opposite way.  There may be some leaves and branches from the trees overlooking the river.  You may also see some of the dead fish floating downstream as you are going upstream.  However, there will be a lot more fish coming up against you as well.  They may try to bite you.  They may attempt to drown you.  There may even be other obstacles in your way.  You keep moving forward though.  You keep persevering against the current of the river.  Knowing that on the other side---the end of that part of the journey---there will be a beautiful place for you.

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."  (Hebrews 12:1-3, NIV - emphasis added mine)

Before Jesus left this world, He specifically told us we would have problems and trouble in this world.  However, He also left all of us with this reminder.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”  (John 16:33, NIV)

Copyright 2017 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

Que Sera Sera

"...Que Sera, Sera,
Whatever will be, will be
The future's not ours, to see
Que Sera, Sera
What will be, will be..."

Source: YouTube

There are many people in this world even within the body of Christ today that actually believe those particular lyrics from the old song, Que Sera Sera, which was originally sang by Doris Day in 1956.

What if I told you that those specific song lyrics and those kinds of attitudes and outlooks are not biblical nor scriptural?

Those type of perspectives are partly to blame for the passivity and defeated mindsets of people including some unknowledgeable and unpowerful Christians. As a result, they do not live the abundant life that Jesus Christ died to give them here and now in this world.

Not only can we know God's will for us as His children, but we can also actively participate in His purpose, plan, and will for us. We can take captive those thoughts which are disobedient to the knowledge of Jesus Christ. We can intentionally fight the good fight of faith. And, we can proactively win battles along the way in our individual races.

(See Jeremiah 29:11-13; John 10:10; Ephesians 6:10-18; Hebrews 12:1-2; 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:7)

Copyright 2017 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

Getting Wisdom

Solomon was considered to be the wisest person in the world.  He was the son of King David who began his ministry as a little shepherd boy out in the fields before being promoted by Almighty and All-powerful God (See 1 Samuel 16 and 17).

David's son, Solomon, later became King of Israel.  Solomon also wrote books in the Bible including the book of Proverbs.  He wrote much about getting wisdom, knowledge, and understanding throughout this particular book in the Bible.  He actually began this specific book by introducing himself.  Then, he goes into a breakdown of the beginning of knowledge.  

Solomon encourages people to know wisdom and instruction as well as perceiving words of understanding.  He says, "A wise man will hear and increase learning, And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel...(Proverbs 1:5, NKJV)."  This specific wise man later tells us that "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, But fools despise wisdom and instruction (Proverbs 1:7, NKJV)."

There are some people within the body of Jesus Christ nowadays that do not know and understand the biblical principle of getting knowledge.  Every person must first get knowledge before they get understanding and wisdom.  However, it is not necessarily just any kind of knowledge.  We all must obtain the right kind of knowledge.  More specifically, we all need biblical knowledge.

When we all first get biblical knowledge, then we will all have much more understanding and wisdom in life.  The only kind of true understanding and wisdom that we need is the kind which comes from our heavenly Father.

"For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding;
He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly;
He guards the paths of justice, And preserves the way of His saints (Proverbs 2:6-8, NKJV)."

How do we all go about obtaining wisdom?  What's the best way to get all of that kind of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding?

In the book of James, the writer who is the half brother of Jesus Himself shares his thoughts on getting wisdom.  "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him (James 1:5, NKJV)."

James later continues, " But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.  For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways (James 1:6-8, NKJV)."

Therefore, we all need to ask in faith for wisdom from God.  We also cannot doubt that He has heard and answered our request.  Otherwise, we will not receive what we have asked for from Him.

Solomon speaks about the beginning of wisdom.  He says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For by me your days will be multiplied, And years of life will be added to you (Proverbs 9:10-11, NKJV)."

Unfortunately, there is not much reverential fear of the Lord God these days in this world.  Part of that lack of fear is rooted in the lack of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding though.  When a person does not really know someone, they cannot truly revere that particular person.

As King Solomon states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom...(Proverbs 9:10, NKJV)."  However, before people actually revere Almighty God, they must first seek Him.  How do people seek Him?  For one, they seek Him by spending time with Him.  One way to do that is by reading and studying His word---namely the Bible.  Only then will people obtain that specific wisdom which comes from Him.  Then, they will develop the reverential fear of the Lord.


Copyright 2016 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

Faith Comes by Hearing...

"So then faith comes by hearing..."  (Romans 10:17a, NKJV)  

Did you catch that?  Faith comes by hearing...  What are you hearing?  What are you listening to...?  Who are you listening to...?  

Our faith comes by hearing it.  Of course, it greatly depends on the object or the person that we are hearing and listening to at any given moment of any given day.  

Are you listening to the television news anchor reporting all of the bad events of the day?  Are you hearing all of the bad weather reports on the radio?  Are you listening to patients in the hospital speaking about all their illnesses, diseases, sicknesses, ailments, and infirmities?  

What are you hearing?  What are you listening to...?  

The rest of that particular scripture references says, "...hearing by the word of God."  (Romans 10:17b, NKJV)  

Are you hearing the word of God?  Are you listening to the word of God?  Better yet, are you listening to God?  Are you hearing God?  

Our true faith comes by hearing God---His still, small voice speaking to us---by hearing what He thinks and says---by hearing His word.  

Copyright 2015 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.  

By His Stripes'....

"But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed."  (Isaiah 53:5, NKJV – bold emphasis added mine)

Jesus was wounded for all of our sins.  He was bruised for all of our transgressions.  Everything was laid upon Him for us.  By His stripes’ we are healed!

God knew ahead of time exactly what He was doing for us.  He made all of the provision for us.  Nothing was left out. 

Yet, there are many believers within the body of Jesus Christ who are taking everything on themselves.  Perhaps, it is lack of knowledge (See Hosea 4:6).  Maybe, they feel guilty.  There may be those who actually believe they need to take some of the blame. 

Whatever the reasons, we need to let them all go into the sea of forgetfulness where God has left them (See Psalm 103:12).  We also need to believe and receive everything that Jesus died to give us (See Mark 11:22-24; John 10:10b).  First, we must know what all that entails in this life though.

When Jesus was crucified on that cross for us over 2000 years ago, He died for more than just our own personal sins---past, present, and future.  He took everything on Himself including death, disease, illness, sickness, ailments, infirmities, and whatever else (See Isaiah 53; Psalm 103:1-5; 1 Peter 2:24).  He bore all the pain and suffering for us.  He became the curse for us.  He destroyed the works of the devil for us.  He put the devil under His feet. 

Because of what He has already done for us, we do not have to receive any of what the world and/or the devil tries to throw our way.  Everything has been taken care of for us.  We are redeemed from the curse.  The devil is under our feet.  We already have the victory!  We just walk in it by faith in Jesus (See 2 Corinthians 5:7).

For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:  “Who committed no sin, Nor was deceit found in His mouth”; who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously; who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.  (1 Peter 2:21-24, NKJV - bold emphasis added mine)

Jesus said, "It is finished." (See John 19:30, NIV)  He really meant it.  Will you choose to truly believe it?  Will you receive everything Jesus died to give you including His divine healing and health for you?

Copyright 2015.  Dawn Freeman.  All rights reserved.

"Where is Your Faith?"

Jesus asked His disciples, "Where is your faith?"  They had all been traveling in a boat together when a huge storm came up.  Jesus had been sleeping in the boat after a day of ministry.  His disciples woke Him up because they were afraid of the storm.  After Jesus calmed the storm, He asked them this very relevant question.  (See Luke 8:22-25)

I have found myself in situations where I should have asked other people, "Where is your faith?"

I didn't think of that question at the time.  However, looking back now, that was the right question to ask other believers.

Awhile back, I was having a phone conversation with a friend who I hadn't talked to in a couple of months.  I shared with her some personal good news as well as some of my prayer concerns or requests.  As I shared with her my concerns, at every turn, she gave me a negative and worldly view instead of a good and Biblical perspective.  It caught me off guard.  I didn't expect it from her because normally she was a supportive, encouraging, and praying-type friend. 

We previously had shared some good times in life and ministry when we lived physically closer together.  Yet, the distance had not only separated us physically but also spiritually over recent months.  We weren't in the same place physically nor spiritually.  After our conversation, I was just stunned.  What had happened?  Or, better yet, what had not happened?

A personal conversation with another friend also surprised me.  After a women's Bible study and prayer group meeting, I requested to speak to the leader in private.  I shared with her some personal information regarding my spiritual journey.  I expected her to speak life to me and over the situation that I shared with her.  Instead, she spoke death.  She even told me there was no hope. 

What?  No hope?  I thought to myself after our conversation.  Unbelievable!  A leader of a Bible study group telling me, 'There's no hope'.

Afterwards, I had to encourage and pray for myself as well as pray for her.  There is always hope.  Jesus is our hope!  With God, all things are possible (See Matthew 19:26). 

Why didn't she think that?  Why didn't she say it?  Perhaps, she was having a personal crisis of faith at the time.  I couldn't believe it though.  We had finished Bible study earlier where she talked about speaking life.  Now, she was doing the opposite.

Anyway, to both of those ladies and any others who are now lacking faith, I have to ask..."Where is Your Faith?"

Copyright 2015 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

Running the Race

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.  And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.  For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”  (Hebrews 12:1-3, NIV)

There is a tendency in this world to get our eyes off of Jesus and onto our natural circumstances.  The devil would like to distract you, hinder you, interrupt you, and shake you up in this world.  He would like to keep you from being and doing all you were created and called to be and do for God's purpose and plan. 

Jesus did not allow the enemy to hinder, distract, interrupt, or shake Him up.  He did not allow the devil to keep Him from being and doing all He was created and called to be and do for His Father's purpose and plan.  We cannot allow the enemy to keep us from being and doing all we were created and called to be and do for our Father's purpose and plan (See Jeremiah 29:11-13).

There is also a tendency in this world to compare our spiritual journey and life to the journeys and lives of others in the world, specifically within the body of Christ.  It is another tactic of the enemy though.  None of us have the exact same purpose and calling in God's plan.  None of our paths will look exactly alike.  Sure there may be some similarities, but we are all different.  We all have different purposes and callings in our creator's master plan. 

Let's briefly look at the journeys and lives of the Apostle Paul and Jesus' disciple, Peter.

Paul was called by God to be an apostle (See Romans 1:1-5; 1 Corinthians 1:1-3; 2 Corinthians 1:1-2).  He did not just decide for himself that he was an apostle.  God specifically created Paul to have that calling and purpose in His plan.  Therefore, Paul became all that God created him to be and do, but it was not Paul's own doing.  It was God's doing.  Paul said himself that he did not deserve to be an apostle because of his past (See 1 Corinthians 15:9).  "But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not without effect.  No, I worked harder than all of them---yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me (1 Corinthians 15:10, NIV)."  God worked in and through Paul to accomplish His purpose (See Philippians 2:12-13).  Paul went on to do much for God's Kingdom, because he knew who he was created and called to be in God's plan.  He suffered and endured much for the Gospel (Read Acts 16:16-40).  He boasted in all of his weaknesses and sufferings (Read 2 Corinthians 11:23-30).  He boldly spoke and preached throughout the regions and land where God had called him.  He also wrote much of the New Testament. 

Peter was a disciple of Jesus Christ.  He was only one of the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ back then.  Despite the calling on his life, Peter denied Jesus three times (Read John 18:15-27).  Jesus did not hold that against him though.  He did not condemn Peter.  God had a great purpose and calling for Peter.  He knew Peter would eventually step up and be the bold and courageous man He had created him to be for His purpose.  God gave Peter more opportunities to prove himself.  Despite his past and previous weaknesses, Peter was used mightily and powerfully for God's purpose.  While with the other 11 disciples, Peter preached the Gospel to a crowd of thousands of people on the day of Pentecost.  Due to Peter's obedience that specific day, nearly three thousand people accepted Jesus and were baptized into the faith of Jesus Christ (Read Acts 2:14-41). 

Neither one of these men began their journeys or lives well, but they both finished well.  Neither Paul nor Peter had the exact same calling or purpose in God's plan.  Their spiritual journeys and lives did not look the same.  They did not have or take the exact same path.  They did not look at another man's path, calling, or purpose and wish they were in the other person's shoes so to speak.  They concentrated and focused on what God had created and called them to be and do for His purpose and plan.  They kept their eyes on the ultimate goal---running their individual races and winning the prize that God had for each one of them (See 1 Corinthians 9:24-27).  They were both different men with different paths as well as different callings and purposes.  However, God powerfully used both of them to accomplish His purpose in His plan. 

Copyright 2015 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

Confessing God's Word

"The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit."  (Proverbs 18:21, NIV)

Whatever you are confessing with your mouth will produce either life or death in your life.  You will either experience life, health, peace, so on or so forth.  Or...you will experience death, disease, destruction, and the like.

We have been given word power by God.  In the same way, He created the universe with His words.  (See Genesis 1.)  We create our world with our words.  Therefore, it's very important that we use our words carefully and wisely. 

What are you confessing?  What are you speaking by faith?

When we confess God's word, it helps all of us---believers in Jesus Christ---to get into agreement and alignment with Him and His word.  

According to Dictionary.com; confess is defined as "to own or admit as true; to acknowledge one's belief or faith in; declare adherence to; to declare or acknowledge"...Confession is defined as "acknowledgment; avowal; admission; acknowledgment or disclosure of sin or sinfulness, especially to a priest to obtain absolution...Also called confession of faith. A formal profession of belief and acceptance of doctrines, as before being admitted to church membership."

Therefore, confessing God's word is basically confessing or declaring your faith. 

If you aren't already confessing His word, you can begin now.  It's never too late to start developing a new spiritual discipline or practice.  Confessing God's word is only one of the spiritual practices in the life of a believer.  (See Spiritual Disciplines.)

You can begin confessing His word in a specific area of your life.  For instance, perhaps, you need divine health and healing in your body. 

Well, then, go to the word and find scripture verses to back it up.  To give you an example, see 3 John 1:2.  "Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers."  (NKJV)

Another scripture reference for healing and health would be 1 Peter 2:24.  “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” (NIV)

You also can do that kind of topical search in the Bible for other specific areas in your life.  Finances.  Relationships.  Jobs.  Family.  Children.  Grandchildren.

Of course, you can confess God's word for all areas of your life as well.  In general or overall.

What are you confessing for the New Year?  What will you confess during 2015?

Check out my ministry website for a list of confessions from God's word. 

 

Copyright 2014 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

Loved by God

Many people in the world do not know that they are loved by God.  Believe it or not...There are many believers today within the body of Christ that do not truly know that they are loved by God.

Not too long ago, I completed a Bible study with a group of ladies at my local church.  In one of the video lessons, the Bible teacher wanted everyone to know that they were loved by God.  In fact, she had us to do an exercise where we would tell each other in our small group..."You are loved by God."

The Apostle Paul was one of the most bold, courageous believers in Biblical times.  In some of his letters to different churches, he wrote and spoke about being loved by God.  He also encouraged other believers to know that they were loved by God.

Let's take a look at specific portions of some of those letters to other believers in a few of the churches back then.

“For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God.  I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.  (Galatians 2:19-20, NIV)

Paul understood that God not only loved him but gave Himself up for him.  Because of that revelation, this apostle knew that he wasn't his own.  He put his faith in Jesus and lived for God.

In his letter to the church at Rome, Paul spoke about the Father's love for them.

"To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be His holy people: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ."  (Romans 1:7, NIV)

Paul, Silas, and Timothy traveled together throughout the region of Thessalonica.

In their letters to fellow believers, they also spoke about God's love for them. 

"For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that He has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. (1 Thessalonians 1:4-5, NIV) 

"But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God chose you as firstfruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth.  He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ."  (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14, NIV) 

"May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word."  (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17, NIV)

Do you know that you are loved by God?  Believe and receive the Father's love for you.  You are loved by God!

Repeat after me, "I am loved by God."

Copyright 2014 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

Redeemed From the Curse

The very first man, Adam, and the very first woman, Eve, received the curse from God. They both sinned, because they disobeyed Him in the Garden of Eden. Therefore, He cursed them because of their sin. (Genesis 3)

Many Christians today believe that they are still under the curse. However, that is not true.

Once Jesus Christ came and took our place on the cross, we are no longer under the curse. In fact, He became the curse for us. He redeemed us from the curse of the law. (Galatians 3:13-14) We are now under the new covenant of grace.

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9, NIV)

The old covenant of the law was based on works or a person's performance. There are some still trying to live like they are under the law. For those believers, they are still under the curse because they are still trying to rely on the law.

For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse, as it is written: “Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law.” (Galatians 3:10, NIV) 

The Apostle Paul tells us that the righteous live by faith. "Clearly no one who relies on the law is justified before God..." (Galatians 3:11, NIV) We aren't made right with God by the law. We are made righteous with God by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.  (Philippians 3:8-9) 

The law is not based on faith; on the contrary, it says, “The person who does these things will live by them.” (Galatians 3:12, NIV) 

Therefore, we must live by faith in the Son of God. (Galatians 2:20) Then, know and remember we are not under the curse. We are redeemed from the curse.


Copyright 2014 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

Agreeing With God

Agreeing with God is powerful.

What has God said to you? What has He said about you?

We get God’s results, when we get into agreement with Him and His Word.

When we trust Him and put our faith in Him, He is faithful. Whatever the situation may be at the time...if you need deliverance from a particular situation...if you need provision...if you need blessings...whatever the case may be...God has already done it. (Isaiah 53) All of your needs have been met according to His riches in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19) Everything you need has already been provided for. It was accomplished at the cross when Jesus took everything upon Himself. He paid for all of it.

Salvation...Forgiveness...Health...Healing...Deliverance...Provision...Blessing...Inheritance. (Psalm 103; Isaiah 53:5; Ephesians 1; 1 Peter 2:24)

How do we get into agreement with God and His word?

First, we renew our minds in His word. (Romans 12:2) Then, we meditate on His word so it will sink down into our hearts. (Joshua 1:8) We also speak out God's word in faith.

When we truly believe God's word, we speak it out. Additionally, we walk it out. We aren't just hearers of the word but doers of the word. (James 1:22-25) We live out God's word in this world.

 

Copyright 2014 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

By Faith...

Have you ever read and paid close attention to the faith chapter in the Bible?

Let's start in v3 of Hebrews 11. 

"By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible." (Hebrews 11:3, NIV)

Now, let's look at v4.

"By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead."  (Hebrews 11:4, NIV)

Next, check out v5.

"By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.” For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God."  (Hebrews 11:5, NIV)

Let's skip down to v7.

"By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that is in keeping with faith."  (Hebrews 11:7, NIV)

Then, pick up with v8-10.

"By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.  By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise.  For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God."  (Hebrews 11:8-10, NIV)

Lastly, look at v11-12.

"And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children because she considered him faithful who had made the promise.   And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore."  (Hebrews 11:11-12, NIV)

Let's recap.  So far in this chapter---we understand that the universe was formed at God's command by faith; Abel brought God a better sacrifice and was commended for it by faith; Enoch was commended, didn't experience death, and was taken from this life by faith; Noah built an ark, saved his family, and condemned the world by faith; Abraham went to a strange land, lived in tents, and made his home in the promised land by faith; and Sarah was enabled to bear children past childbearing age by faith.

You can finish reading the rest of this chapter on your own---picking up in v17-31.

Did you notice...?  Everything in God's kingdom is accomplished 'by faith'.  What are you now doing by faith?

"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."  (Hebrews 11:1, NIV)

"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him."  (Hebrews 11:6, NIV)

Copyright 2014 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.

Freed From the Law

I don't know about you, but I am really tired of the law.  Looking back over the last few years, I have come to realize the numerous times that people have tried to put me 'under the law'.  I have also realized some of the times that I have put myself 'under the law'.

Unfortunately, when we lack knowledge, it can be to the detriment of ourselves and others.  "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge..."  (Hosea 4:6a, NKJV)

Thankfully, my Father God, has opened my spiritual eyes of understanding and enlightened me even more recently with more knowledge and revelation.  (Ephesians 1:17-23)

Once you have accepted Jesus into your heart and made Him Lord of your life, you have the fullness of Him living on the inside of you.  You don't need anyone giving you rules and regulations nor telling you what to do and not do.  (Colossians 2:6-12, 20-23) 

God has made us dead to sin and alive with Christ.  (Romans 6; Ephesians 2:1-10; Colossians 2:13)  Baptism by water immersion is a great picture of us being buried with Christ and raised to new life---His life. 

"Before the coming of this faith, we were held in custody under the law, locked up until the faith that was to come would be revealed.  So the law was our guardian until Christ came that we might be justified by faith.  Now that this faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian."  (Galatians 3:23-25, NIV)

Too many times, members of the body of Christ are still living like they are 'under the law'.  Perhaps, unbeknownst to them.  However, they are in bondage. 

Jesus freed us from the written code of the law.  "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."  (John 8:36, NIV)  We are redeemed from the law.  Jesus is the fulfillment of the law.  (Matthew 5:17)  We are under grace.  The life we now live, we live by faith in the Son---Jesus.  (Galatians 3:11-14)



Copyright 2014 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.