I was talking about the Shalom or Peace Offering in Leviticus when it hit me. In this particular sacrifice, the person offered the kidneys, the liver and the fat. What they all have in common is their ability to filter out toxins. When these animals were killed and sacrificed, they still had toxins in their system. The person gave up their toxins to God in order to experience peace with God.
When we put our faith in Jesus’ sacrifice, where He took our toxic/sinful lives on Himself, we get peace with God. We are no longer enemies of God, but rather children of God.
Romans 12:2 states we are transformed by the renewing our minds, which is also a toxic filtering organ. It receives data from outside and inside us. We are then to filter out the toxins/lies using the truths of God in order to make healthy choices through the Spirit’s power, which gives us the peace of God.
God takes our poisonous choices and gives us forgiveness because of Jesus. He takes our toxic thoughts and gives us peace in and through Jesus. Stop carrying around your toxic thoughts and attitudes! Give them to Jesus, who provided the way to get rid of them through the cross, and focus on the truths He gives you. This will bring peace to your mind and heart.
This truth should give us pause to reflect on just how good and loving our God is. This truth should also move us to get rid of the toxicity in our lives and be at peace.
S“E”t Free Nowww

My wife and I were cuddling on the sofa enjoying one of the few shows we watch. In this particular show there was a battle between good and evil. Evil knew its heart was vulnerable to attack and created an invisible shield to protect it. If only we believers were as careful!
Our heart is vulnerable to attack each and every day, no matter where we go. Are we letting Jesus protect it? This protection can only come from our shield of faith. Scripture calls it the shield of faith, not some general faith, but a very specific one.
Jesus doesn’t poke at our weaknesses. He points them out to transform them into strengths, His character; and then, protects us through that process with very specific truths given from His written word.
Let Him protect your heart!
Set Fr“E”e Nowww

I read a comic where the main character was feeding popcorn to the birds in the park. One of the birds said, “We’re tired of popcorn, can you bring us some juicy bugs?”
I’m thinking, with a smile on my face and a chuckle in my belly, that’s me at times. How many times have I cried out to Jesus from a lack of contentment or lack of progress in this life changing process of the Spirit, only to open a door to my drug of choice?
One way to keep that door shut is to “be thankful in all circumstances.” (1 Thess. 5:18) In Christ, we already have so much; so be thankful for what He’s already done for you. Be thankful for what He’s already given you. Be thankful for where you’re at now.
You have all you need at this very moment and will have all you need in the next one because of Jesus. Be thankful for this truth by faith. It will keep you close to Jesus, the very source of all you need.
S“E”t Free Nowww

I heard the most interesting question. “Are you living and praying according to your problems or according to your purpose?” One focuses on the problem. The other is on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of the faith He’s given you.
We are God’s workmanship. This means we have a God-given purpose for existing. Therefore, we have an enemy that will constantly harass us as long as we walk on this planet. As this is true, we can either focus on the harassment or what He has for us, whatever that may be.
Your real focus will be seen in your prayer life or lack of it. Are you trying to muscle through daily living? Or are you in daily contact with Jesus, asking the Spirit for the power to get what He wants done. Only the latter will bring a sense of fulfillment and significance.

I was walking across a parking lot today running an errand when it hit me. How is it possible that in the midst of life’s daily tasks Jesus can be forgotten?
It’s possible when you focus on who you are not in Christ, but already are in Christ. It’s possible when you focus on the process of becoming like Jesus rather on the end result itself, Jesus. It’s possible when we get so focused on reaching goals and meeting deadlines that we forget who it’s all for, Jesus.
It’s like the old adage says, “You’re missing the forest through the trees.” The big picture is already accomplished, it’s simply a matter of time. Praise Him today for who He is – God; for what He’s already done – made you perfect; and, for what He will do – bring you to the finish line.
It truly is all about Jesus; today, don’t lose Him in the forest of life.
“S”et Free Nowww