Today I decided to dive into this word "DISCIPLINE". When the ants came for their visit that was a word that seemed to SHOUT OUT to me. I am NOT a fan of that word. For some reason it feels heavy and burdensome. Like punishment. But really, it is preparation. KEEP THE FAITH and TRUST that He is working all things for HIS GLORY. Discipline means "self control" - rules and orders to be obeyed.
Going to church even if you don't feel like it. Once commitment is "locked in" discipline becomes automatic. Decide to change your life. Clarity, Commitment, Consistency, Control, Passion coupled with Direction and Purpose POWERFUL Engaging in regular physical activity is a way to help you to develop discipline and see the fruits of your labor. It's little movements over a period of time that make the difference.
Knowing your strengths and weaknesses and forgiving yourself are the first steps to victory. Conquering thy self is the first step to VICTORY!! I heard God tell me I need to get my finances in order. Finances?! I'm barely making ends meet... The ants came to remind me that I need to have a plan in place. To get ready for a blessing. Look a head. Stop relying on motivation do it to set a foundation. Prepare for the coming season.
In my past I never had to have a budget. I always made more money then I spent. The tables have turned and now I'm finding myself praying for a miracle each and every day. Because I don't know HOW I'm going to pay for everything? My bills are coming due and I DO NOT HAVE THE FUNDS. He whispers, "not yet." Jesus is patiently and lovingly teaching me it's not the HOW but it's the WHO.
He says He is the Way Maker, The Miracle Worker, The Promise Keeper and He WORKS ALL THINGS FOR MY GOOD. WHO is my supplier?- Jehovah Jireh! He meets all my needs. Exceedingly and abundantly. He promised that He would be my daily bread and He has and continues to be. It's the "world" that puts fear in me thinking I don't have a money in the bank to rely on.
A few days ago, I went upstairs to search for some old pictures. I found a super cute pic of me maybe 5 years old. I was so excited to post the pic. On the way down the stairs I heard him say, I took away your jobs because you have been putting your security in money.
You cannot serve two masters: Some translations read, "No one can serve two masters for you will hate the one and love the other, or else he will hold to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." (Matthew 6:24) original greek of this verse says that we cannot serve God and mammon. Jesus personifies mammon here, revelaing it's demonic power to hold us in slavery. And that is exactly what I have been. A SLAVE. If I'm honest, nothing was ever good enough. I never felt good enough. I believe that is why I fell prey to this demon.
Worry is one of the clearest signs that the spirit of Mammon has you - you worry about how you are going to pay bills, get needs met, retire and be fully funded. Reminding you are living by sight and NOT BY FAITH. This demon tempts us from TRUE FAITH and VALUES. Telling us, You don't need God. "TRUST IN RICHES!"
I feel God is lovingly showing me to amit my attachment to wealth. He is asking me to seek forgiveness and commit to biblical stewardship. His way, not mine. "Have your way Lord." God is teaching me the best way to break this spirit off is to GIVE! To be generous, to tithe - give my first fruits.
I was looking for FREEDOM and true FREEDOM He gave to us. Jesus gave his life for us.
(1 John 3:16) Greatest gift