Life Under Fire

In any situation or circumstance that causes us to step back and take a good look at what’s going on, there will be major life altering decisions that will follow.  Maybe that's where you are right now.

Often times it will be things we never anticipated or expected which leave us wondering if there really is a God, where is He in all of this?  This year there have been a few times that thought has crossed my mind, but God's grace was always there even during those difficult situations.

If we’re honest with ourselves, the unknown is quite scary and we may find ourselves believing things are getting worse.  Hope took an exit and reality has smacked us in the face with dreams shattered or lost forever.

This analysis may be so for many, but I’d like to point out this fact.  For those who have accepted Jesus as Savior, we have to understand that our life will always be under fire from the evil one.  We need to be reminded that we are a new creation and the old things in life that once consumed us are no longer there.  Despite how things look, there is always hope because it's not based on our own abilities but God's promises.

The Bible teaches that all things have become new for the individual who has given their life to Christ.  That means, troubles may still try to overwhelm us, but with the free gift of salvation comes Holy Spirit power through the favor of God to defeat the ways of the devil.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ (if you are a child of God’s), he/she is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”  (2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV)

The Amplified translation states it as an “awakening” spiritually that brings an entire new life and way of thinking that is higher than the way the world sees things.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ (that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior), he/she is a new creature (reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit); the old things (the previous moral and spiritual condition) have passed away.  Behold, new things have come (because spiritual awakening brings a new life).”

Salvation through Christ Jesus changes life for any believer, because of the love of God and His unmerited grace (favor) on that individual.  It opens doors that no one can open, altering situations the world isn’t capable of understanding.

Just like the old year has come and gone, so is your old life of disappointments before salvation.  When you accept Jesus as your Savior (who forgive us of our sins), a new life in Christ begins where it can be filled with the most wonderful opportunities you could even imagine.  

As long as we are on this earth life will always be "under fire" of some kind because of sin and the devil.  The good news is that through Jesus and the Holy Spirit you will never experience those situations alone.  God will be with you through them all if you let Him be a part of your life. (Yes, tell me more about salvation.)

It's time to renew your hope, dreams and vision.  As the year comes to a close, why not begin the new one with God's unmerited favor on your life?  It will be a year of new beginnings that you'll never forget!

Until next time, may God's favor shine on you in the new year!

Favored1 on Twitter, You Tube, Pinterest, Facebook and Articles.    

Maybe you don’t know the Living God that I know, but would like to have this kind of favor in your life also.  Click on the above tab “Tell Me About Jesus” for more information on becoming a child of the Savior.  

Content and Image Copyright from Favored1. Do not copy.  Book Advert Photo by Anthony Godinho.

Disclaimer Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief.  The reference to satan or devil are not capitalized intentionally.

Unless noted, scripture reference in series was taken from the New King James Bible Version provided by Bible Gateway. Image Creative Common License if not specified.   

Life Under Fire, Inspiration, Fay Ann Daniels, Daily Favor Blog, Encouragement, Favored1, Daily Favor Teaching Blog, Salvation, Unmerited Favor, Promises of God, Fear

A Christmas Blessing

This Christmas season as I testify of God's love, goodness and faithfulness, it is my prayer that no matter what you are experiencing at this time, the Light of Jesus will overcome any darkness. 

The promises of God are real and remain true for all who will believe on Jesus, (the Messiah who was born in a manger in a little town of Bethlehem) that came to forgive and save souls. 

I pray He leads you on the path to His unmerited favor now and in the coming year.

May God bless and grant you:

The Light of Christmas (Jesus) to light your path, which is faith.

The warmth of Christmas, which is God's love.

The radiance of Christmas, which is purity.

The belief in Christmas, which is Truth.

The all of Christmas, which is Christ.

(Taken from Wilda English's poem, emphasis mine.)

Merry Christmas Favored Friends!

Until next time, may the favor of God light your way!

I Am the Light to favor! - Jesus Christ

Favored1 on Twitter, You Tube, Pinterest, Facebook and Articles.    

Maybe you don’t know the Living God that I know, but would like to have this kind of favor in your life also.  Click on the above tab “Tell Me About Jesus” for more information on becoming a child of the Savior.  

Content and Image Copyright from Favored1. Do not copy.  Book Advert Photo by Anthony Godinho.

Disclaimer Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief.  The reference to satan or devil are not capitalized intentionally.

Unless noted, scripture reference in series was taken from the New King James Bible Version provided by Bible Gateway. Image Creative Common License if not specified.   

Christmas, Birth of Christ, Favored Life Lesson, Christian Living, Inspiration, Fay Ann Daniels, Daily Favor Blog, Encouragement, Favored1, Daily Favor Teaching Blog, The True Meaning of Christmas, A Christmas Blessing, Christmas Prayer

Have You Considered the Light?

I have something for you to consider in your holiday activities that could lead someone to the Light of the World - Jesus. 

Have you thought about how decorating with lights at Christmas affects people emotionally, physically and even more so, spiritually?  Most haven't, but it's true.  A few simple lights have the power to change the life of someone forever!

Maybe you never thought much about putting up a few lighted things around your yard or residence, but it can make a difference to someone and just might cause them to ask about the Jesus you call Savior.

You may ask, "Why should I decorate with lights?  What difference does it make if I put up lights or not?  They're just symbolic to some and don't really mean anything."

I understand your point and relate to your reasoning, after all, not everyone celebrates Christmas or believes in the whole Christmas story.  That may be so, however, true believers in the Christchild are identified as Sons and Daughters of Light.

Understanding this the next thing to consider is "What does light symbolize biblically and how does that relate to me?  Glad you asked.

Scriptures teach that "light" is a symbol of awareness; that lightbulb moment to insight on something once hidden to our thoughts.  It's revelation into the wisdom of God through the gift of the Holy Spirit given to individuals upon receiving Christ into their lives as Lord and Savior.

The truth about Christ (born into this world as a baby therefore giving us Christmas) has penetrated into their hearts, shedding the Light of Hope to all they come in contact with throughout the day.  These individuals no longer associate with things of darkness from the life they formerly lived when being guided by the prince of darkness, satan.

Now as Children of Light (of God), they operate in the Fruit of the Holy Spirit with a lifestyle that represents one who lives holy, seeks goodness, is full of grace (favor), wisdom, knowledge and understanding into the things of God.  They operate in revelation knowledge of the heart of God and shed light into living as Christ followers, remembering what they used to be and where God has brought them currently.

"For you were once darkness, but now your are light in the Lord. Walk as children of Light." (Ephesians 5:8 NKJV)

Lead Them To the Light

Children of God (aka Children of Light) are to represent lives that draw people to Jesus in the things we say and do, which includes decorating (or even not decorating).  Think of it like this.

People are generally attracted to lighted areas, especially at Christmastime.  Unless someone  is looking to start trouble, no one in their right mind intentionally heads down a dark alley; it just doesn't make sense.  A dark path, street or roadway isn't inviting and most people will try to avoid those areas if possible.

I know from experience that if we see decorative lights several streets over from where we are traveling, we will take a quick detour and head toward the light.  Seeing a few lights here and there brings joy to our spirit and is uplifting.   Shouldn't we try to stimulate an atmosphere around our homes or neighborhood as well?  Isn't time to lead people to the Light?

Once we scope out the scene it doesn't take long to recognize if the people believe in Christmas as the birth of Christ or view it as a worldly celebration.  When drivers pass your dwelling at night during the season of giving, what are they receiving from you?  Can they tell that "Christians" live in your place or is it like every other house on the block - dark with no signs of Light?

Darkness doesn't attract anything or anyone, and the devil knows that.  Believers need to strive to be a "light" on the hill so to speak.  It doesn't have to be something elaborate, but in fact can be something quite simple.

Our small front yard has a flower pot that proudly displays a sign stating, "Happy Birthday Jesus."  That's it ... but without Christmas lights on the property to draw the attention of people to the area, only regular traffic to that street would ever see it.  

We knew that white lights on the house would attract people, and when they passed by they could see the sign from the glow that surrounded it.  Those three words are an open testimony of Whom we believe in and serve - without speaking one word audibly. 

"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill canot be hiddden." (Matthew 5:14 NKJV)

"Therefore take heed (notice, be aware) that the light which is in you is not darkness." (Luke 11:35 NKJV)

In planning for the holiday season, have you considered the "Light"?  How have you let others know that Jesus is and remains the center and reason for your celebration?  We are not the light, but like John the Baptist, a witness for the Light, Jesus Christ the Messiah who gives forgiveness of sins and salvation to all who believe in Him. (from John 1)

By using a few festive lights create an environment around your place that will draw others to Jesus, the true Light and meaning of Christmas.

Until next time, favor the shine the Light of Jesus!

Shine the Light of Jesus with Christmas Favor: A Season of Miracles.

A teaching devotional that is designed to take you spiritually through the Christmas season.  Download it or favor it as a gift.  

Favored1 on Twitter, You Tube, Pinterest, Facebook and Articles.    

Maybe you don’t know the Living God that I know, but would like to have this kind of favor in your life also.  Click on the above tab “Tell Me About Jesus” for more information on becoming a child of the Savior.  

Content and Image Copyright from Favored1. Do not copy.  Book Advert Photo by Anthony Godinho.

Disclaimer Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief.  The reference to satan or devil are not capitalized intentionally.

Unless noted, scripture reference in series was taken from the New King James Bible Version provided by Bible Gateway. Image Creative Common License if not specified.   

Christmas, Birth of Christ, Favored Life Lesson, Christian Living, Inspiration, Have You Concidered the Light, Fay Ann Daniels, Daily Favor Blog, Encouragement, Favored1, Daily Favor Teaching Blog, The True Meaning of Christmas, Making Favored Decisions, Christmas Decorating with Lights

The True Focus of Christmas

As I walked around my neighborhood this week, I noticed a lot of people taking advantage of the warm weather by actively decorating their yards for Christmas. 

I wanted to get on board but knew it would have to wait a few more days as my focus was on something else.

With the cold front that came in several weeks ago I wasn't able to properly get my plants ready to winter over in our shed.  I needed more time and a few warm days to repot some of my beauties.  

In prayer I made my request to the Lord and by His grace it was granted.  For a good portion of the afternoon, I kept at it to get the work done in repotting and replanting.  With my husband's help we completed the task just as the street lights came on for the evening.

Then yesterday I realized what was happening and purposed in my heart to set aside all the things that "had to" get done (including writing) and simply enjoy what God was doing in my life, directing my thoughts upward and not on my needs or desires.  Focusing on what God had recently done in our lives and the beautiful days He had favored us with, I hoped to spend time with my husband around a backyard campfire.  At least that was my intention.

After taking care of the cat rescues and other responsibilities of the day, it was time to put the "plan" into action.  I gathered broken branches, bits of cardboard and handfuls of leaves to get our little fire started enough to roast marshmallows and cook a few vegan hot dogs.   It didn't take much to get the fire burning, but it took great effort to keep it a blaze!

Back and forth I kept gathering undersized bundles of twigs from around the yard.  The flame finally got going when I realized I didn't have anything to hold the food over the fire, and ran into the house to quick find something before the fire was quenched.

Frantically scrambling through each kitchen drawer, I couldn't find any of the utensils needed to do the job, not even one skewer!  I attempted to use tongs to hold the hot dog, but it fell in the ashes twice ... not the taste I was going for - yuck!

Good old sticks worked for the marshmallow, but it melted and half fell on the ground.  By then it was late and our relaxing time around the night fire came to an end.  

In the end, when did I actually spend time praising God for the favor He showed in giving us those extra days of warmth, and exactly how much quality hubby time was kindled over that fire?  Not much on either counts unfortunately.  The true focus of the event received little or no attention at all.

Where Is Your Focus?

If it's not one thing it's another that distracts us from what really matters, wouldn't you agree? 

It's easy to shift our thinking on other things that don't really have an eternal value, especially during the holidays.  I've done it more than I'd like to admit (even though I just did).  

My neighbors wanted to decorate their yards, I wanted to put my gardening to bed for the winter, the world is preparing for who knows what ... and you my friend, where is your focus right now?

Although none of these things are wrong in and of themselves, do they focus on the true meaning of why we celebrate Christmas?  Perhaps in some way we squeeze in religious activities to validate our actions, but let us not make them the focus of Christmas either.   If all of our behaviors in preparing for the season of giving don't line up with reason there is a holiday in the first place, why are we doing them? 

That leads me to sharing a few of the reasons why I specifically wrote a Christmas book.  It was (and is) my desire to help bring back the true focus of the holiday - Jesus!   

Another reason is that with each chapter read, you learn about the love of God and how it is His desire (through the Holy Spirit) to pour out His favor on those who chose to believe in His Son.  

Scriptures teach us that as Jesus grew in favor from God and mankind, and so can we as followers of Him.

"... and Jesus increased in wisdom, stature, and in favor with God and man."  (Luke 2:52 NKJV)

How was it possible for Jesus to receive such privilege all the days of His life?  Jesus gained favor from God because He prayed and remained focused on obeying His Heavenly Father and earthly parents.  Obedience is proof that we love God because we keep His commandments.  In doing so, He rewards with blessings that result in favor of some form.

Every time we read about favor in the Holy Bible, there is evidence of repentance, obedience, praise and thanksgiving to God.  This year as you enter into the seasonal festivities, don't let the events overshadow the true focus of Christmas. 

I encourage you to grow in grace, knowledge and wisdom of the Lord.  Believe me, you will highly favor the rewards!

"Grow in the loving grace (favor, blessings and true knowledge) that Christ gives you.  Learn to know our Lord Jesus Christ better.  He is the One Who saves.  May He have all the shining-greatness now and forever. Let it be so." (2 Peter 3:18 NLV emphasis mine)

Until next time, favor focusing on Christ

Help stay focused this season with Christmas Favor: A Season of Miracles.

A teaching devotional that is designed to take you spiritually through the Christmas season.  Download it or favor it as a gift.  

Favored1 on Facebook, Twitter, You Tube, Pinterest and Articles.    

Maybe you don’t know the Living God that I know, but would like to have this kind of favor in your life also.  Click on the above tab “Tell Me About Jesus” for more information on becoming a child of the Savior.  

Content and Image Copyright from Favored1. Do not copy.  Book Advert Photo by Anthony Godinho.

Disclaimer Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief.  

Unless noted, scripture reference in series was taken from the New King James Bible Version provided by Bible Gateway. Image Image 2 Creative Common License if not specified.   

Christmas, Birth of Christ, Favored Life Lesson, Decision Making, Christian Living, Inspiration, Life Lessons, Prayer, Fay Ann Daniels, Daily Favor Blog, Encouragement, Favored1, Daily Favor Teaching Blog, The True Meaning of Christmas