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<channel>
	<title>Year of Expectation</title>
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	<description>Sumiton Church of God</description>
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		<title>Day 21- Your Presence Is All I Want</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-21-your-presence-is-all-i-want/</link>
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		<pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2015 00:00:48 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied -Matthew 5:6 In every person’s life there are moments that stand out as milestones. For me it was in January of 1997. It was a breezy day in Pensacola, Florida at the Brownsville Assembly of God. I remember driving onto the [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>-Matthew 5:6</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>In every person’s life there are moments that stand out as milestones. For me it was in January of 1997. It was a breezy day in Pensacola, Florida at the Brownsville Assembly of God. I remember driving onto the property around 2:00pm and there were hundreds of people standing in the parking lot waiting for the doors to open. They were singing, worshiping and declaring the greatness of the Lord. These were everyday people in love with Jesus; people who were hungry and desperate for a move of God in their lives. They came to Brownsville expecting God to reveal His glory to them like Moses experienced on Mount Sinai.</p>
<p>On that day, I personally went to Brownsville to see what it was all about. I went there as a spectator, and skeptic. However, the atmosphere of expectation began to quicken my spirit and break me. I wanted to experience what was going on. Expectation is an interesting thing. Something spectacular happens when you expect.</p>
<p>In Exodus 33 Moses had an encounter with God that not only changed himself but the entire group that he lead out of Egypt. God told Moses to take his people up from where they were but He was not going to go with them because they were a stiff-necked people. Moses was so shaken by this that he made this statement to God in Exodus 33:15, “If Your Presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here.” Moses was so changed by God’s glory that his face was radiant when he came down from Mount Sinai.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>How long has it been since your entire countenance has been changed by God’s glory? God wants to reveal himself to you.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Lord I ask you to reveal yourself in me. I am hungry for more of your presence than I have ever experienced.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 20- Expecting Results</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-20-expecting-results/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2015 00:00:26 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=91</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. -Luke 2:5 When I was pregnant with our first child they were just beginning to be able to tell you the baby&#8217;s gender with a sonogram. We never wanted to know if the baby was [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>-Luke 2:5</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>When I was pregnant with our first child they were just beginning to be able to tell you the baby&#8217;s gender with a sonogram. We never wanted to know if the baby was a boy or girl, we wanted to be surprised. The first few months were exciting, once you got past the nausea, because you told all your family and friends, &#8220;we&#8217;re going to have a baby!&#8221;  The closer the end of the third trimester got the more excited we became! Just like Mary and Joseph we were expecting a baby to be the result of those months of nausea, swollen feet and feeling like a baby elephant.</p>
<p>When Josh was born we just assumed he would be another girl. The Doctor announced, &#8220;It’s a boy&#8221;! I was so excited that my voice went about two octaves higher than normal as I screamed, &#8220;it’s a boy, it’s a boy, I can&#8217;t believe it’s a boy!&#8221; What a blessing to receive the result you have been expecting!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>Never stop expecting your result. The result you receive may be greater that your expectation.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Father today I put my complete trust in you. The requests I have made in the past are not forgotten. My faith is strong and I am believing and expecting results. </em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 19- Amazed</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-19-amazed/</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2015 00:00:27 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=89</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Look among the nations and watch. Be utterly astounded! For I will work a work in your days which you would not believe, though it were told you. -Habakkuk 1:5 Have you ever been amazed at something God has done in your life? I have. I’m amazed daily at his love for me that took [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>Look among the nations and watch. Be utterly astounded! For I will work a work in your days which you would not believe, though it were told you. </em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>-Habakkuk 1:5 </em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>Have you ever been amazed at something God has done in your life? I have. I’m amazed daily at his love for me that took me out of a lifestyle of failure and gave me hope. I am amazed that He chose me of all people to preach his story. I am amazed that He has directed my steps from place to place and always blessed me to be with wonderful people who love God as well.</p>
<p>When we review our spiritual journeys, and our lives in general, since our conversion to Christ, I think most of us are astonished! And yet our scripture today tells us we will be astounded even if He told us what was going to happen.</p>
<p>God continues to promise us amazing days ahead. And He will <em>“work a work in your days…”</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>Keep looking ahead with expectancy for such great blessings from God that you will be completely overwhelmed!</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>O God, our God, overwhelm us with your love and power! Show us your glory in our lives today that we may always rejoice in you our God and Savior.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 18- Rejoice. Let me say that again; REJOICE!</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-18-rejoice-let-me-say-that-again-rejoice/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2015 00:00:10 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=87</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Rejoice in the Lord Always. And again I will say, REJOICE! -Phillipians 4:4 If you’ve been a regular church attender for any significant amount of time, you have undoubtedly heard the pastor make a point which he felt was really good; really powerful; and apparently no one else caught. So in his slight frustration he’ll [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>Rejoice in the Lord Always. And again I will say, REJOICE!</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>-Phillipians 4:4</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>If you’ve been a regular church attender for any significant amount of time, you have undoubtedly heard the pastor make a point which he felt was really good; really powerful; and apparently no one else caught. So in his slight frustration he’ll say, “Let me say that again” in hopes that you’ll catch the powerful message behind what he just said.</p>
<p>This is how I imagine Paul talking to the Phillipians in Phillipians 4:4. Undoubtedly they were a worried people (vs. 6) – maybe worried about their finances, their relationships, their walk with God, or any number of things which we all worry about. But Paul tells them, with great passion, to REJOICE in the Lord; pray with thanksgiving; only think about pure and positive things; and, if they do this, the “God of peace that surpasses understanding” will be with them and will guard their hearts and minds. Too many times we let worry and doubt overtake us and we forget that the God of the universe is looking out for us and wants us to be joyful in Him. When we decide to be thankful and change our perspective, despite our circumstances, we stop doubting and worrying and start rejoicing because we know God will come through for us and give us exactly what we need.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>So may you rejoice…let me say that again, REJOICE in knowing that the God of unexplainable peace is on your side and He will always come through for you.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Lord, thank you for always being with us and for giving us that unexplainable peace in the middle of our storms. Help us to never worry, but ALWAYS rejoice</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 17- Your Top 10 Predictions For 2015 Here is what’s going to happen in our New Year!</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/top-10-predictions/</link>
		<comments>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/top-10-predictions/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2015 06:30:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=82</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. -John 14:27 There are those in our world who want our New Year to begin with frightening predictions; impractical resolutions; and, prognosticators’ doleful forecasts.   [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>-John 14:27</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>There are those in our world who want our New Year to begin with frightening predictions; impractical resolutions; and, prognosticators’ doleful forecasts.   On the contrary, I have good news to bring! The Lord has never been known to go back on His Word or back down on His promises. “Only believe.”   Go into this New Year with great expectation that&#8230;</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">1. The Bible will still have all the answers.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">2. Jesus will still save the lost.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">3. Prayer will still work.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">4. The Holy Ghost will still move.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">5. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">6. There will still be God-anointed preaching.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">7. There will still be singing of praise.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">8. God will still pour out blessings upon His people and perform miracles!</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">9. There will still be room at the Cross.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">10. Jesus will still love you.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>Think miracles! God has everything under control.</h4>
<h4 style="padding-left: 30px;">• Sorrow looks back&#8230;</h4>
<h4 style="padding-left: 30px;">• Worry looks around&#8230;</h4>
<h4 style="padding-left: 30px;">• but, FAITH looks up&#8230;..</h4>
<h4 style="padding-left: 30px;">• therefore, Be Strong In The Lord!!</h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Father, I am so thankful to know that You are in control! Help me to keep my eyes fixed on You at all times, and in all circumstances, so that I have no fear, dread, or anxiety within my life this year or ever! I trust in You! In Jesus’ precious name, I pray.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 16- Waiting on God</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-16-waiting-on-god/</link>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2015 06:29:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=80</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When you came down long ago, you did awesome deeds beyond our highest expectations. And oh, how the mountains quaked. -Isaiah 64:3 When praying for a need, waiting for the answer is part of the answer. We can’t think, that because we have to wait for an answer, that God didn’t hear us or that [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>When you came down long ago, you did awesome deeds beyond our highest expectations. And oh, how the mountains quaked.</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>-Isaiah 64:3</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>When praying for a need, waiting for the answer is part of the answer. We can’t think, that because we have to wait for an answer, that God didn’t hear us or that the answer is no. Although, there may be times that the answer is NO. Waiting can be a way of getting your answer, by either God changing your mind about a situation or God changing the situation.</p>
<p>Just think: What if we never had to wait for an answer from God? We would become spoiled, unappreciative, and may even feel we deserve it. It’s like when your children ask for something. If you always tell them yes, then they eventually get to where they don’t have to ask, because they know you’ll say “yes” and “yes” is not always in the their best interest.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>We have to be expecting during the waiting time and know that ”My God will hear me.” and did hear me.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Heavenly Father, I pray that in the waiting time for our answers not only will we be expecting but that we will know that you are working it out, that you have heard us and that you haven’t forgotten us. If our heart needs to change, we will recognize it and be willing to do your will. </em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 15- I Choose To Believe</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-15-i-choose-to-believe/</link>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 18 Jan 2015 06:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=77</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.  -Mark 11:24 Skepticism is one of the worst afflictions which our churches face in this day and age. It is the enemy of belief and the thief of faith. Most of us would [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4><em>Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. </em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>-Mark 11:24</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>Skepticism is one of the worst afflictions which our churches face in this day and age. It is the enemy of belief and the thief of faith. Most of us would say we believe in an all-powerful God but in the back of our minds there’s that tiny ounce of doubt that tells us to not expect our mountains to be moved. Somewhere along our maturing process skepticism stole our child-like faith.</p>
<p>I was listening to the radio in my car one day and when I reached my house I shut the car off before the song was finished. As I walked inside the Lord spoke to my heart and said, ”Just because you turned off the car and stopped listening doesn’t mean that the song stopped playing.” Just because we stop listening to the Lord and start doubting His ways doesn’t mean that He’s not still moving, we’ve just shut Him off.</p>
<p>The Lord knew that somewhere along the way we would begin to question our circumstances and that’s why he spoke of becoming like a little child. Children haven’t been tainted by skepticism or doubt. God’s word tells us to “only believe” and all things will be possible. We must return to that child-like faith. Doubt must be turned into a heart of true expectancy.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>God is always moving and working among his people. Has our skepticism kept Him from fulfilling the work He wants to do in our lives?</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Lord I pray that my heart would never become a heart full of doubt. I pray that my life will always be open to your working hand.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 14- Watching, Waiting, Expecting</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-14-watching-waiting-expecting/</link>
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		<pubDate>Sat, 17 Jan 2015 00:00:13 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=75</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for and hope for and expect the Lord! -Psalm 31:24 Watching, waiting, expecting. It seemed to flood my life over the last few years. God had called me into full-time ministry, yet, in my own self, I found holes that I had spent, [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for and hope for and expect the Lord!</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>-Psalm 31:24</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>Watching, waiting, expecting. It seemed to flood my life over the last few years. God had called me into full-time ministry, yet, in my own self, I found holes that I had spent, what seemed to be a lifetime, trying to fill. Still, I continued to do my own searching; my own seeking; and, my own doing. Then, I finally let go. My watching finally turned to watching, my waiting really turned to waiting, and my life truly turned to full expectancy. I had literally done everything I could on my own to find the “right” spouse for me. It wasn’t until I completely, 100% gave up doing things on my own that God was able to do things on His own. In less than a year God had led the right girl to me and allowed me to marry her the same year.</p>
<p>Scripture tells us to expect the Lord. Our faith in Him requires that we expect to receive all that He has promised us. We must expect health; we must expect deliverance; we must expect victory; and we must expect every word of God to be accomplished. Expectation is our anticipation and our desire to receive God’s promises for our life.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>Has God’s promises been given to you but, as of this moment, nothing has happened? Don’t give up and don’t turn back. God is faithful and you must continue to wait; to hope; and, to expect His promises to be fulfilled. Stop trying to do God’s work; let go, trust; wait in expectation; and, truly see His blessings and promises pour into your life.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Lord, I want to thank you for your perfect plan. I thank you for knowing me and knowing what I need even before I ask. Today God, teach me to stop doing things on my own at my own speed but to wait expecting from you.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 13- Today Times 365</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-13-today-times-365/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2015 00:00:51 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=71</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You have compassed this mountain long enough; go northward.” -Deuteronomy 2:3 KJV You’ve been going around in circles in these hills long enough; go north.” - Deuteronomy 2:3 MSG Christmas celebrations have just passed and a new year has begun with anticipation of what it will bring. Will there be mostly days with laughter, productivity and [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>You have compassed this mountain long enough; go northward.”</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>-Deuteronomy 2:3 </em>KJV</h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>You’ve been going around in circles in these hills long enough; go north.” </em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>- Deuteronomy 2:3 MSG</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>Christmas celebrations have just passed and a new year has begun with anticipation of what it will bring. Will there be mostly days with laughter, productivity and fulfillment or will there be many days covered with sadness and loss?</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Familiar lyrics of “Happy Christmas” written by John Lennon, provoked a heart check and a glance back over the past year asking: “So this is Christmas and what have we done? Another year over and a new one just begun. So Happy Christmas.”</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>What have I done? Did I help make a difference or did I just look like a log that floats downstream. Or was I just going in circles and spending days repeating the same things 365 times?</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>Insanity is often defined as doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different outcome. Take positive actions and expect positive change.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Lord, daily remind me to stay focused on the prize of the high calling in Christ Jesus and help me keep moving toward the goal.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 12- Preparation for Expectation</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-12-preparation-for-expectation/</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2015 06:00:02 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=65</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you - Matthew 7:7 I began playing trumpet when I was in the sixth grade. I can remember the day I walked into the band room for the first time and the band director asked [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>- Matthew 7:7</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>I began playing trumpet when I was in the sixth grade. I can remember the day I walked into the band room for the first time and the band director asked me what I wanted to learn to play. My dad played trumpet when he was in school, so part of me wanted to be like my dad and play trumpet. So I did. Little did I know the effort that it would take in order for me to learn to play that instrument. I can remember the first time I went outside to practice on the front porch. I started playing and the dogs started howling. I learned some very valuable lessons in those days. If I ever expected to be good I had to prepare to be good. Those days shaped my life in so many ways. If I am expecting something great from The Lord I must first prepare. You may ask the question how do I prepare to expect?</p>
<p><strong>Ask</strong>: Prayer is one of greatest communication tools we have with The Lord. He desires to hear his children&#8217;s voice. He wants us to come to him with our burdens and prayers.</p>
<p><strong> Seek The Lord</strong>: Studying the word of God and letting it transform our lives. His word draws us closer to Him. His word is a lamp unto our feet and a light to our path.</p>
<p><strong>Pursue The Lord</strong>: Following after The Lord with all of our hearts. Passionately pursuing His presence with our worship and adoration to Him is like knocking on the door of His presence!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>Always understand that we will find Him when we seek Him.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Lord today I thank you for your mighty hand that guides us unto righteousness. Thank you oh God for revealing yourself when we seek you. I ask for your greatness to rest upon each of us.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 11- Attitude Of Expectation</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-11-attitude-of-expectation/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 14 Jan 2015 00:00:59 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=62</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Always be joyful because you belong to the Lord. I will say it again. Be joyful. Let everyone know how gentle you are. The Lord is coming soon. Don&#8217;t worry about anything. Instead, tell God about everything. Ask and pray. Give thanks to him. Then God&#8217;s peace will watch over your hearts and your minds [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>Always be joyful because you belong to the Lord. I will say it again. Be joyful. Let everyone know how gentle you are. The Lord is coming soon. Don&#8217;t worry about anything. Instead, tell God about everything. Ask and pray. Give thanks to him. Then God&#8217;s peace will watch over your hearts and your minds because you belong to Christ Jesus. God&#8217;s peace can never be completely understood.</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>- Philippians 4:4-8</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>It has been said that, “our attitude controls our altitude.&#8221; When I was a teenager our church did not have many young people. One day I complained to my Daddy about it and he told me to pray that the Lord would send some young people to our church. Well, I did pray and I believed that this would happen. I would go to church and expect my prayer to be answered. Every week there was an excitement in my heart because I just knew that someone new would be there my age. We began to have young people come and the excitement grew. We ended up with a pretty large youth group!</p>
<p>If we have an attitude of expecting something to happen in our church services or small groups God will not let us down. With the attitude of expecting comes excitement, this excitement will rub off on others!  We will be so anxious to get to church and see what God is going to do each Sunday and He will not disappoint us.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>Father, may I have an attitude of expecting each time I enter your presence.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Lord, help me today to experience an attitude of expectation. I pray that I may come to church with an infectious excitement to worship.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 10- Pregnant With A Promise</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-10-pregnant-with-a-promise/</link>
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		<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2015 00:00:21 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=60</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>- 2 Peter 1:3-4 </em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>I can still recall the anticipation of our first pregnancy! Pam and I had purposely waited almost 6 years before having children. The day the news came that she was pregnant, how proud I was! This set in motion a change that led us on a nine month journey of expectation of a promise. When the birth day finally came, and I held that 6 pounds of joy, my emotions overwhelmed me. Words were insufficient to express my love for my wife who struggled to bring this life into existence, but most of all to God, who delivered such a beautiful promise into our lives.</p>
<p>Yet, I continue to be amazed at God’s promises for our lives. He truly cares! All His “great and precious promises” will come to pass in our lives as we trust him.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>Each day presents an opportunity for God to fulfill a promise in our lives. Keep your eyes open and your heart prepared for opportunity today.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Our Father, we thank you for your love and your promises and know that in your time all these promises will be fulfilled. Renew me O Lord and keep my heart pure before you every day.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 9- Don’t give up! Just keep swinging the pick axe</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-8-dont-give-up/</link>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 12 Jan 2015 00:00:13 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=58</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. - Galatians 6:9 Growing up my dad used to love using the story of Winston Churchill’s famous commencement speech from 1941 at Harrow School in his sermons where Churchill simply said: [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>- Galatians 6:9</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>Growing up my dad used to love using the story of Winston Churchill’s famous commencement speech from 1941 at Harrow School in his sermons where Churchill simply said: “<em>Never give in. Never give in. Never, never, never, never&#8211;in nothing, great or small, large or petty, never give in”. </em>Now when my dad told the story he paraphrased it, saying: “Don’t give up! Don’t EVER give up!” He would always say it with such passion, yelling it actually like a war chant. It always got to me in a very powerful way. I have to believe that God is looking down on us when we’re at our breaking point, yelling, “Don’t give up! Don’t you EVER give up!” He says it, in a much lighter tone, through Paul in Galatians 6:9. God has promised us a harvest; that may be a harvest in our own lives, or in the lives of someone we’re praying for. Either way, you can expect that it’s coming.</p>
<p>I saw a great illustration of this recently. An animated picture of two men who had been digging for what looks like a long time. Both had made a tunnel in the ground. The man on the bottom is frustrated and walking away from his dig while the man on top is happily digging away. The man below was inches away from a pile of diamonds that the man on top will now get. A couple more swings of the pick axe and he would be knee deep in his reward. How many of us are a “couple of swings” away from being knee deep in the harvest God has promised us?</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>So may you press on with the good work that you are doing even when you get weary. Your harvest is just inches away.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Lord, give us the strength to keep going when it feels like we can’t go anymore because we want to see your harvest in our lives. You never give up on us, so may we never give up on you.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 8- Opportunities for the New Year</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-8-opportunities-for-the-new-year/</link>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 11 Jan 2015 00:00:06 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=56</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Be very careful then how you live – not as unwise – but as wise; making the most of every opportunity. - Ephesians 5:15-16 One of the great principles in life is that good opportunities are seldom labeled. Opportunities do not come down the sidewalk wearing a bright light blinking saying, “This is the opportunity [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>Be very careful then how you live – not as unwise – but as wise; making the most of every opportunity.</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>- Ephesians 5:15-16</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>One of the great principles in life is that good opportunities are seldom labeled. Opportunities do not come down the sidewalk wearing a bright light blinking saying, “This is the opportunity of your life to do something good!”</p>
<p>In 1864 a civil engineer named John Clow volunteered with the American Bible Society to go to India as a missionary. With no Seminary training, he didn’t seem to be a good missionary candidate, but through persistence to God’s call, he was sent. Ten years after his arrival, India was devastated by a tremendous famine. Mr. Clow used his engineering abilities to supervise the digging of the Buckingham Canal, which put hundreds of thousands of Indians to work and helped feed their families. It also brought water to the areas which were stricken with drought and literally was able to heal the famine. The Indians who had refused the Gospel, saw the good Mr. Clow had done and they now responded to the Gospel by the thousands.</p>
<p>God sees the end from the beginning –we cannot! And, as we pursue the purposes of God, He always gets us in a position for an opportunity.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>Never underestimate the size of the opportunities that God sends your way – you never know where it may lead or what blessings can come from it.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Father, help me today to be aware of opportunities you are sending my away and help me to have a willing heart to do what I can to be a part of the solution – not part of the problem.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 7- A New Season</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-7-a-new-season/</link>
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		<pubDate>Sat, 10 Jan 2015 00:00:11 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=54</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When you came down long ago, you did awesome deeds beyond our highest expectations. And oh, how the mountains quaked. - Isaiah 64:3 I know that in this verse God did great things, much more than what the people had even anticipated that He could or would do. There have been times in my life [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>When you came down long ago, you did awesome deeds beyond our highest expectations. And oh, how the mountains quaked.</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>- Isaiah 64:3</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>I know that in this verse God did great things, much more than what the people had even anticipated that He could or would do. There have been times in my life that my husband or I would lose our job and at first we wanted to panic but as we look back we see how God was moving us to a greater job or a greater position.</p>
<p>I know in life we go through seasons and it’s time for His blessings to be poured out among His people. He can do AWESOME things for you, for our church, our communities and our country. I believe that 2015 is going to be a year (a Season) of blessings.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>Just think back in your life and see how God has blessed you and know that this year is going to be a great year, so go into it with GREAT expectancy.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>God, I am asking that this year will be a year filled with a great harvest of blessings. I’m not just talking about material things but spiritual blessings. I pray that families will be mended, healed and salvation will come to our friends and loved ones and that our churches will reach out to our communities and more lives will be changed for your kingdom.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 6- I Am Victorious</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-6-i-am-victorious/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2015 00:00:55 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=52</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him - Isaiah 59:19 Every year on January 1st we all make our resolutions and set our expectations for freedom from the trials we faced in the year past. Most of us become quickly disappointed by mid–January [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>- Isaiah 59:19</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>Every year on January 1<sup>st</sup> we all make our resolutions and set our expectations for freedom from the trials we faced in the year past. Most of us become quickly disappointed by mid–January when our resolutions have failed and God hasn’t come through for us like we needed him to. I have had to ask myself this question, “Am I expecting God to move in my life this year or am I expecting the enemy to defeat me?”</p>
<p>Outwardly we make our proclamations that the enemy won’t defeat us but inwardly we believe that he will come in like that roaring lion to destroy us. Our expectancy for God to move quickly becomes overshadowed by our expectancy for the attack of the enemy. It is guaranteed in scripture that we will face attack but we can’t let that fear overcome us and ruin our faith in the power of the Holy Spirit within us. We can be assured, as God’s people, that the enemy will be met head on with that overcoming power of the Spirit.</p>
<p>No matter how many times we feel we’ve been defeated we must be confident in the fact that Christ has won every battle, even the ones we have yet to face. We must never let our faith and expectancy in the Almighty God be overpowered by our enemy.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>No matter how big your battle is today, remember that God has already won it for you, but it’s up to you to stand firm on that victory.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Dear Lord, I pray that you would renew in me a spirit of expectancy for your work in my life. I pray that the enemy would be destroyed in my battle today and every day.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 5- My Expectation</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-5-my-expectation/</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 08 Jan 2015 00:00:40 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=41</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For the foolishness of God is wiser than man&#8217;s wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man&#8217;s strength. - 1 Corinthians 1:25 Growing up and playing sports, I developed this “must win” mindset. No matter what I played, if we didn’t win I would develop the foulest attitude toward everything in life. As I [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4><em>For the foolishness of God is wiser than man&#8217;s wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man&#8217;s strength.</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>- 1 Corinthians 1:25</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>Growing up and playing sports, I developed this “must win” mindset. No matter what I played, if we didn’t win I would develop the foulest attitude toward everything in life. As I look back at those times, I realized that my losses should have never been considered losses, nor my “missteps” in life be considered failures. It was all about what lessons could be learned from each loss or “misstep” that took place in my life. My own prideful expectation of how I thought things should go, at many times, kept me from missing God’s great handiwork in the game of life.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>What “loss” is God trying to tell you is a “win?” Maybe you competed this weekend and got beat. Maybe you “lost” in some other area of life and are wondering: “where is God?” Well, the truth is that He’s right there, blessing your socks off. Who are we, to declare what is good and bad in our lives? Are we God? We have no idea what He wants to do with the results of our efforts. All we can do is give it our best shot and then thank Him for being faithful through it all. We have to approach life without expectations of what good things we think we deserve. Instead, trust the only One who sees the whole picture and has promised good things to those who love Him.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>What “defeat” are you wrestling with right now? What were your expectations going into this trial? Take away those expectations and ask God what He wants from this time. Ask Him to bring about His victory.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>God, thank you for your patience with me. I pray that the expectations I have for myself, become yours and not my own.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 4- Prayerful Expectancy</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-4-prayerful-expectancy/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 07 Jan 2015 00:00:02 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://devotion.sumitoncog.com/?p=37</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, it will not tarry. - Habakkuk 2:3 Year after year Simeon, a good man who lived in prayerful expectancy and Anna a prophetess and a devout widow for eighty-four years stayed near the temple with prayer and fasting. Both Simeon and Anna expected to see [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4><em>Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, it will not tarry. </em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>- Habakkuk 2:3</em></h4>
</blockquote>
<p>Year after year Simeon, a good man who lived in prayerful expectancy and Anna a prophetess and a devout widow for eighty-four years stayed near the temple with prayer and fasting. Both Simeon and Anna expected to see God’s Messiah at anytime when a child was brought for the rituals of the Law but for years they had been disappointed.</p>
<p>Then, when Jesus was eight days old, Mary and Joseph brought him and presented him to Simeon. He took him in his arms and blessed God, “God, you can no release me in peace as you promised. With my own eyes I’ve seen your salvation. Anna praised God and talked about the Child to all who were waiting expectantly for the freeing of Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:25-39).</p>
<p>If God has given you a promise, earnestly wait for it. If it seems slow in coming, wait. It’s on its way. It will come right on time.</p>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>Never give up on God’s promise even if many days pass before it comes. God is always faithful.</h4>
<h4></h4>
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>God grant me the strength to live in prayerful expectancy while waiting for the fulfillment of your word.</em></h4>
<h4></h4>
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		<title>Day 3- How bad do you want it?</title>
		<link>https://devotion.sumitoncog.com/day-3-how-bad-do-you-want-it/</link>
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		<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2015 06:00:26 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Be sober , be vigilant ; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about , seeking whom he may devour - 1 Peter 5:8 Last year my son began the sport of wrestling. All I knew about wrestling was that the boys wear this little &#8220;leotard-looking costume.” After watching some of the matches, [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4><em>Be sober , be vigilant ; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about , seeking whom he may devour </em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>- 1 Peter 5:8 </em></h4>
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<p>Last year my son began the sport of wrestling. All I knew about wrestling was that the boys wear this little &#8220;leotard-looking costume.” After watching some of the matches, I found that you have to be extremely strong and very methodical in your approach. First, you must have a game plan when walking onto the mat. Second, you have to be ready with a counter move to react to whatever your opponent does. Lastly, you have to have the strength and determination to get out of whatever hold your opponent puts you in. The same is true in our Christian walk.</p>
<p>We all know that living a Christian life is full of great rewards but it is also full of many trials and temptations. I have learned that the closer I get to God the more “stuff” comes my way; stuff, like hardship, temptation, trials, and burdens. God clearly gives us the game plan for any struggle the enemy may throw your way.</p>
<p>1. Be alert. Be aware of where God is in your life and priorities. Always make His will your first priority. God wins in the end. No matter what the enemy throws our way.</p>
<p>2.Be vigilant. We must have a &#8220;never give up&#8221; attitude. You have the power to RENOUNCE the enemy’s control over you. You have God&#8217;s word to trample serpents and defeat giants!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>There is no doubt that Satan is waging war against God&#8217;s people. My question to you today is: How bad do you want victory? Are you ready to fight the fight? Are you strong enough to stand up to the attacks of the enemy? Remember, we win!</h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>Lord, I am so thankful that you have made us more than you. conquers. I ask you to help us remember the strength we have in Help us to focus on the task at hand and finish strong. </em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;"></h4>
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		<title>Day 2- Expecting to Receive</title>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 05 Jan 2015 00:00:39 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4><em>Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, &#8220;Look at us!&#8221; So the man gave them his attention, EXPECTING to get something from them. Then Peter said, &#8220;Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.&#8221; Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man&#8217;s feet and ankles became strong.</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>- Acts 3:2-7</em></h4>
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<p>This scripture is probably one of the most remembered scriptures about expectation. Mark 11:24, tells us <em>&#8220;Whatever we ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours.”</em> If our faith is in God, when we ask we will receive because we expect Him to honor our request.</p>
<p>Many times when I am in prayer I speak to God the scriptures where He reminds us to put our total confidence in Him.</p>
<p>We have just gone through the Christmas season; a time when our children or grandchildren tell us their gift list. Once a child makes that list they begin expecting to receive what they ask for. If we could have the faith of a child we probably would not be able to contain the many great things He will do for us. Just as that child has a look in their eyes of wonderment during Christmas, we too could look at our Heavenly Father with those eyes because when we ask He will do exceedingly, abundantly, more than we could think or imagine.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">May we never get to the place that we lose the joy of expectation.</h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4 style="text-align: left;"><em>Father, may I never lose the innocence of a child to believe that whatever I ask I will receive</em></h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Day 1- Beyond All Imagination</title>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 04 Jan 2015 02:00:33 +0000</pubDate>
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		<description><![CDATA[Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us. - Ephesians 3:20  What a powerful thought. The God of Heaven, first of all knows and cares for me. Second He will bless me beyond all my imagination. Look at the [&#8230;]]]></description>
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<h4><em>Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us.</em></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;"><em>- Ephesians 3:20 </em></h4>
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<p>What a powerful thought. The God of Heaven, first of all knows and cares for me. Second He will bless me beyond all my imagination. Look at the Amplified version of this scripture.</p>
<p>“Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the (action of his) power that is at work within us, is able to (carry out His purpose and) do superabundantly, far over and above all that we (dare) ask or think- infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes or dreams.”</p>
<p>I love that last line: “infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes or dreams.”</p>
<p>God’s love for us is so large we cannot even imagine what He will provide for us. A God so great that He not only possesses all capability of blessing, but He actually displays this capability in our lives.</p>
<p>Should we, be constantly looking and preparing for the next blessing coming our way today!</p>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">Today’s Thought</h2>
<h4>We serve a great God, but a God who loves us so much that He desires to overwhelm us with blessing and favor.</h4>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">Today&#8217;s Prayer</h2>
<h4><em>O God, thank you for Your great love to me a lowly sinner. Fill me with all Your many blessings according to Your holy word.</em></h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Dedication</title>
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		<pubDate>Sat, 03 Jan 2015 23:59:59 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Devotion]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Every day we live is a journey to our destination. God has a preferred future for all of us. Jeremiah 29:11 states, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you,… thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” What an awesome word! Our sovereign God knows [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Every day we live is a journey to our destination. God has a preferred future for all of us. Jeremiah 29:11 states, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you,… thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” What an awesome word! Our sovereign God knows us, thinks of us, and has prepared a destiny for us.</p>
<p>These devotions will hopefully be guides to you on your journey. Our hope is that you will use them in your personal and family devotions. Our desire is that they help steer you through your 21 days of prayer and fasting but also prepare you for a great year of expectation!</p>
<p>Believe with us that this is your year! Breakthrough has come and now everyday is a day of expectation of the greatest blessings ever! Our God is mighty! Our God is awesome! Our God has a plan for us! Abundance and not want! Blessing and not cursed! Get ready and start looking by faith to what God has for you now!</p>
<p style="text-align: right;">- Pastor Taylor</p>
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