Make Every Day One Of Increase

Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, bids us to run to God when our faith fails us. We are reminded of the man whose son had an evil spirit. He asked Jesus to help him, if He could. “If You can?” echoed Jesus. “All things are possible to him who believes!” That’s when the boy’s father cried out, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:17-24)

There’s a passage in the message that gives us a little insight into faith. It tells us that as we get to know Jesus more and more, our faith grows. It works that way in any relationship. At the same time, as our faith grows, we are more aware of what we lack in the way of faith. We also become aware of more ways in which we fall short of walking in power. I’m talking about overcoming power and effectiveness.

Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request. (1 Chronicles 4:10) This scripture speaks to me of the territory within. That’s where it all begins. Whenever there’s a revelation that leads us to repentance, to correction, to courage, etc., that territory within is enlarged. That territory within is the Kingdom of Heaven, or your heart for God. Spending time with God daily, and in His Word, helps to build the relationship with Him. This is where we can take that shortcoming, that thing that we just can’t get past, or even that thing we’re wanting to learn to do, and get the territory enlarged.

When we’re dealing with problem behavior, or other things we’re trying to overcome in ourselves, we surely don’t want to suffer any harm in the process, right? God is abounding in steadfast love; and His mercy and grace are always sufficient to accomplish the victory, without doing you harm. The pain we may feel actually comes from the flesh not wanting to go along with the Spirit. You know; the scale says skip the lasagna and go for the salad, so you do…and what comes by on the dessert cart? Tiramisu! “Jesus! You said this wouldn’t hurt!” “Oh, wait; Satan, get behind me!” “Sorry, Lord.” Now, you pray for the willpower to skip that dessert. Jesus sends it, you walk out triumphant, and the next time that Tiramisu comes to entice you, you’re not even phased. Ha!

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

There’s Your Sabbath Rest

Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that those everlasting arms are always open to us. They are our refuge. (Deuteronomy 33:27) (2 Samuel 22:33) (Proverbs 18:10)

When I think of the arms of Jesus, I think of the Sabbath rest spoken of in Hebrews 4. I want to enter in as often as I can. Jesus, the Lord of the Sabbath, made exactly that possible. That’s why in Hebrews 4:16, Paul says: “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

We can approach boldly when we remember Jesus’ words: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matt. 11:28)

Incidentally, I did a study on the Sabbath principle not too long ago. The Christian church deems Sunday to be the first day of the week, and the Lord’s Day, according to first fruits principle. Jesus is the Alpha. The work week usually runs from Monday through Saturday; which makes Sunday the seventh day, or Sabbath day. Jesus is also the Omega. But, here’s something awesome. Jesus made the Sabbath rest personal to each one of us. He knew this was necessary. Can you imagine if all the hospitals, police stations, fire stations, etc., were closed on the Sabbath Day? It’s not about a day, folks. It’s about a Savior who wants to have personal and intimate time with you, to refresh, restore, recharge you. It’s about a Savior who wants to reveal Himself, more and more, to you personally.

**I am not trying to get anyone to change the way of their faith, or argue about calendars, principles, of creeds.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Acceptance Changes Them

Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, bids us to accept the trials that come our way. We are reminded that we cannot be destroyed; that God’s grace is sufficient for us. God’s grace is sufficient for all our needs, in every circumstance. That one’s easy to forget, isn’t it? Something that has helped me in the past, and continues to be a great help to me, is acceptance .

As I thought about acceptance in regard to this message, I saw it in a different light. It isn’t merely acceptance of the trials that matters. It is, first and foremost, acceptance of our new heritage in Christ Jesus, complete with all the authority, peace, power, etc. that comes with that heritage, that makes the difference. (2Co. 5:17) -“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” That acceptance changes the way we see those trials. It changes their size, first of all. Seeing them in light of who you are in Christ, is like looking through the other end of the binoculars. Remember the Israelites seeing themselves as grasshoppers in comparison to the Philistines? (Numbers 13:33)

Jesus showed us how to turn the binoculars around, so we see the truth. The truth is that nothing can separate us from the love of God, He is our beginning and our end, and in Him there is no end for us. (Romans 8:39) (Psalm 91) (John 11:26) Finally, there’s the last part of that scripture about God’s grace being sufficient for us…”for my power is made perfect (or perfected) in weakness. That weakness spoken of there is the laying down of our will, our attitude(s), thoughts and words, and our ways. Instead, we are to adhere to God’s will, His attitudes, thoughts and words, and His ways. (Jeremiah 29:11) (2 Co. 10:5) (Matt. 5:48) That changes the trial to an opportunity to win; just like Jesus does-every time…and, when He wins, we all do. Lord, help me to get this one down for good, please. Thank you.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

It All Goes Together

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Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, bids us to dwell in God’s Presence. We’re told to dig deep into the soil of the Kingdom. This message ties in with the one for Saturday, August 8th, and with my post on Friday’s message. All three go together.

Friday’s message speaks of getting to know God intimately to dispel fear and doubt within. Saturday’s message – read it at twolisteners.org- bids us to empty ourselves to ensure constant fresh supply. This is so important when we’re finding ourselves stressed, anxious, angry, anything that’s contrary to the Divine Nature within us. Immediately emptying ourselves of all that negative emotion and replacing it with truth from the Word of God, and what we know of God’s love and grace toward us, is critical. This is the way we remain in His Presence.

Do you know what Satan’s goal in the Garden of Eden was? It was to separate Adam and Eve from the presence of God-and from the security there is in His presence. That’s why we’re told to dig deep into the soil of the Kingdom…you’ll find treasure upon treasure, strength upon strength, glory upon glory, until your faith is unshakable! You will think, feel, and act like the king or queen you are ordained to be. *Remember what the King of kings said, though: “I have not come to be served, but to serve.” And remember Solomon’s prayer for wisdom, so that he could rule over his people wisely and justly.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Are You Surprised Yet?

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Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that we are to do everything as if unto the Lord. Keeping that in mind, would I grumble, complain, pout, etc., about having to do something for Jesus? Yes, I do have to say ashamedly, there have been some times when I did just that. One time, I even really cursed Him out. That’s why I thank God each and every day for His mercy and grace toward me.

The message bids us to bow to God’s will and wishes gladly, and not in resignation. Rather, bow, with the knowledge that this thing is going to end up so awesomely for you. The Bible tells us that all the promises of God are yes and amen. That tells me that God has something good for me at the end of this. And, God, Himself, has promised us that He has plans to prosper us, and not to harm us. So we can expect “glad surprises”, to quote the message directly. How could you not smile about that?!

As I read the message, I think about daily prayers, chores, workloads, extra tasks when things go wrong, etc. Do you know, it takes just as much effort to do it joyfully as it does to do it grumbling and begrudgingly. Personally, I believe it takes more effort to do it grumbling and begrudgingly. I have found, over the years, that joyfulness and positive energy, somehow lighten the loads, and speed up the doing. Things get done much more quickly, and the whole atmosphere is beautiful. When we put these principles into practice in our daily living, our growth in them, spiritually, is awesome. That’s what God wants for us; abundant life here, and abundant power in the spirit-because the two go hand in hand.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Nothing…I Know Nothing

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Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that we are little children in the Kingdom of Heaven. I had an experience during praise and worship one afternoon, in which I saw myself as a toddler being scooped up by the Lord, and held in His arms. His face was the most beautiful thing I’d ever seen. No features, just pure radiance, pure love. I’m getting chills as I write this.

The message bids us to cling to Him, as a child clings to his/her parent. We’re asked the question that, if we would hardly fail that child, how then, could our Heavenly Father fail us? We’re bid to trust, to know that God’s love for us is as strong as ever. Know that there is nothing He cannot accomplish, in us, for us, through us. Nothing!

1Kings 3:7 is referenced by the message: “Now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king instead of my father David, but I am a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in.” Do you know that it’s alright to tell God you don’t know what you’re doing? I have to laugh as I write this, because there are so many times I finally said that to God…and I swear I almost heard Him laughing. “It’s about time,” He probably was saying. “Now I can help you.” The one thing I’ve learned over the years is that the longer I know God, the more I know that I know nothing. It’s just best to get His take on it all first anyway. I’m so thankful for His patience and grace.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Turning To Him Empowers It All…

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Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that we must turn to God, or seek Him, before we can become aware of His Presence with us. Jesus said, “seek first, therefore, the Kingdom of Heaven”…and everything else will be added unto you. I don’t believe He was speaking just of material needs.

Whatever situation we may find ourselves in, when we first seek God’s face, God’s will, His grace and purpose, maybe even His mercy, in it, we will find the key that unlocks the whole thing for us. I knew a man who lost his legs in an auto accident. He was very bitter for some time. He’d lost his whole life, as far as he was concerned. A friend of his talked him into attending church with him once, and the man’s life began to change. The next thing you know, the man was on the slopes, skiing. He never skied when he had legs. He competes regularly in quad competitions of all kinds. He’s made new friends, discovered new interests and talents he never knew he had. He’s got a whole new life, and it’s even better than before.

One of the reasons the Lord’s prayer says, “give us this day our daily bread, is that we need that reminder to look for God in every day, all throughout the day. Jesus is the bread come down from Heaven. Bread is food. Jesus feeds our spirit all day long when we let Him. We have a continual feast when God’s in the “pantry” of our soul. Seeking God in it, is seeking the good in it, or bringing the good into it. We are, after all, His hands in the earth. When we do this, every part of our lives is empowered to bring glory to us, to others, and especially, to God.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Count Your Blessings

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Happy September! Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, bids us realize how rich, indeed, we really are. We have Jesus, all His love, grace, patience, kindness, strength, power, authority, peace, and joy…the list goes on and on. How can we fear the future, when Jesus holds it in His hands?

When I read the message, I thought about how blessed I was to listen to some good music over the last two weekends. There were free concerts on Fremont Street Experience, here in Las Vegas. I had to thank God, when I read this message, that I am able to hear the music. I also think about how much I enjoy the taste of my morning coffee; especially when it’s a good cup of coffee. Being able to take deep breaths is another treasure, after my ordeal a few summers ago, when my lungs crashed.

I don’t really fear the future. There are things I want to get done while I can do them; but I know God’s got my life in His hands. He holds the future. All of that peace and joy came through Jesus Christ, our Lord. While we can’t just wander aimlessly through life, we can be sure we’re going to survive it. LOL There is truly so much to be grateful for. When we pay attention to those little things we often don’t think about, we can realize that we have been blessed and given such treasures. I think of that “pressed down, shaken together, and running over,” scripture. Our God is a good God!

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Preparing to Enter In

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Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that we need to regularly set aside time to enter into the sanctuary and spend time alone with the LORD.

I spent an hour this morning listening to Native American drum and flute music, and even listened to some native songs and chants. It was my preparation time. Music is a good way to quiet one’s spirit and prepare to enter in to the sacred space. There are many different kinds of music that can reach the spirit; it’s not always only praise and worship music. That sacred space is the place where our spirit meets the Holy Spirit. It is in these quiet times that we commune with and rest in the divine love, grace, peace, and joy of God. You’ve all read plenty about spending time alone with God. I thought I’d share a short list of some of my favorite music. This is the stuff I listen to at the end of a long day, or even before I really begin my day-before a project, etc. It’s a pretty good mix, so there’s something for everyone; and they’re all instrumental, words won’t distract you. I hope you enjoy at least one of my picks.

Carlos Nakai – Earth Spirit -He also has a greatest hits album out-Native American flute music
The Elegance of Palchelbel -Serenade -Piano music
Rachmaninoff – Rhapsody -Classical music, and very beautiful
Trail of the Angels – One of my very favorites – Chinese Bamboo flute music
Leo Rojas -Pan flute music

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

It Isn’t Painful; Just Let Yourself Go

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Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that we are to walk humbly with our God.

When I first read this message, I didn’t really get it. I thought my humility was just for Jesus, and for the Heavenly Father. I didn’t think about humility before all those other people you’re walking around down here with. Then I fell in love. Ladies and gentlemen, I would have eaten dirt for that man! That’s pretty humble, don’t you think? Yeah? Not really, because you know why I would have eaten dirt for him? I wanted him to be in love with me in return. Ulterior motive, in spirit. Hmm…ouch, ouch, ouch, that truth hurt when I finally could admit it. Yeah! I was far too vain to like having to cop to being flawed in any way, shape, or form. LOL

Let me tell you what happened to that vanity when I fell in love with Jesus. Our Lord just kind of sand-blasted that thing off of me, right then and there. And, He has polished that roughness, little by little as the years have gone by. I’ve gotten those polishings whenever I did let Jesus take it over. Let me tell you, those are the most humbling instances-in the circumstances and events that you know it had to be Jesus, it just had to be-because you are not capable of that kind of grace, patience, quick thinking, whatever it may be. Believe me, when Jesus works it, there’s no mistaking Him for someone else. You cannot fool yourself into thinking it was you. To see what God’s grace, compassion, love, peace, just speaking His Name can do, will bring you to your knees. We can be humbled by seeing that at work in others. We can also be humbled when God shows us how much of those things we lack in our own spirit.

Oh, God, that polishing used to hurt in the early years. Now, whenever I am humbled in some circumstance-and not by another person, but by the Lord, Himself, it is a sweet, sweet moment between me and Jesus. That’s because now, it doesn’t feel like He’s rubbing off the rough stuff. Now, it feels like He’s bringing out the glow; the shine.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu