tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13820457559093618122024-03-04T22:40:03.275-08:00Fragrant WordFresh words of inspiration for encouragement and refreshing, motivating you to live life to the fullest for the glory of God.Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-33945258293285714122019-06-08T15:34:00.001-07:002019-06-08T15:34:46.792-07:00You were made to Shine!Hello dear friends,<br />
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You were designed with a purpose from God. Did you know that before you were even born, God knew your name and had a special story to write about you? What we need to remember each and every day is that our lives are unique and precious to God. Stop and think about where you and I would be at this very moment had God not allowed us to be born and we did not have a chance to live out this adventure called "life." Wow, the very thought is tremendous and it affirms the powerful reality that we are here for a Reason! <br />
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I want to simply challenge you today to ask God to help you realize your individual purpose. It may take some endearing commitments or sacrifices, but when the revelation comes, you will begin to soar to newer and higher heights in the Kingdom of Heaven. All of the heavenly hosts will rejoice with you as you begin to seek God's ways and eagerly pursue the plan of destiny He has prepared for you. Do you ever stop and really think about the special qualities and abilities you have, that make you "you"? It's fascinating and wonderful at the same time, that you and I have been designed and created for great and marvelous things. All for the Glory of God, of course, and with that knowledge comes the willingness to serve others and to make God's Love known to all. <br />
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With every turning point, there is refreshing change and growth. It may sting a little or alot to leave the "past" behind. It's so worth it! Good or bad memories can keep us stuck in what used to be. We have to raise the bar continuously, and say "Lord, I am pressing forward to the mark of the prize of the high calling in Christ Jesus." We can do what it takes to hear and obey God's leading in our lives. Often it will mean learning to filter out the barrage of opinions and advice, as great as that is at times, because too much advice is just as bad as receiving none at all. Let's decide today, to allow the Holy Spirit to sharpen our hearing and awaken the plan of heaven upon our lives. The future begins with a step in the right direction today! In the Bible, there is a verse that says...."in his heart a man plans his course, but it is the Lord who directs his steps." Dear friend, you were made to Shine!<br />Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-20028574606434818262019-01-01T13:35:00.000-08:002019-01-01T13:42:39.968-08:00"No Shortage of Mockers""Do not be deceived; God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that sinful nature will reap destruction, the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life." Galatians 6:7-8.<br />
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It is no surprise that we are living in days of confusion and deception. When good things are called evil, and awful things are labeled "good" it is a clear indication of danger ahead! How long must God endure such unthinkable levels of mockery against holiness, righteousness and the people of faith in our modern society. Often, my heart aches for the lost souls who repeatedly wage battle against religious freedom and anything or anyone who preaches the true gospel of Jesus Christ. The Bible says clearly, that we should know the truth and the truth shall make us free. Yet, for so many, truth is just relative. In fact, it is simply anything that can be intellectually taught by someone who looks knowledgeable and articulates with passion and purpose. Truth has been taken captive, and altered if not watered down completely by the minds of young and old alike. God's Word is Truth. But let not any man or woman promote this hate speech or intolerance, as they say. There are no shortage of mockers out there, no shortage of people who absolutely hate what God stands for and the truth that the Gospel of Jesus Christ represents.<br />
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Maybe there will come a time when there is a holy unity among God's people when it comes to advancing the message of Jesus Christ and His Kingdom principles. Until then, we will undoubtedly face obstacles and absolute ridicule from people inside and outside of the church. When Ananias and Sapphira lied to God and Peter, they were both struck dead. (Acts 5:1-11) When Lot's wife disobeyed and turned back to gaze upon the city, she was turned to a pillar of salt. (Gen. 19:26) When the crowds jeered and mocked Noah as he was constructing the ark of safety, they were closing their opportunity to live through the great flood and missed their chance of survival. All were drowned. (Gen. 6-9)... There are many more stories in the Bible of mockers ultimately facing their final destiny. Do not be alarmed or frightened by the intimidation tactics and evil schemes of mockers. Some are unaware of the damage they do, while others are very purposeful and strategic in their wicked ways. As believers and followers of Jesus Christ, we are to be ever vigilant and wise in dealing with every person we minister to. Some are truly sent to us by God for deliverance and healing, while others are sharpened tools in the clutches of the enemy to bring destruction and chaos into the camp. If you have studied scripture and biblical history at all, you would agree that this is nothing new.<br />
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As we enter into a new year, I am anticipating the Glory of God to be intensifying and increasing among the people of God worldwide. Just as when Solomon finished praying as he was dedicating the temple, a sudden fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord filled the temple. (II Chron. 7:1) It's such an amazing story, that even the priests could not enter the temple of the Lord because the glory of the Lord filled it. When all the Israelites saw the fire coming down and the glory of the Lord above the temple, they knelt on the pavement with their faces to the ground, and they worshiped and gave thanks to the Lord, saying, "He is good; his love endures forever." (II Chron.7:2-3)<br />
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Are you ready for moments like this? I want to encourage you to believe God at His word and to press through past the mockers and insults. Lets find truth and joy on our journey with Him. The Lord is Good and His Love endures forever. Happy New Year! The best is yet to come.<br />
<br />Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-77909980770272444272018-12-12T12:47:00.000-08:002018-12-12T13:44:44.659-08:00"God wants you to finish well!"<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="371" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nfgwYo1zryw" width="660"></iframe><br />
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"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." James 1:12<br />
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God wants you, my friend, to finish well in life! Are we learning to develop patience through the hard times? Do we allow our faith to be strengthened throughout the trials and tests we encounter? God promises us that if we faint not and continue to trust Him, He will reward us with a "crown of life." I think of a runner in a race who competes for the prize and wins! His diligence and training and perseverance of not giving up when its tough, or when he's trailing in the back, proves of great profit when the race continues and he ends up at the finish line. The reward for the runner is a medal of honor, or public recognition or simply the fulfillment of his hard work paying off in the form of winning/finishing the race. So it is with our walk with God. "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair." 2 Cor. 4:8. God is surely a rewarder of those who diligently and sincerely seek Him! You are destined to finish well, and you will finish strong! Amen.<br />
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Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-25060556790039852932018-12-07T08:35:00.000-08:002018-12-07T15:27:25.886-08:00"Simply Devoted""Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." Colossians 4:2-6<br />
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When you find yourself in situations that require wisdom, discernment and faith; our God is able. When we don't even know what we need, He is there ready to comfort, care and correct. He is an on-time God! Wherever you are and whatever you need, simply trust Him to open doors and lead you through the next season of your life. <br />
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God has blessed us with four beautiful, healthy children. Throughout the years of raising them, there have been numerous situations that have developed a solid faith, loving devotion and trust in God. If you have kids, you know all too well that there is almost a daily test of unexpected situations and reasons to worry, panic or fear. And on the other hand, so very many reasons to rejoice and declare God's faithfulness and victory when prayers are answered and miracles happen! When our second son was born, he had to remain hospitalized for two weeks due to a condition in his body. My husband and I declared the healing scriptures over his life and we resisted the temptation to get dragged down in a spirit of fear. Every day for more than two weeks we would lay hands gently on his little head as he lay in the incubator to stay warm, and we prayed and blessed him and continued to speak healing over his body. My mom even made a little scripture banner over his hospital crib that read, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength!" Phil. 4:13. That verse ministered in itself to so many doctors and nurses that would routinely check on him. It also became a life verse for our son as he has continually proven that scripture to be true over his life! I love God's Word! It brings hope, peace and promise in every single situation we can find ourselves in. Our Loving Heavenly Father is devoted to our well-being and we are devoted to praying in faith believing that all things work together for good for God's people and in this case with our son, that yes everything was going to be fine! <br />
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Our Father God is so caring and thoughtful towards us and wants us to succeed and be happy in life. He is also like a loving, devoted parent. He gently leads, prepares and speaks life over us. He comforts and cares for us in our desperate times of need. Living a life that is devoted to prayer is of great benefit to us as well as our loved ones and family and friends. As we commit our ways to God, and allow Him to lead us and direct us as we pray; we can rest assured that the opportunities and experiences that we go through will directly strengthen our walk of faith! Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. We must keep our mind and thoughts centered around God's Word and the promises of safety, healing, provision, protection and everything else that is noble and true and of good report. No doubt, life presents plenty of reasons to live in bitterness, fear and anger. But we must learn to let it go and be simply devoted to God and prayer. Life and life more abundantly is yours if you will just believe God and take Him at His word. At one time, we all were lost, and then we were found. Just as my little son was healed in the very first days of his life, so you and I were in need of healing and God has remained faithful... What a good God we serve. We love Him and Adore Him, because He is God. We are simply devoted, and enjoying the journey! Be encouraged, God is devoted to you and will do whatever it takes to remind you that you are Loved, Healed, Delivered and Set Apart for Great Things!<br />
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Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-15111142222642331552018-11-18T05:56:00.000-08:002018-11-18T06:02:00.881-08:00"A Different Perspective"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"I know that you can do all things; no plan of Yours can be thwarted. You asked, 'Who is this that obscures my counsel without knowledge? Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know." Job 42:2-3<br />
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When things in your life appear to be falling apart, and you can't seem to make any sense of the obstacles and challenges before you, it may be time for you do reach for a different perspective. Job, obviously, had no choice but to cry out to God in his times of desperation. But we don't have to wait until our lives become absolute chaos to reach out for heaven's perspective. Every single one of us will encounter "surprise attacks", setbacks and tests during our walk with God. In these shift seasons, we can either choose to speak life and move forward in faith...or we can camp out and settle into our suffering. I must admit, it can be very tempting to just stop in our moment of pain and just stay there. But oh how this is not God's plan for you and I. No! As believers and followers of Jesus Christ, we are obligated to TRUST Him no matter what life throws at us. It is totally unrealistic to know exactly what to be prepared for when you are thrust suddenly into situations similar to Daniel's lions den experience or Joseph's pit predicament. However, if you are seriously developing your walk of faith by consistent prayer, fellowship and meditation on the Holy Word of God; when your season of testing comes, by God's abundant grace you will come through.<br />
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Life is a wonderful, sweet journey as we continue to draw closer and closer to the One who is the Lover of our Soul. Our Redeemer and Savior Jesus Christ, the One and only Lord, will never give us more than what we can endure. Trust Him, even when its the toughest because these are the moments that your flesh is being subdued by the active power of the Spirit of God living inside of you! II Cor. 12:8-10, Jesus says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My Strength is made perfect in weakness. Therefore, most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (NKJV)<br />
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A different perspective may be all that you need to propel you into the next exciting season God has prepared for you! Don't allow your friends or your situation steal the promise of breakthrough that God's Word has promised. Sometimes we have to walk the separate road. The road that is often lonely, but never without our Faithful God. We have to learn to say "no" to the unbelief of our modern culture and say "Yes" to the Victory and Power that awaits every single child of God. Are you willing to live a supernatural life? Are you desperate for a different perspective? My dear friend, this is your day! The next step is looking up, and opening your heart to God's Heart...He has been waiting all along, what will you do?Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-20726601529105952062018-10-24T06:28:00.000-07:002018-10-24T06:28:22.388-07:00"Taking back what belongs to you!""But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:31<br />
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Did you know that self pity is a sin? Yes, it is a self-destructive attitude that paralyzes and prevents us from making any progress in life. It may feel good temporarily, but it is actually debilitating. Do you know anyone who is miserable, and they seem to not be satisfied until you are miserable too? Don't open the door to self pity and misery mindedness, if you want to be filled with righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit! Light and dark cannot coexist. So many people waste so much of their life feeling sorry for themselves. They are not happy with their life, and they think its up to somebody else to make them happy. Well, the bad news is, nobody can ever fill the emptiness or void you have and the only one who can do something about your unhappiness is you! The good news is that you already have everything you need to do something about it right now. God is available 24/7 and his phone is never busy! You can call on Him, and He will answer you and show you great and mighty things that you know not. I love what the Bible says about trusting in the Lord...It describes our walk with God as that of an eagle soaring high in the sky. As we hope and trust and develop our faith in Jesus Christ, the Living God, we will be strengthened, made whole, and eventually rise to our full potential in life. If you love adventure, this is it! Life with a Heavenly minded purpose, has eternal and daily benefits... most of all it is the greatest adventure of all. <br />
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Through the lens of "faith" established in the power of the Holy Spirit and the refreshing meditation of the Holy Word of God, our life is meant to be powerful, exciting, victorious and joyful. We need to choose carefully what we allow our eyes to read, our ears to hear and our minds to accept. This present day culture we are living in, wants to distract us completely away from Kingdom Living. However, this is no surprise to Almighty God! Thats why He has already provided a way for us to live free from despair, self pity and depressing attitudes. Why don't more of us realize that we are just wasting our time when we gratify our flesh and its self driven nature. Spend time building up your inner man or inner woman, and find out who you are in Christ. Then, start taking it to the next level by speaking God's Word over every temptation, over every problem and learn how to get the victory in Christ through small baby steps. We all have to learn to be content. It is the base human nature to always want more and more, and never be satisfied. But the Bible clearly states that contentment with God, is great gain. (I Tim. 6:6-10) Finding satisfaction and fulfillment in Christ is the first step in gaining the victory over self pity. You will learn how to see your life and yourself as God sees you. You are Loved, you are healed, you are an overcomer, and you can be content no matter what your circumstance! <br />
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"Adventure....going through the tough times in life and rising above it all." Let the adventure of your life begin today. After all, you are the only one who can allow God to remove the roadblocks of self pity, and its time! Time to move out of pitiful and into powerful. (Gal. 2:20) Why not take back what belongs to you, and start living the great adventure of God's amazing grace today!<br />
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<br />Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-77986437117579288282018-10-18T07:35:00.002-07:002018-10-18T07:35:28.523-07:00"Hills and Valleys""Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." Psalm 23:4<br />
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Isn't it interesting that it is in the toughest times of life that our faith is strengthened and character is built. There have been so many lessons learned through painful and difficult seasons of our lives, and we know that if it had not been for the grace of God, we would not have made it. One particular moment comes to mind, a while back when my husband and I just began our journey together. We were in the middle of central Africa working for God's Kingdom sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ, loving people and living life so full of love and joy as happily married newlyweds. After driving for many miles on the pot-holed and distressed roads of Africa, we happened upon a quaint and cozy place to stop and refresh with a short walk to a small lake. Hand in hand we walked down the dusty lane to see this beautiful, quiet water in what seemed like an unusual place. Arriving at the waters edge, we decided to just sit and bask in the solitude and beauty of our surroundings. Somehow, oddly enough, we were abruptly just ready to go. It wasn't typical of us to be in such a rush, and there was certainly no reason at all for us to leave this relaxing place so quickly. As we stood up and started to walk back to our vehicle, we were met with the sounds of several youngsters feet running towards us as they were loudly conversing with one another, in somewhat of a panic to get a message to us fast! When we were able to interpret what they had come so urgently to explain to us, we realized that we had left the lake area in just enough time to not find out what their stories were to reveal! That particular quiet and solitary place we had chosen to find temporary rest at, happened to also be the location that several people had been recently eaten up by one or more crocodile! To say that our hair stood up and our eyes popped wide, would be an understatement. But by the look on their faces and the tones in their young voices, we knew what they were saying to be true. Thank God we made it out of that area alive! <br />
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Psalm 23 is a reminder that God is our shepherd and we are His sheep. He has promised to keep us and protect us from all evil, and we know throughout the challenges and danger we have faced from time to time, that He is our Comforter. Not only does He prepare a table before us in the presence of our enemies, but He also makes "our cup" run over, because of His great mercies and love for us in giving us the Holy Spirit as a daily source of strength. His Presence refreshes us, just as a beautiful waterfall flows down, so does heaven fall on us because of God's Great Love for you and I, His people. We belong to Him, and nothing can ever separate us from His unending, unfailing Love. Be Encouraged and remember that goodness and mercy will follow you all the days of your life, and you shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever and ever. Listen to the song by Tauren Wells; He is the God of the Hills and Valleys, and I am not alone! Amen.<br />
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Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-90074594571549395582018-09-25T08:24:00.003-07:002018-09-25T08:24:47.154-07:00"The Rewards of Faith"<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="410" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/y-yYuCppiNI" width="729"></iframe>Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-82146572670818786592018-07-04T13:46:00.001-07:002018-09-25T08:28:27.292-07:00"Jesus is Calling""Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me." Rev. 3:20<br />
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The famous painting of Jesus knocking on the door is forever etched in my mind. As a young girl, I would sit in church and see this image week after week. Even then, I somehow knew that Jesus must have been a very friendly man. For someone to invite himself in to a strangers house and not be afraid of what people thought of him, he must have had a good message to share. Jesus was knocking on the door of all of our hearts to see if we would take the time to listen. Every summer during Vacation Bible School, VBS, I would memorize Bible verses about Jesus and sing happy hymns and listen to many stories about Him. My favorite Sunday School teacher was always so enthusiastic to share one more wonderful lesson that Jesus taught. I was a believer! Who could resist such a kind, loving Saviour who had given His life so radically and completely so that we could have eternal life and forgiveness of sins! Not only that, I now more fully understand that His Life has given us even more than we could imagine. I wanted to be that person who opened the door for Jesus to come in!<br />
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Years went by. Experiences, people and life, took its toll on me and I found myself at a place where I had to readjust my spiritual thermometer. My life had become one of religious tradition, kind of just going through the motions and doing all of the "churchy" things but not having much of a desire to spend time alone reading the Bible, praying or seeking God by myself. Much to my surprise, this is when Jesus knocked on the door of my heart. It was during a time in my life where I was excitedly pursuing great dreams, goals and accomplishments that I thought were good and wonderful. So, He let me go for it! For a while, it was great. But all of a sudden, yet not without a long season of compromise, I was feeling and sensing a greater hunger inside of me for something I didn't even know was there. It was God. He had finally gotten my full attention and made me realize that if I would continue pursuing my own plans without consulting Him, that my life would gradually fade into a miserable existence without His Blessing. That was the turning point in my walk with Him. I had to make some serious changes in how I mapped out my future, and now it would include Him leading and guiding me. I decided that no man, no job, no career is worth putting above my relationship with the Lord God. Finally, I had stepped into a new realm of joy, fulfillment, adventure and purpose because I had heard Him knocking on my heart's door, and I opened it! My life has never been the same since that eternal, eye-opening experience at age 23. Since then, I have been so blessed with a godly husband and four wonderful children, that we are now actively training to obey the voice of the Holy Spirit and to find the ultimate success in life, and that is namely knowing Jesus and making Him known.<br />
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Today's prayer: "Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for your life, death and resurrection. I choose to follow You and submit to Your Word and be empowered by Your Spirit. I renounce any and all things that would pull me away from Your Presence and Purpose for my life. Today is the day that You have Made and I will rejoice and be glad in it. Amen.Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-21575337770297347832018-05-31T07:23:00.000-07:002018-05-31T07:23:46.695-07:00"Witnesses, Workers, and Winners""Jesus went through all of the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When He saw the crowds, He had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then He said to His disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field." Matthew 9:35-38.<br />
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Do you want to be a winner in life? Of course, the answer for all of us is most likely a resounding "Yes!" The Bible is our compass to success. In it we find all of life's solutions and every answer we need for every encounter we face. In this day and age, we have got to live by some sort of moral compass because it's very obvious that the modern culture in which we live is in a decaying slump. When society begins to ignore, demean, and disregard the holy and righteous things of God it should raise a red flag in all of our hearts and spirits to truly recognize what is happening. That's why Jesus told His disciples while face to face with them that there is, and always will be a great need for witnesses and workers to continue to advance the Kingdom of Heaven and proclaim without shame or fear the liberating truth of God's Word. What a tremendous joy it is to be filled with the wonderful Holy Spirit and witness to others of the life, power and resurrection promises of our Lord Jesus Christ. <br />
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Acts 1:8 and Luke 24:49 says that we shall receive power to witness from the Holy Spirit. Being a worker in God's harvest field is not only a privilege, but also carries a great responsibility. You should expect many adversities, challenges and obstacles. That is why we need the power of the Spirit to operate in and through us continually to refresh and propel us throughout our journey in order that we would come to bear much fruit! What a faithful God we serve. He gives us everything we need for our assignments and he also allows us to have joy while walking through the fiery and unexpected challenges we will face. Be encouraged and rest in the Lord as you carry on as a mighty warrior in the army of God. The harvest is plentiful, and the workers are few. But "little is much" when God is on your side! Hallelujah! Expect victory and miracles every day. Jesus is Lord!<br />
<br />Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-86832031701503590462018-05-26T18:08:00.000-07:002018-05-26T18:08:22.983-07:00"Avoid the Trap!" (Video by Pastor Heidi Hitchcock)<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vc-jA-IbRiI?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Avoid the traps the devil sets for us! Galatians 5 speaks of the "works of the flesh," which are the traps the enemy sets for us. With God's power and grace we can overcome every temptation, in Jesus' name..</span>Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-78481219115830629102018-05-02T11:25:00.000-07:002018-05-02T11:30:16.124-07:00"Ready, Get Set, SHIFT!""God's voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding. He says to the snow, Fall on the earth, and to the rain shower, "Be a mighty downpour." So that all men he has made may know his work, ...Job 37:5-7<br />
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Life is certainly full of shifts, changes and adjustments! As a young teenager learning how to drive, my father so wisely took it upon himself to teach me how to maneuver a 5-speed automobile. At first, it was very scary as I would find myself stalled out in the middle of an intersection trying to change gears or at the top of an "intimidating" hill slowly creeping backwards as my hands tightly gripped the steering wheel and absolutely freaking out because of my very real struggle! If there wasn't a pond at the bottom of that small hill in Sussex County, I may have reacted a bit more composed. Eventually, after lots of encouragement, practice and lessons I finally learned how to enjoy driving a manual-transmission car. What I thought was absolutely an unfair and difficult feat for my parent to want me to learn actually turned out to be a joy, accomplishment and life lesson!<br />
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Now, many years later as I struggle at times with the seasons and changes of life, I am reminded of the patience and love of God there waiting for us all the while as we frustrate ourselves by trying to do things without His help or guidance. Are we asking Him to lead us and open doors for us, or are we trying to work out our own path all by ourselves. God's word so clearly instructs us to "seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and ALL these things (that we pray about) will be added unto us at the proper time and in the right circumstances. He has our best in mind, just like a good father who wants his daughter to learn how to safely drive a car. When we can learn as believers, to enter into that "resting place" where even when it feels like the world is caving in around us, we have total peace and trust because we have practiced driving with the Father! Sometimes, God says, "It's time to shift!" We hear the engine getting louder, like the enemy getting angry at our progress, and we know that our lives are like a car in that we were made to "Shift." In fact, if we refuse to become pliable, adapting to life's changes and kicking back against situations that could bring us into a higher level of maturity, we will certainly miss out on the full potential of what God has created us to become.<br />
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Today's prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, thank you so much for everything. I even thank you for the unexpected bumps, and potholes in life that sometimes stops me in my tracks because I know that you have my best in mind. Help me to trust you through the rough places, and to be ready to shift whatever you see in my life that is not moving closer to you. Lord, you are my firm foundation and I know that you are working all things out for my good, even when life gets tough. I am so glad that you are watching over me and preparing me and speaking to me. Today I choose to Believe! Amen.<br />
<br />Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-34090324575428726632018-04-15T04:52:00.000-07:002018-04-15T04:58:02.024-07:00"Accepted Just as You Are""For God so Loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.' John 3:16-17<br />
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The Love of God is deep and wide enough to embrace every kind of person and situation. It may appear to some that there is no hope for them considering the many evils they have committed. But the truth of the Gospel is that God loved the whole world with a everlasting, unconditional kind of love. It's not the love that we can earn or work towards by anything that we do, it is simply God's very nature. It's exactly who He is. He even loves us when we don't love Him back. Imagine that for a moment and how we tend to compare God's loving embrace with anything we have experienced on this earthly realm. The fact of the matter is that there is absolutely no comparison. This gives us unending peace and hope when we are faced with trials and circumstances beyond our control, and to know that God's love is covering our minds and hearts.<br />
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As I listen to the heart of the youth in this generation, I am starting to recognize one of their greatest needs. They are crying out to be accepted! For so many of them, they have been rejected by their parents, loved ones or even society. My heart breaks as I hear some of the emotional pain and heartache that they have endured already in such a short lifetime. But God! God in His great Mercy has given us a way to rise up out of our ashes and to become all that we could ask or think. He is a God of more than second chances, His Love for us is greater than any pain or suffering we have endured. When I think of some of the lowest points in my personal journey, they have usually involved some form of rejection. Whether or not it is on the same level as someone else or not, still the Love of God is able to heal, restore and rebuild any broken life. The only reason I did not give up when life hit hardest, is simply because the Love of God was shined into my life in some way or another. Thank God for Christians who operate fully in the Love of God. We can have all the talent in the world, but if we do not have love, we are only as a clanging cymbal or a noisy gong!<br />
(I Cor. 13:1) And I don't know about you, but I want my life to make a difference and I'm not impressed with dead religion. Why even bother with going to church meetings and doing all of the "good works" that impress people, while being a stench in the face of God and not making any difference in eternal matters. But before we can actually Love the world with this heavenly love, we have to know it and embrace for ourselves first! You absolutely cannot share something you do not have yourself. God loves you and accepts you just as you are. You were not an accident, but rather were created on purpose, by purpose and for a purpose!Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-35614037859352452902018-02-06T12:51:00.000-08:002018-04-15T13:27:20.402-07:00"Completely Covered""Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord." Psalm 139:4<br />
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God cares for His people! There are so many blessed assurances throughout the scriptures that emphasize God's favor being poured out upon us daily. What a good and loving heavenly Father He is! Where can we go from His Spirit and where can we flee from His presence? Oh Lord, you have searched us and you know us. You know when we sit and when we rise, you perceive our thoughts from afar. You, Oh God, are familiar with all of our ways! (Psalm 139:1-3)<br />
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It is comforting to understand the promises given to us in God's word. When life's trials come fast and furious, we can be still and know that He alone is God. (Psalm 46:10) Our confidence in the Lord is built throughout the tough times in life, when we allow Him to speak "life" into our bad situations. Not long ago, as my husband and I were ministering and sharing the good news of the life, death and resurrection power of our Lord Jesus Christ, we were also experiencing one of the most difficult financial challenges we had ever faced. The weight and burden of a huge financial loss had taken its toll on us and our family. It seemed as though we were never going to recover from such a devastating situation. By God's grace and total empowerment of the Holy Spirit in our lives, we were able to climb out of that "dark hole" and slowly rebuild what was lost. It felt like we had gotten a few battle scars in that season, but looking back, I can affirm that God was building something "in us" that was much more significant than what we thought we had learned.<br />
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Throughout that very strenuous, and difficult training period, we both as husband and wife, learned to lean upon the wisdom and strength of the Lord when there was absolutely no solution or way out. We had to go through! And thank God, we came through stronger than before. It didn't mean that we endured some degree of pain, suffering and heartbreak, but the situation did prove to put us on a new level of faith that we hadn't seen before. We had learned how important it is to keep proclaiming God's word over every situation and to never stop believing in His Goodness and Mercy, even in the middle of our greatest tests! God cares for His people, He provides a way when there seems to be no way, and He is our greatest friend when we are left alone. I am often reminded of the vivid picture of Jesus being the "Good Shepherd." We all like sheep have gone astray at times, going our own way and missing it! But, God, in His great mercy has always been there whether we found Him or not. He was searching our heart, knowing our anxious thoughts, testing us and waiting for us to come home. Just like a good shepherd who knows all of his sheep. If one has wandered off, he will be the one that goes out to find him. So it is with our precious Lord Jesus Christ, in that while we were yet sinners, He died for us. Making a way to bring us home and redeem us from our wicked ways! He is our Good Shepherd and He is not willing that any should perish, but that all would have life and life more abundantly.<br />
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I declare over you today, that if you have wandered away from the loving care of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you will find your way home. His loving arms are waiting to receive you back and forgive you and bless you with a fresh start. Sometimes it is harder to forgive ourselves for the bad choices we have made, and we think somehow that God would never forgive us. But, once again, I want to remind you that He is our Father, and a good Father's Love is unconditional, strong and forever. He will never give up on you, so what are you waiting for! God's got you covered.<br />
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Today's prayer confession: "Dear Lord Jesus, thank you that you are always ready and able to take care of me and to forgive my sins when I have failed you. I am comforted to know that you hem me in- behind and before and you are my Good Shepherd. Please help me to turn from my own ways and to follow you with a heart full of devotion and commitment. I know this is my season of healing and new beginnings, and I am coming home to you today! I love you Lord, and my hope and trust are now upon you and your plans for my life. Today is my new beginning and my day of restoration. What the enemy has stolen from me in my times of disobedience, I know that you will repay. You alone are my strength and my song. In Jesus Name, amen."Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-60770601512483895032018-01-23T07:55:00.000-08:002018-01-23T17:48:45.948-08:00"Rise and Shine"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade-kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time." I Peter 1:3-5<br />
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One of the many ways God refreshes and restores us is through His Word. What an amazing privilege we have been given to be called sons and daughters of God. Through him, we can be strong and do mighty exploits in His name. He has clothed us with holiness and righteousness and has given us a shield of faith and victory in every situation we face. Every morning we can wake up and know that our steps are ordered and directed by Him, as we allow the Holy Spirit to speak to our hearts and lead us. It also says that His Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path.(Psalm 119:105)<br />
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When I am distracted by the various methods and marches in Hollywood, politics, science and academia, designed by the enemy and instituted by the ungodly to bring world peace, I remember that still small voice that says, "Be still and know that I am God." The Lord Jesus Christ is the only source of peace that will always calm the storm in our lives. It is astounding to me how there are so many good people who have trusted in the arm of flesh (material wealth, fame and influence) to be their source of hope. God has promised us that we can rest assured as His people, that mockery will not overtake and consume us. God will not be mocked. This is the hour and the day that God's people will arise and shine (Isaiah 60:1) like the brightness of the stars in a dark sky. That is the Glory of God upon His people shining throughout the earth. What a beautiful promise of the undeniable faithfulness of our Mighty God. <br />
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Today I declare God's word over your life! You were born for such a time as this. There is greatness inside of you and the glory of God shines upon you today, illuminating His Word and Presence inside of your heart that you may walk firmly established and confident that He is Your Strength! Nothing is impossible for Him and what He has started in you, He has promised to complete. Little is much when God is in it. Never again will you fear the future and be consumed with the thought of giving up. The Lord would say to you today that He will help you defeat the giants in your life. No longer do you have to feel alone and afraid, because the rivers of living water (John 7:38) will begin to burst forth as your faith becomes ignited and your heart connects to the lover of your soul. He will cause you to hunger for His Word and to be nourished daily in His loving presence. Life with the Lord is good. Your journey is just beginning and the best is yet to come.<br />
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Today's Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for Your Word that brings life and life more abundantly! No longer will I live in defeat, because I discipline my mind and my heart today and everyday to hear your voice and walk daily in the blessing of God. I choose today to arise and shine, and live in victory through the resurrection power of Jesus Christ. In Jesus Name, amen.Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-21525068724498211182018-01-06T09:22:00.000-08:002018-01-06T10:15:02.732-08:00"Hold on to your Peace""He grants peace to your borders and satisfies you with the finest of wheat."Psalm 147:14<br />
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The peace of God is an unmistakable, unshakable gift from heaven. In our darkest moments and through the most trying of times, we can rest in the tangible peace that comes from a heart that is totally dependent on God. Have you ever heard the phrase, "Let go and let God." Well, that is just the beginning step of coming into an ongoing relationship of trusting and obeying. When we learn to listen and heed the direction and promptings of the Holy Spirit in our walk, we will enjoy the full meaning of letting go and letting God! I know it's easier said than done, but when I am reminded that my faith needs to be simple and pure, almost childlike in nature, than it is easier for me to shed off the religious expectations and condemnations that weigh me down and sometimes even act as barriers to my total ability to trust God and rest in Him alone.<br />
Throughout the many adventures of travelling worldwide with my husband and ministry partner, I have had the opportunity several times to stop trusting and lose my peace. For instance, the very first trip I took to Africa with my husband for a missions excursion, I heard the Lord's comforting direction very clearly as I sat in the crowded airplane reading my Bible quietly and praying. It was not an audible voice at all, but I most assuredly heard God speak to my heart the following. "Do not fear for I am with you." Isaiah 41:10. This simple, yet profound message I received that day felt a bit unusual because I have never considered myself to react or proceed in any endeavor with a spirit of fear. So when I heard this word, I simply jotted it down in my journal and meditated on the goodness of God and His complete hedge of protection, provision, mercy and unconditional love for me his daughter.<br />
It wasn't until we had landed in Africa and gotten all settled into our new living quarters, that I realized why the Lord had wanted me to receive that word of peace way ahead of the time when I would need it. I quickly realized how many people in that part of the world live in constant fear for their lives. It didn't take me long to notice the fenced-in, high-wired homes and properties designed to keep out intruders and criminals. Car jacking, wild animals, dangerous road conditions, infectious diseases, murders, and the list goes on and on. My world had just been enlarged, and God was preparing me to walk out the assignment with total peace and confident trust in His protection and direction. What a wonderful God we have! One specific event that I recall clearly on that trip was during an outdoor festival that my husband and I had organized. With an unforeseen turn of weather conditions, we abruptly had to make changes in the evening's itinerary. But this change was not welcomed with enthusiasm among our tribal guests. What started out as a friendly, happy crowd of a few hundred people, quickly turned into a full blown riot agitated by stone throwers and angry protesters who wanted their voices to be heard. It was a scene. Joel quietly, but firmly instructed me to get into our little car and lock the doors. To this day, I don't know how we got out of there alive, but God's peace was all over me and my husband as well.<br />
During this upsetting event in the course of our first mission trip together, I had the rude awakening that sometimes in this life, the people or things that we thought we could rely on may or may not be able or willing to help us in our time of need. This was the case for us, because even the police were trying to manipulate the situation and were only available at first for a huge sum of money of which we didn't have. Somehow, the local officers showed up at the very end to escort us out of the area. But it was nowhere near the time when we really needed their help! My point is that we all have to come to the place in life, where we know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God alone is our Source! He becomes absolutely everything to us and our full identity is in Him alone. Nothing or nobody can and will ever take His place in my life. I hope you will or have discovered this life changing realization.<br />
There are so many more stories I will share at a later time, but for now I trust that you are also seeking God in every endeavor. Life is a beautiful gift from God and it wasn't meant to be lived without His peace.<br />
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Today's prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, I need the peace of God in my life. Please help me to trust you and to seek you in all of my life's endeavors. I know that you are the master potter and I am the clay. Make something beautiful out of my life and allow me to help many people live with your peace as their portion. I love you Lord, and am so thankful for your presence and joy that is beyond comparison that anything this world has to offer. In Jesus' name, amen.<br />
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<br />Heidi Hitchcockhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02570354134173055452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1382045755909361812.post-54112935290761589162017-12-25T15:54:00.000-08:002017-12-25T16:19:36.420-08:00"It's a New Season""But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are the smell of death, to the other, the fragrance of life. And who is equal to such a task?" II Cor. 2:14-16.<br />
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Isn't it wonderful when God speaks to you and tells you that you are about to enter a new season! For me, the thought of a new direction, new assignment, new beginning and new "anything" simply ignites a wonder and sense of intense devotion to fulfilling the task at hand. As a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, this can be your word from the Lord every day of the year. What I mean by that is that when you devote your life to following Christ and obeying His Word, you will allow yourself to step into an entirely fresh and exciting sort of adventure. With the help and comfort of the precious Holy Spirit, every day will seem like a new beginning and a new venture with God himself! What an amazing way to live. After all, we are his sheep and Jesus is the Good Shepherd. When the sheep hear his voice, they instantly obey and follow his lead. So it is with us. We gladly take up our cross daily, meaning that we subdue the desires of our fleshly nature that try to pull us away from the things of God, and we follow Jesus!<br />
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I don't know where you're at with your walk with the Lord. Maybe you've been following Jesus for thirty years, or maybe you've just discovered Him 30 minutes ago...Either way, the journey we are on in this short life that we have on this earth, was meant to be joyful and fulfilling, only as we surrender everything and become a lover of God. You will never regret falling in love with Jesus, because only in Him is there any sense of purpose, peace and strength. The longer you walk with Him, the sweeter your journey becomes.<br />
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Why don't you consider today as being your new season! Jesus is calling, every day he longs to commune with you and fill you with His unconditional, and tender love. There is no one like Him, he is your shelter through the storm, the peace in the valley of the shadow of death, the comfort in our greatest times of loss, and the hope of everything involving our future! So today, I declare that the blessing and goodness of the Lord Jesus be poured out in your heart even as you are reading this post. Let Him reveal the true riches of his heavenly kingdom. These are the gifts that money can never buy. You are His beloved and He is yours. May this Christmas season be a turning point in your life, where you will no longer be moved by what is seen, but will suddenly and eagerly step into the fascinating flow of His Spirit that carries you from glory to glory.<br />
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Today's prayer confession:<br />
Dear Lord Jesus, I love you with all of my heart. Thank you that you loved me so much, even while I was yet a sinner. Through faith and by your grace, I am saved and sanctified and set apart for your good work. Help me Lord, to never look back in regret of my past failures and mistakes, but to totally surrender them and sincerely repent unto you. From this day on, I will enjoy my journey you have given to me, because It's a New Season. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.<br />
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