“Peace Be Still”

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 27th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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“Peace Be Still”


Scripture: Philippians 4:7 "And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

As I reflected on this scripture, I had a mental picture of my understanding traveling down a highway. It was in turmoil as it faced making decisions and resolving situations. Then suddenly, I turned my heart and thoughts to God and acknowledged Him in all of my ways. When I did this, God began to direct my uncertain path, and His peace overtook me and passed me up. His peace then went before me, making the crooked way straight. Then as my understanding just simply followed God's Spirit of peace, calmness came to my heart and mind.

One of the most precious items that Jesus left us when He went back to heaven was His peace (John 14:27). It wasn't the same kind of peace that the world had to offer. It was a peace that transcended and defied reason. His peace is a calm in the midst of the storm, not the absence of the storm. The peace that He held within Him enable Him to sleep in the midst of a raging storm and His words of "Peace be still" were able to overpower the winds and waves. His peace is not anxious and did not pressure Him into running to Lazarus when news came that he was sick. Instead His peace caused Him to wait on the timing of God. His peace also allowed Him to remain silent in the face of accusations and mockery, for He held His peace and answered not a word. His peace was strong enough that it kept Him from calling the angels to deliver Him when He was on the cross.

God's peace in the lives of others was not the absence of danger itself, but a knowledge that God was in control and able to deliver. His peace prevailed in the lion's den for Daniel and also in the furnace of fire for Shadrach, Meshach, and Obednego. In prison, His peace allowed Peter to sleep peacefully between two soldiers when he was facing certain death. The same peace brought joy to Paul and Silas, allowing them to sing songs in the prison at the midnight hour. The world only offers peace when everything is secure and going great, but God offers a peace that cannot be comprehended. Are you awakening only to find your life without peace at the start of the day? His peace prevails in the time of storms, life threatening or difficult situations, and even death. If you want to experience this supernatural peace that transcends worldly peace, keep your mind on Jesus and trust in Him (Isaiah 26:3). Then, just slow down and allow the peace of God to overtake you and go before you.

“Peace Be Still”

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie

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I’m Lost Without You

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 26th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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I’m Lost Without You

Scripture: Psalms 119:176 "I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek Thy servant."

We've all had those times when we've planned to meet someone in a large crowd and wanted to make sure that we made the connection. We designate a particular time and place to meet, explain what we'll be wearing, and say, "Be looking for me." If the appointed time for the rendezvous passes, desperation sets in, and we begin to think that there was a misunderstanding in our communications. We can only hope that the one we are attempting to meet is searching for us with as much effort as we are searching for them.

The psalmist in this scripture found himself in the same dilemma. He had somehow wandered away and was telling the Lord of his desperate situation. In the preceding verses, he asked the Lord to hear his cry and listen to his supplication. He said, "Let Your hand help me." Sheep have no sense of direction and are used to being led about. It is their nature to depend upon the shepherd to find them. The psalmist reminded the Lord that even though he had strayed away from the narrow path, he still remembered the commandments and precepts of God. He knew that God would honor His Word and he depended upon the Good Shepherd to seek for him as if he were a lost sheep.

Like the psalmist, the Lord is our shepherd and we are the sheep of His pasture. We need the Lord Jesus desperately in our lives so that we can maintain an honorable walk and keep our feet from straying. We must make it a practice to face every day with a determination to discern His will and to be in His Word, seeking His direction. Like the psalmist, our prayer should be, "Lord, look for me. Help me to be in the right place, at the right time, doing the right thing. If I go astray, seek me and bring me back." Are you aware that God's search for you is just as diligent as your search for Him? Jesus is your Good Shepherd. He will leave the ninety-nine sheep that are safe and search for you when you have lost your way. As He looks for you, He will call you by name, for He knows each one personally. In John 10:27, He said, "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me" (John 10:27).

When your path seems to be shrouded in darkness and your way seems obscure, listen for the Shepherd's voice. He is like any loving father whose child is lost, and He is desperately seeking for you and calling your name.
There are those out there who have lost their way, Let’s help them find His Glorious Voice and Lead Them Home!

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie

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LOOK UP!!

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 24th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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LOOK UP!!


Scripture: Matthew 28:20 "... I am with you always, even unto the end of the world."

Our greatest comfort and our greatest joy is the assurance of these words from Jesus. Every moment, His followers are promised His personal and empowering presence. This promise is our greatest spiritual asset, and we could ask for no greater treasure. We could depend on no better security. We could reach no higher heights or experience no deeper depths than to know that Jesus is with us. How awesome is the thought that Jesus will never leave or forsake us. He will always be there. Others may leave, but He will remain. He is with us in our laughter and He is with us in our tears. He is with us in our triumphs and He is with us in our tragedies. He is there with us as we experience joy and He is there in our pain. And He is always touched with the things that our hearts are caused to endure.

Jesus made this commitment to be with us to the ends of the world or the end of the age. It doesn't matter if we are at home or in a distant land, His presence surrounds us, fills our lonely hearts, and girds us with strength. We only need to recognize Him and know that He is there. It doesn't matter if we are doing menial tasks or are involved in a major undertaking, He is there to help us in the time of our need. It doesn't matter if we are in peace or engaged in war, for His protecting arms surround us. It doesn't matter if it is Sunday, Monday, or another day of the week, He is there always and His mighty presence fills every moment. In His presence there is a peace that passes all understanding. There is a trust that cannot be described, an abounding love that fills the heart, and a grace that is sufficient for the soul.

We do not have to dread the road ahead or be anxious about the future, for the Lord's presence will lead us and He will take care of every detail. Look back and reflect upon Your life today. When you were at the worst of worst, He pulled you through. If today you feel that way LOOK UP, because the same power that brought you out of the last pit. Is Holding His Outstretched hands again! Say Lord Take My Hand You are All That I Need. Your Breakthrough is coming!
The power of His presence will always make a way where there seems to be no way. He will go before us and make a way in the wilderness and cause streams in the desert (Isaiah 43:19). His presence will even cause us to bloom in the hard places where we are planted. Isaiah 42:16 says, "He will make the darkness light before us, and the crooked things straight. These things He will do for us, and He will not forsake us." We must hold to the promise that the presence of Jesus will always be with us, for this is the greatest asset that we could ever hope to gain.
So LOOK UP my friend….

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie

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Call Upon His Name

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 23th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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Call Upon His Name


Scripture: Matthew 6:9 "Hallowed be Thy Name."Hallowed means sacred, holy, and blameless. Jesus teaches us to give reverence, honor, and glory to the Name of our Father who is in Heaven. In the Ten Commandments, we are told not to take the Name of the Lord our God in vain. This command not only means not to speak His Name in profanity, but also not to dishonor His Name in the way we live.Names not only identify a person, but also call to mind the character, attitudes, and integrity of that person. For this reason, we try to protect our name. My father was very proud of his name and did not want it to be dishonored. I was taught that everything I did was a reflection on my father and his name. In our community, my father's name was trusted because it was backed up by his character and integrity. Everyone knew that he was a , honest, no-nonsense person. His word was his bond and his name backed up his word. I was given the privilege to use my father's name.

This is true in the spiritual realm as well. God gave Jesus a special name that is above every name and Philippians 2:10-11 declares that "at the Name of Jesus, every knee shall bow ... and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord". Jesus then told us that we could also use this special name that the Father had given to Him. In John 14:14 He said, "If you shall ask any thing in My name, I will do it."Listed below are names of God in the Old Testament.

These names were established as God met with man and revealed His character to them.

YAHWEH,

"I AM THAT I AM" - Exodus 3:14

Jehovah Jireh,

"The Lord my Provider" - Gen. 22:14

Jehovah Nissi,

"The Lord is my Banner" - Ex. 17:15

Jehovah Shalom,

"The Lord is Peace" - Judges 6:24

Jehovah Sabbaoth,

"The Lord of Hosts" - I Sam. 1:3

Jehovah Maccaddeshcem ,

"The Lord my Sanctifier - Ex. 31:13

Jehovah Raah,

"The Lord is my Shepherd" - Ps. 23:1

Jehovah Tsidkenu,

"The Lord my Righteousness" - Jerm. 23:6

Jehovah Shammah,

"The Lord is there (present)" - Ezk. 48:35

Jehovah Elohim,

"The Lord God of Israel" - Jud. 5:3; Is. 17:6

Jehovah Rophe,

"The Lord my Healer" - Ex. 15:26

As we think on these names, let us remember that God is all we need. We have no power within ourselves, but we have power in His Name. He is the same God today as when He spoke to Moses with "I AM THAT I AM" (Exodus 3:13-14). Whatever we need today, He says, "I AM." I AM the answer to all of your questions. If you need provisions, I AM your Provider. If you need healing, I AM your Healer. If you need victory, I AM your Banner. I AM your peace. I AM your Shepherd and will lead you through the valleys and restore you. I AM your Righteousness. And, I AM the God that is always present. I AM your God. I AM everything that you need Me to be. I AM THAT I AM! HALLOWED BE HIS NAME!!!!

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie

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Remember He Calls You By Your Name!

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 20th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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Remember He Calls You By Your Name!



Scripture: John 10:3-4 "... the sheep hear His voice: and He calls His own sheep by name,
and He leads them out ... He goes before them, and the sheep follow Him for they know His voice."

You never have to fear the path that is set before you because the Lord Jesus goes before you each step of the way. You never have to tread where His feet have not been or suffer things that are foreign to His knowledge. He leads you out and then He goes before you, discerning every situation. He notes the paths that are too narrow and the rocky steeps that are too dangerous. He will lead you around every pitfall and protect you from every foe. He encounters every obstacle that you will experience along the way so that He can understand your feelings and be touched by your infirmities. His presence makes the crooked way straight and His mighty hand opens every door that needs to be opened and closes every door that needs to stay shut. Jesus will never lead you into a place that is too difficult and you will never find His grace to be insufficient.

Jesus is the Good Shepherd and He cares for His sheep. He loves you individually and doesn't get you confused with someone else. He calls you by your name. He also allows you to know Him in an intimate way so that you can recognize His voice. He doesn't disguise His voice or speak foreign words to you but makes Himself very plain. All you must do is listen for His still quiet voice saying, "This is the way, walk in it" (Isaiah 30:21). His voice will gently bring repentance and scatter the sounds of condemnation. His words will give direction and drive away the spirits of confusion. He will never lead you astray and the simple knowledge that He is leading the way should give you great hope and confidence.

His presence will bring peace in the midst of your turmoil. As you follow Him one step at a time, you are not to look sorrowfully at your past, be confused about the present, or fear the future. Tomorrow is unknown but His voice says, "Do not be anxious about tomorrow, for it will take care of itself." He is God and if He can feed the birds and clothe the flowers of the field, He can take care of you. Jesus goes before you. Just follow Him without doubt and fear, for He is already there in the future that you are about to experience.
Remember He Calls You By Your Name!

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie

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A Wounded Spirit Who Can Bear?

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 19th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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A Wounded Spirit Who Can Bear?


Scripture: Proverbs 18:14 "The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?

The spirit of a man is amazing. It will rise up and sustain you when you are in physical pain or other trouble. It will give birth to a determination that you didn't realize you had. Your spirit will inspire you and assist you in conquering the present adversity that challenges you. It will tell you to keep going in spite of the difficulties, and that you can make it. You will find yourself taking courage and doing what you could not do before, even fighting battles that you never thought possible. Many people live through life-threatening illnesses simply because when they heard the evil report that was issued against them, their spirit came alive and rose up with a new and exceptional strength that enabled them to fight for their life.

While it is true that your spirit will sustain you during your season of infirmity or adverse situations, it is also true that it is difficult for one to rise up when their spirit has been wounded, crushed, or broken. Physical wounds usually come from without and are easy to understand and cope with, but there are no simple bandages for a wounded spirit. Wounds to the spirit are sudden blows, and most of the time we don't see them coming, for they usually come from those whom we love and trust the most. This makes it hard to forget the incident or to forgive the one who inflicted the pain. It may be years before reconciliation and restoration of the relationship can be achieved, for we tend to continually analyze the situation. We are never quite sure how our loved one could have tread upon our heart and transgressed our feeling in such a grievous manner. It happens with our spouse, children, family, and friends. An unexplained action or an innocent but insensitive remark from someone we love can wound our spirit and this wound will be hard to bear.

Jesus knows and understands all that you are going through. He understands how you can be wounded by rejection because many rejected Him and His own disciples abandoned Him in the time of His greatest need. He knew the tears of pain and sorrow as He grieved for His friend, Lazarus. He understood how it felt to be misunderstood because His own mother and brothers did not understand Him and even declared that He was mad. He was also wounded and hurt by the same people that He ministered to and gave His life for. Because He understands your feelings so well, He came not only to dry the tears in your eyes, but to also wipe them from your heart. You do not have to bear your wounded spirit alone, for He will bind up your wounds for you. He will stay near you when your heart is broken and continually apply the comforting healing balm of the Holy Spirit. He will minister to your broken spirit by giving you beauty for the ashes and disappointments of your life. He will give you the oil of joy for mourning and replace the heaviness that is in your soul with a garment of praise.

A wounded spirit ... who can bear? Only Jesus. So, trust and lean upon Him.

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie

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You Will experience the Joy of Victory

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 18th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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You Will experience the Joy of Victory and Receive the Greatest Reward!!!

Scripture: Job 1:8 "Have you considered My servant Job, there is none like him in the earth?"

When God spoke these words to Satan, He was expressing His full confidence and trust in His servant, Job. God's trust was so strong that He allowed the hedge that was around Job to be lifted, but He also limited Satan's actions against Job. Job went through a lengthy season of loss in every area of his life and his patience was challenged in every way. Yet in the end, Job's steadfast faith prevailed against his hopeless situation. Satan was defeated, God's confidence was justified, and Job received his reward.

Everyone has different issues to face in life. One struggles with finances, another with relationships, some with health, and others with death itself. Hebrew 12:1 tells us that there is a race that is set before each of us. We are not allowed to choose our circumstances or the particular race that we will participate in. God is sovereign and He chooses our battles at His discretion. We must patiently endure the challenge, knowing that God will never put more upon us than we can bear. Whoever you are and whatever you are going through right now, you can be assured that you were God's choice for that testing.
He knows your heart and He has faith in you.

God has good plans for you and His thoughts towards you are much higher than you can imagine, but you must run your race with patience. You must discipline yourself and expect to experience hurdles in your path. You cannot allow yourself to be distracted by the glory that you receive or by the pains that you are forced to endure. As you run your race, you are to lay aside every weight and every sin that seeks to burden you down. Jesus is the author and finisher of your faith and He is to be your great example, as He was able to endure the cross and despise the shame. His goal was to defeat Satan and His vision of victory kept Him from giving in to the temptations and evil devises of the devil. You must consider Him and the things He endured so that you do not become weary and faint in your own mind. God has great confidence in you and He doesn't want you to give up in the middle of the race. Run with patience until you catch the second wind. In the midst of the race, the Holy Spirit of God will fill you with His power,
You Will experience the Joy of Victory and Receive the Greatest Reward!!!
do not become weary and faint!!

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie
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That’s When We Learn To Faith It Out!

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 17th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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That’s When We Learn To Faith It Out!

Scriptures: Habakkuk 2:4 "The just shall live by his faith."

Romans 1:17 "The just shall live by faith."

Galatians 3:11 "The just shall live by faith."

Hebrews 10:38 "The just shall live by faith"

Faith is not something that we try to obtain so that we can use it every once in awhile. It is a lifestyle of trust that we develop in God, and it comes by hearing His word (Romans 10:17). When God first speaks a word to us, we may not have the faith to reach out and obtain the promise, but He will address each doubt that we have. As He confirms His word, faith will begin to rise in our hearts until we are able to possess the promise.

That’s When We Learn To Faith It Out!

A personal experience that my husband and I had some years ago may explain this concept. We were at a used car lot one day just looking at the cars. We desperately needed a better car than the one we had but we had no intention of buying another one right away. The salesman asked us if we had found one that we liked, and we jokingly said yes, and pointed to the one car that we thought must belong to the owner. We knew it was totally out of our price range, but the salesman practically forced us to test drive it. We told him up front that we weren't able to buy right then, but he said he could make us a good deal and that he just wanted to talk to us about it. We told him that we had no money, but he said that he could fix that. We then told him it was impossible to make a purchase at this time because of our credit situation but he said they financed their own cars so that wasn't a problem either.

Little by little, the salesman was addressing each doubt that we had concerning buying the car. Line upon line, he was feeding our faith and showing us a way where there seemed to be no way. When we told him we didn't think it would be wise for us to trade cars because of the higher payment, he offered us more money for our old car than it was worth. Things were looking pretty good, but then he decided to test drive our car. We thought he would give up at this point because our car wouldn't even start. Our faith began to fall as we thought on this negative circumstance. We knew that we had to have a good trade-in to afford the new car. To our surprise, however, he offered us the same deal. And since our car would not start, he allowed us take the new car home and come back the next day to finish the papers. We had no faith at the beginning, but the salesman's words caused faith to begin to form in our hearts. He had not only initiated the faith in our hearts but had kept feeding our faith with his words until he completed the transaction.So it is with God. He plants a seed of faith in our heart and initiates the process in order to fulfill His plan. He then causes our faith to grow by continually watering it with His word. Each scripture that comes to us quickens our heart and confirms His promise. Negative circumstances may try to sway us from God's truth and attempt to steal the blessing that He intends for us. However, if His word is in our heart, faith will intervene and cast out all doubt and fear. Our trust in God and His word will cause us to go from faith to faith and glory to glory as we obtain His promise!

February 17, 2009. What are you worrying about? Your faith is being tested. Some things you have desired have not materialized. And yet you have seen Me work miracles in your life. What has happened that I cannot overcome? Have you ever thought how foolish it is to worry about what you cannot control? I say unto you, put your faith in Me. All of creation is in My hands. I can never fail nor will I ever forsake you. My love for you is an everlasting commitment to protect you and provide for you throughout all eternity. I invite you to test Me in this and see if you find Me to be true to My word. What are you worrying about?

Matthew 6:34 "So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie
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"I didn't do it, my hands did it."

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 16th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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Scripture: Romans 7:19 "For the good that I would do, I do not: but the evil which I would not do, I do."

I was very amused with a statement made by my young great niece. Instead of drying her hands on the towel that was next to sink in the bathroom, she hurried to the den and dried them on the decorative throw, which was on the couch. When her mom corrected her, she said, "I didn't do it, my hands did it." She explained the situation further by saying, "It was an accident. I didn't know that my hands were doing that." She was unconsciously exercising a bad habit, and because she didn't do it deliberately, she didn't feel responsible for what her hands had done. It was as though her hands were a different entity than the rest of her whole being, so it wasn't her fault that they had accidentally dried themselves on the throw blanket instead of the towel.

This incident sounds humorous to us as adults because we know that we can't get away with putting the blame on our hands or other parts of our body when we do something wrong. We understand that the entire body is involved in our actions and that we have to take responsible for our individual members. Yet, there are probably times in God's eyes that we look much like my great niece did when we try to justify our actions. We have an enemy in our life who tempts us to do wrong. When we find ourselves in financial difficulty, he tells us that it is okay to cheat just a little. He tempts us with lustful thoughts and disguises it as true love. He deceives us into thinking that we can say what we want to say and do what we want to do, and tells us that if it feels good, it must be okay. We speak hurtful words and share rumors, but instead calling it an accident, we try to cover it up by saying, "I really didn't mean to say that." We allow our eyes to linger on offensive scenes and expose our ears to vulgarity, and then dismissed it by declaring, "I couldn't help it, it just flashed across the movie screen."

Paul was a great apostle and wrote most of the New Testament. Yet, we can see from his own words that he struggled with daily challenges just like us. Like Paul, we do things that we don't want to do and we don't do the things that we want to do. We may not be like my great niece and issue a disclaimer for our misconduct by calling it an accident, but sometimes we are not even aware that our actions are displeasing to God because over time our conscious has become seared. David prayed and asked God to point out anything within himself that made God sad. We must do the same. We must allow God to show us our secret sins and then acknowledge that our actions, whether good or bad, are not mere accidents. We need God to remind us not to do the things that we're not supposed to do and then help us do the things that we should do. God is loving and faithful, and He will help us if we ask.

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie
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Into-Me-See-Oh-Lord

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 12th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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Into-Me-See-Oh-Lord


Scripture: James 4:8 "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you."

This is a wonderful promise and so simply stated. God promises us a personal one-on-one relationship with Him. How many other very important and powerful people have made this promise to you? Very few, I'm sure. Yet because of our hectic schedules and limited time, most of us do not exercise our option to enter into the Lord's presence on a daily basis for any great length of time. We spend a few minutes with a devotional, say a short prayer, and then we're off to meet the day's challenges. We promise to spend more time with Him later. But when the day is finished, we're exhausted and just too tired.

Those in scripture who spent time with God knew Him intimately. And those who knew Him intimately had great power with Him. Even the Sanhedrin marveled and took notice of Peter and John because they recognized that Peter and John had been with Jesus (Acts 4:13). Elijah was a man of fervent and earnest prayer and his relationship with God resulted in mighty miracles. But these and other mighty men only knew God's heart because they spent time in His presence.

They drew near to God and God drew near to them and manifested His power through them.Drawing near to God is a gradual process towards a place of intimacy with Him. One definition of "intimacy" is "into-me-see." It is only as you begin to pour out your inner most thoughts to God and allow Him to see inside of you that He responds and shares His most inner thoughts. Even our natural relationships show us this.

We can only truly know those with whom we have solitary fellowship. Jesus told us in Matthew 6:6 to enter into our closet and shut the door when we talk to Him. He wants us to fellowship with Him in secret so that He can speak to us in secret. He set the example for us several times in the scriptures as He Himself found solitary places to commune with the Father (Mark 1:35). Jesus drew near to God a great while before the day began and spent all night in God's presence.

How close do you want to be to God? You determine the relationship. Those who move towards God, evoke a response from Him. He gave the invitation and the pattern for us to enter His presence. He said, "Draw near to Me and I will draw near to you." Or, you take a step towards me, then I will take a step towards you."

I call you My steadfast ones, for you continue to persevere and endure. I also call you faithful because you have not turned back in times of tribulation and trials. You have faithfully pressed on to overcome adversity and have kept the faith. And, I call you blessed because you have stood in the face of difficulties and have not given up. You are My chosen ones and precious in My sight, says the Lord.

1 Peter 2:9-10 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy!

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie
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Do You Feel The REVIVAL Of Your FAITH??

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 10th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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Do You Feel The REVIVAL Of Your FAITH??


Scripture: Psalms 91:4-5 "His truth shall be your shield ... You shall not be afraid for the terror ..."

This is a mighty promise for us today as we think about our future and remember the horrific events of many years ago when our nation was attacked by terrorist. It was a day of devastation that changed our lives forever, and our promise to those who lost their own lives or their loved ones is still the same today as it was that day, "We will never forget." The memories of the things that we saw and the sounds that we heard will be forever engrained in our hearts.

That was a day when evil men sought to bring our nation to its knees in humility before them. Instead, their actions united us as a nation and brought us to our knees in humility and prayer before the Almighty God. Students who weren't allowed to pray in schools were suddenly led in prayer by their teachers and principals. Those in our government boldly confessed their convictions without any reservations. People of various faiths forgot their differences and all of the churches came together in unity to seek the face of the Lord. Revival sprang into the hearts of our people and overshadowed the evil that lurked in the hearts of our enemies. Good overcame evil and terror was turned into triumph. That is what is happening in our nation today. We boldly come before the throne in the hardships many are suffering.
We know Our God will Not Forsake Us!

Our flag is still there ... we will be many Nations Under God ... and our God in whom we trust, is still Faithful." We the People will not falter in our Faith or allow as in days past, for Kingdoms to rise against the common man. The Men and Women Of Faith say No More! In these challenging days, let our faith arise and declare the words of the psalmist,

“God's truth shall be our shield and we shall not be afraid of the terror"

Beloved, you are living in times where you are acutely aware of various levels of instability. And, you will be tempted to allow that sense of insecurity to cause you to feel emotionally and mentally unstable. But, this is only a temptation from the evil one, for you belong to Me. And, you have been established on the foundation of My word and My promises. Even though life's storms rage all around you, you will stand firm. Refuse to be shaken by what you hear, says the Lord.

Matthew 7:24-25 Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.



May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie
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Faith Springs From Faith

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 9th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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Faith Springs From Faith

Scripture: Romans 1:17 "From faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith."

God has an extraordinary and powerful plan to rescue the believers who trust in Him. From faith to faith or from start to finish, God works within us to bring about His awesome plan. His plan is the glorious gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ. This gospel of salvation has three facets. His salvation redeems us from past sins. It gives us eternal life in Heaven. And, it also equips us with God's strength to help us live in Heaven's victory while we are still here on Earth. The gospel of Jesus Christ never changes. He and His gospel of salvation is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8 ).

The just are to live by faith and that faith will come by hearing the word of God. Only the word of God will set us free and bring us total salvation for the past, present, and future. Many are born again and can believe that their salvation experience will take them to Heaven. It is wonderful that they have received faith's assurance for tomorrow's future, yet, these born again believers can't seem to operate in the faith that allows them to forgive themselves or to believe that God has forgiven them for the sins of their past. Their spirits are saved and they are on their journey towards glory, but their minds are not renewed and their souls linger in the pits of doubt. They carry much baggage of guilt and shame because they cannot let go of the memories of what they have done. There are others who have faith to believe for eternal salvation and are also able to receive forgiveness for the things of their past, but they have no faith to live in today's victory. They flounder around in the sea of unbelief when it comes to trusting God for their present deliverance, protection, preservation, healing, and provision for their needs.

When we gave our hearts to Jesus, He did a total work in our lives. He immediately began a work in us and we can "be confident in this one thing, that He Who began a good work in us will complete it unto the end" (Philippians 1:6). For that reason, when we look at our lives, we should not become discouraged. We must realize that the Lord is not finished with us yet. His work is progressive as He takes us from faith to faith. We are made just by faith in Him and then our faith in Him becomes a daily process. We can be assured that the Lord will not desert us on our journey or stop in the middle of our progress, but will continue to develop us right up to the time of His return. Faith springs from faith. The initial faith that we received leads to more faith. As we receive the Word of faith daily, the Lord transforms us and renews our mind. Faith arouses greater faith so that we no longer waver in any area of life. We must understand that it is only as we have faith in God and totally trust our past, present, and future lives to Him, that we, being justified, will really learn to live!

Say Today I Will Operate In Faith Today!
Because My Faith Springs From Faith!

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie

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Prayer Is Not Theatrical

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 6th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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Prayer Is Not Theatrical

Scripture: Ecclesiastes 5:2 "Let your words be few."

These are the words of King Solomon and we should pay close attention to them because he was declared to be the wisest man who ever lived. He was actually speaking about our prayers to God, but he wasn't telling us not to talk to God very long. Instead, we are to be careful to hear what God is saying to us and then obey His words. Solomon clarified his words by saying, "Don't be rash with your mouth or let your heart be hasty to utter a word or make a vow before God." He also reminded us that God is in Heaven and we are on Earth. God knows much more about what is going on in our lives than we could ever presume to know so we should keep our ears open for God's voice and our hearts attentive to His spirit. When we stop and listen to God, we will discover that He has more to say about our situation than we do. In fact sometimes we are so busy chattering to God about our problem, that He can't get a word in edgewise to covey His solution to us. We are to be still and to know that He is God.

Jesus said similar words about our prayers. He said, "Don't use vain repetitions, as the heathen, for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking" (Matthew 6:7). Prayer is not supposed to be a big theatrical production but a personal audience with the Lord. Yet many times, in our attempt to get what we want, we either make rash promises to God or resort to making railing accusations about the things that are happening in our lives that we do not understand. We forget that God is still God Almighty, the Creator of Heaven and Earth, and that He is still on the throne and in control.

Solomon said, "To listen is better than to speak foolish words." Jesus said, "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" (Luke 6:45). Foolish words are not profitable, for by our words we are either justified or condemned. We must not allow our mouths to lead us into sin and condemnation. We need to be quiet unless we know that we are praying according to God's will. When we come to God we need to come without formulas and techniques. We are to simply approach Him like a child approaches their earthly father. When we do this, we will evoke God's presence. Then as we find ourselves alone with God, we will be so awed by His presence that our focus will shift from ourselves to Him. In His presence, we will forget about our own desires and we will want His will to be done in our lives here on Earth as He has ordained in Heaven. When we commune with the Lord, let our words be few so that we can listen and hear what the Lord is saying to us!

Remember…
Prayer Is Not Theatrical
But A Personal Audience With The Lord

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie
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Can You Be Faithful Until The Chosen Time?

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 5th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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Can You Be Faithful Until The Chosen Time?



Scripture: Psalms 94:9 "He that planted the ear, shall He not hear? He that formed the eye, shall He not see?"



We have either experienced the injustice of the wicked in our own lives, have seen it happen in the lives of our friends and family, or have witnessed it in the news media. We have also heard the wicked boast about the unpleasant things that they have done. They have even laughed and scorned in the face of their victims. Our heart goes out to those who are being oppressed in such a manner as this and we wonder why God lingers and allows the injustice to happen to the innocent instead of bringing immediate judgment. Yet, we must remember that God has a season for all things. God made the eye. He is not blind, He is merciful. God made the ear. He is not deaf, He is full of grace. He is hearing and seeing everything that is happening, yet He is patient and will wait a long season for the arrogant and wicked to repent of their evil ways. There will come a time, however, that His grace will expire and His mercy will cease. He will then suddenly arise, avenge the righteous, and deal with the wicked.

We should not be fearful and frustrated when it seems that evil is prevailing in the world about us. When there is nothing that we can do to remedy the situation, we must place our confidence in God and trust His judgment, for He knows much more about the situation than we do. He understands the hearts of all men and knows their deepest motives. He may be working with their soul and giving them one more chance. We must believe that the God who made the ears and formed the eyes is the One who is in charge. We must keep the spirit of faith alive in our own hearts and put our trust in Him. As we allow God to be the Lord over the situation, He will take care of all the matters that concern us at
“His chosen time.’’

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie
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Do You Have Faith From The Heart?

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 4th, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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Do You Have Faith From The Heart?



Scripture: Jeremiah 29:13 "You shall seek Me, and find Me, when you shall search for Me with all your heart."

We are standing on the threshold of change. The Lord is moving in a more powerful way than ever before and an entirely new dimension is opening before us. His word is made available to us daily through many different mediums so that we are able grow in His wisdom and understand His will. His spirit is calling us into a place of deeper intimacy with Him so that we can know His heart. When we understand God's will and yield our lives to His heart's desire, our prayers will reach into eternity and bring His infinite power to Earth. Our lives will show forth His glory and our witness will bring honor to Him and Him alone.

Yet as with anything that is worth having, there is a price that must be paid in order to enter this place of intimacy and experience the deeper dimension of God's glory and grace. Jeremiah said that we would only find God when we search for Him with all of our heart. God is not playing hard to get, but He will not be found until a diligent search is made. He is looking for total commitment and He will not show Himself to us until He sees that our heart is desperate for Him. We will not experience God if we approach Him with prayers that are inspired by our own foolish desires and notions. If we intend to find God at all, His kingdom must be our main interest. He must become more important to us than our next breath, the food that we eat, or the water that we drink. Our entire lives must communication to God that He is life to our being and that we love Him for who He is, not for what He gives.

Fathers and mothers always rejoice to see their children learn and they celebrate each new level of growth. So it is with God, our Father. He rejoices over us as we experience spiritual growth and is very pleased when the borders of our territory are enlarged. Yet, it is evident that we cannot travel alone or open the doors by ourselves. We need the Lord to direct our path and help us step over the threshold so that we might experience this new place that He has prepared for us. God, Himself, is the greater and deeper dimension that we seek, and beside Him, there is no other. He invites us to come and experience His awesome presence. He even gives us the formula of how to experience this place of intimacy, but there is a price to be paid before we enter this deeper dimension of His glory. It will take true faith on our part to find God, effort to seek for Him, and personal sacrifice as we search for Him with all of our heart.

Do You Have Faith From The Heart?

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie
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The Threefold Trinity

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 3rd, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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The Threefold Trinity


Scripture: Ecclesiastes 4:12 "A threefold cord is not quickly broken."

When you have need of a cord or a rope, you make sure that its strength matches the required task. A single or double corded rope may be okay for some light chore, but it will certainly break under excessive pressure. A rope made with three cords, however, will afford greater strength and be harder to break. Solomon referred to this threefold cord in reference to relationships and declared that it is never easy for us to stand alone in life's situations. We need each other in order to enhance our strength. He said that two are better than one, and three offer an even greater strength, which cannot be easily or quickly broken.

This threefold concept of strength holds true in the spiritual realm as well as it does in natural relationships. We are designed to be part of a threefold spiritual cord. In I Timothy 2:1, the Apostle Paul told Timothy that the believers should pray and make intercession for all men. We must understand that the Lord entrusted us with the responsibility to be part of the process of helping others to get their needs met through prayer. We are given the awesome privilege of approaching the throne of God for them, yet, we do not stand alone in this endeavor. There are two others who stand with us and are continually making intercession for the saints of God. Romans 8:34 tells us that Christ is sitting at the right hand of God, making intercession for us. Jesus is the Mediator between us and God, the Father, and He prays while the enemy's tries to sift us as wheat. And Romans 8:26 says, "The Holy Spirit makes intercession for us." He helps us pray when we don't know how or what to pray. When all that we can do is groan in the spirit, He speaks to the Father on our behalf. How could our strength ever fail with this threefold bond in the spirit?

I pray that this knowledge will be a strength to you as you face the challenges ahead. When it seems you are all alone and you don't know what to do, remember there is always someone praying for you. Regardless of the uncertainties and battles that you are facing, you must believe that there is a threefold cord that is working in your favor. God is calling others to stand in the gap for your needs and their prayers will be joined with the intercessions of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. You must also be sensitive to the Spirit because God will call you to this same special place of intercession and much of the outcome will depend upon your prayers. Jesus Christ, The Holy Spirit, and the believer; the strength of this awesome threefold cord cannot easily or quickly be broken.
The “Father, Son and the Holy Spirit”…
Amen!

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie
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Will You Comfort Someone Today!

Faith Filled Thoughts
February 2nd, 2009
By Connie Ciccone
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Will You Comfort Someone Today!

Scripture: II Corinthians 1:3-4 "Blessed be God ... Who comforted us in all our tribulations, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort that we ourselves are comforted by God."

Paul declares that God comforts us in all of our tribulations so that we may be able to comfort others who are in any kind of trouble. Hardships are not fun, but they work together for good in our lives to bring us to a better understanding of the situations that others are facing. We can't give others hope for the mountaintop if we haven't successfully made it through the shadows in the valley. We can't direct someone through a tunnel of depression if we haven't experienced the darkness of a wounded spirit ourselves. Nor can we mend those with a broken heart if we've never experienced disappointment. We could never understand the anxieties of those who are facing financial lack if we have no understanding in that area. And how could we ever be touched with the physical suffering and pain of others if our own infirmities had not birthed compassion in our soul?

Comforting others is a ministry in itself, for out of the greatest pain comes the sweetest songs of assurance. The hard places in our past show us how to bring deliverance to the wounded. The emotional trials that we have faced allow us to be able to be touched by their feelings. And because we have cried, we know how to wipe away their tears. Because we have faced dry desert places and then experienced God in fresh new ways, we can assure them that God will also prepare a stream in their desert. Because we have gone through grief and sorrow, we can assure them that their season of joy will come again. Because we have been weary ourselves and have carried heavy burdens, we know how to encourage and lift their heavy load. And because we have found it necessary at times to lean on the prayers of others, we are able to give ourselves easily to intercession when prayer is needed.

The hurting never run to those who have never suffered. And likewise, those who need counsel and a Faith Filled Thought never seek out those without experience. We are not above our Master. Jesus suffered and was touched by the feelings that we would experience and was tempted in all of the temptations that He knew we would face (Hebrews 4:15). He gave Himself to pain so that He could become a valid comforter through the Holy Spirit. So, even though suffering is hard for us, it brings with it an education that is of greater benefit than earning a degree. Suffering creates a dwelling place in our heart for the compassion of God and it develops a skillfulness that enables us to minister according to the will of God. At the end, we are able to agree with the Apostle Paul and say,

"Blessed be God ... Who has comforted me in all my tribulations so that I may be able to comfort others who are in any trouble."

May He Bless You and Keep You Today!

With Great Love
IN HIS SERVICE
Connie
Please click below to see new poems Jesus added to our site:
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