Do You Know That the Devil is Scheming Against You Daily?

Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Ephesians 6:13 (NLT) This was the first thing I read this morning. One thing I have learned while reading the Bible is that the battle is real. Satan has been trying to keep God's people in bondage all throughout history. You read about his first spiritual attack in Genesis right in the beginning when He convinced Eve to take a bite of the forbidden fruit. You read about his next attack as you discover what happened to Abel, Adam and Eve's son. You see it unfolding as you read the history of King Saul and King David and it is well written about during the days that Jesus walked the earth. Do not fool yourself into believing the battle is still not going on. It is. Do not believe that Satan doesn't know the likes of you. He does. He has been roaming this earth for thousands of years. He has way more practice at this type of war than any human being could dream of having. We have one major event on our side, the resurrection of Christ. He conquered death. It is through Him that we can also win the battle. Another thing I have learned when reading snippets of scripture is that anytime you see the word 'therefore' at the beginning, it is important to see what was shared prior to the 'therefore'! With that being said, let us dive a little deeper into God's word this morning. 6:11: Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. 6:12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the word forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. This was the first thing I read this morning. One thing I have learned while reading the Bible is that the battle is real. Satan has been trying to keep God's people in bondage all throughout history. You read about his first spiritual attack in Genesis right in the beginning when He convinced Eve to take a bite of the forbidden fruit. You read about his next attack as you discover what happened to Abel, Adam and Eve's son. You see it unfolding as you read the history of King Saul and King David and it is well written about during the days that Jesus walked the earth. Do not fool yourself into believing the battle is still not going on. It is. Do not believe that Satan doesn't know the likes of you. He does. He has been roaming this earth for thousands of years. He has way more practice at this type of war than any human being could dream of having. We have one major event on our side, the resurrection of Christ. He conquered death. It is through Him that we can also win the battle.  Another thing I have learned when reading snippets of scripture is that anytime you see the word 'therefore' at the beginning, it is important to see what was shared prior to the 'therefore'! With that being said, let us dive a little deeper into God's word this morning. 6:11: Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. 6:12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the word forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
The battle is brought on by the devil. He schemes and plots and plans to deceive you in any way possible. He speaks to you and at you through others as well as straight to you. It is vital to your well being that you wear all your armor because without it, you are vulnerable. KNOW this as well, Satan never rests. He has attacked me in my dreams before and I have used scripture to defeat him. When you read the gospels you are shown that Jesus also used scripture to defeat Satan but here is a truly chilling thought, Satan quoted scripture to Jesus. One of Satan's greatest accomplishments has been to infiltrate the church. He is not afraid of the Word of God. He uses it himself. He has punishers use it to control people. I get why so many people want nothing to do with religion. For that matter, I want nothing to do with religion! It was the religious ones that plotted to kill Jesus so that they would not lose their power in the world. That my friends is another chilling thought. A church truly has no need to pass a basket at its service. They do that so that more people will be guilted into donating. In all honesty, God doesn't care much for flash. When a basket goes around everyone sees who is giving and often how much. I have always felt extremely uncomfortable when the basket part of the service begins. I imagine I am not alone in that feeling. I attended a church that never passes a basket. It took me a year before I finally learned how to give money to them. They had service to teach about the Word of God only. Sadly, many churches have service to use the Word of God to make a point that often even isn't the true message that God intended you to hear. This particular church that I attended for close to three years, had service and truly taught its members about the Lord. They drove home the point that it was important for you to build a relationship with Him and then share His Love and Truth with others. They also educated you about spiritual warfare. This fellowship had more than enough money to go on mission trips and to help those that needed help and they didn't do it by reciting verses in the Bible that suggest that you are to give money to God. People sought them out to donate money. This is what happens when you are a part of a true church family. Today I would encourage you to seek the Lord for yourself. While it is important to also find a church family, it is even more important that you spend time with the Lord by yourself. Begin by reading His Word. Ephesians is the first book that I studied and within its few chapters, you are taught a lot. If you have never picked up the bible, this would be a great place to start. After you read that book, it would be wise to learn who Jesus is. The four gospels share many of the similar stories but only the Gospel of John fully reveals the Lords love for His people in a way that none of the other Gospels do. Every day read a chapter and reflect on it. Every day seek the Lord and His will. They are both activities that will help you keep focused on the truth and not get pulled under by one of Satan's never ending schemes. Another thing that help is sharing the Lord with others. By encouraging someone else you will be strengthened yourself. Father today I pray that more and more of your children learn about the armor you have so graciously provided us all with. May they learn it exists and then begin using it daily. May the hands and feet of Jesus be as active as they can be, encouraging others to discover God's love for them as well as discovering who they are in Christ. In Jesus name I pray. Amen! Wendy, walks with God, Mom of Many © Wendy Glidden 2014

The Essence of Faith

It's Fantastically Fabulous Fun Filled Friends and Family Friday! Man oh man!! It is only 10 AM and I am on top of the world. So Joyous I feel like dancing! Starting your day with God is so the way to start.

I have gotten in the habit of checking out the encouraging word from K-Love each morning before I do much of anything else. This year, the encouraging words have truly lifted me up into the clouds.

The more you walk with God, the more supernatural things you witness take place. These events strengthen your Faith and I promise you, the stronger your Faith, the more supernatural events you will witness. It truly is an awesome flywheel to spark.

This morning on Facebook, I had this to say when I shared the encouraging word from K-Love:

I just love the encouraging word via K-Love today:

And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him. And since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for. ~ 1 John 5:14-15, NLT

I am confident that He hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases Him. My heart soars when I read truths like this. For within various chapters of my life are testimonials regarding answered prayers, some of them in the craziest ways. It pleases God for us to pray for each other. I just realized I need to get a blog going for my heart is overflowing. I leave you with a link to a story from my past regarding a prayer I said for my mother and the answer I received.  Be blessed and be a blessing 

http://youareworthytoo.blogspot.com/2013/01/awoken-by-answer-to-prayer.html

I am truly blessed to have had my faith strengthened again and again. Faith allows you to drop to your knees and share all that is on you heart because you know He hears you. Even though the Lord already knows your every thought, He Loves to see your heart at work. Secretly I think He even gets a chuckle out of the fit prayers we throw for within those we reveal passion. God is Love in it's most unconditional form. 

Faith helps with your ability to stay in today and not fret about tomorrow for you know God has always got you. You may even have even taken the time to armor yourself with a bit of scripture to help you with anxiety regarding the future. This is my personal favorite reminder: From Matthew 6:34 NIV:

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. ~ Matthew 6:34, NIV

Anxiety is a weapon the evil one uses. If you don't believe in spiritual warfare, you should! I dress for battle every day. Even though I know my God is bigger and I have nothing to fear, I am not foolish about such things. Even Jesus tangled with the Devil. If you don't think he is a formidable foe, well, you don't truly understand how he works. 

As children, we all quickly learned what silent but deadly meant and when someone said that we quickly exited the room. I promise you that the evil one is as close to silent and deadly as a paid assassin. You don't see him right away and often you are already in a fight for your life before you even realize he has entered the picture. 

I read a lot and I listen to great teachings on Moody Radio when I get the chance so you will have to forgive me for I cannot recall where I first heard this but the truth in it is undeniable. Forgive me for this is not the exact quote either. I have a way of compiling information and consolidating it. With that being said, in a gist this is what I took away from the lesson; 'If you think the devil hasn't come across the likes of you, your ego is too big. He has been at this war for a couple thousand years. To date, Jesus is the only one that defeated him. Don't you think you ought to get to know Jesus?' 

When I first started seeking God with all my heart and joined a bible study group, one of the first books of the bible we studied was Ephesians. That is where I learned about the armor to wear and how best to protect yourself against Satan. I would like to take you right to the book of Ephesians, beginning with Chapter 6, verse 10:

verse 10: Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.

verse 11: Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.

verse 12: For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. 

verse 13: Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything to stand firm.

verse 14: Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH THE TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS,

verse 15: and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE;

verse 16: in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.

verse 17: And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Quite an impressive list of armor don't you think. Today I am mainly focusing on the shield of faith and how taking it up you are able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Flaming arrows, that paints quite the picture. The flaming arrows are thoughts meant to take you out. Don't fool yourself for one second. The devil is here to steal, kill and destroy. He will do that by any means possible. Including getting you to believe crazy lies. Think crazy thoughts. Do things you would not do without something, someone pushing you over the edge. These things all stem from you being bombarded with flaming arrows. Put up your shield of faith and protect yourself. Life is a completely different scene as you learn that you truly can make a difference in this battle. All you need is Faith. Don't let the Lord say of you, "Oh ye of little faith". Stand strong in the Lord, remain firm in your belief. He came so you could live this life abundantly. That my friends is some really good news in a world that longs to beat you down, you have a Savior. He is right here with you, waiting for you to call out so He can reveal more of His glory. It is never ending. It is a bright new day. Make the most of it.

Father, I come before you today with great joy in my heart. As a child entering into the age of consent, I knew nothing about armor. I have often wondered how different my life might have turned out had I known all the truths I know today. As you tell us not to worry about tomorrow or yesterday for that matter, I know in my heart that nothing that has taken place in the past was for waste. You use all events for good. You are faithful. Your love is unconditional and I am so grateful for that. I am thankful that I recognize evil for what evil is and that I am today fully aware of my armor needed. I am so blessed to have learned about it when I did. Your timing is always perfect. I know you would have protected me through all of my recent battles regardless. In that I am confident. I also know by wearing my armor, I was able to better withstand the onslaught of attacks I faced this summer. Not only did I withstand, with your strength, I persevered. Here I am, with your help, reaching back in hopes of finding others held in the chains of bondage. Help me with this task Father. Help me be a better leader, help me to be a brighter light, help me call out to the lost and lonely, as well as the overwhelmed. Help my fellow brothers and sisters find their way home. Help them to lift their heads and see the truth. You love your children no matter what! In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

Be blessed my friends and always be a blessing to others <3

Wendy Glidden, walks with God
Mom of Many

© Wendy Glidden 2014

Photo Accessed on 1/13/2017 from: https://www.google.com/search?q=Free+Picture+of+shield+of+faith&rlz=1C1CHBF_enUS711US711&espv=2&biw=1242&bih=557&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiYj57D4L_RAhWF2YMKHbM8AskQ7AkIKg&dpr=1.1#imgrc=PPcQRqWNRdLN7M%3A

When Anger Rises, What is Your Game Plan?

Fantastically Fun-Filled Family Friday! I awoke today to discover the place I get all my health food and cleaning, laundry, bathroom necessities, first aid, cough, cold, fever relief, and beauty supplies is offering their annual membership for a mere $1.00 . . . all new customers also get $20 worth of free items to try when they come back for more goodness in their second, third, fourth and fifth month!!!! That's $100 worth of free items to try that I already know you will love. I switched to this store in March of 2011 and have been a more than happy customer ever since. As my friends know I'm a penny pinching momma. The money this store has saved me is mind blowing. The best part about shopping here has been the peace of mind knowing this manufacture cares about health and wellness. Also this is where I have purchased my 'weight loss supplies' so tasty my children won't keep out of them and yummy enough that you actually enjoy consuming them yourself! Oh and if teeth matter to you, they have the best tooth polish on the market, and all their dental and skin care is safe for those going through chemo or anything like that! Switch stores, save money, provide better health for your entire family. Let me know if you want more details! This is the best gift one friend can give to another. I already did my shopping this morning and threw in the items I need by next week. Upon checkout I was offered buy one get one free items and two of them are my favorite 'candy bars' with purpose! I am so excited!! I am telling you this company should have been called the Rocking Fireworks Health and Wellness store because their sales are so spectacular!.

I am looking forward to my weekend with the children. Michael has his first basketball game tomorrow. He is so excited. He woke up today thinking it was game day! I had to deliver the bad news that today was another school day.

When I got into the office and was finally able to check my email, I read K-Loves encouraging word for the day.

A gentle answer deflects anger. ~ Proverbs 15:1, NLT

I had to giggle to myself as I read this truth. If the bible is not a handbook for how to best walk through situations in life, I don't know what is! When I have a child that is angry and another child steps in to comment on the situation, I have gotten into the habit of stopping them short by simply saying, "Please don't throw gas on my fire!" Meaning the situation is obviously volatile and I do not need any of them increasing that intensity. Dealing with someone who is angry is almost as difficult as dealing with someone who is intoxicated. Anger, in my belief clouds the mind and keeps us from making wise decisions. I know this is also why we are advised to steer clear of anger. Hands down, anger is one of the evil one's best ways to get a foothold into your heart and have more control over your thoughts. When you find yourself getting angry you need to have a game plan to calm yourself down. You may even have to have a basket full of ways to deal with your emotions. One for when you are in the car may not work so well out in the public eye! In the car I call for a moment of silence or singing, their choice. I tell the children I need a moment to calm down and I turn the Christian music up a little so that they know I'm serious! At home, I have even put myself in a time out! It's amazing how little ones will quit what they are doing when you tell them you don't trust yourself because you are so angry so you are going to put yourself in a five minute time out so that you can have a conversation with your heavenly Father! When getting angry at a spouse I refuse to fight it out in a moment of anger. I openly admit I cannot think rationally and I don't want to say something I can't take back. I also have threatened and followed through with prayer as many of you know from the blog post 'Convicted by God' that I published in September. Should you find yourself curious to see how that all played out, here are the links to the three posts that play that entire scene out: 

1. http://youareworthytoo.blogspot.com/2013/09/convicted-by-god.html
2. http://youareworthytoo.blogspot.com/2013/09/dont-fret-god-is-faithful-he-always-has.html
3. http://youareworthytoo.blogspot.com/2013/09/better-off-with-god.html

As my grandma said to me when I was younger, "Be careful what you pray for you just might get it." To which I asked, "Why would I pray for something unless I wanted it?" Which she replied, "God has a sense of humor Wendy, you never know how what you desire will be delivered!" Boy was she ever right about that! My advice don't pray in a moment of anger!! I will admit God is wonderful and he uses everything to work good. I have witnessed it time and time again. Even what I am going through right now. I am amazed to see the changes that have occurred in my life over the last two months. I'm like, pinch me. Is this really my life? I know it is. Even in the midst of turmoil I am dancing in the rain. This is the major difference in living life with your own strength and only for yourself and giving your life to Christ and following Him. I prefer an adventurous life. Of course if you have read my blog posts from the beginning you know that much about my story already! The crazy thing is my life has been MORE adventurous since I got on my knees and said, "Your will not mine".

I hope I have peaked your curiosity enough to get you to at least read those 3 linked posts and even more so to dive back to the beginning of this blog and read it all. There are miracles and all kinds of crazy stuff inside! I have been blessed to have been allowed to be a witness to God's glory in so many ways. I still have so many things to share. I am excited to get back to it as what the Lord has been flashing to me takes me back to after the adoption and my near death to some seriously crazy events. I was fearful on how to share and as with all the rest God is giving it to me in flashes and has me laughing. This weekend as my children go to bed, I will begin drifting back in time! I hope you decide to stick around and read more of my life journey!

Father today I come to you with childish wonder. What an amazing Father you are. How blessed I am to have woken up and returned home. How blind I was. How far I ran. Yet when I got on my knees crying and wailing you opened the door again and welcomed me home. Since then you have saved my life, sent me a witness, allowed me to see my current home shrouded in crystals and so much more. I love how you work. Even through pain you flourish me. I love who I am in Christ. Thank you for grace and mercy. Thank you for your son whose name I pray in. It is my prayer that many more of my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ also get on their knees and give in to your will. Had I only understood that your plan is so much more for me than I could have designed on my own. I am sure I am not the only rebel in the family! Call my fellow rebel brother and sisters home. Break them down Father. Stretch them until they know they can only make it through on your strength. While the process may at first feel painful, I know the beauty on the other end and I pray they are able to glimpse it early on so they are not hurt and confused by the events that will take place. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

Wendy, walks with God
Mom of Many

© Wendy Glidden 2013

Take up the Shield of Faith!

Wild Wacky Wonderful Wednesday! What on earth do you have in store for me today? I was so blessed yesterday to receive so many encouraging comments regarding various posts others have read. If you've read my story from the first post entitled "In the Beginning" you know my desire has always been to be a helpful servant to the Lord. I am at last the Woman that I Admire! I never, in my wildest dreams, envisioned my life as it is today. I am blessed to be a friend to God again. I promise if you seek Him with all your heart He will answer.

I have mentioned through various blogs an alphabet picture that hangs on my wall above my desk at work. I found it at a Goodwill and just had to have it. One would think in 7 months time I would be beyond letter "H" but alas, that is where I am at today! I am pleased to announce I now have a camera that is good enough to snap a picture it, so without further ado, here is my Alphabet Picture:

** I was hoping it would show up better, but this is the best I can get for now!

So today's letter is "H" and the verse for it comes from 1 John, Chapter 4, verse 4 my picture reads:

He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.

However this morning I heard the entire verse on either Moody or K-Love and I caught my breath. After excitedly grabbing my bible I knew I had to share not only the complete quote from verse 4 but I must also share with you more of this chapter. From my MacArthur study Bible Beginning at Chapter 4, verse 1:

verse 1: Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.

verse 2: By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God;

verse 3: and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, of which you have heard that it is coming, and now it is already in the world.

verse 4: You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.

verse 5: They are from the world; therefore they speak as from the world, and the world listens to them. 

verse 6: We are from God; he who knows God listens to us; he who is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.

I love knowing this truth. Satan may be in this world but I have the Holy Spirit IN me and He is so much greater than the evil one. What confidence this brings. All I have to do is remember this little nugget of truth each time I feel the evil one is coming for me. He cannot destroy me. I am firm in my faith.

I allowed Satan to trick me into believing I was no longer worthy of God's attention once. That will NOT happen again! I read my bible today. I did not read it as a child or even a young adult. I knew what I knew and that was not enough armor. Today, I fully dress for war every day. Do you know the elements of armor you need to wage war against the darkness of evil? If not, you can find it all laid out for you in Ephesians, Chapter 6. I am going to begin at verse 11 out of my MacArthur study bible:

verse 11: Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.

verse 12: For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.

verse 13: Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.

verse 14: Stand firm therefore, *HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, AND HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, 

verse 15: and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; 

verse 16: in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 

verse 17: And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God.

Quite an outfit of protection! I know that not being familiar with the word of God allowed the evil one to trick me. The best protection you can give yourself is reading God's word. This increases your Faith, it gives you understanding and so much more. I encourage you to renew your mind daily. There are many ways to begin this process. I have written a blog about renewing your mind and there is a 30 day challenge in there as well. This is the link to that blog: http://youareworthytoo.blogspot.com/2013/05/im-just-girl.html

Do not ever think your faith cannot be strengthened for I find mine strengthened each day! Picking up the bible does something nothing else can. It is why reading the word of God is such a vital part of your armor. Jesus defeated Satan by quoting scripture. If this was His way of defeating the devil, why would you not think it would be your way as well? 

I hope my post today has encouraged you to seek Him with all your heart. We were all created for a purpose. If you are looking for a more joyous life, God is the answer. This is not to say you will never run into trouble. When you read the bible that truth will stand out. What will happen is you will find joy in every day and getting through the trouble that comes your way will become an easier task for your strength, your true strength comes from the Lord. I know that truth beyond a shadow of doubt!

Father I come before you today with gratitude for the armor you have provided us with. How I wish someone had informed me of such things as a child! I pray the word gets out about the armor we all need for our own protection. I pray I am a vessel for such news. I pray countless begin to carry their bibles everywhere they go. I pray countless begin to read your word and share it with all they know. I pray more and more and more of my fellow bothers and sisters become bolder in their faith and join ranks encouraging one another as we are meant to do. I thank you Father for filling me with your love. I thank you for countless blessings that have been bestowed upon me. I thank you for your Grace. I thank you for calling me home. I thank you for how you are using me to reach others who are lost. I ask you to use me more. My life is yours now until my last breath. Thank you Father. In Jesus name I pray! Amen

Today I thought I'd leave you with a song I heard this morning. It is so fitting for this post:

Wendy, Mom of Many

© Wendy Glidden, 2013

Have You Been Called?

Over the last couple of days, again and again and again I have heard "Go forth and Make Disciples." Ironically when I glanced at my alphabet picture on my wall today I realized I am on Letter G and it highlights The book of Matthew, chapter 28, verse 19. Taken out of my MacArthur Study Bible, it reads:

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

Now if you recall, anytime you see therefore you really need to go and read what was happening prior.

I jumped to the beginning of the segment which began at verse 16 only to discover that verse started with the word "But" meaning I needed to go a little further back only to discover to do this verse justice, I needed to start back in Chapter 27. It's such an awesome chapter and it thrills me to no end no matter how many times I read it that I am almost tempted to go even further but for now this will suffice! I am going to start off with Chapter 27 verse 45 and suggest if this intrigues you, do your own due diligence and read the prior 44 verses for yourself!

With that being said, again from my MacArthur Study Bible:

The sub heading is: Jesus Dies; Accompanying Signs

and it references The Book of Mark, Chapter 15, verses 33-41, The book of Luke, Chapter 23, verses 44-49; The book of John 19, verses 28-30

verse 45: Now from the sixth hour darkness fell upon all the land until the ninth hour.

verse 46: About the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, "ELI, ELI, LAMA SABACHTHANI?" that is, "MY GOD, MY GOD, WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME?"

verse 47: And some of those who were standing there, when they heard it, began saying, "This man is calling for Elijah."

verse 48: Immediately one of them ran, and taking a sponge, he filled it with sour wine and put it on a reed, and gave Him a drink.

verse 49: But the rest of them said, "Let us see whether Elijah will come to save Him."

verse 50: And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up His spirit.

verse 51: And behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from the top to bottom; and the earth shook and the rocks were split.

verse 52: The tombs were opened and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised;

verse 53: and coming out of the tombs after His resurrection they entered the holy city and appeared to many.

verse 54: Now the centurion, and those who were with him keeping guard over Jesus, when they saw the earthquake and the things that were happening, became very frightened and said, "Truly this was the Son of God!"

verse 55: Many women were there looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee while ministering to Him.

verse 56: Among them was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.

As we proceed on to verse 57, we have another sub heading: Jesus is Buried. (This part references Mark 15: 42-47; Luke 23: 50-55 and John 19: 38-42)

verse 57: When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who himself had also become a disciple of Jesus.

verse 58: This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate ordered it to be given to him.

verse 59: And Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,

verse 60: and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out of the rock; and he rolled a large stone against the entrance of the tomb and went away.

verse 61: And Mary Magdalene was there, and the other Mary, sitting opposite the grave.

verse 62: Now on the next day, the day after the preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered together with Pilate,

verse 63: and said, "Sir, we remember that when He was still alive that the deceiver said, 'After three days I am to rise again.'

verse 64: Therefore, give orders for the grave to be made secure until the third day, otherwise His disciples may come and steal Him away and say to the people, 'He has risen from the dead', and the last deception will be worse than the first."

verse 65: Pilate said to them, "You have a guard; go, make it as secure as you know how."

verse 66: And they went and made the grave secure, and along with the guard they set a seal on the stone

Now we come to Chapter 28: The subheading for the first 7 verses reads: The Empty Tomb. This section references Mark, Chapter 16, verses 1-8; Luke, Chapter 24, verses 1-11:

verse 1: Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to look at the grave.

verse 2: And behold, a severe earthquake had occurred, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled away the stone and sat upon it,

verse 3: And his appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow.

verse 4: The guards shook for fear of him and became like dead men.

verse 5: The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified.

verse 6: He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying.

verse 7: Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you."

The next subheading is: The Appearance of Jesus to the Women

verse 8: And they left the tomb and quickly with fear and great joy and ran to report it to His disciples.

verse 9: And behold, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they came up and took hold of His feet and worshiped Him.

verse 10: Then Jesus *said to them, Do not be afraid; go and take word to My brethren to leave for Galilee, and there they will see Me."

The next Sub Title: The Bribery of the Soldiers

verse 11: Now while they were on their way, some of the guard came into the city and reported to the chief priests all that had happened.

verse 12: And when they had assembled with the elders and consulted together, they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers,

verse 13: and said, "You are to say, 'His disciples came by night and stole Him away while we were asleep.'

verse 14: And if this should come to the governor's ears, we will win him over and keep you out of trouble."

verse 15: And they took the money and did as they had been instructed; and this story was widely spread among the Jews, and is to this day.

The following sub heading is: The Great Commission

verse 16: But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated.

verse 18: And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.

verse 19: Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit,

verse 20: teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.

You see why I get so excited! Jesus conquered Death. His only request for those brothers and sisters that believe in this Truth is to spread the good news. Honestly, I don't know how you can know all of this and not  share it with others at every opportunity.

Since the beginning Satan has schemed, lied, stolen and deceived countless numbers. Jesus conquered him! The evil one, the devil, The father of lies, he has more names than anyone other than Jesus in the bible. I found this list that really lays out just who Satan is by name and book so that you can verify it all for yourself. http://www.markbeast.com/satan/names-of-satan.htm In all things when attempting to "win" against another team, business, person, you study the competition. You find their weakness, you recognize their strengths. How can you win over Evil if you don't understand the True source? The simple answer is you Can't!

When you realize who Jesus is and what He represents, you also begin to understand who the enemy truly is. Once you accept Christ as your Savior, you must accept Satan for who he is. It is foolish to think him nothing. Satan has been around for a VERY long time. He has had time to practice on countless beings. There is only one person on earth that defeated him and that is Jesus. Jesus Christ, our Savior, already won the battle for us. For daily protection we Must put on our armor each and every day as described in The book of Ephesians. I warn you though, even with dressing daily for the battle, Satan is scheming and looking for a crack in your armor. Don't grow weary for he never grows weary. On top of this you must alert your brothers and sisters. You must spread the good news. You must sound the warning. You are commended to Go forth and make disciples of All nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

I only have one question for you, "Are You Ready to Answer the Call?"

Father, I pray my fellow brothers and sisters hear the call and answer. I pray more of my fellow brothers and sisters that dream of one day working for you, simply start right where they are. I pray we all seek your wisdom. I pray we become excellent students, who in turn, with Love, share what we learn from you Father. I pray we get bolder and brighter. I pray the lost seek the Light.  In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

Wendy, Mom of Many

On a side note, when you see all caps in a New Testament Book, it is a direct quote from a book in the Old Testament.

On a bigger side note, many argue over who Jesus really was. I did a walk through the gospels based on Luke as he goes chronologically in order with his gospel where I attend fellowship on Sunday. It was the most exciting, eye opening, undeniable truths study I have done to date. I, myself cannot recite all the messianic miracles Jesus fulfilled or where they are located, but I did take the time to find an article that lays it all out for you. If you are curious to discover the truth for yourself. Here is the link: http://lbcc.org/files/2012/03/prophesies_yeshua_fulfilled-1.pdf


©Wendy Glidden 2013

Feel Free to Give Up Your Burdens, Help Has Arrived!

Good morning! I hope my blog finds you in a good place. If not, well, perhaps this message is just what the doctor ordered! Today's "Daily Bread" blog in based on the verse listed under the letter "C", courtesy of my Alphabet Picture! The verse itself comes from The Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 11, Verse 28. My New Living Translation, 2nd addition, reads like this:

Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens and I will give you rest."

I don't know about you but there are days I need the world to be lifted off my shoulders. I long for someone else to take my troubles on. I am here to proclaim the Good News to you. Jesus, God's only begotten son, came here to do just that!

My sisters and brothers, I am here to tell you, I took on the world without turning to God for too many years. That is not to say that I ever lost my belief in God. Heck, even Satan and all his minions Believe in God! Sadly, I lost my Faith in God rooting for me somewhere along my life's journey. I allowed the Evil one entrance into my head. 

I allowed myself to be tricked, deceived, lied to. You see, the evil one is a shrewd character. He understands that we have inside of us the desire to please our Heavenly Father. He uses the things we beat ourselves up over to his advantage. He knows our "shames". He throws them in our face and tells us how unworthy we are of God's Love. Satan is an ABSOLUTE Liar! Read your Holy Bible my friends. It overflows with proof of God's Love for YOU. 

While growing up, many of us learned all about Sin and the Pit of Hell. Sunday after Sunday some of us heard lessons talking about a God to be feared. If you were like me, you knew some things you did were down right wrong and you beat yourself up more than needed. You have to come completely clean of these shames. You see, God already knew you would sin... Ironically he knows all of your sins. He's waiting patiently for your to come to terms with these things yourself. If you take a long hard look, you'll see his work in your life. Some people refer to these things as signs. Our Father knew we couldn't make it without some help . . . a LOT of help! It's the reason He was willing to sacrifice His Own Son . . . His ONLY Begotten Son. If you are a parent already, can you wrap your head around that Truth? It's Huge! On a sidenote here, Jesus was aware of this plan of sacrifice. . . everytime he talks about his upcoming sacrifice he immediately gives the good news that He will return; ie: I lay my life down and I will pick it back up.(John 10:17)

Anyway, if you don't open your closet and come clean with God, you are only giving the Devil all he needs to destroy who God intended for you to be.

I feel the need to share the rest of what Jesus said in this chapter:

"Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear and the burden I give you is light."

I think the yoke he is referring to here is sharing the Truth and in sharing we will always reveal the Glory and Grace of God. I know you have all heard the saying, "The Truth shall set you Free." Pardon the pun, but there is a lot of Truth to that statement!

Now that I have come forward and openly admitted my wrongs to not only myself and God but to others as well, I have reduced the Devil's power over me. Nothing in the world feels as good as that! Just like an abusive partner that tries to seclude you from your friends, the Evil one attempts to do the same. If he can convince us that we are not worthy, we are liars, sinners, fakes and frauds, undeserving of goodness, he wins. Do not ALLOW him to rule your life. He came here to destroy you . . . I ask, "Are you willing to let him win?"

Satan is Evil I shout out loud

Declare your Shames, Make your father proud

Not a thing you have done or could ever do

Could keep your Heavenly Father from Loving YOU

Oh the evil one He’s so so shrewd

Using your sins, He’s so so crude

He takes your shames and he places blames

His only goal is to keep you from your work

I promise you the Devil’s a vicious jerk

He is cruel, he’s so unkind

With negativity he invades your mind

But you have so much light deep inside

Lay down your ego, put down your pride

Not one of us is perfect, we all fall flat

But you see Your Father, He knew all that

Step out of the shadows and walk in the light

Give Glory to God as you win the fight!

It is my prayer for you today that you begin to open yourself up to the Love of God. I pray that if you have never given the Word of God the time of day, you begin to do so. I pray you seek out others who are leading the fight to spiritual freedom. I pray that God helps you find them. I pray if you are lost, lonely or hopeless that you are able to recognize the signs that God sends you. In Jesus name, Amen.

Love,

Wendy, Mom of Many



Copyright © 2013 [ Wendy L Glidden ] All Rights Reserved.

Why your Life Depends on Knowing Scripture!

While the Holy Bible is God's Word to us it is also your shield (your bullet proof vest so to say). I ask you this, "Isn't it easier to accomplish something when you have all the right tools?" Of course it is! Who would go into battle without dressing for it? Only a Fool would I proclaim. If you are not a fool, I suggest if you don't have a bible, you find yourself a copy of The Holy Bible you like. If you are not aware, Goodwill will allow you to have one Holy Bible for Free!

Have you ever read the story regarding Jesus in the desert when the Devil came to tempt him? If not, I invite you to take a trip in time with me . . . If you have your Holy Bible on Hand I encourage you to open to Luke, Chapter 4

This is how my New Living Translation 2nd Addition reads:

Jesus was about thirty years old when he began his public ministry. Prior to him beginning his ministry, he was baptized like many others by John the Baptist. That happened in the Jordan River. As he was praying, the heavens opened and the Holy Spirit Descended on him like a dove. A voice from heaven said, "You are my beloved son and you bring me great joy." Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit returned from the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit in the wilderness where he was tempted by the devil for forty days! Jesus ate nothing all that time and became very hungry.

Then the devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become a loaf of bread."

Jesus replied, "NO! The Scriptures say, 'People do not live by bread alone.'*"

Then the devil took him up and revealed to him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. "I will give you the Glory of These Kingdoms and Authority over them," Because they are Mine to Give to anyone I please. I will give it all to you if you will worship me."

Jesus replied, "The Scriptures say, 'You Must worship the Lord Your God and serve ONLY him.'**"

Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, "If you are the Son of God jump off! For the scriptures say, "He will order his Angels to protect and guard you. They will hold you up with their hands so you won't even hurt your foot on a stone.'***"

Jesus responded, "The Scriptures also say, 'You must not test the Lord your God.'****"

After this the devil left him until the next opportunity came.

Things that I took from this:

1. The devil knows Scripture . . . he can even quote it!

2. Jesus used Scripture to Defeat the Devil!

3. The Devil made mention that He was the one in charge of 'the Glory of These Kingdoms'

If Jesus used Scripture on the devil to defeat him what makes you think you can defend yourself without it? The short and simple answer is, "You can't!" Reading the word is a VITAL part of your armor! Without it you might as well waltz into battle without so much as a shirt!

Jesus did not use long speeches against the devil. Short and sweet Scripture alone did the trick. Funny enough the devil quotes a longer Scripture than Jesus did trying to trick Jesus!

Also, most interesting to me is the fact that in this passage the Devil admits that he has the 'Glory of These Kingdoms AND Authority over them'. To me he slipped there . . . what he basically did in this passage is take credit for things that happen here on earth. I say to you the Devil has Authority over these Kingdoms (those our ancestors lived through and the one we are living through today. It is not until Jesus returns that God is in charge of all that goes on in this world. God has the power to heal your heart. Your flesh . . . that's simply not the same.  The devil is in charge of that! Next time I suggest you give evil the credit where evil things are concerned! I look forward to the end of the world as we know it. We are so far from where we started. I don't know about you but I'd love to live in the Garden of Eden!

The Reference to the Quotes from Scripture

 *  Jesus is referencing Deuteronomy. This Book was written by Moses! I'm going to start in Chapter 8 verse 2 as it is written in the Holy Bible I have credited above and I will end at Chapter 8 verse 6: Remember how the Lord your God led you through the wilderness for these 40 years, humbling you, testing you to prove your character and to find out whether or not you would obey his commands. Yes, he humbled you by letting you go hungry and then feeding you with manna, a food previously unknown to you and your ancestors. He did it to teach you that people do not live on bread alone; rather, we live by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. For all these forty years your clothes didn't wear out, and your feet didn't blister or swell. Think about it: Just as a parent disciplines a child, the Lord your God disciplines you for your own good. So obey the commands of the Lord your God by walking in his ways and fearing him.'

**  Again Jesus is referencing Deuteronomy written by Moses: I am going to start in Chapter 6 verse 13: 'You must fear the Lord your God and serve him. When you take an oath, you must use only his name.'

Meaning (pardon the pun) No way in HELL are you supposed to worship FALSE idols! That would include the devil, actors, musical stars, athletes . . . they are meant to take your attention! Focusing on these false idols is not a wise investment of your time.

*** The book of Psalms Chapter / Song / Poem 91 is where the devil went to for his quote from Scripture. In it's entirety, It reads like this from my copy: 'Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God and I trust Him. For He will rescue you from every trap and protect you from deadly disease. He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection. Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night nor the arrow that flies in the day. Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness nor the disaster that strikes at midday. Though a thousand fall at your side, though ten thousand are dying around you these evils will not touch you. Just open your eyes and see how the wicked are punished. If you make the Lord your refuge, if you make the Most High your shelter, no evil will conquer you; no plague will come near your home. For he will order his angels to protect you where ever you go. They will hold you up with their hands so you won't even hurt your foot on a stone. You will trample upon lions and cobras; you will crush fierce lions and serpents under your feet! The Lord says, "I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer: I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them. I will reward them with a long life and give them my salvation."

  I find it interesting that the Devil chose a Psalm that was written by a complete unknown author. According to Jewish tradition, David wrote 73 of the Psalms, Asaph wrote twelve, the sons of Korah wrote nine of them; King Solomon wrote two; Heman (with the sons of Korah), Ethan and Moses each wrote one, and fifty-one Psalms are Anonymous!

****Again Jesus goes right back to Deuteronomy and quotes from Chapter 6 verse 16: 'You must not test the Lord your God as you did when you complained at Massah.'

If you notice the devil quoted word for word the Scripture . . . to him they are only word.s Until you say them with conviction of the heart they contain no power against him. This is why you must "test the spirits" to see if they are good or evil. . . even the evil can cloak themselves by using the word. Using and believing are TWO very different things. It is YOUR FAITH in the WORD that is the source of the POWER of God. He has given you all you need . . . he is waiting to see if you are his humble servant. That my friend is your choice. That is your FREE WILL.

I honestly had no idea what I was going to write today. I don't even quite know how all of this transpired I just know that I knew it was what I was supposed to share. If I haven't mentioned it before I am just learning my way around the Holy Bible and it amazes me no matter where I decide to read. My heart races and I am amazed at how this all comes to life. I have read all my life. This by far is the most intriguing inspirational awe inspiring Book I have EVER picked up! I hope you are encouraged to pick up a copy if you don't have one and dive in. It is not important which translation you grab but make sure you open a few and read through them . . . if it is hard for you to follow pick another version. What is the point of having a book on hand that doesn't come to life when you open it?

I pray that you stumble upon the right path and then follow it recognizing that while it may be narrow it is more peaceful. The fruits of the spirit can be found along the skinniest of roads . . . want some real nutrition, follow me down this narrow path.

Wendy, Mom of Many




Copyright © 2013 [ Wendy L Glidden ] All Rights Reserved.