Sunday

Sunday – April 2, 2023
Day 3- Walking With Jesus – Easter
Author: © David Anson Brown

Jesus Cleanses the Temple – 11th of Nisan

And on the next day, when they were come from Bethany, He was hungry: And seeing a fig tree far off having leaves, He came, if lest by any means he might find anything thereon: and when He came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet. And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of you hereafter forever. And His Disciples heard it. And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the Temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the Temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves; And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the Temple. And He taught, saying unto them, Is it not written (1 Kings 8:38-39), My House shall be called of all Nations the House of Prayer? but all of you have made it a den of thieves. ~ Mark 11:12-17

Personal Reflection #3 – Unfruitfulness in
Our Own Life
Jesus recognized unfruitfulness and He took action to remove it. Every one of us (unlike Jesus) has an unfruitful aspect in our own life. We too can be bold like Jesus, in that when we see unfruitfulness we can declare it as unacceptable to God and recognize it as a cursed item, not a blessing. In cursing it, curse it at its root so that it will immediately wither and dry up no longer sustaining an appearance of being potentially fruitful but being what it truly is, something that does not give pleasure to God.

And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which brings not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. ~ Matthew 3:10

Old & New Testament Holy Week Prophecies
… and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. ~ Genesis 3:7
And when He saw a fig tree in the way, He came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on you henceforward forever. And presently the fig tree withered away. ~ Matthew 21:19

Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them. ~ Genesis 3:21

And he bought fine linen, and took Him down [from the cross], and wrapped Him in the linen, and laid Him in a tomb which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the tomb. ~ Mark 15:46

Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to Him: for the Marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife (Church) has made herself ready. And to Her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. ~ Revelation 19:7-8

To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He might be glorified. ~ Isaiah 61:3

For all of you are all the Sons of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on [become clothed in] Christ. ~ Galatians 3:26-27

– April 2, 2023
Day 3- Walking With Jesus – Easter
Author: © David Anson Brown

Jesus Cleanses the Temple – 11th of Nisan

And on the next day, when they were come from Bethany, He was hungry: And seeing a fig tree far off having leaves, He came, if lest by any means he might find anything thereon: and when He came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet. And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of you hereafter forever. And His Disciples heard it. And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the Temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the Temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves; And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the Temple. And He taught, saying unto them, Is it not written (1 Kings 8:38-39), My House shall be called of all Nations the House of Prayer? but all of you have made it a den of thieves. ~ Mark 11:12-17

Personal Reflection #3 – Unfruitfulness in
Our Own Life
Jesus recognized unfruitfulness and He took action to remove it. Every one of us (unlike Jesus) has an unfruitful aspect in our own life. We too can be bold like Jesus, in that when we see unfruitfulness we can declare it as unacceptable to God and recognize it as a cursed item, not a blessing. In cursing it, curse it at its root so that it will immediately wither and dry up no longer sustaining an appearance of being potentially fruitful but being what it truly is, something that does not give pleasure to God.

And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which brings not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. ~ Matthew 3:10

Old & New Testament Holy Week Prophecies
… and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. ~ Genesis 3:7
And when He saw a fig tree in the way, He came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on you henceforward forever. And presently the fig tree withered away. ~ Matthew 21:19

Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them. ~ Genesis 3:21

And he bought fine linen, and took Him down [from the cross], and wrapped Him in the linen, and laid Him in a tomb which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the tomb. ~ Mark 15:46

Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to Him: for the Marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife (Church) has made herself ready. And to Her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. ~ Revelation 19:7-8

To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He might be glorified. ~ Isaiah 61:3

For all of you are all the Sons of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on [become clothed in] Christ. ~ Galatians 3:26-27

Monday – April 3, 2023
Day 4 – Walking With Jesus – Easter
Author: © David Anson Brown

The Pharisees Dispute the Authority of Jesus – 12th of Nisan – The Mt. Olivet Discourse

And in the morning [the next day], as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. And Peter calling to remembrance says unto Him, Master, behold, the fig tree which You cursed is withered away. And Jesus answering says unto them, Have faith in God [Jesus]. ~ Mark 11:20-22

And as He went out of the Temple, one of His Disciples says unto Him, Master, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here! And Jesus answering said unto him, See you these great [Temple] buildings? there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. And as He sat upon the Mount of Olives opposite to the Temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked Him privately, Tell us, when shall these [Kingdom] things be? and what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled? ~ Mark 13:1-4

Personal Reflection #4 – Our Ministry of Reconciliation

What is our part in Reconciliation? Jesus came to Reconcile. The very Ministry of Jesus is Reconciliation, reconciling man back into a relationship with God and also reconciling us humans into a relationship with one another.

And all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and has given to us (Christians) the Ministry of reconciliation; To know, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and has committed unto us the Word of reconciliation. ~ 2 Corinthians 5:18-19

*The word reconciliation is called the Gospel, the “Good News” of our Life in Jesus as opposed to the sour fact of our death in this earthly world.

The ministry of Jesus is the embodiment of the Cross that Jesus would be crucified on as on the cross Jesus is lifted up – suspended, between Heaven (the dwelling of God) and Earth (the dwelling of man). The vertical post of the cross represents reconciliation between God and Man while at the same time the outstretched – reaching out arms of Jesus and the horizontal beam of the cross represent the reconciliation of one to another.

Reconciliation is accomplished only in and by Jesus. There is no other hope for mankind but in Jesus, His Cross and His Resurrection.

Saturday – April 1, 2023
Day 2 – Walking With Jesus
Author: © David Anson Brown

Triumphal Entry – Selection of the Passover Lamb (Exodus 12:3) – 10th of Nisan

Palm Saturday the Triumphal Entry of King Jesus into Jerusalem, the Feast of Sabbath is fulfilled.

And they brought the colt to Jesus, and cast their garments on him; and He sat upon him. And many spread their garments in the way: and others cut down branches off the trees, and scattered them in The Way. And they that went before, and they that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna; Blessed is he that comes in the Name of the Lord: Blessed be the Kingdom of our father David, that comes in the Name of the Lord: Hosanna in the Highest. And Jesus entered into Jerusalem, and into the Temple [only to look around – as the Passover Lamb of God in the House (Temple) of God “a lamb for an house” Exodus 12:3]:

And when He had looked round about upon all things, and now the eventide [lit. close of this Saturday Sabbath day] was come, He went out unto Bethany with the Twelve. ~ Mark 11:7-11

Personal Reflection #2 – Jesus our Savior, our King, our Friend, our Rest

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows his handiwork. ~ Psalms 19:1

We too would like to join in with the rocks of Jerusalem and indeed all of creation and declare the glory of our God and King in Christ Jesus and as we do declare the Deity and Honor of Jesus we declare that we to can now rest in His rule and in His Authority.

We rest in Jesus, resting physically, emotionally and spiritually. It is a wonderful accomplishment to be able to cease from worry, fear and anxiety. Few are they that enter into it but blessed are those who do as rest is something to be entered into, it is an achievement, an accomplishment.
Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. ~ Hebrews 4:11

Old & New Testament Holy Week Prophecies

Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion; shout, O Daughter of Jerusalem: behold, your King comes unto you: He is Just, and having Salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of a donkey. ~ Zechariah 9:9

All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Prophet, saying, Tell all of you the Daughter of Zion, Behold, your King comes unto you, meek, and sitting upon an ass (donkey), and a colt the foal of an donkey. ~ Matthew 21:4-5

This is the Day [Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem] which the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Save [Salvation] now, I plead to you, O LORD: O LORD, I plead to you, send now prosperity. Blessed be He that comes in the Name of the LORD: we have blessed You out of the House of the LORD. ~ Psalm 118:24-26

And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is He that comes in the Name of the Lord; Hosanna in the Highest. ~ Matthew 21:9

Friday – We Walk With Jesus – Day -1

Holy Week 2023 – Reality and Faith United! Starting Friday, March 31st 2023 until — Easter Sunday, April 9th 2023
Written By: David Anson Brown

March 31, 2023
Jesus and His disciples in the village of Bethany – 9th of Nisan

Then Jesus six days before the Passover [Holy Week] came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, which had been dead, whom He raised from the dead. There they made Him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with Him.

Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment. ~ John 12:1-3

And when they [Jesus and His Twelve Disciples] came near to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and **Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, He sends forth two of His disciples, And says unto them, Go your way into the village [Bethphage] opposite to you: and as soon as all of you be entered into it, all of you shall find a colt tied, whereon never man sat; loose him, and bring him. And if any man say unto you, Why do all of you this? say all of you that the Lord (Owner) has need of him; and immediately he will send him here. ~ Mark 11:1-3

Personal Reflection #1 – Anointing Oil
Mary Anointed Jesus with very costly and very precious oil. Biblically oil is a symbol of acceptance. To anoint someone is to accept them, to accept them for who and for what they are. Judas on the other hand did not want to bother with anointing Jesus. He didn’t even want to be bothered with other people anointing Him. Mary was accepting Jesus. She had accepted that He had come to die for her in her place and was anointing Jesus for His coming burial. The cross of Jesus was something that even the disciples had not yet been able to come to grips with yet Mary had and Mary acknowledged and accepted Jesus for it. Having accepted the gift from Jesus that He was to die in her place for her sins she had now entered into a place of rest and comfort. Rest in that she did not have to work to amend for her own sins and comfort in that all things would be taken care of for her through God who is also King, her King Jesus.

As we begin our walk with Jesus let’s pause and reflect (Selah) about acceptance … are there people in our own lives who we need to anoint and to accept even though we don’t understand them?

How much could our fellowships gain by this one simple act of anointing one another in the simple affection of acceptance. Anointing others with the precious oil of acceptance can only come from our own rest and security through the knowledge of what Jesus Himself has done and will do for us in our lives.

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life [eternal] for evermore. ~ Psalms 133:1-3

Are we anointing and accepting of ourselves?

Biblically people are allowed to anoint – refresh themselves with oil (Matthew 6:17).

In fact it is crucial that we accept ourselves. God has already accepted us. He created us and He is for us.

How is it that we can reject what God has already accepted?

Are we anointing and accepting of Jesus?

Even today we can anoint Jesus with His precious costly oil of acceptance by accepting His accomplishments in His sacrificial death and eternal resurrection life for us and by trusting in His authority and Kingly rule over and in our lives.
We would like to be bold enough to take the steps to walk where Jesus walks, but it is now evident even on this day, day one, that Jesus does not walk as a human walks but that He walks as God walks. For us to walk with Jesus we are going to have to be bold and remove our focus from others and place it on God.

Old & New Testament Holy Week Prophecies
Therefore thus will I do unto you, O Israel: and because I will do this unto you, prepare to meet your God, O Israel. ~ Amos 4:12
We have also a more sure Word of Prophecy; unto which all of you do well that all of you take heed, as unto a Light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the Day Star [TriUne God – Holy Spirit] arise in your hearts: 20 ~ 2 Peter 1:19

Holy Week 2023 – Reality and Faith United! Starting Friday, March 31st 2023 until — Easter Sunday, April 9th 2023
Written By: David Anson Brown

Accountability & Authority
Author: Pat Aman
July 8, 2008rev2023

John 17:11-13 “While I was with them, I was keeping them in Thy name which
Thou hast given Me; and I guarded them, and not one of them perished but the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled.

A lot of times, people have the impression that being in a position of leadership means that you get to make the important decisions and pick the things you want to do. There is some truth in that, but not nearly as much as you might think.

Leadership also means making unpopular decisions that have a long term goal in mind.

I have just had to make one of those
decision in the last month. I can tell you it was not an easy decision to make, because it not only included myself, but others. But I feel with all my heart that I made the right decision. I feel that in making this decision it will help everyone involved to be able to step back and take a better look at what and where God wants us all to be. Start over new and refreshed, as God leads.

It can also means working over the weekend to finish personnel reviews so
your subordinates get their raises. It means going to meetings and being accountable to managers above you for the actions of those employees. Even when their actions are not acceptable to you, you are responsible. It means dealing with that difficult person who has caused a problem between himself and another group.

With the authority that comes with a position, there are responsibilities. The further up you go, the more and more accountable you are to more and more people. In business, the Chairmen of the Board of the largest companies are still accountable to the shareholders.

John 18:8-9 Jesus answered, “I told you that I am He; if therefore you seek Me, let these go their way,” 9 that the word might be fulfilled which He spoke, “Of those whom Thou hast given Me I lost not one.”

Jesus made Himself accountable to the Father. Jesus prayed for guidance and strength from the Father. In the selected passage from John 17 above, He returns the disciples to the care of the Father. He accounts for them all, even Judas Iscariot. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus asked that if there were any other way possible, other than the terrible trial He would
face on the cross, to make that available to Him. But even He who called, taught and led the disciples, submitted His will to the Father’s requirements, for their benefit and ours. He didn’t have to suffer the agony on the cross, or the moment in time when Jesus was separated from the Father. It was the first time in all eternity they had been apart, which may have been the greater trial. Just like the old song goes, “He could have called 10,000 angels to destroy the world and set Him free.” He
stayed true to the plan made in eternity past between the members of the Trinity, to save mankind. Personal accountability to hundreds of prophetic tasks, and the sacrifice of personal time to be with the people teaching and healing and His students, left Jesus’ with little time for Himself.

Were there moments of powerful confrontation where the established
authorities were confounded and shown for the hypocrites that they were?

Yes, of course.

Were there moments of triumph when Jesus showed a flashing glimpse of His power?

Lazarus climbed out of the tomb bound hand and foot in grave clothes at Jesus verbal command. Jairus’ daughter was called from death at the gentle instruction of the Master. To see his friend restored to family and friends, and a child restored to thrilled and grateful parents must have been very satisfying. To see the response of the people accepting Him for who He said He was, people moving from the Kingdom of Darkness to the Kingdom of Light, must have been cause for great joy. And still these times came with a price. If it is the will of God that everyone be saved, then to have even the Pharisees reject such evident displays of power, when they were seeking a visible sign, must have been sadly frustrating. Knowing they sought His life instead of acknowledging the sign that they were seeking before them, that there was still no room to talk must have been painful.

Being a leader often means going it alone for a time. You have a conviction that more time needs to be spent in prayer by your group at church. People’s schedules being what they are makes this unpopular with
some and simply impossible for others. If you are committed to this course of action, simply make it known that you will be there 30 minutes early and anyone is welcome to join you. You may be the only one there early for a month. If you skip once, your ability to sell your conviction of the
importance of that time will be tarnished. Remain faithful to the call of God and watch what happens over time. This simple act of faith may be blessed beyond your wildest dreams.

Luke 19:16-17 “And he said to him, ‘Well done, good slave, because you have been faithful in a very little thing, be in authority over ten cities.’

Blessings, Love and Prayers
Pastor Pat Aman

Nehemiah 8:10)

“The Joy Of The Lord, Is Your Strength.”

(Proverbs 17:22)
“A Merry Heart Does Good, Like Medicine, But A Broken Spirit Dries The
Bones.”

Devotion Written By: Pastor Pat Aman Book © 1996/2023 “Coffee With Pat Daily Devotionals” “Coffee With A Little Spice Of Life” and Westbow Press a division of © Thomas Nelson and Library of Congress Control Number: 2018910976……….

God’s Chariots
Author: Pat Aman
June 8, 2008rev2023

Hannah Whitehall Smith, quotes someone as stating:”Earthly cares are a heavenly discipline.’ but they are even something better than discipline–they are God’s chariots, sent to take the soul to its high
places of triumph.”

Hummmm? What a thought to think about. Sometimes I can tell you they do not look like chariots to me. Sometimes to me they look like enemies, sufferings, trials, defeats, misunderstandings, disappointments,
unkindness.

But if we would realize and see them as they really are, we should recognize them as chariots of triumph in which we may ride to those very heights of victory for which our souls have been longing and praying.

Looking at a couple of Biblical examples: Mary and Martha could not understand Jesus’ delay. Why did He not come? Why did their beloved brother Lazarus have to die?

And Abraham could not understand why God should ask that he sacrifice his
son Isaac.

Moses could not understand why God kept him 40 years in the wilderness.

Joseph could not understand his brother’ cruelty.

I have learned through the years that it is not always given to us to understand while we are in the middle of our particular situation.

I know that at very turbulent times in my life, Psalm 43:5, sprang into meaning for me. “Midnight hours” as we have heard the old folks say, yes that midnight hour I have experienced it. It appeared that every door had closed tightly in my face, that God was silent, and that He would keep me
waiting forever for the answers I do desperately needed to hear.

Psalm 43:5 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.

But, I soon learned that in that Midnight hour when things seemed impossible that help would come, guess what? It did come. It came from God’s own resources. See, God is not confined.

Whatever our necessities, however great our difficulties, and though to all appearances help is impossible, I promise you that God will show up.

Our hope should stand in God and on His Word. And yes, in the (midnight hour,) the right time, God’s time, help will come.

So, whatever you maybe facing, stand, just stand, and believe and wait on your Heavenly Father to come and step in, and lift you up and take care of you.

I promise you the wait will be worth it all.

Love, Blessings, and Prayers,
Pastor Pat Aman

(Nehemiah 8:10)
“The Joy Of The Lord, Is Your Strength.”

Devotion Written By: Pastor Pat Aman Book © 1996/2023 “Coffee With Pat Daily Devotionals” “Coffee With A Little Spice Of Life” and Westbow Press a division of © Thomas Nelson and Library of Congress Control Number: 2018910976……….

Wisdom, Knowledge and Commonsense
Walk In Your Gifting
Author: Pat Aman
June 6, 2008rev.2023

Joe and I have two daughters. They both are very intelligent. They both have degrees in Chemistry and Biology.

Now as for myself, I do not have that much of knowledge about Science.

I love Bible Theology, History and Literature. And I can teach on these subjects, they are my gifting.

But because I have listen to them talk Science with their Dad who is also
acknowledgeable about Science, I can relate to some of the things they talk about. And I have learned a lot by helping them study for tests. And helping them prepare for their Boards, in their careers. But, still these subjects are not my gifting.

But, I will let you know that I would never try to put myself on the same level with them, because that is not my gift, an I do not have the knowledge that they have, because that is their gift.

My Wisdom on this tells me that if I worked in a Science Laboratory, I would probably do something wrong, mix the wrong chemicals and blow the Lab up. You would be reading in the Newspaper, “Pastor, destroys Chemistry Lab. Not sure what she was doing there, but under Investigation. More news to come, when pieces put back together.”

Even though they are younger than I am, I still would not try to use my
age to make myself knowledgeable enough to fill their shoes, because
Science is not my gift. See, I am using Wisdom here.

If I have a Science or Math question, I will call my daughter Tara, she
has taught Math and Science. She now has her Doctorate in Education and in the Administration Field of Education. And yes, when I taught the GED for Central Carolina Community College, I did call her about a Geometry problem. And she walked me through it as I wrote her explanation on the graph board for the students.

And if I need Medical advice about our animals, I will call my daughter Anna, because she is a Surgical Veterinarian.

But, I have had both my daughters tell me that mama we appreciate you, because even though you may not be knowledgeable on a certain subject, you never try to act like you do. Also, we love you because you do have the Wisdom to not try to be something you are not, and your wisdom Mama is greater than our knowledge most of the time.

So, Wisdom verses Knowledge. Yes! I believe with all my heart that wisdom
comes with age. Knowledge comes from learning. But without Wisdom, knowledge fails.

Joe and I will be 70 years young on our next birthdays. So, we are already both over a half of century old. We have gain a great bit of knowledge, but we both will tell you that we wish that we had the Wisdom back then that we do now.

Col 1:9-10 For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.

In the Bible the word most used for wisdom is “hokmah,” which refers to
skill. Hokmah is used to describe the skill of craftsmen, sailors, and other workers. These workers, having the knowledge of their trade, also had the skill or wisdom to perform their trades.

My Ministry Gift, (Job,) is Pastor/Evangelism, Teaching Bible and starting/organizing the work area of church the local church. I possess the knowledge of all the components required in filling this positions.

Obviously from being a Pastor/Evangelist, I possess the knowledge of all the components required Pastoring and building a church and helping a church to grow. I know where thing needs to fit together to make a church run as it should, and also, God gives me the Discerning Spirit to know what positions that people need to be placed in, within the church, and what position they need to be removed from, if they are trying to do something that is not their gift.

Some may say or even think about themselves that they have the knowledge to Pastor/Evangelize a church, but they lack the skill or wisdom to apply this knowledge to the actual task of doing it. Their lack of wisdom prevents them from successfully doing the job correct.

Just like when I taught in the public school system, but had retired, I had a Principal come to me and told me that they were having a Math teacher to leave just a few weeks before school was to let out, and he wanted to know if I would come back and teach her class. I told him no, because I was not comfortable with Math.

See, it was Algebra, and I am sorry, but Math is not my gift. Now I could
have said yes, and went in and tried to teach the class, but it would have
been very boring to them, and they would not have learned, because I did not have the capable knowledge of teaching them, so I use Wisdom to say NO! Now again, who would have suffered because of me not wanting my pride bruised, and I had taken the position? The students. The Principal said he really respected me for not taking the class, and being honest with him.

Now, yes, in my years, in the school system, I did fill in a time or two
in a Science, Math, and even a Spanish Class, but I had to go straight by the book, and notes that the teacher left for me to follow. Why? I did not have the capable knowledge to teach these subjects. Did the students learn, yes, only because I had the Wisdom to know I needed to follow the teacher’s notes and also, I was not embarrassed to call on the students in the class whom understood the subject and helped the others?

You may say didn’t that make you feel foolish? No! I would really have made myself look foolish for trying to teach someone, something, that I did not understand myself.

Similarly, we can read the Bible everyday and we can even memorize passages in the Bible. We can know all about the Bible. We can memorize how many books are in each Testament. We can memorize where each book is placed in the Bible. We can even read devotionals everyday. We know where to find what; we can tell people what passages to read for different situations. But, do we have the skill, the wisdom to apply this knowledge to everyday life? Do we have the wisdom to put all the pieces together?

Proverbs 2:10-12, When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee: To deliver thee from the way of the evil man.

In the spiritual realm a person who possesses hokmah in reference to God is one who is both knowledgeable and experienced in following God’s way.

So in the Bible’s Wisdom literature being wise means being skilled in godly living. Having God’s wisdom means having the ability to cope with life in a God-honoring way.

Crawford H. Toy wrote, “wisdom is the knowledge of right living in the highest sense.”

My prayer is that everyday you will gain both knowledge and wisdom. I pray that you will practice living in a God-honoring and Christ-Centered manner. Have a great day and may God bless each of you.

Blessings, Love and Prayers,

Pastor Pat

(Nehemiah 8:10)
“The Joy Of The Lord, Is Your Strength.”

Devotion Written By: Pastor Pat Aman Book © 1996/2023 “Coffee With Pat Daily Devotionals” “Coffee With A Little Spice Of Life” and Westbow Press a division of © Thomas Nelson and Library of Congress Control Number: 2018910976……….

The Calling of the First Disciples
Author: Pat Aman
Apri 12, 2008/rev2023

Matthew 4: 18 As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 19. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” 20. At once they left their nets and followed him.

People come in and out of our lives. Sometimes we feel with all our heart
that these people love and support us. They will even give you advice saying things like, “I know you are suppose to do this and that.”

But when you step out to do it, they may turn against you. Maybe because they are facing hardships, and you are they dart board, (Praise God, if I can or have been someone’s dart board, I am glad I was there for them to have someone that they can let steam off, or even maybe blame for their hurt,) or maybe because they cannot understand you taking a step of faith, really there is not a good answer to this question. I have found out that is just life.

I can tell you that people will come in and out of your lives. Maybe they are there for just a Season. Some will understand your new step of Faith, others will not. This is because they may not be strong enough in their walk to understand your new walk.

Life doesn’t always go exactly as we expect it to. Sometimes we find out that there is something or someone in our life that isn’t the best for us.

Why am I telling you this, because I want you to know that when you step out to follow Jesus, not everyone will be with you. Even those whom have said they are for you, but they are really not. And this can cause hurt if you let it. Which can lead to unforgiveness on your part, which can hinder your new walk, your new journey.

I know it is hard, but, embracing change and making difficult decisions to walk away in love from a situation and people that is no longer serving you can be the first step towards success in your personal journey. Get it, your personal journey, not theirs.

“Remember, not everyone is ready for your new journey. So, to not try to take them with you. ‘Pat Aman’”

The disciples, they left they’re businesses, families, and friends to follow Jesus. They probably had friends and family who thought they had lost their minds. People who even laughed at them, and said they would never make it.

I know it was hard for them, but they knew that Jesus had a task, a ministry for them. They knew that they were men with an assignment straight from the heart of God. They knew they would get talked about,
lied on, and even face death for Christ sake, but they still followed their Master.

The same is for us as well today. When you make a commitment to do God’s Work, remember that you will face challenges. And one of the hardest challenge is to forgive them that hurt you, during your new transition. But once you jump that
obstacle, you will make it. For forgiveness is the key to love, and love is the key to success.

Blessings, Love, and Prayers,
Pastor Pat

(Nehemiah 8:10)
“The Joy Of The Lord, Is Your Strength.”

Devotion Written By: Pastor Pat Aman Book © 1996/2023 “Coffee With Pat Daily Devotionals” “Coffee With A Little Spice Of Life” and Westbow Press a division of © Thomas Nelson and Library of Congress Control Number: 2018910976……….

“GuiDANCE”
Just Dance
Author: Pat Aman…
June 2005rev2023

I was asked to repost an older devotional, so please enjoy it again. Thanks Jenn for asking, I hope it gives you a new light and direction. Just Dance.

When I meditated on the word
‘GuiDANCE, ‘ I kept seeing”dance” at the end of the word. I remember thinking years back that doing God’s Will is a lot like dancing. I do not even know how to dance so this was enlighting to me.

But, I do remember that when Joe and I owned our own business, we use to go to
alot of conventions. There was a older couple, in their 80’s who went to the conventions every year also. They did Ball Room dancing. I remember loving to watch them dance because as they held each other it was like a glove on a hand. It fit perfectly. They flowed like two doves soaring in the sky. Each one seem to know what the
other wanted. The woman seem to float as her partner lead the way. It was beautiful.

Thinking about this once again makes me think again about the word “Gui-dance.”

When two people try to lead, nothing feels right. The movement doesn’t
flow with the music, and everything is quite uncomfortable and jerky.

When one person comfortably lets the other person lead, both bodies begin to
flow with the music. One gives gentle cues, perhaps with a nudge to the back or by pressing lightly in one direction or another. It’s as if two become one body, moving beautifully. The dance takes surrender, willingness, and attentiveness from one person and gentle guidance and skill from the other.

My eyes drew back to the word GuiDANCE. When I saw “G,” I thought of
God, followed by “u” and “i.” “God, ‘u” and “i” dance.” ! ! God, you, and I dance.

This statement is what guidance means to me.

Surrendering to God’s will is not easy. It means we have to relinquish control and trust that He is working all things good for His glory.

Surrendering to God’s will means letting go of whatever is holding us back from seeing His faithfulness. God’s perspective and plan are far greater than anything we can imagine. He knows more than we do and has every detail of our life under control. He has not left us alone. When we surrender to His will, He gives us the peace that settles our hearts and gives our minds rest.

So, I lowered my head, I become willing to trust that I would get guidance about all the plans Father God has for my life. And once again, I became willing to let God lead.

My prayer for you today is that Father God’s blessings and mercies be upon
you and your family on this day and everyday. May you abide in Him as He
abides in you.

John 15:7 says, “If you abide in me and my words abide in you, you may ask
what you will and it will be.”

Dance together with God, trusting Him to lead and to guide you through each season of your life.

My prayer for you today is that I you asked Father God to dance with you.

So, I Hope You Dance!!
Love and Prayers
Pastor Pat

Devotion Written By: Pastor Pat Aman Book © 1996/2023 “Coffee With Pat Daily Devotionals” “Coffee With A Little Spice Of Life” and Westbow Press a division of © Thomas Nelson and Library of Congress Control Number: 2018910976……….

The Prays Of A Praying Woman?
Author: Pat Aman
2002REVJanuary 26, 2023

1 Thessalonians 5:17 “PRAY CONTINUALLY”

I was blessed with one of these women who prayed, as my Mama. I’m not talking about simple prayers at the end of the day and before meals; I’m talking straight forward to the point prayers.

My mama was a warrior armed with the Sword of the Word, a passionate heart, and a determined spirit.

There were two worn spots in the floor on the side of her bed, left there by her knees from years of kneeling before her Father God even when it hard for her. Her Bible had tear stains, where she cried out of her children, family and friends.

I cherish the memory of hearing her pray in her last days each night over a monitor we had in her bedroom. Praying till her last breath for her children.

Yes, we had a monitor in her bedroom so if she needed us after we helped her in bed we would hear her calling us. We were there at her beckon call, just as she did for us while children under her love and care.

She was truly a woman who prayed and she charged me to become one. Here is what I learned sitting at her knee…

Prayer was a part of her identity, not just a part of her routine.That dedication is what called her out of bed with the earliest rays of the sun to pray for her family and had her praying for anyone Father God bought before her, in her heart and mind. She prayed immediately in her kitchen, garden and wherever she was called to pray.

Mama knew prayer was powerful, not because of the one praying or the words of the prayer itself…it is powerful because Father God who heard her prayers was all powerful and He answers powerfully. The power of a praying woman isn’t in her own strength, but the result of her relationship with the Lord God Almighty.

Just as women in the Bible like Hannah, The priest Eli saw Hannah praying intensely but silently and, thinking she was drunk, rebuked her. Once Hannah explained that she was praying, the priest blessed her and asked God to grant her request. She returned home and was able to conceive. Hannah bore a son and named him “Samuel,” which means “I have asked for him from the LORD” 1 Samuel 2:20.

And let’s look at The Parable of the Persistent Widow
Luke 18: 1-8 And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought ralways to pray and not slose heart. He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who tneither feared God nor respected man. And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’ For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, Though I neither fear God nor respect man, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming.’ And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge says. And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? I tell you, he will give justice to them aspeedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”

I learned from my Mama prayer is literally talking to the Father God with freedom and confidence…it’s not something to be taken lightly.

The power of a praying woman isn’t in her own strength, but her relationship with her Father God.

Women who prays continually, with focus, dedication, and intimacy are women with strength because of God’s ability to work through them.

Thank you Mama, for teaching me to pray.

Devotion Written By: Pastor Pat Aman Book © 1996/2023 “Coffee With Pat Daily Devotionals” “Coffee With A Little Spice Of Life” and Westbow Press a division of © Thomas Nelson and Library of Congress Control Number: 2018910976……….