Sunday Sermon Share Day: Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3/31/13

March 31, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

Welcome to Sunday Sermon Share Day for 3/31/13

Happy Resurrection Sunday family!

Today’s Subject: Reality
Today’s Scripture selections from are:

Mark 16:9,10
Luke 24:13, 15-20, 27-32
Colossians 2:17
I Corinthians 15:12–14 since,
I Corinthians 15:20
Colossians 3:1, 2, 12, 14
Revelation 11:15 The

Highlights from Today’s Sermon:
-Even after Jesus told the disciples and followers what stages of the prophesy would be fulfilled, when things came to pass they were amazed, questioned and doubted him, and some were fearful.

-Jesus resurrected and made himself known to Mary Magdalene but his disciples did not believe what she told them. He then appeared to two disciples who immediately told the other disciples, and once again it was not believed. So all that Jesus prepared them for seemed to be in vain.

– The story of the Emmaus Disciples shows us how Jesus walked with them disguising himself and it wasn’t until he broke bread and blessed it at dinner were their eyes spiritually opened to the reality of who he was, and at that very moment he disappeared. Proves that Jesus could be conversing with you at any given moment and you would only know when he wanted you to know.

– If you say that Jesus Christ rose from the dead then you should also believe that others can be resurrected. If you believe that humans can’t be resurrected, then that means Jesus never was. If that’s the case then all of this preaching about resurrection has been in vain—-and our faith is also vain.

Message and Reminder from Natasha:
Happy Easter family. My apologies for today’s delay. I was so consumed with preparing for an Easter celebration at my home that I forgot to post this earlier. Be sure to share highlights from sermons at your church or place of worship. Feel free to also visit and contribute to our community chat room where we can have healthy, positive, dialogue on today’s sermons, Breaking Bread daily posts, or issues impacting the Christian community.

Remember there is absolutely no preaching, passing judgment, converting, recruiting, or focus on any specific church or religious leader. Those are the rules. We’re here to share words of love and peace inspired by the Word of the Bible. We’re here to uplift and never tear down. If you can roll with that, then you can roll with me and the Breaking Bread family! Visit the chat room here:

http://chatroll.com/embed/chat/breaking-bread-with-natasha?id=lCL-CHvZOne&platform=wordpress-com

Have an amazing week family. Remember that our reality is not God’s reality. We need to get on His page if we’re going to get this right.

Love always,

Natasha

Copyright 2013. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. breakingbreadwithnatasha.blogspot.com
breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com

Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.

Saturday Recap: Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3/25/13 to 3/29/13

March 30, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

Are you ready for the Word? Let’s do this then!

Monday- 3/25/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/25/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-25-13/

Tuesday- 3/26/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/26/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-26-13/

Wednesday- 3/27/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/27/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-27-13/

Thursday- 3/28/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/28/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-28-13/

Friday- 3/29/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/29/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-29-13/

Special Saturday Message- 3/30/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/30/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-30-13/

I hope that this week’s messages help you on your journey and spiritual walk, and that whatever you are going through in life that you can find some inspiration each day.

Don’t forget that tomorrow is our Sunday Sermon Share Day. If you hear or take part in an awesome sermon, please share your notes, highlights, scripture, or reflections with the rest of us. I don’t care if it’s a sermon from an online or televised broadcast, please share with us. I intend to do the same.

Have a happy Easter. I’m heading back to the U.S. to celebrate with family, friends, and associates.

Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.30.13

March 30, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

Every year His parents traveled to Jerusalem for the Passover Festival. When He was 12 years old, they went up according to the custom of the festival. After those days were over, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but His parents did not know it. Assuming He was in the traveling party, they went a day’s journey. Then they began looking for Him among their relatives and friends. When they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for Him. After three days, they found Him in the temple complex sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. And all those who heard Him were astounded at His understanding and His answers. When His parents saw Him, they were astonished, and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for You.” “Why were you searching for Me? ” He asked them. “Didn’t you know that I had to be in My Father’s house? ” But they did not understand what He said to them.

Luke 2:41-50 HCSB

Pray
Father if my purpose and Your plan for me right now in my life is not clear to me, please open my eyes so that I might see what You intend for me. If I see yet walk in hesitation, please lovingly push me. Please open my ears and tune me in to Your voice so that I might hear You every time You call my name. Touch my heart so that I can always feel You, remain connected, and know which path to follow without hesitation. To be more like Jesus means sacrifice, and each day I want to push myself beyond my comfort zone. Mold me Father. Amen.

Reflection
From the mouth of babes….at the age of 12 Jesus was into his walk with God, he knew it, he felt it, and he didn’t reject it. His elders were amazed at how connected and insightful he was at such a young age. No one knew what or whom they were dealing with. They didn’t realize that the savior they had heard of was walking amongst them.

God has placed each of us here to do certain things, to carry out certain tasks for Him in His name—but how many of us are fulfilling His wishes and commands? Where are you stopping short or bailing altogether? What talents and gifts remain dormant? What are you not achieving because you are paralyzed by fear and doubt? What greatness awaits you?

Think about it. Happy Saturday family!

Love always from the Bahamas,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.29.13

March 30, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

When the eight days were completed for His circumcision, He was named Jesus — the name given by the angel before He was conceived. And when the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were finished, they brought Him up to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord….

There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple complex….

When the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform for Him what was customary under the law, His father and mother were amazed at what was being said about Him. Then Simeon blessed them and told His mother Mary: “Indeed, this child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be opposed — and a sword will pierce your own soul — that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

When they had completed everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The boy grew up and became strong, filled with wisdom, and God’s grace was on Him.

Luke 2:21, 22, 25-27, 33-35, 39, 40 HCSB

Pray
Father may I see and always embrace what Jesus is to You and me. May I embrace and take full responsibility for my walk. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Reflection
Just as God had a plan for Jesus before his human birth, He had and has a plan for each of us—it is up to us to follow and obey. Consider this, what if Jesus refused to walk as God instructed? What if John had disobeyed and didn’t preach and teach of Jesus’ coming as the Messiah? What if Jesus fearfully pulled away at times to prevent fulfilling prophecy? How would life be for all of us right now? Would we even be around?

Consider this. Then give thanks.

Happy Good Friday family. Sending love from the Bahamas!

Clothing myself WITH Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.28.13

March 28, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

Now if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, then He who raised Christ from the dead will also bring your mortal bodies to life through His Spirit who lives in you.

Romans 8:10, 11 HCSB

Pray
Father I know that as long as I believe, walk boldly in and of faith, and embrace all that I have and all that I am as Your child then I can never be or ever feel separate from You. Whatever obstacles that erect in my path will seem like ant hills each step that I take. Illness will never consume me because I know that You make me whole and healthy—as my body is merely a shell that my spiritual presence is housed in. I am working each day to overcome fear and doubt, to see past mountains and forests, to see around valleys, and see through clutter and clouds. Lift me Father. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Reflection
Either we believe we are who we say we are, that we are the children of God, the sheep of our shepherd Jesus Christ, or we don’t. Either we believe that God gives life, is health, heals, nurtures, restores, comforts, and uplifts—or not! You can’t be half-pregnant. Either you are all-in or not. Let’s work at getting ourselves all-in.

Enjoy your Thursday family. Sending love from the Bahamas!

Clothing myself WITH Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.27.13

March 27, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

For you know that you were redeemed from your empty way of life inherited from the fathers, not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish.

1 Peter 1:18,19 HCSB

Pray
Father may I always remember Who’s child I am, the sacrifices made before me and for me, and my purpose here on Earth. Let this not serve as a burden, but even if it feels heavy, let me feel pride and honor in carrying the weight. Amen.

Reflection
Never forget who you are, Whom you belong to, and that none of this is about you—but about God and making sure that His Kingdom reigns inside of each of us. All that you have is not by your will but His. You may be self-made by human standards, but by spiritual standards you are God-made. Your successes, your material possessions, the positive people in your life—all are gifts from God. It is His will and grace that makes things happen for you each millisecond of the day. Never ever ever forget this. Praise Him for all that you have, all that you are, and all that you will become.

Enjoy your Wednesday family. Sending love from the Bahamas!

Clothing myself WITH Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.26.13

March 26, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

And we exhort you, brothers: warn those who are irresponsible, comfort the discouraged, help the weak, be patient with everyone.

1 Thessalonians 5:14 HCSB

Pray
Father I pray that each day I do my part to share Your Word with someone, share my testimony of Your goodness, reflect Your Light, and make the world a better place. I know that I’m only one person, but I know that You can give me the strength, wisdom, and foresight to do the work of many.

Father I pray that You touch my heart to reach out to those who are straying or have strayed, comfort those who discouraged and those lacking hope, and help the weak. Father You know that I need patience and understanding—please fill me with both, so that I am receptive to all that I encounter. In Jesus’ name I humbly pray. Amen.

Reflection
When you read that passage do you see anywhere a focus on self? Each directive is to do something for someone else, and to do something to help someone else. By giving you receive. By blessing others you are blessed. By helping others you in return are helped.

We should consider this in all things we do. When the focus is always on me, myself, and I, how can God truly be represented?

I send you greetings from the Bahamas this week. God is definitely good!

Clothing myself WITH Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.25.13

March 25, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

For you are all sons of light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or the darkness.

1 Thessalonians 5:5 HCSB

Pray
Father I pray that I always seek out Your Light, walk only by Your Light, speak using Your Light, reflect only Your Light, and never give in to darkness for I know it is the absence of You. I pray for discernment to see Your light always and everywhere, and to push past darkness—rebuking it at every turn. I worship and serve only You Father. In Jesus’ name as a believer and follower of Christ, Love, Truth, Mind, and Light. Amen.

Reflection
Guard yourself. Guard what you see, hear, and say. Guard how you react and respond to situations. Guard your mind from what you read and what you listen to on the TV, radio, Internet, etc. Look closely at what you are about to purchase and from whom. What do the words and images really mean? Don’t be quick to follow fads and fashion trends. Clearly discern the images and sounds that are trying to filter into your mind. Know that God’s Mind and Spirit prevails and trumps any other perceived or actual source anywhere. Remember that in Proverbs 21:30 it is boldly stated that there is absolutely nothing out there of any kind that can outdo God.

Remember Matthew 4:10 when Jesus told the enemy, to go away because it is written that we are to worship the Lord our God and serve only Him. Jesus wasn’t going to even entertain the enemy one moment. He wasn’t going to give in to the promises of power, fame, prestige, and wealth. Jesus had one Master, one Father, one King, one Protector, one Lord—our Heavenly Father-Mother God! He told the enemy to get lost.

We cannot give in to temptation. We cannot give power to the enemy who has absolutely none. Every time we give in to the enemy we make it relevant, give it meaning, give it a sense of power, and take the focus off of God. Every time we give time to darkness, to error, to that big lie, we are ignoring God—we are putting God on the back burner. We are telling God to wait, that He is of less importance at that moment. We’re telling him in these moments that we can do “this” without Him, whatever “this” is at that moment—of course, until we need Him. Then we want God’s undivided attention and blessings.

When negative thoughts pop in your head, say, “that’s a lie!” and mean it! Say it with conviction like someone just told you that your mother was part donkey, part giraffe, and part parakeet. It may sound funny reading this, but the reality is that the claim is false; it’s a lie; and you should declare it with Truth and Light in your heart and mind. There will always be clever tricks disguised as lightheartedness, jokes, art, etc.— but they too are dark.

1 John 4:1 tells us to not believe every spirit because there are many false prophets. This reinforces how easily we can be distracted or manipulated if we aren’t walking in the Truth.

Guard yourself and remember these scriptural passages along your journey.

Clothing myself in Love,

Natasha

Sunday Sermon Share Day: Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3/24/13

March 24, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

Welcome to Sunday Sermon Share Day for 3/24/13

Today’s sermon comes from Destiny Metropolitan Worship Church in Marietta, Georgia. Enjoy!

Today’s Subject: Bandwagon Fans
Today’s Scripture selections from are:
John 12:12-16
Deuteronomy 16:16b-17
Matthew 16:13-20
John 15:8,9
Matthew 26:69-74
Luke 14:25-33
Acts 3:11-16

Highlights from Today’s Sermon:
Sermon discussed the difference between between being a “R.E.A.L.” fan of Jesus, and being a bandwagon.

I’m a R.E.A.L. Fan of Jesus when:

1. I remember his body of work
2. I express my loyalty in the face of haters
3. I accept the cost of total commitment
4. I live a life of passionate devotion

You can’t do number 4 above without first doing number 3.

– It’s not that we don’t love God. It’s that as just don’t love Him ENOUGH!

– Signs that you are on a bandwagon (using today’s examples):

1. No reflection of God and Christ in/at your workplace
2. Shy away from conversations about why you practice your faith, why you attend church and Bible study regularly, read your Bible, etc.
3. The only Bible you have is the one that sits in the back window of your car collecting dust and getting warped by the sun.
4. How you dress; even at the gym
5. How you speak while playing a sport or some other activity–what language are you using?

-You shouldn’t be concerned with offending people. The nature of Truth itself is offensive. Light offends darkness.

-We’re more like Peter than we think. We can say we can’t believe that Peter would betray Jesus, we can even claim we wouldn’t—but honestly, let’s put things in a modern-day context: Jesus was arrested and was in the primary stages before being crucified. Peter watched him get arrested and out of fear of the same happening to him, he denied knowing and being affiliated with Jesus (unknowingly fulfilling the prophecy Jesus mentioned to the disciples). Peter followed Jesus from a distance and watched as things unfolded. Peter was no different than those of us who say, “shoot I’m not going down for you” or “I’m not about to catch a case for you”.

-Now honestly ask yourself, what would you do if you were Peter? Would you have done the same thing, or worse?

-See it’s not the willingness to die for Jesus that is the problem. People are quick to say they would do that, because it’s so quick and temporary (i.e., eternal life) it’s living for Christ and being Christ-like that is the difficult task.

-Everyone knows that saying you’re a Christian and being a Christian carries heavy weight and expectations. When you make the claim everyone sits back and watches you—they look to see how you walk and talk, in all situations. It’s also the reason why many people don’t claim to be Christian, but rather say “spiritual” because it provides a comfort zone, a buffer, where there’s no expectation to perform. This too is a bandwagon step.

– God creates situations where we have to cooperate with Him.

-You will either follow Jesus from a distance or up close.

-You will either walk the walk 100% or be on the bandwagon.

-Where in your life are you on the bandwagon? Where are you still doubtful of God’s ability to do all and everything for you? Wherever there is fear and doubt, there is the bandwagon that you must eliminate through prayer and practice.

Message and Reminder from Natasha:
Sorry for the delay with today’s message. Be sure to share highlights from sermons at your church or place of worship. Feel free to also visit and contribute to our community chat room where we can have healthy, positive, dialogue on today’s sermons, Breaking Bread daily posts, or issues impacting the Christian community. Remember there is absolutely no preaching, passing judgment, converting, recruiting, or focus on any specific church or religious leader. Those are the rules. We’re here to share words of love and peace inspired by the Word of the Bible. We’re here to uplift and never tear down. If you can roll with that, then you can roll with me and the Breaking Bread family! Visit the chat room here:

http://chatroll.com/embed/chat/breaking-bread-with-natasha?id=lCL-CHvZOne&platform=wordpress-com

Have an amazing week family. Remember to focus on getting off that bandwagon, if you’re on it. We all have to face the reality that we are a lot like Peter in more than one aspect of our life. Find out where and work to stomp out that fear—in Jesus’s name!

Love always,

Natasha

Saturday Recap: Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3/18/13 to 3/22/13

March 23, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

Are you ready for the Word? Let’s do this then!

Monday- 3/18/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/18/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-18-13/

Tuesday- 3/19/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/19/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-19-13/

Wednesday- 3/20/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/20/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-20-13/

Thursday- 3/21/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/21/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-21-13/

Friday- 3/22/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/22/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-22-13/

I hope that this week’s messages help you on your journey and spiritual walk, and that whatever you are going through in life that you can find some inspiration each day.

Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.22.13

March 22, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

Furthermore, we had natural fathers discipline us, and we respected them. Shouldn’t we submit even more to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time based on what seemed good to them, but He does it for our benefit, so that we can share His holiness. No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields the fruit of peace and righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

Hebrews 12:9-11 HCSB

Pray
Father thank You for constantly molding me, redirecting me, and causing me to deal with life’s lessons. Please continue to guide me Father. I need the discipline for growth. I need the lessons so that when I learn what I am to do, I gain wisdom in the process. I want peace in my life Lord. These things I humbly pray for. Amen.

Reflection
Without discipline, redirection, setbacks, and “wakeup calls” we would not be chosen to rule over the mammals, creatures, and other walks of life. Embrace obstacles as merely opportunities to shine and reflect God’s light. Embrace the opportunity to seize whatever prize awaits you on the other side. We must submit fully to God in order to receive all that God has in store for us.

Enjoy your Friday family. Tomorrow we’ll do our Saturday Recap.

Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.21.13

March 21, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

God is our refuge and strength, a helper who is always found in times of trouble.

Psalms 46:1 HCSB

Pray
Father protect me. Protect my mind, heart, spirit, and soul. Protect me from attacks of all kinds. Guide me away from situations that could cause me harm. Block negative messaging and influences. I thank You for being my rock, shelter, and protector. I love You Father. Amen.

Reflection
We are to live in the world but not be of the world. Protect your mind and soul from worldly and dark influences that could lead you astray. Protect yourself from music, movies, images, pictures, symbols, books, and other sources that are not reflections of God’s light.

Listen to the words of songs you sing. Pay close attention to the images and symbols you wear or place in your home. Be cautious of how and where you spend and invest your money. Do your research. Words are powerful. Thoughts are things, as a friend of mine often says. Our minds are extremely powerful.

Not everyone out there has the best intentions. There are a lot of wolves in sheep clothing. Pray that God always protects you on your journey.

Love always,

Natasha
P.S. Happy birthday to my grandmother—such class and grace, and definitely a soldier for Christ. Another birthday shout out to my dear friend Brandon who would have been 31 years old yesterday. He passed too soon for us, but God’s time is never to be questioned. I know God is using him for something greater now.

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.20.13

March 20, 2013Natasha 1 Comment

Yesterday we prayed and reflected upon life’s “storms” and the change that comes each day, whether we want them or not. This morning when I opened my eyes and focused of this beautiful day that God has blessed me to see and participate in, I was pleasantly greeted by a text message from my friend Juanita who shared another great message from Joel and Victoria Osteen.

My daily blogs have my name in the title, but this isn’t the “Natasha Show”, this is an exchange and sharing of God’s Word and Jesus’s walk, as I continue on this arduous journey (and I’m sure yours is no cake-walk). So wherever or whomever it comes from it does not matter to me, as long as it’s loving, positive, inspirational, and brings us even closer to God, I’m going to post it. So hopefully you embrace from time to time messages shared by others, and find that when I share others prayers and reflections, it only enriches your spiritual walk. Look at it as a double dose of God’s Light!

Today I share an amazing message that so aptly ties in to yesterday’s message that I wrote. Enjoy, God bless, and happy birthday to everyone celebrating the day God popped them into the world!

Love always,
Natasha

Message: When God Opens the Floodgates

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
“And He led them on safely, so that they did not fear; but the sea overwhelmed their enemies.”

Psalm 78:53, NKJV

TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria
Nothing can stop the force of mighty rushing water. Three or four feet of water can pick up a car that weighs thousands of pounds and move it all around. You’ve probably seen news reports where whole houses are being swept away during a huge flood or cities in a tidal wave.

In the same way, you may have obstacles that look insurmountable; dreams that look unattainable, but let me encourage you: when God releases a flood of His power, nothing will be able to stop you. That sickness may look big, but when God releases a flood of healing, it doesn’t stand a chance. Your opposition may be stronger, better financed and better equipped; but when God opens up the floodgates, they’ll be no match for you.

You may not have the connections or resources you need, but when God releases a flood of favor, people will come out of the woodwork to help you out. Good breaks, opportunity, the right people will search you out. You need to get ready not for a trickle, not a stream, not a river, but a flood of God’s favor, a tidal wave of God’s goodness, a tsunami of His increase is coming your way!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, thank You for Your mighty power at work in my life. I believe that Your floodgates are open, and a flood of Your goodness is wiping out my enemies and clearing the way for victory in every area of my life in Jesus’ name. Amen

breakingbreadwithnatasha.blogspot.com
breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.19.13

March 19, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

“…He sends forth [rains], and they overwhelm the land or transform it.”

Job 12:15, AMP

Pray
Father thank You for the change. Whether or not I see and embrace its immediate or long-term need, You know my heart and know that I understand its importance. So once again thank You. Amen.

Reflection
Yesterday out of no where there was a nasty storm that hit parts of Georgia, and in the Metro area we went from drizzle to sprinkle, to a hail storm in less than 10 minutes—all in 78 degree weather.

We were on tornado watch as I saw hail that fell the size of dimes, nickels and quarters outside of my home. I was grateful to be inside and that my car, and home appeared to be okay. I did dread having to go outside again, for anything. I didn’t want to be bombarded by chunks and pieces of hail. Who really wants that?

What I didn’t know was that maybe 30-45 minutes away in Stockbridge, Georgia a contractor I know was under attack by hail that measured at 2+ inches. He sent a picture of approximately 5 pieces of hail and they were huge. This hail dinted his car, caused damage to his roof, knocked a squirrel out of a tree, and knocked trees down. There weren’t any high winds by his home, just lots of rain and hail.

I was fascinated and alarmed by what I thought was large pieces of hail, and this man had hail that looked like golf balls. That sure put things into perspective.

Yesterday’s storm will either overwhelm people and the area, or it will help to transform it and them. But hopefully no matter what, there will always be a chance to learn a lesson about our perspectives on how bad things really are—what you are going through may be nothing in comparison to others.

Just as the metaphoric “storms” we face in life—either they overwhelm and devastate us or they help to transform our lives into something better and stronger. We will all face storms, real and imagined, severe and minor, it is how you respond before, during, and after that matters.

How do you deal with pain, loss, disappointment, betrayal, etc?

How do you deal with change?

How do you deal with life’s storms? I challenge each of us to do what I did last night during a real storm (knowing that I had somewhere to be) —I say dress for the weather, put on rain boots, slap a hat on your head, and get out there—because last night I went to the Philips Arena to see the Dallas Mavericks beat the Atlanta Hawks—and guess what? There was no hail getting there and absolutely no rain coming back. The storm had passed. When I returned home and I walked in the backyard last night with my man and our dog, everything was calm. The storm I witnessed and experienced wasn’t as bad as I thought it was.

Today it’s bright and sunny. The birds are chirping. I hear the water flowing in the creek in the backyard. The darkness and wildness is gone, and peace is restored. Have there been some changes? Yes, indeed. But they are transforming ones.

How can that same approach be applied in the metaphorical “storms”? Instead of burying yourself under the weight of what life throws you, instead of hiding and balled up in fear, step up and out of the mess (being sure not to cause collateral damage of your own), and each day take a step forward and beyond that “storm”.

You have a choice to exist in the grey or you can live in the splendid colors of light. It’s a choice.

Think about it and share your thoughts and experiences.

Love always,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.18.13

March 18, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

“Why do you call Me good? ” Jesus asked him. “No one is good but One — God.

Mark 10:18 HCSB

Pray
All that I need comes from You. You are all that I need Lord. Keep my eyes on You Father. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Reflection
We tend to focus all of our attention and accolades towards God’s creations rather than give Him the glory 100 percent of the time. Jesus put people in check about this constantly, and as the man who ran up to him calling him “Good Teacher” found out, Jesus once again put things into perspective that he was not to be regarded as good, but that God being good, was the only source to be identified in that light. That is beyond deep.

Jesus is seen as the savior for mankind, the son of God, the wayshower, but even as God’s perfect creation Jesus still never would consider answering to “Good”.

Jesus knew his place and humbly served in his role. He never took his title and position the way many people would if given the opportunity. Even when he healed people he told them to tell no one, he just wanted to help, save, heal, and bless others through God’s power. That is a humble servant. Jesus understood that the source of all is the Father, and that he was to show people the way to Him, not try to get the attention or accolades.

Consider the source of all that you have. Look at everything you have achieved in life, who really gets the credit?

Love always,

Natasha

Sunday Sermon Share Day: Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3/17/13

March 17, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

Welcome to Sunday Sermon Share Day for 3/17/13

Today we’ll have a dual sharing from two churches, one in Decatur, Georgia, and the other in San Diego, California. I attended a Episcopal Church in Decatur, Georgia as they recognized Lent. There really wasn’t a “sermon”, so I instead share the scriptures that were recited. Today’s sermon notes were shared by my dear friend Staci who lives in San Diego, California.

Today’s Scripture selections from are:
1 John 1:8,9
Isaiah 43:16-21
Philippians 3:4b-14
John 12:1-8

Highlights from Today’s Sermon at Staci’s church:

1. God wants us to be unstoppable. It doesn’t matter what you have done, he wants you to be free of all the negativity in your life.

2. In order to be unstoppable, you have to be in good standing with God.

3. You have to invite Him in. He won’t force His way in.

4. Each of us have a unique fingerprint. No one in the past and no one in the future will have our fingerprint. God wants each of us to leave a unique imprint behind.

5. We are not victims, we are somebody’s solution.

6. To repent means to change your mind for the better. When we make a change, nobody has to know.

7. Faith is believing that God’s way is better than your own way.

Message and Reminder from Natasha:
Thank you Staci for sharing the notes you took today. Do the rest of you see how easy that was? Be sure to share highlights from sermons at your church or place of worship. Feel free to also visit and contribute to our community chat room where we can have healthy, positive, dialogue on today’s sermons, Breaking Bread daily posts, or issues impacting the Christian community. Remember there is absolutely no preaching, passing judgment, converting, recruiting, or focus on any specific church or religious leader. Those are the rules. We’re here to share words of love and peace inspired by the Word of the Bible. We’re here to uplift and never tear down. If you can roll with that, then you can roll with me and the Breaking Bread family! Visit the chat room here:

http://chatroll.com/embed/chat/breaking-bread-with-natasha?id=lCL-CHvZOne&platform=wordpress-com

Have an amazing week family.

Love always,

Natasha

Saturday Recap: Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3/11/13 to 3/15/13

March 16, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

Are you ready for the Word? Let’s do this then!

Monday- 3/11/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/11/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-11-13/

Tuesday- 3/12/13

Tuesday’s message didn’t post. So below please read a prayer and reflection that should add to this week’s overall message and theme.

Search for the Lord and for His strength; seek His face always.
Psalms 105:4 HCSB

Pray
Father I pray to always seek You in all people, all things, and all circumstances. Let that peace comfort me, guide me, build me, and strengthen me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Reflection
When we constantly seek out God we leave no room for error, negativity, darkness, etc. When we focus on bad things we ignore God.

Wednesday- 3/13/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/13/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-13-13/

Thursday- 3/14/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/14/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-14-13/

Friday- 3/15/13

Read the daily message here:
https://breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com/2013/03/15/natashas-daily-scripture-prayer-and-reflection-for-3-15-13/

I hope that this week’s messages help you on your journey and spiritual walk, and that whatever you are going through in life that you can find some inspiration each day.

Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.15.13

March 15, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

Another awesome message from Joel and Victoria Osteen. A great way to end you week and prepare for next week.

– Natasha

Preprogrammed
for Victory!

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
“Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.”
1 John 5:5, NIV

TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria
Did you know that you are preprogrammed for victory? As a child of the Most High God, you are filled with His conquering power. You are filled with the power to overcome all the negative, self-defeating forces of the world. Do you know what that power is? It’s you’re faith. When you activate your faith, you are tapping into His unlimited strength. You are opening the door for Him to move supernaturally in your life.

Understand that faith causes you to live your life differently. It causes you to speak and act differently than before. When things come against you, instead of complaining and giving up, faith causes you to rise up and say, “No weapon formed against me shall prosper. I am able to do all things through Christ who gives me strength!” Faith causes you to obey God’s Word and do the right thing even when the wrong thing is happening. When you choose to live the life of faith, you are choosing God’s best. You are choosing blessing. You are choosing to allow His conquering power to flow through every area of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, thank You for filling me with Your conquering power. I choose to live in faith and declare Your promises over my life. I choose to follow Your Word. I choose Your ways knowing that You have good plans for me in Jesus’ name. Amen

Message from Natasha:
Wasn’t that awesome! Let me take a moment to honor the life and legacy of someone who will always be close to me although now only spiritually, Nathaniel D. Hale, Sr. thank you for the memories.

breakingbreadwithnatasha.blogspot.com
breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.14.13

March 14, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

Then they came to Capernaum. When He was in the house, He asked them, “What were you arguing about on the way? ” But they were silent, because on the way they had been arguing with one another about who was the greatest. Sitting down, He called the Twelve and said to them, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.”

Mark 9:33-35 HCSB

Pray
Father let me always be humbled to remember my place as a servant. Let me always lift others up without concern with how I’m placed in the “mix” of things. Let me serve with love even in frustration. Let me serve with kindness and patience even with the most difficult of people. Let me never react to life but respond as You direct me. Open my ears to listen and hear. Open my eyes to see and have vision. Open my mouth to share wisdom but close it before I utter anything unloving or ignorant. Warm my heart to be receptive. Bless me with discernment Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Reflection
The only title and role you should be concerned with is that of servant. I truly believe that people get caught up in titles, roles, pecking order, seniority, the rungs of ladders they are on, and so on and so forth. Instead of life being about you and your feelings, and sense of entitlement—let it be about how you can be of service to God and a help for others. How can you be a team player not an obstacle? How can you bring value rather than drama? How can you contribute rather than hinder? Instead of shutting down how can you work to do your part to make things work?

In everything thing that we do and with all job descriptions there’s a responsibility that we seem to overlook or forget, the part that says, “…and duties as assigned…” What I mean by that is that our job in life or even with a company is never confined to just a set amount of tasks. As new things pop up we must adjust and accept more responsibilities or simply different ones. People struggle with change, we claim we want it but when it comes we say, “That’s not what I signed up for…” Or “That’s not in my job description!” Are you serious? If you are not open to change and all that comes with it don’t place yourself in situations and roles where acceptance of change is necessary.

If you want a promotion, raise, to be married, have kids, new car or house, to own a business—whatever it is—you either must accept that things will eventually come as “duties as assigned” and you must take the reigns and march forward—or don’t accept the position at all. That means don’t strive forward for things that require ownership, struggle, more work, persistence, pain, longer hours, more patience, and having to do way more than you ever expected.

People truly think life is about them. That is why we struggle so much. This existence and our experiences are all about God. Ponder that and then share your thoughts.

Before I wrap up I need to send some love….
Happy birthday to the man who always brings a smile to my face and warms my heart every time I see and speak with him—Quincy D. Jones II.
Tuesday I forgot to post and also wish those I love a happy birthday–Nate Jr. and Ambassador Andrew Young. Happy 4th birthday (March 11th) to my beloved Quentin.

God bless you all!

Love always,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.14.13

March 14, 2013Natasha Leave a comment

Mark 9:33-35 HCSB

People truly think life is about them. That is why we struggle so much. This existence and our experiences are all about God. Ponder that and then share your thoughts.

God bless you all!

Love always,

Natasha

Breaking Bread With Natasha

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Month: March 2013

Saturday Recap: Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3/25/13 to 3/29/13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.30.13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.29.13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.28.13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.27.13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.26.13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.25.13

Saturday Recap: Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3/18/13 to 3/22/13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.22.13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.21.13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.20.13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.19.13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.18.13

Saturday Recap: Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3/11/13 to 3/15/13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.15.13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.14.13

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.14.13

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