Category Archives: General Devotions

March 10th 2017 – Jesus First

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“He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30)

This saying was true for John the Baptist when speaking of Jesus and it is true for us today. As Christians, we should be learning about the Lord. What does the Lord want? What does He desire and how can I serve Him? Instead we often think to ourselves: “What can God do for me?” We ask, “What can the church do for me?” or “Why don’t they understand it’s all about me?”

When we gaze at our wounds, our pains and our needs, we delay and may even prevent our healing. The spiritual things of life – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control and the practical things of life… If we will take the time to really focus on the Lord, then all these things will be added unto us. We will receive our healing, our forgiveness, the joy unspeakable and the peace that passes all understanding.

“It’s all about Jesus, when we make Him first in our lives everything else falls into place.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for loving me so much You sent Jesus to die on the cross for my sins. Forgive me for times when I’ve lost focus and become self absorbed. Empower me to let go of my own will and seek Yours. 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

March 4th 2017 – Do You Trust Me?

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“Then the Rabshakeh said to them, “Say now to Hezekiah, ‘Thus says the great king, the king of Assyria:”What confidence is this in which you trust?” (2 Kings 18:19)

It is very easy to begin trusting in the ‘things’ of this world because of the subtle way they steal our attention away from God. It is because of this subtle infiltration of worldly things that every Christian should take the time to evaluate themselves. Is there something that you give a larger role in your life than God? Has your focus become a kaleidoscope of ‘things’ preventing you from clearly focusing on serving God? If so, you had better confess to God and turn your gaze toward Him before the subtle deception of accumulation leaves you trusting in the stuff instead of God. Otherwise, there will come a day when you will find yourself spiritually and possibly physically famished.

If I were to ask you individually, most of you would very quickly say that you trust God but there are times when trust is not so simple. Trusting God means we believe in that which we cannot see and sometimes may not understand.

Trusting God is literally against our human nature. Trusting God means that we have to admit that we are not in control of our lives.

We place our trust in something or someone every day. We trust our cars to get us to our destination. We trust our employers to deliver paychecks. We trust our doctors top heals our illnesses. How much more should we trust God?

(John 14:1) “Do not let your hearts be troubled; trust in God, trust also in me.”

“We should know who or what we are trusting in. We should trust in the Lord alone.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,Thank You for Your Love. Lord, forgive me for the times I have placed my focus on the ‘things’ in my life rather than You. Give me the discernment and wisdom to see the deception in the things of this world and keep my eyes fixed upon You. I surrender everything to You. In Jesus name, Amen

Do trust Jesus enough with your life? You should, 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

March 2nd 2017 – Unchanged!

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“But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” (1 Corinthians 15:20)

 

What if you were at work and one of your coworkers came in talking about how he had just been parachuting accident over the weekend. He claimed his parachute didn’t open completely and he crashed into a parked car. As everyone listens in awe, you notice something very strange – he is completely unchanged. He has no broken bones, bruises or even a scratch. There is no evidence that his encounter with death ever occurred. What would you think then? Is this guy lying or has he gone completely mad?

Unfortunately, this story plays out all the time across the world. Many people claim to follow Christ but there is no evidence to back it up. Their life has not changed and therefore, they leave people wondering what’s true and what’s not. While not everyone who comes to Christ is going to change everything in an instant, over time our lives should reflect what we believe. If we honestly believe that the God of the universe loved us so much that He willfully died and rose again so that we could be forgiven, it’s going to change our life. It’s going to change our hearts and our desires. And as the world looks on, they will notice the change. So today, meditate on the goodness of God and His love for you. Let that change you from the inside out.

“The way you believe should show in the way you live.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I know that I have missed the mark when it comes to actively living for You. Whether in small or big areas, I pray that You would help me live out what I believe. Fill me with Your Spirit and teach me through Your Word so that I will be a powerful witness in word and in deed. 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.scriptutalseeds.org

February 27th 2017 – Godly Leadership

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“For three transgressions of Moab, and for four, I will not turn away its punishment, Because he burned the bones of the king of Edom to lime.” (Amos 2:1)

As Israel was coming through the desert to the promised land, Balak, the king of Moab attempted to bribe God’s prophet to curse God’s people. Obviously, Balak was not a good leader as time and time again he dismissed God’s words in order to advance his own kingdom. While Balak had the opportunity to submit to God, he chose not to and he and his people ended up suffering the consequences. Unlike the Moabites, it’s important for the church to have godly leaders.

Leaders inside the church have a responsibility to remain faithful to scripture and stand firm on God’s Word so that others will see this and be encouraged to do the same. In 1 Timothy, the Lord supplies qualifications for those who enter into leadership. These qualifications include being faithful to the body of Christ and their families. They must be self-controlled, peace loving and gentle. Living inside these guidelines, leaders are best equipped to guide others into a life dedicated to our Lord.

“Strong leadership in the church is important.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your Word and for the godly leaders in my life. Father, I pray that You would continue to be with those in church leadership as they seek You. Give them wisdom and discernment as they teach, counsel and care for those in the body of Christ. Lord, protect them from the enemy and fill them with Your Spirit. 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.scriptutalseeds.org

February 26th 2017 – Keep Looking Up

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“Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.” (Luke 21:28)

Each week our world seems to brace for some kind of new disaster. Whether it’s an earthquake, hurricane or economic collapse, we experience regularly the evidence of this fallen world. To the unbeliever, these events bring uncertainty and fear. After all, if this world is all there is and it’s clearly unpredictable and broken, how can they know what to do? Yet to a follower of Christ, we look at these things from a different perspective…a biblical perspective.

Jesus told us that we would have tribulations. The Bible is very clear that because of sin, this world has been corrupted and therefore, we will experience its effects. But that is not the final word. Yes, this world is broken. Yes, we have natural disasters and horrific events like we witnessed on 9-11. Yes, these things will increase as we get closer to the end. BUT, it will end.

When we see these things happen, look up. When you witness the suffering around the world, look up. When you experience the loss of a loved one, look up. When you see people and governments turning against God, look up, because your redemption is near. In the end, Jesus will stop it all. He will make all things right and heal this broken world. Until then, we look up and proclaim to this broken and beat up world the peace they can find in Jesus. Sin caused these problems. Jesus will solve them.

“No matter what the future holds, we can know WHO holds the future.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your grace on my life and the peace I can have through Jesus. Father, help me to trust You in every situation, no matter how hard it may be. Each time I see or experience the pain of this broken world, help me to look up and be reminded of Your return. 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.scriptutalseeds.org

February 23rd 2017 – Attitude Adjustment

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“lest anyone should say that I had baptized in my own name.” (1 Corinthians 1:15)

Paul, in writing this letter to the Corinthians, dealt with division inside the church. Any idea you may have that church is a perfect place, can often be shattered the moment you walk through the doors. It was the same in the early church. We all bring something valuable to the church, but because we are sinful people, we also add to the problems.

In this letter, Paul takes on people’s attitudes; their way of thinking. Do we need to be challenged today? Absolutely we do. Being saved does not mean we’re done being changed. We continue to be changed, and as we are, our ideas and concepts of what it means to be a Christian are challenged. God wants to adjust our attitude and if we are truly honest with ourselves, we are desperate for that change.

When we take a moment to look at challanging situations or even life in general, when we do so with a different attitude our perspective often will change. What may have seemed impossible now looks hopeful.

“God wants to give you an attitude adjustment.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for loving me. Thank You for Your Son Jesus who died for me so I could have life more abundantly. Lord, I confess to You that I am struggling. I have been looking to the world for answers rather than depending on You. I surrender my heart to You, Lord. Help me to make the changes You want for 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.scriptutalseeds.org

February 21st 2017 – If Heaven Had Visiting Hours

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If Heaven had visiting hours, I would clear my schedule today. I would leave my phone behind, along with all the other responsibilities that seem so important at times. I’d tell everyone not to worry, that I would be back soon. “I’m going to see my mom.”

I would pack a bag of things that you liked to eat, never forgetting your favorite sweet rolls. Also a few things to show you that you’ve missed since you’ve been gone.

I would make my way up to Heaven to see you for the first time since last July. After reaching the gates at the entrance, I’d see you standing there, looking as beautiful as ever, Your eyes clear and gleaming again, no more pain or sadness hiding in them. Your smile is bigger than ever before. All signs of illness are gone. Nothing remains but the look of complete happiness.
I’d hug you tight, never wanting to let go. It’s been too long since I’ve heard you say “I love you”

We’d sit on a bench much like the one at the park in front that old car. We were at trail dust town where I took you last year on your birthday. I’d hold your hand and rest my head on your shoulder, much like we did that day – just you and I. I’d tell you stories and Jokes to make you laugh, a sound I’ve missed more than you could ever know.

If Heaven had visiting hours, I’d tell you about it all. I’d tell you about the nights I’ve cried because I miss having you around. I’d tell you about the laughs our family has somehow been able to share. Life without you hasn’t been easy, I’m sure you’ve seen it all. However, there have been ups to go along with the downs.

After catching up on all the things that’s happening at home, we could spend the rest of the afternoon doing all the things we used to do when you were still around. I would share with you that I’m still writing the Christian devotions everyday, hoping that you have been able to continue to read them in Heaven.

When the day is over and it’s time for me to go, I’d be so sad to leave you. I’d remind you how much I love you and am trying to make you proud.  I’d give you one more hug, not wanting to let go. But it would be OK, because Heaven would still have visiting hours, and I could just come back again.

Madeleine Lavallee
February 21st 1935 – July 2nd 2016
Happy Birthday! I love and Miss you Mom…

July 3rd 2016 – Saying Goodbye with Peace

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, please protect us from the vicious attacks of the enemy. Give us strength and protection when we are caught in spiritual warfare. Please heal the hearts of the ones that have lost their Moms and loved ones in general.
Thank You the gift of ever lasting life with You in Heaven. All we have to do is ask You into our hearts and live for you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

If you have not asked Jesus into your life and experienced His Amazing Grace. Please Click Here to ask Jesus to be your Lord and savior.

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

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scriptutalseeds.org

February 20th 2017 -The Door is Still Open

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“For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.” (Romans 11:25)

“The fullness of the Gentiles has come in.” The New Living Translation puts it this way, “this will only last until the complete number of Gentiles comes to the Lord.” So, there are a fixed number of Gentiles who will come to the Lord and then that is it…no more.

Genesis chapters 6-8 is the record of Noah building an ark as God commanded, which spared him and his family from God’s judgment on the whole earth. The Bible says that once the ark was loaded with animals, Noah and his family were inside the ark for seven days before the flood waters came upon the earth. Now think about this, Noah, over the course of a hundred years, built a giant covered barge on dry land in preparation for a world-wide flood. “Where’s the flood, Noah?” “Looks like rain, Noah, you better hurry!” “You’re crazy, Noah!” Can you imagine the jokes and teasing he was enduring? Those who mocked him were the same people banging on the door when the floods hit. Unfortunately, the door to the ark had been closed by God. They had made their decision, and God honored it. Things, as they are now, will not last forever. The door is open now. There will come a day when that door is shut. Don’t wait until it rains friend, it may be too late.

“Things will not be as they are forever. A time is coming when it will all change. Don’t get left on the wrong side of the door.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for the gift of salvation through Your Son Jesus Christ. Your love is clearly revealed to me by the prophetic truths of the scriptures. Thank You for Your infinite grace and mercy toward me. Lord, through Your Word, You have reminded me afresh of the importance of living ready. I am surrendered to Your will to do the work of the ministry. Thank You for the church and the relationships that are built there. Like minded brothers and sisters struggling at times to get it right, just like me. Thank you for Your endless pursuit of me so that I would not be left behind when the door gets shut. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and have made the decision to ask Him into your heart. Here is a simple prayer to get you started.

Dear 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. Amen.

If you have done this, then 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! Today you were accepted a new life in Christ! You have God’s Word that he answered your prayer.

What’s Next? Click Here to learn more about a new Life in Christ.

Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scriptutalseeds.org

 

February 15th 2017 – Feeling Helpless or Hopeless?

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“Arise, for this matter is your responsibility. We also are with you. Be of good courage, and do it.” (Ezra 10:4)

God may be the director of the universe, but He has given us power to make decisions. You have a decision to confess your sins to Him and to ask for His forgiveness. You have a decision whether to serve the Lord, give to the Lord or share the Gospel with others. No matter who you are, you have an opportunity to change the world through your decisions.

(Joshua 24:15) “And if it seems evil to you to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”

As you read this devotional, there is a world filled with people who desire peace. They desire love. They desire hope in something greater than the economy, the president or their own ability. As a follower of Christ, we can make the decision to share with them how to change their life and those things by sharing the Gospel. We can serve them. We can offer them our time, resources and compassion. God will empower us to do mighty things, but we must decide to do it. Choose this day who you will serve, and do it!

“You are not helpless or hopeless. Your destiny is in your hands and in the hands of a God that loves you and wants to bless and protect you.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I desire to choose You above everything else. I decide this day to serve You and to serve others. Give me a heart of compassion and a willingness to think of others before myself. God, use me to change the world. 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.scriptutalseeds.org

February 6th 2017 – Life’s Greatest Unknown

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“We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.”(2nd Corinthians 5:8)

The belief of the Greeks during the time of Jesus and Paul was that death swallowed up everything including life, people and animals. The Bible reverses that and says that life swallows up death and victory swallows up death.

(1 Corinthians 15:54) “Death is swallowed up in victory.”

(2 Corinthians 5:4) “these dying bodies will be swallowed up by life.”

How awesome is this? Life’s greatest unknown, death, is both life’s greatest enemy and greatest fear, yet it is turned upside down and inside out by our God. Jesus not only turned death into victory, but also the tomb into a changing closet. Instead of fear, death can reveal a deep confidence and trust in God. The more you read the Bible, the stronger this confidence becomes (Romans 10:17).

(2 Corinthians 5:8) “We are fully confident.” The two thieves that faced death with Jesus tell us an interesting story. One taunted and teased Jesus, and the other asked Jesus for forgiveness. The big question is, “Which thief are you?” Jesus said to the one who asked for forgiveness, “Today, you will be with me in paradise.” There is nothing to fear about paradise, and there is nothing to fear about heaven or the journey there.

“For the believer, death is the threshold of heaven.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Thank You for loving me. Thank You for dying for me on the cross so that I could be forgiven. Lord, sometimes I do not understand heaven and death, but thank You for reminding me in Your Word that I have nothing but victory to look forward to. 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