Category Archives: General Devotions

July 3rd 2017 – Magnify my Faith and Wisdom

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“So Esther answered, “If it pleases the king, let the king and Haman come today to the banquet that I have prepared for him.”
(Esther 5:4)

The book of Esther is an amazing book. While not mentioning the name of God, it clearly displays the work of God in the life of His people. Esther was one of those individuals who was given power and placed in a role to change history. Sometimes, we think that following God means random acts of faith. While faith is crucial, we must also remember that we are called to be wise in our actions.

In Esther 5, Esther is using great wisdom. She has a hard message to take to the King, but rather than blurt it out at the wrong time, she is preparing herself and the king for the important conversation. People say, “I don’t have to use wisdom, I am using faith.” God gives us wisdom, creativity and intelligence to use. Esther used the wisdom, guided by faith, to bring about amazing results for the people of Israel. Are you walking in wisdom? Do you consider all the options; make a plan of action for your life, ministry or family time? We all could be more like Esther, intentional in our actions and lead by God’s wisdom. Even today, let’s prepare ourselves for ministering to others and then step out with faith to get it done.

(Proverbs 9:10) “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holyisunderstanding.”

“When we walk in faith, wisdom and boldness, incredible things can happen.” 

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank you for the Bible that helps me understand how I am to think and act. Help me to grow in wisdom and to be intentional with my life. Give me opportunities to step out in boldness to love, give and share my faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

If you are seeking Jesus in your life or want to recommit your life to Him. Click here to learn more.

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

July 1st 2017 – Foundation of Wisdom

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The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, But fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Proverbs 1:7)

When you are building a house, the most important element is the foundation. If you build on a foundation that is moving or unstable, no matter how secure you create everything else, it will eventually fall apart. The same is true with wisdom and knowledge. The Bible tells us that the beginning (or foundation) of knowledge is found in fearing the Lord.

This “fear of the Lord” can also be understood as a reverence for His authority. It can also translate to a trust in His Word and His commands. When I trust the Lord and believe that what He says is true, then I will build my life on something unmovable. Of course, if I dismiss His Word and rely on my thoughts or feelings, then I am building my life on something that is unstable. The good news is that God can take our lives (no matter how bad the foundation) and place them on The Foundation – Jesus Christ. As we trust in Christ, we will find our life is more stable, and we are not so quick to topple under the weight of this world. Instead, we have a fresh joy and peace that comes with a secure foundation.

“The foundation of wisdom for all believers comes from having a fear and reverence for the Lord.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I know that I often build my life on my emotions or limited understanding. Help me to walk in a healthy reverence for You and trust in Your Word. Fill me with Your Spirit so that I will be ready to deal with life and live victoriously through Jesus. Also Lord, Thank you for our Mothers and their wisdom. Please stay close to the sons and daughters that no longer have their mothers alive… may they feel You love and presence. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

If you would like to request a prayer Click Here

Interested in experiencing forgiveness and love found in Jesus? Please click here to learn more about how to ask Jesus into your heart. 4 Simple Steps to Jesus

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

June 29th 2017 – In Perfect Time

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“Then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment,” (2 Peter 2:9)

Too much of the world, it seems, has always been in a battle of good and evil. We see people do evil deeds and desire to see justice done. Sometimes, we can even get impatient waiting for justice. After all, wouldn’t it be best for God to get rid of all the evil people in the world? Surely, if he did, then none of us would be here. The reality is that God’s grace is on us all. He is perfect in his justice and will punish those who do evil. However, He is also full of mercy and desires that none should perish. Peter puts it this way…

(2 Peter 3:9) “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”

One day, God will return to punish evil, but until then, He is giving evil people time to turn to Him for forgiveness and grace. Because of His patience, men like the apostle Paul went from being a hater of Jesus and His followers to being the greatest missionary to walk the planet. That same change is happening all over our world as people’s hearts are changed by the Gospel.

“God is patient in judgment. He will punish or reward at the perfect time.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your grace and for being so patient with me. Father, help me to walk in that grace and to share Your love and mercy with others. In this world of pain, help me to trust in You even when I may not understand all that is happening around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

If you are seeking Jesus in your life or want to recommit your life to Him. Click Here to learn more.

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

June 26th 2017 – Hiding From God?

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“Behold, I am against you,” says the Lord of hosts; “I will lift your skirts over your face, I will show the nations your nakedness, And the kingdoms your shame.” (Nahum 3:5)

In the last chapter of Nahum, God brings several charges against the city of Nineveh. One of these charges is their involvement in harlotry and sorcery. These two lifestyles thrive in the dark corners of society and desire to accomplish personal fulfillment with ungodliness. So what is God’s plan to punish those involved? He is simply going to expose their sinfulness to everyone.

In our own lives, I believe we fear this more than anything else. We fear the thought of being “found out”. This may come as a surprise to some, God already knows our sins. There is nothing we can do to hide them from His perfect gaze.

(Jeremiah 23:24) “Can anyone hide from me in a secret place? Am I not everywhere in all the heavens and earth?” says the Lord.”

(Hebrews 4:13) “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable.”

Here is the good news. He desires to forgive us of those sins and all we need to do is be honest. When we come to God fully confessing our faults and failures to Him, He will wipe them away. On the other hand, if we try to hide our sins from Him, one day they will make it to the surface for all to see. Today, rather than hiding your sins, come to God, confess and watch as your burden is lifted. Experience the fresh full forgiveness of your Heavenly Father.

Confession of sin.

(John 1:9) “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

God chooses not to hold our sins against us.

(Isaiah 43:25) “I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more.”

God removes our sin from us.

(Psalm 103:12) “It is possible for the Lord to look at us without seeing our sins because when he forgave us, he removed our sins as far as the east is from the west”

“The cost of hidden sin is shame and exposure.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I come to You this morning to confess my sins to You. You tell me in the Bible that if I confess to You, You will wipe away all my sins and so I come this day asking for Your forgiveness. Continue to change my heart and make me more like Jesus. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you are seeking Jesus in your life or want to recommit your life to Him. Click Here to learn more.

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

www.scripturalseeds.org

June 22nd 2017 – Crushing Dissapointments

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“Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God. (Psalm 42:11)

When we go through major disappointments in life, typically our natural reaction is to pull back and isolate ourselves. We want to handle it ourselves. We want to keep our losses, our failures, our mistakes and crises a secret. We want to withdraw. This is such a terrible idea.

When we go through disappointments such as a major crisis or loss. That is when you need your friends the most. You need to accept help from others. God doesn’t intend for you to handle all the pain and stress in your life by yourself. We were wired for each other. We need each other. We’re social beings. The first thing God said in the Garden of Eden is, “It’s not good for man to be alone.” We’re made to be in relationships.

(Job 6:14) says, “When desperate people give up on God Almighty, their friends, at least, should stick with them”

There may be times in your life when you are in so much pain you will say, “I don’t even believe in God right now!” You need to have friends who will come alongside you and say, “That’s OK. We’ll believe God for you right now.”

There will come a time when you might say, “I don’t have any faith right now. I’m full of doubt.” That’s when you need your friends to step in and say, “That’s OK. We will have faith for you. We will trust God for you in this.”

“By helping each other with your troubles, you truly obey the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2).

What is the law of Christ? It’s this: Love your neighbor as yourself. The Bible commands us to help each other. Every time you help somebody who’s going through pain, you are fulfilling the law of Christ.

Trying to handle your trouble yourself will only make you more tired and stressed out. You need to first seek Gods help and accept the help of others, let your friends carry you through it when you are broken and feel spiritually empty.

Our Lord Jesus is only a call away, And He already knows the trouble your having. He is already calling out to you. Answer His call.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for my friends and loved ones. Thank You for the amazing comfort that I can find in You. Please refill my spirit because I feel so broken at times. I praise you for not forsaking me in times like these. Because of Your love, I can have peace and forgiveness for all my sins. Because of Jesus, I am free from the penalty of sin and no matter what happens on this earth, I will be healed and loved for all eternity. Father, help me to remember these things and to pass them on to those who are thirsting for Your refreshing comfort. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Seeking Comfort from Jesus?

Jesus Christ says, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him” (Revelation 3:20)

The Bible promises eternal life to all who receive Christ: “God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:11-13)

If you have not asked Jesus into your lifeYou can receive Jesus Christ right now by faith through prayer.

(Prayer is just talking with God. He knows your heart, so don’t worry about getting your words just right. Here is a suggested prayer to guide you:)

Seeking Jesus? Pray this prayer with me.

Lord Jesus, I want to know you personally. Thank you for dying on the cross for my sins. I open the door of my life and receive you as my Saviour and Lord. Thank you for forgiving me of my sins and giving me eternal life. Take control of my life. Make me the kind of person You want me to be.

If you have prayed this prayer, Congratulations! (Luke 15:7) says that when one sinner accepts Jesus Christ as his or her Saviour the angels rejoice. So there’s a party going on in heaven right now over your decision! Remember this date as your “second birthday,” the day you were born into a new life in Christ! You have God’s Word that he answered your prayer.

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

June 21st 2017 – Pride Destroys Relationships

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“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,” (1 Philippians 2:3)

Pride destroys relationships. It shows up in so many ways, like criticism, competition, stubbornness, and superficiality. Another problem with pride is that it’s self-deceiving. Everybody else can see it in us but us. When you have a problem with pride, you often don’t see it in your life.

(Proverbs 16:18 ) “Pride leads to destruction; a proud attitude brings ruin”  the Message Bible puts it this way. “First pride, then the crash — the bigger the ego, the harder the fall.”

Pride destroys relationships, but humility is the antidote to pride. Humility builds relationships. The Bible says in (1 Peter 3:8) “Live in harmony, be sympathetic, love each other, have compassion, and be humble”

How are you and I going to grow in humility? It happens by letting Jesus Christ begin to control our thoughts and hearts and attitudes and reactions. He’s got to be a part of this.

(Ephesians 4:23-24) “Let the Spirit change your way of thinking and make you into a new person”

How do you become a new person? How do you start to think in a different way? The basic law of relationships is this: You tend to become like the people you spend time with. If you spend time with grumpy people, you get grumpier. If you spend time with happy people, you get happier. If you want to have more humility, spend time with Jesus Christ. He is humble. He wants a relationship with you. He wants you to spend time with him in prayer and reading his Word and talking to him. He is humble, and as you get to know him, you’ll become more like him.

“Be humble and give more honor to others than to yourselves …. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to” (Philippians 2:3,5,6)

No one has done anything more humble than Jesus, coming from Heaven to Earth to become a man, live for us, give his life for us, and be resurrected for us. When you spend time around him, it makes you more humble, and that builds your relationships.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your grace. Please forgive me for the times when I have let my pride outshine my grace.  Help me to show grace from now on so that others will see You in me. I lift up the broken relationships in my life because I let pride get in the way. Help to humble my heart and ask for forgiveness when needed and soften my heart to extend grace and forgiveness to others. Keep me my old ways.  I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

If you are seeking Jesus in your life or want to recommit your life to Him. Click Here to learn more.

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

June 18th 2017 – Heart of A Father

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“And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” (Deuteronomy 6:6-9)

Happy Fathers Day to the Dad’s!

A father is a gift to his children.  A father needs to have the heart of the true Father, Almighty God.  Of all the attributes that Jesus brought out about Almighty God, the greatest is that He called Him Father.  True fathers are not perfect, but they have such a love in their heart for their children that, at times, it feels like their heart wants to burst.

A father wants the best for his kids, yet he knows that the best for his kids is to let them make mistakes and hit bumps in life.

What Is A Dad?

A Dad is someone who wants to always catch you before you fall but instead picks you up,
brushes you off, and lets you try again.

A Dad is someone who wants to keep you from making mistakes but instead lets you find your own way, even though his heart breaks in silence when you get hurt.

A Dad is someone who holds you when you cry, scolds you when you break the rules, shines with pride when you succeed, and has faith in you even when you fail.

Dads, the greatest thing that we can do for our children is to show them the Father God.  Spend time with your children, and be a man of God, and a man that walks in the ways of God.  Remember, you are the image of God to your children, so let them see a big, loving Father: one who is there when they need him, and one whose passion is after the heart of the true Father, Almighty God.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Today, I make a decision to be the person that my children can look at to see the Father God. Today I make a decision to live a life that says really loudly, “God loves you and so do I” Bless the fathers, who have taken upon themselves the responsibility of parenting. Bless those parents who have lost a spouse to death … or divorce who are parenting their children alone. Strengthen them by your love that they may become the loving, caring persons they are meant to be. Guide them to be good role models and loving to their children. Help them to be a father like You are. Give them grace and patience to handle situations in a loving way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Personal Note… I wish to praise You God for the gift of Fatherhood.  You blessed me with three amazing children, Marissa, Michael and Larry… even with all my mistakes and screw-ups. You always helped me.  I am so proud of them….

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

If you are seeking Jesus in your life or want to recommit your life to Him. Click here to learn more.

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

June 17th 2017 – Love to the Extreme

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“I blasted you with blight and mildew. When your gardens increased, Your vineyards, Your fig trees, And your olive trees, The locust devoured them; Yet you have not returned to Me,” Says the LORD.” (Amos 4:9)

Often in the Scriptures, we read of the judgments of God and gasp as we see Israel and other nations suffering under the Lord’s power. While the judgments of God are difficult, we must understand that all through the Old Testament God is showing grace and mercy. In the prophets, He calls for people to turn from their wicked ways and He will forgive them. You see friend, while God’s discipline can often seem extreme, His love is just as potent.

(Romans 5:8 ) “But God demonstrates His own love towards us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Love to the Extreme – that is what the God of all creation has shown towards us. While we were steeped in sin and suffering under the weight of condemnation, He stepped out of heaven and gave His life for ours. The punishment that we deserved was placed upon Jesus on the cross. Each strike of the nails that pierced His hands was done so that we could know forgiveness. Each cruel word and slash of the whip on Jesus’ body happened so that we could spend eternity with Him. All we have to do is come to Jesus seeking forgiveness and trusting in Him for salvation. As we do, we take part in the greatest love anyone could ever know.

“God goes to extreme measures to reveal His love for us.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I know that I have done and sometimes do wrong. Today, I come to You and ask that You would forgive me of all my sins. I confess that Jesus is Lord and I believe that He died for my sins and was raised from the grave three days later. Lord, make me a new creation and fill me with Your Spirit so that I can live for You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you would like to request a prayer Click Here

Have you ever received Jesus as you Lord and Savior? If you do not know Him personally, you will never truly be able to experience Love to the Extreme!. I encourage you not to pass up the precious gift of His love and eternal life. Jesus died on the cross for you and me. Jesus loves us and wants to help us through the storms. If you have not asked Jesus to be your Lord and Savior please click here 4 Simple Steps to Jesus

Rob Lavallee

 Scriptural Seeds Ministries 

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

June 14th 2017 – Words Have Power

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“I am the rose of Sharon, And the lily of the valleys.” (Song of Solomon 2:1)

What causes someone to change their view of themselves? Could it be as simple as kind words of affection? It was in the case of Solomon and his bride to be. In chapter one of Song of Solomon, we find the Shulamite depressed about her appearance when she says, “Do not look at me, because I am dark, because the sun has tanned me.” She is concerned about her appearance because she worked in the vineyards, under the hot sun, and was unable to care for herself. Compare those original words to chapter two where she calls herself a rose of Sharon. What a change of perspective, and all because Solomon spoke loving words of affection and encouragement to her. This shouldn’t surprise us since God’s Word describes the power of words in the book of James.

(James 3:5) “In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire.”

The power of our speech is unbelievable. Many times we forget that and hurt with our words rather than heal. God desires that we all walk with grace, humility and love for one another. We should look for opportunities to lift one another up with our words. Speak words of gratitude, of thanksgiving and of grace to one another. Husbands, speak affectionate words to your wife. Wives, speak words of encouragement to your husbands. In this circle of loving words and affection, you will find a healthy, growing relationship. Our words are powerful so let’s use them wisely.

“Our words are powerful tools that can be used to build people up or tear people down.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for relationships. Fill me with Your Spirit so that I can speak loving words into those I relate to, whether my spouse, children or friends. Give me patience to love even when the love is not returned. I ask for wisdom to know when to speak and when to keep silent. Use my words to heal and to glorify Your Name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you are in need of prayer for yourself or others, please Click Here

If you are seeking Jesus in your life or want to recommit your life to Him. Click Here to learn more.

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org

June 13th 2017 – Contagious Faith

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“Then Asa cried out to the Lord his God, “O Lord, no one but you can help the powerless against the mighty! Help us, O Lord our God, for we trust in you alone. It is in your name that we have come against this vast horde. O Lord you are our God; do not let mere men prevail against you!” (2 Chronicles 14:11)

In life, we are all faced with difficulties and trials. Whether it is a struggle within us or a struggle with another person, we often find ourselves beat up and deflated. This is why it is vital for any believer to surround themselves with people who are courageous at heart. These are men and women who know the obstacles but are not stopped by them. Friends, who may be challenged by life, but their faith in God overpowers their fear.

All too often, we can find ourselves surrounded by those who seem more apt to throw a pity party than a pep rally. In these times, we need to seek out those who will be an encouragement and strength during our times of weakness. As we fellowship with Christians who are empowered by their faith and set on fire through the Spirit, we will find ourselves igniting with hope and courage. A steady diet of courageous fellowship leads to a life that is blessed and growing. This is the life Christ came to give us – an abundant life.

“Courage and Faith are Contagious.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your love for me and the hope I have in You. Help me to seek out those who can encourage me in my walk with You. May I surround myself with those who love You and are full of faith so that I may be on fire to inspire others and glorify Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Relationship with Jesus?

If you do not know Jesus personally,  I encourage you not to pass up the precious gift of His love and eternal life. Jesus died on the cross for you and me. He loves us and wants to help us. If you have not asked Jesus to be your Lord and Savior please click here 4 Simple Steps to Jesus

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries 

http://www.scripturalseeds.org