Pastor Ray Patrick

March 29, 2019March 29, 2019

Move Forward

What was your past like? Have you made a decision to forget the negative things of your past? Many people don’t fully understand what that means. They wonder, “how can I forget something that’s happened to me?” But one definition of the word forget is to disregard intentionally, or to overlook. In other words, you have to choose to disregard your past so that it doesn’t keep you from moving forward. That could mean the good and the bad.

Sometimes our past victories keep us from rising higher as much as past failures. Sometimes if we don’t let go of the old, we’ll never be able to embrace the new. It doesn’t matter what’s happened in your history, it’s time to forget what lies behind and live in the present – live forward.

Today, make the choice to move forward. Trust that God has a better future in store for you. Trust that He’s working on your behalf. As you forget what lies behind and press forward, you’ll automatically move forward. You’ll see increase and blessing, and live the abundant life He has in store for you with excitement and vitality!

“I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead”
(Philippians 3:13, NLT)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, today I choose to move beyond my past. Father, I don’t want anything to hold me back from what You have in store for my future. I choose forgiveness and peace. God, help me, by Your Spirit, to press forward into the life of blessings and excitement You have in store for me, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

A special word from the Lord, from Pastor Ray Patrick.

March 28, 2019March 28, 2019

My Present Help

Today’s verse is taken from a time in my life when I got arrested and felt all alone, but the thought that God was always with me was comforting. It means He is present at all times – continually, perpetually, throughout all time. In your day of trouble, He promises to be a help to you.

You may ask How is He your help? “Help” means something different to each person. That’s because “help” is specific to your need. If you need money to pay your bills, a chocolate cake isn’t going to be much help! But, we serve a God who is very specific. And because He is always with you, He always knows exactly what you need and is always ready to provide it!

Today, as trouble and adversity come your way, know that God is with you. Trust that He has the answer, and that He is working things out. As you continue to believe Him and follow His direction, He will lead you in the way that you should go. He will comfort you, revive you, restore you and bless you! He will be your ever-present help, because He is forever faithful to His promise!

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
(Psalm 46:1, NIV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for being my ever-present help during some tough times. Father, I trust today that You will comfort me and restore my soul. God, I lift my eyes to You this day. Help me to follow Your commands and honour You, as You direct my steps and lead me out of trouble, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

A special word from the Lord, from Pastor Ray Patrick

March 27, 2019March 27, 2019

Aim For Righteous And Loyalty

In Uncertain Times Christ's Death and Resurrection Offer Comfort and Hope

It has been said that righteousness and loyalty go hand in hand. In other words, if we’re not being loyal to God then we aren’t going to experience God’s best. Loyal people are honourable people. When you’re loyal, you stick with someone through thick and thin. When you’re loyal, you keep your word to people even if you get a “better” offer.

Loyal people honour their parents and defend their family. Loyal people are respectful. When you’re loyal, you are a person of integrity. You build trust with others. Is this an area where you can rise higher? Are you faithful in the things you’re committed to? Can you be more loyal?

Today, don’t let the distractions of everyday life keep you from being dedicated to God, family and friends. Look for ways to show honour to those around you. Is there something you need to set aside for the sake of a loved one? Show love by staying loyal. As Scripture promises, when you pursue loyalty and righteousness, you will find the abundant life God has for you!

“He who pursues righteousness and loyalty finds life”¦”
(Proverbs 21:21, NASB)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for the promise of life in Your Word. Father, please show me any area where I can rise up higher by pursuing loyalty. Help me, by Your Spirit, to be more committed and supportive to those around me. God, let Your light shine through me, as I pursue righteousness and loyalty today, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

A special word from the Lord, from Pastor Ray Patrick

March 26, 2019March 26, 2019

Between A Rock And A Hard Place!

David was between a rock and a hard place. He was in a very difficult situation when he wrote today’s verse. He was actually running for his life from his very own son, who wanted to kill him and take over the throne. Can you imagine? David was probably feeling overwhelmed, distraught, heartbroken, betrayed and abandoned. Have you ever felt that way, when you can’t believe what’s happening to you?

But, notice that David didn’t just tell the Lord all about his problems. He told the Lord about his faith when he said, “but You, God, are a shield around me”¦” David made the choice to focus on God’s goodness no matter what. The circumstances may be tough, but God is working behind the scenes for you. You may have a difficult relationship, but God is your Restorer. You may have an overwhelming need, but God is your Provider. The doctors may have told you that you have an incurable disease, but God is your Healer.

Today, things may look impossible, BUT WITH GOD, all things are possible! If you’ll keep that constant attitude of faith and victory, you’ll see the hand of God move in your life, and you will experience the life of victory God has in store for you!

”O LORD, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me! …But you are a shield around me, O LORD; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head.”
(Psalm 3:1-3, NIV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for always being faithful and working in my life. Father, today I open my heart to You and choose to focus on You instead of my circumstances. God, teach me that when things are difficult that I turn to you for my breakthrough. I know that with You, all things are possible and will work for my good, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

A special word from the Lord, from Pastor Ray Patrick

March 25, 2019March 25, 2019

Right Friends – The Right Destiny

Don't put fullstop where God has placed a comma in your life

Ponder this, in Christ your destiny is too big to accomplish on your own. That’s why it’s so important to be connected to the right people. You have to understand that God has already placed certain people around you to speak faith into you. He has already placed people in your path that will inspire you, challenge you, and help you accomplish your dreams.

The reason some people never reach their highest potential is because they never get away from the wrong people. Recognise that not everyone is going where God is taking you. You’ve got to connect with people who understand a God given destiny, and can see your spiritual potential and your seeds of greatness.

Today, remember, you don’t have time to spend on people who are always pushing you down, telling you what you can’t do, or never giving you their approval no matter how hard you try. Those are not the friends you need, life is too short to drag people along. If you can get the wrong people out of your life, maybe then God will bring in the right people so you can fulfil the destiny He has mapped out for you.

“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Proverbs 18:24, NIV

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for preparing the right people to place in my life. Father, please help me to discern the right people You have for me. God, give me the strength to release the wrong relationships, so I have room in my life for the people You have chosen to connect me with my destiny, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

March 22, 2019March 22, 2019

The Enemy Will Flee

Today’s verse tells us that we shouldn’t just come any old way to God. We shouldn’t come empty-handed to the King of kings and the Lord of lords. What can we bring? What do we have that’s worthy of Almighty God? Our praise. Our thanksgiving. Our worship. We are to enter His gates with an offering from our hearts of adoration, because He is worthy!

Sinners and saints alike have the honour and privilege to enter boldly into God’s presence. Scripture says that we can come to His throne of grace and receive His mercy. Because He loves us, He has given us unlimited access to Himself 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Today, please understand, praise isn’t just about singing songs on Sabbath or Sunday mornings. Praise is the expression of gratefulness to God for all He has done. Praise gets God’s attention. Praise is a powerful tool in the life of the believer because God inhabits our praises! When we enter His presence, He enters our circumstances. When God shows up, the enemy must flee! Hallelujah! So this weekend enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and open the door for Him to move on your behalf!

“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.”
Psalm 100:4, NKJV

Pray With Me
Yahweh, I come to You with thanksgiving in my heart. Father, I enter into Your courts with praise. God, today I declare that You are good, and Your mercy endures forever! Please have Your way in me by the power of Your Holy Spirit, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

March 21, 2019March 21, 2019

Dwell In Him

God has promised to be your Protector, your Defender, your Strength, your Shelter and so much more. Even when the storms of life come against you, as long as you are dwelling in Him, you dwell in safety and trust–nothing can take away your peace and joy. What does it mean to dwell in Him?

One of the definitions of the word “dwell” means to keep your attention directed toward something. The more you keep your attention directed toward God, the more you will know Him, and the more confidence you will have in Him.

When you focus your heart and mind on the Word of God, and declare His promises over your life, you are dwelling in Him. When you lift your voice in worship and give Him glory and honour, you are dwelling in Him. When you spend time meditating on Him and connecting with Him through prayer, you are dwelling in Him.

Today, are you facing a difficult situation? Give your attention to the Father. Do you need His peace and protection? Focus your heart and mind on Him. As you dwell on Him, you will see His goodness, and you’ll live in peace and victory all the days of your life!

“In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You, Lord, alone make me dwell in safety and confident trust.”
(Psalm 4:8, AMPC)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for Your promise of peace and safety in my life. Father, I will give You my attention and focus. God, help me to dwell on You. Have Your way in me, and let everything I do bring glory to You, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

March 20, 2019March 20, 2019

Drown Out Critical Voices

One of my greatest pet peeves is negative critical people. Whenever you set out to do something great in life, there will be negative destructive critics. If you’re going to be a great business person, coach, student, leader or employee, there will be opposition. The more success you have, the more opportunities there will be for distractions. The higher you go, the more haters will come out.

When you start stretching to a new level and pursuing what God has placed in your heart, the jealous people, the critical people, and the small-minded people come out of the woodwork and start making negative comments, but you don’t have to let that distract you. If you feel under pressure, if the critical voices are coming against you, know that it’s because you are making a difference. Don’t let them throw you off course.

Today, instead off letting negative critical voices pull you down, dig your heels in, set your face like a flint, and say, “I will not get distracted. I will not get drawn into battles that don’t matter. It doesn’t matter what others think; it matters what God thinks!” Today, look beyond the critics. Stand strong in adversity. Press forward to what lies ahead and win the prize of life that He has prepared for you!

“Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise”¦”
(Micah 7:8, NIV)?

Pray With Me
Yahweh, today I choose to let go of the negative voices, offenses and hurts from critical voices. Father, I choose to focus on You and the good plan You have for me. God, please give me Your peace and joy, as I move forward in the victory You have prepared for me, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

March 19, 2019March 19, 2019

You Won’t Be Alone Anymore

Jesus had many names that identified His character. One of those was also Emmanuel, which means “God with us.” Before Jesus came to earth, the Spirit of God resided in the temple. The people had to go through all kinds of rituals to become clean enough to go near to Him.

As believers today, we are the temple of the Holy Spirit. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, He is the one who cleanses us and makes His home in our hearts. He becomes one with us, closer than the air we breathe. Isn’t it good to know that God is always with us?

Today, I want you to know, God’s peace is always with us. His joy is always with us. His power is always with us, and His victory is always with us. The next time you feel alone, think about this Scripture. Know that He is near because you serve Emmanuel–the God who is always with you!

“Behold, the virgin shall become pregnant and give birth to a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel-which, when translated, means, God with us.”
Matthew 1:23, AMPC

“Immanuel (Hebrew: meaning, “God with us”; also romanized Emmanuel, Imanu’el) is a Hebrew name which appears in the Book of Isaiah as a sign that God will protect the House of David.”
Wikipedia

Pray With Me
Emmanuel, thank You for choosing to make Your home in me. Father, thank You for filling me with Your peace and joy. God, I bless You today, knowing that You will never leave me nor forsake me, in Jesus’ Name! Amen

March 18, 2019March 19, 2019

Your Blessing Is On It’s Way

Sometimes it seems like God is taking a very long time to answer your prayers. Many times, people can miss God’s best simply because they give up before they see their blessing come. Don’t let that be you! Be encouraged today, your answer is closer than you think. If it seems like things are getting more difficult, remember, when the intensity heats up, that means you are closer to your victory.

It always seems darkest just before the dawn. Remember God is faithful, and He’s working on your behalf. Don’t cast away your confidence today, because your reward is coming. And just like a new mother forgets about her labour pains once she is finally holding her newborn, you’ll forget about your struggle when you are holding on to your promise. Today, while you are waiting on God, keep an attitude of faith and expectancy. Wake up every morning and say out loud, “I’ve come too far to give up now. My blessing is coming. I will reap my harvest.” Stay in faith and look for His hand of blessing, because He has promised you victory, and it’s closer than you think!

“Do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward.”
Hebrews 10:35, NKJV

Pray With Me
Yahweh, today I stand believing that You are working things out for me. God, give me Your strength to stand in faith, until I see every promise You have for me fulfilled in my life, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

February 24, 2019July 9, 2023

Modern Hero’s for God

What makes someone a hero? Are they perfect in every way, like Superman? Or, are they flawed like the rest of us? And what about the anti-hero, those who have deep flaws and yet at times display great courage and make a stand for what is right? Where do we see these people around us, and what can we learn from them? And, what about those who are famous and lots of people follow them but are not heroes at all?

He has conquered self–the strongest foe man has to meet. The highest evidence of nobility in a Christian is self-control. He who can stand unmoved amid a storm of abuse is one of God’s heroes.

He who has learned to rule his spirit will rise above the slights, the rebuffs, the annoyances to which we are daily exposed, and these will cease to cast a gloom over his spirit.

It is God’s purpose that the kingly power of sanctified reason, controlled by divine grace, shall bear sway in the lives of human beings. He who rules his spirit is in possession of this power.

The man or woman who preserves the balance of the mind when tempted to indulge passion, stands higher in the sight of God and heavenly angels than the most renowned general that ever led an army to battle and to victory.

What young men and women need is Christian heroism. God’s Word declares that he that ruleth his spirit is better than he that taketh a city. To rule the spirit means to keep self under discipline”¦. They need to seek earnestly to bring into their lives the perfection that is seen in the life of the Saviour, so that when Christ shall come, they will be prepared to enter in through the gates into the city of God. God’s abounding love and presence in the heart will give the power of self-control and will mold and fashion the mind and character. The grace of Christ in the life will direct the aims and purposes and capabilities into channels that will give moral and spiritual power–power which the youth will not have to leave in this world, but which they can carry with them into the future life and retain through the eternal ages.

February 24, 2019July 9, 2023

Youth Today

Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.
1 Corinthians 16:13

Christ told His disciples that in the world they should have tribulation. They would be brought before kings and rulers for His sake; all manner of evil would be spoken against them falsely, and those who destroyed their lives would think they did God service. And all, in every age, who have lived godly lives have suffered persecution in some form or sanother. They have suffered every indignity, outrage, and cruelty which Satan could move upon minds to invent.

The world is as much opposed to genuine religion today as it ever has been. The spirit of persecution will be aroused against the faithful ones, who make no concessions to the world, and will not be swayed by its opinions, its favor, or its opposition. A religion that bears a living testimony in favor of holiness and that rebukes pride, selfishness, and fashionable sins will be hated by the world and by superficial Christians.

Marvel not, then, my youthful Christian friends, if the world hates you; for it hated Jesus before you. When you suffer reproach and persecution, you are in excellent company; for Jesus endured it all, and much more. If you are faithful soilders for God, these things are a compliment to you. It is the heroic souls, who will be true if they stand alone, who will win the imperishable crown.

The way to eternal life is straight and narrow, and you will have to press through many difficulties; but by persevering effort you may win eternal life–the future, immortal inheritance. And the rest, the peace, the glory at the end of the journey, will a thousand times repay every exertion and sacrifice that you can make.

February 15, 2019July 9, 2023

The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit Upon All Flesh

Tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. Luke 24:49 â€“ {ML 59.1}

Every truly converted soul will be intensely desirous to bring others from the darkness of error into the marvelous light of the righteousness of Jesus Christ. The great outpouring of the Spirit of God, which lightens the whole earth with His glory, will not come until we have an enlightened people, that know by experience what it means to be laborers together with God. When we have entire, wholehearted consecration to the service of Christ, God will recognize the fact by an outpouring of His Spirit without measure; but this will not be while the largest portion of the church are not laborers together with God. God cannot pour out His Spirit when selfishness and self-indulgence are so manifest; when a spirit prevails that, if put into words, would express that answer of Cain–“Am I my brother’s keeper?” …

When the hearts of the believers are warm with the love for God, they will do a continual work for Jesus. They will manifest the meekness of Christ and display a steadfast purpose that will not fail nor be discouraged. God will use humble men to do His work, for there is a large vineyard calling for laborers.

The promise of the Holy Spirit is not limited to any age or to any race. Christ declared that the divine influence of His Spirit was to be with His followers unto the end. From the day of Pentecost to the present time, the Comforter has been sent to all who have yielded themselves fully to the Lord and to His service. The more closely believers have walked with God, the more clearly and powerfully have they testified of their Redeemer’s love and of His saving grace. The men and women who through the long centuries of persecution and trial enjoyed a large measure of the presence of the Spirit in their lives have stood as signs and wonders in the world.

February 8, 2019July 9, 2023

How Do I Pray? | Teach Me How to Pray

It’s a simple question, but it can be tough to answer.

It’s no secret: you can learn how to pray!

Yes, you!

In the broadest sense, to pray is to make a request in a humble manner.

Too many people think they have good reasons why they cannot have a better prayer life.

Don’t believe them! Prayer is a way for us Christians to maintain a proper relationship with God. Especially, prayers in the morning and at night are indispensable.

Because it’s a conversation, individual prayer isn’t memorized or repetitive. And whether you pray out loud while kneeling or pray silently in your heart, God hears your prayer. Here is some guidance about the basics of prayer.

Take the time to pray. No matter how you pray or whom you pray to, it can be difficult to find time for prayer during busy times.

Find a good spot to pray. You will find that you can pray anytime, anywhere, anyhow.

Understand that prayer does not have to involve crafted, reflective silence. It can be virtually anything.

Make the request, ask the question, or just make your voice heard.

He won’t give you a stone. He won’t give you a serpent. He loves you. He knows what’s best for you. And he’s listening. Don’t be afraid to ask, again.

“Lord, teach us to pray,” Jesus’s disciples asked. This simple prayer, which Jesus taught his disciples, can also show us how to talk with God in prayer.

“‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.’”

You can pray to Him at any time, in any place, about anything. Praying is easy, but like any relationship, it takes a bit of time and a bit of effort.

If you need prayer for anything, we want you to know that God is near to you.

January 26, 2019July 9, 2023

Christians Are Not Perfect, Jesus Is

Do not take your troubles to human beings. Take them to the Lord. You may think that others ought to sympathize with you in your trials, but you will sometimes be disappointed. Jesus never disappoints the one who comes to Him for help. He is saying to you today, “Come unto me, … and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). He will give you rest in Him. No one who comes to Him goes away unhelped. Take your burdens to the divine Burden Bearer and leave them with Him, knowing that He will carry them for you.

Act your part in helping yourselves, as all must do who would be blessed. Do not dwell upon the hardships of the Christian life. Do not talk of your trials…. Do not utter one despondent word, for such words please Satan. Talk of Christ’s goodness and tell of His power. Words of hope and trust and courage are as easily spoken as words of complaint…

When the enemy tells you that the Lord has forsaken you, tell him that you know He has not; for He declares, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Hebrews 13:5). Dismiss the enemy. Tell him you will not dishonor the Lord by doubting His love….

There is no limit to the help that the Saviour is willing to bestow on us. He asks us to bring into our lives the grace that will keep us from sin. From the cross of Calvary there comes to us liberty, hope, and strength. Do not dishonor your Redeemer by doubting His power. Trust Him all the time. Take hold of the riches of His grace, saying, “I will believe; I do believe that Jesus died for me.” The way before you may seem dark, but Jesus can make it light.

Be joyful in God. Christ is light and in Him is no darkness at all. Look toward the light. Accustom yourselves to speak the praise of God. Make others happy. This is your first work. It will strengthen the best traits of character. Throw the windows of the soul wide open heavenward and let the sunshine of Christ’s righteousness in. Morning, noon, and night your hearts may be filled with the bright rays of heaven’s light.