Tea in the Morning

Posted on May 4, 2016 by Jennifer Grace

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)

My voice You shall hear in the morning, O Lord;
In the morning I will direct it to You,
And I will look up. Psalm 5:3 (NKJV)

My dear Tea Cupp friends, today I want to encourage you to have TEA with Jesus first thing in the morning, as the sun is rising. I know days get hectic, and some mornings the baby wakes up sick, and all kinds of other events clutter the morning hours. But we are better armed for the battle, if most days we start by meeting Jesus for a quiet cup of tea.

Can you set the alarm a half hour early? Don’t check your smart phone or the the news. Just heat the tea kettle, pour yourself a hot drink, and curl up on the sofa with your Bible and mug. Here you will find the Word you need for the day. Here you will find strength for whatever you face. Here you will find grace and mercy and joy and peace and wisdom and power and…….we find it all at the foot of Jesus’ cross, in God’s Word, the Bible, in the whisperings of the Holy Spirit.

There are so many benefits to having a quiet time with Jesus at the beginning of each day. Here are a few…

Jesus is First! We always want our priorities to match our lives and vice versa. If we really want Jesus to be first in our lives and hearts, we have to put Him first each day. Give your Best Friend the start of your day!
Before the chaos. We know how the unexpected can happen every day. The phone rings with bad news, or maybe it is good https://onhealthy.net/product/lexapro/ news that takes time to relate. The washing machine overflows. There is a knock at the door. So many things can happen as the day goes on. Meet with Jesus early before the chaos of the day.
A fresh start. If you’re like me, there is always something from yesterday that needs forgiving, a wrong thought, a wrong word, impatience, etc. Ask Jesus for forgiveness and strength for the new day. Maybe this day will go better!
Marching orders for today. It’s sure good to get directions for the day, before it begins. If Jesus has a special calling for you, you’d like to know so you can be ready. Sometimes He reminds me to text a friend or pray for a family member. Other times there is a bigger call. Keep a notebook handy to jot down any messages.
Leave your worries with Jesus. Perhaps you couldn’t sleep last night because you were worried. Don’t let those worries ruin your day. Pour out your heart to Jesus and leave those worries with Him. Petition the Lord for all on your prayer list. Know that God has you covered today.

Today’s TEA CUPP: Come, come sit at His feet this morning. Pour a cup of tea. Start your day with Jesus.

In the Morning When I Rise Give Me Jesus

Ho! Everyone who thirsts,
Come to the waters… Isaiah 55:1 (NKJV)

On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” John 7:37-38 (NKJV)

Prince of Peace Tea

Posted on April 27, 2016 by Jennifer Grace

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27 (NKJV)

Last summer, in our family’s efforts to give up carbonated beverages with high-fructose corn syrup, we found this delicious beverage at our local store, Peace Tea. Though the artwork on the cans is expressive of the 60’s with peace symbols and “V” fingers, the name gave me an idea.

I quickly fetched two cans from our recycling bin and snapped a photo for my website. What could be a better flavor for My Tea Cupp Prayers than Peace Tea? Wasn’t Jesus the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6)? What can we learn by drinking Peace Tea?

My lovely Wednesday morning Bible study ladies teach me so much! Our current study is on the book of Romans, and we just completed Chapter 5. We learned how we, like the first man Adam, would have inherited God’s wrath because of our sins. BUT, because of our faith in Jesus, instead we inherit PEACE and eternal life.

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2 (NKJV)

As soon as we ask God for forgiveness, we have peace with Him. Even if we don’t feel at peace, we have peace because of Jesus. And nothing can snatch us from His hands! Nothing!

For I am persuaded that neither https://tramadolmain.com death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things http://ambienbuy.net present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39 (NKJV)

So why might we still not feel peaceful, even though we have peace with God? It’s this fallen world we live in! As long as we live in this world of sin, we will have troubles, the Bible promises that:

These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. John 16:33 (NKJV)

Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. Matthew 10:34 (NKJV)

So, what are we to do? Keep praying! Keep having TEA with Jesus each day. Pour out our hearts to Him and let Him take our troubles, filling our cups to overflowing with the Prince of Peace Tea.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)

Today’s TEA CUPP: Sip a Prince of Peace Tea CUPP today. Ask God for forgiveness and the gift of His peace. Let Jesus take your worries. May the Holy Spirit fill your cup to overflowing!

Afraid to Tell

Posted on March 30, 2016 by Jennifer Grace

afraid to tell So they went out quickly and fled from the tomb, for they trembled and were amazed. And they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid. Mark 16:8 (NKJV)

It happens every spring when I read the Easter story from the book of Mark. I’m taken back to a time when I said nothing to anyone, because I was afraid. Perhaps you have a similar story.

We were at a church camp conference in Georgia with the theme, “This is My Story.” Whenever there was a lull between events, the crowd would launch into a lively rendition of the old hymn. “This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long…” The song still rings in my heart almost two decades later.

Between singing and game workshops, maintenance manuals, recipe exchanges and all the other information you need to run a church camp, there was a delightful morning Bible study. I wish I could remember the name of the speaker who led this, an energetic, Asian-American dynamo. She ran us through the life of Jesus in the book of Mark, because that is Mark’s pace. She explained to us how most scholars believe the last twelve verses were tacked on later, so Mark 16:8 is really the final verse. And what does this verse tell us?

So they went out quickly and fled from the tomb, for they trembled and were amazed. And they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid. Mark 16:8 (NKJV)

Who were these people? Mark 16:1 tells us they were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome who brought spices to anoint Jesus’ body. They didn’t know how they would move the big stone that blocked the tomb. So when they arrived, they were so surprised to see the stone already rolled away. An angel in the tomb told them, “He is risen!”

Isn’t that the best news of all! Would you run tell all your friends? Well, according to Mark, these women were afraid and didn’t tell anyone at first. I wonder how many of us are like that. Do we know the Good News of Jesus’ resurrection, but are too scared to tell others?

The Bible study speaker challenged me to not be afraid to tell my story. That very day I wrote my story in my journal. The next Christmas I sent it out with our Christmas cards. Today I continue to look for ways to tell others about the love of Jesus, how He saved me by dying on the cross, and that He is risen. Many days, I’m still afraid, but the Holy Spirit nudges me to share more and more. Are you being nudged, too?

Today’s TEA CUPP: Read Mark 16 today. Celebrate the Good News that Jesus is Risen! Then find someone to tell the Good News of how Jesus has helped you.

But he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him.” Mark 16:6 (NKJV)

Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 (NKJV)

Who Cares???

Posted on March 23, 2016 by Jennifer Grace

question-questions_answers_5 A pastor who is often a special speaker at our church, travels with a business card that asks, “Who Cares? If you die and go to hell, who cares?”

Right on his business card he answers this tough question with 7 answers:

# 1 – God cares: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16 (NKJV)

# 2 – Jesus cares: For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost. Matthew 18:11 (NKJV)

# 3 – All people in heaven care: I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance. Luke 15:7 (NKJV)

# 4 – All saved people care: And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” Revelation 22:17 (NKJV)

# 5 – All people in hell care: That he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment. Luke 16:28 (NKJV)

# 6 – I care: For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. Romans 1:16 (NKJV)

# 7 – Do you care? If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 (NKJV)

Today’s TEA CUPP: My friend, after reading the answers to #1-6, I hope you will answer a big “YES” to #7! God, Jesus, the saints, the sinners, including me, all want you to follow Jesus. Please join me in confessing Jesus as Lord and Savior.

Dear Jesus, I believe in You! Please be Lord of my life. I believe You died for my sins and God raised You from the dead. I ask for your forgiveness. I look forward to eternal life with You in heaven. Please help me to live each day for You from this day forward. Thank you, Jesus. I love you! Amen.

A very happy and blessed Easter to you, dear friend!

Special thank you to Rev. Dr. Samuel G. Karunanithi from Living Word Church in Bridge City, Texas!

Kisses from Katie

Posted on March 16, 2016 by Jennifer Grace

And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.‘ Matthew 25:40 (NKJV)

We are forever changed. All whose lives have been touched by Katie Davis in Uganda, and all who read her book here in the USA, will never be the same. We can’t return to our “normal” lives, without realizing how much more God has for us. I invite you to be changed forever, too, as you read Katie’s incredible story.

This blessing came to me at my Wednesday Bible study where the women are passing around a book entitled Kisses from Katie. The ladies say they can’t put it down. It’s finally my turn to read it, and they are right. As I keep telling myself, “just one more chapter,” Katie is adopting “just one more child,” sharing the love of Jesus with the people of Uganda.

Katie, an American teenager from Nashville, Tennessee, president of her senior class and homecoming queen, gives up everything to follow Jesus’ call to care for the orphans. Over and over, Katie relates how she is just a normal person, who says “Yes” to God’s call. Completely honest and transparent, Katie shares the joys and trials of her new found ministry.

Learning to be a mother and run a non-profit at the age of 19 has quite the learning curve, as Katie shares her experiences. From rats and cockroaches, to HIV and scabies, to caring for the worst poverty, one might think that God gave Katie super-human powers. But as Katie relates (p. 135)…

“I believe that God totally, absolutely, intentionally gives us more than we can handle. Because this is when we surrender to Him and He takes over, proving Himself by doing the impossible in our lives.”

Along with her engaging narrative, Katie shares Bible heroes from David to Jonah to Paul. She writes how God met their needs, and He is caring for her and her adorable children, too. Katie has a thorough grasp of scriptures and the truth, which is also the name of her ministry, Amazima. Above all, Katie lives out the truth of the Gospel every minute of every day, pouring out God’s love, exhausted or not, (“with a little bit of coffee and a whole lot of Jesus”).

Everyone should read this book — moms, dads, teenagers, homeschoolers, college students, Bible scholars, youth leaders, grandparents, the average Joe. Your heart will be broken for these dear people in Uganda and around the world, who need the unconditional love of Jesus. Kisses from Katie will inspire, challenge and encourage us all to do more for God’s kingdom, more than we ever imagined. Yes, we are forever changed.

Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Matthew 28:19-20 (NKJV)

For more information on Katie’s ministry, check out her website: http://katiedavis.amazima.org/

Davis, K. (2011). Kisses from Katie. Nashville: Howard Books.

Most Women Said “Prayer”

Posted on March 9, 2016 by Jennifer Grace

Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray…” Luke 11:1

At a weekly Bible study I attended, the question was posed, “In what area is God calling you to a deeper level of obedience?” As we went around the table of 20 plus women, the majority mentioned prayer. The women had hearts for obediently following Jesus’ example to pray, but some wondered how to proceed. If you are reading this book, perhaps God is calling you in this area, too? How should you press on?

Let’s review: The place to begin is the Bible. God’s Word has all we need. When we don’t know what to say, God does. There are fantastic verses from Genesis to Revelations, but a great place to explore are the Psalms. Here we read the heart cries of other believers that we may also pray to the Lord.

To THANK the Lord, we may pray,

Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!
For His mercy endures forever. Psalm 136:1 (NKJV)

To EXALT (praise) our God, we may pray,

I will praise You, O Lord, among the peoples;
I will sing to You among the nations.
For Your mercy reaches unto the heavens,
And Your truth unto the clouds. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;
Let Your glory be above all the earth. Psalm 57:9-11 (NKJV)

To ADMIT our sins and ask for forgiveness, we may pray,

Have mercy upon me, O God,
According to Your lovingkindness;
According to the multitude of Your tender mercies,
Blot out my transgressions.
Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,
And cleanse me from my sin. Psalm 51:1-2 (NKJV)

To seek God’s CALLING for our lives, we may pray,

Teach me Your way, O Lord;
I will walk in Your truth;
Unite my heart to fear Your name. Psalm 86:11 (NKJV)

To UNDERSTAND and talk with Jesus about our story, we may pray,

O Lord, You have searched me and known me.
You know my sitting down and my rising up;
You understand my thought afar off. Psalm 139:1-2 (NKJV)

To claim one of God’s PROMISES for our lives, we may pray,

You are my hiding place;
You shall preserve me from trouble;
You shall surround me with songs of deliverance. Psalm 32:7 (NKJV)

To pour out our hearts and PETITION the Lord, we may pray,

Do not forsake me, O Lord;
O my God, be not far from me!
Make haste to help me,
O Lord, my salvation! Psalm 38:21-22 (NKJV)

And when we come to our final request, we will have had an intimate time of prayer with Jesus. My friend, encounter the Lord today in prayer. He is most certainly calling us all.

Today’s TEA CUPP: Continue to meet with Jesus for prayer and a cup of tea each day. Bring your Bible, open to the book of Psalms, and let God’s Word begin your conversation.

Let Your mercy, O Lord, be upon us,
Just as we hope in You. Psalm 33:22 (NKJV)

Trust in Him at all times, you people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us. Selah Psalm 62:8 (NKJV)

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. Ephesians 6:18 (NKJV)

My Gluten-Free Story

Posted on January 30, 2016 by Jennifer Grace

And He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction.” Mark 5:34 (NKJV)

Everyone has a story. That’s what the “U” part of My TEA CUPP Prayers is all about, Understanding our stories in the light of God’s Word. When we know our stories, it helps us share our testimony with others, encouraging them to follow Jesus.

But today I want to share a different kind of story with you, this story is how God brought me healing in a unique way. I share this in hopes that my readers might find healing, too. This is My Gluten-Free Story.

I have always had tummy troubles. Forever there has been a bit of pain in my stomach area. When my two oldest kids were little, I was diagnosed with chronic pelvic pain and IBS. This was after several mortifying doctor visits where I was poked and prodded. When our third child was born, I had an epidural. It was the only time I could ever remember not having pain in my abdomen. Too bad those epidurals wear off!

As my children grew, I continued to have tummy troubles, trying various supplements and healthy shakes to no avail. We were praying for more children, but never thought about how my condition could be connected to the ability to conceive.

Finally, in the summer of 2009 we were expecting again, only to lose that baby in a painful miscarriage. That very autumn, we were expecting again, and also lost the baby. The following June, we lost a third baby soon after conception. “Why is all this happening?” I pleaded with God.

At the time, we were working at a church camp. I was in charge of ordering food from Sysco. In the fall of 2010, Sysco offered a webinar for its customers about gluten-free cooking. I chose to participate, thinking it would help me order the right foods for our guests.

The Sysco webinar turned out to say very little about their products. Instead, it went into great detail about Celiac disease and gluten-sensitivity. They discussed the symptoms of those with gluten-intolerance, including stomach pains and miscarriages. They explained how the walls of the intestine are covered with little fingers called villi. These villi absorb the nutrients from food, providing nourishment to the body. The problem for a gluten-sensitive person is the gluten wraps itself around the villi. This makes the person not absorb nutrients, thus causing miscarriages and other health issues. The webinar also explained that a traumatic event, such as a miscarriage, could cause a person who was only slightly sensitive to suddenly become gluten-intolerant.

So, there I sat in our camp office, expecting to make a shopping list for the dining hall. Instead, God gave me information to make some new healthy choices. And that is what I did. I went back to our house and announced to my family what I had learned, giving up delicious pizza crusts and cinnamon rolls forever, in favor of better nutrition for my body.

And guess what, it was exactly one year later, in the fall of 2011, that God blessed us with our fourth child. God healed me and answered my prayers.

I still have tummy problems off and on, giving up dairy a few years ago, too. But I don’t catch as many colds, and I know that by eating gluten-free, I’m doing my part to keep healthy for serving the Lord. And so I share my favorite gluten-free recipes with you, even some pizza crust that is thick and yummy like the real thing. I pray that you will enjoy these recipes and be blessed with better health.

And when the men of that place recognized Him, they sent out into all that surrounding region, brought to Him all who were sick, and begged Him that they might only touch the hem of His garment. And as many as touched it were made perfectly well. Matthew 14:35-36 (NKJV)

Seven-Three-One

Posted on January 27, 2016 by Jennifer Grace

“Seven verses that changed history.
Seven verses that changed the world forever.
Seven verses that change us forever,” my pastor preached the Sunday before Christmas. What were those seven verses? Luke 2:1-7, the announcement of Jesus’ birth.

And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:1-7 (NKJV)

Can you imagine history without these verses? No Joseph, no Mary, no census, no birth of our Savior, no hope for mankind. Even the counting of our years (we’re on 2016 now), is based on the birth of Christ. Thank the Lord that Luke 2:1-7 really happened!

I went home with my pastor’s message on my heart, pondering what other verses change history? 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 came to mind. These three verses describe Jesus’ return to take all believers home to heaven.

For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 (NKJV)

Can you picture the headlines after that great day, when all believers are taken to heaven? Hopefully, none will be here to write the news, for we will be in heaven with Jesus. However, those who don’t believe will be left to discover the Truth. History will yet again be changed!

Still wondering about significant verses, I considered what one verse changes history and the future for us all. Perhaps that verse is John 3:16.

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16 (NKJV)

God loves us so much that He willingly sent His only Son as a baby to our sinful world. That baby grew to be a perfect man, Jesus, who taught us about God, healed the sick, comforted the brokenhearted and forgave the sinners. Then in accordance with the law which required a spotless lamb to die, Jesus died for my sins, your sins, and the sins of all the world. But He didn’t stay dead. On the third day, Jesus rose again, conquering death forever. That is good news!

Today’s TEA CUPP: 7-3-1, so many Bible verses today! My friend, what we do with these verses determines our eternity. John 3:16 says “whoever believes in Him” will have everlasting life. This is my prayer for you…believe in the the Lord Jesus, the Savior of your soul. He is coming again to take all believers to heaven. Instead of coming as a baby in a manger, He will come mightily. History will be changed forever in the blink of an eye.

In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 1 Corinthians 15:52 (NKJV)

Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses. Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written:

KING OF KINGS AND
LORD OF LORDS. Revelation 19:11-16 (NKJV)

TEA CUPP Book Mark

Posted on December 16, 2015 by Jennifer Grace

Merry Christmas!

If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. John 15:7 (NKJV)

Merry Christmas, dear friends! I have a gift for you! Just message me and I will send one of My TEA CUPP Prayers book marks to you.

Would you like some help getting your new year off to a good start with an organized prayer time? My TEA CUPP Prayers book mark has space for you to list your daily prayers, and other special prayer needs for each day of the week. It also reminds you of the parts of prayer with the TEA CUPP acronym.

T = Thanksgiving
E = Exalting His Name
A = Admitting my sins
C = Calling for my life
U = Understanding my story
P = Promises (claiming God’s)
P = Petitions (pouring out my heart)

Keep your prayer book mark in your Bible, or by your phone or email. Then as you learn of more prayer needs, just add them to your list. Each morning during your TEA time with Jesus, start by reading your Bible to give Him the first Word. Then pull out your book mark and pour out your heart to Jesus for all the dear people on your list. I make a new book mark for myself every few months as the prayer needs change. May this be a blessing to you.

Love and prayers,

Jennifer Grace

New King James Version (NKJV)

Your Ticket to Heaven

Posted on December 2, 2015 by Jennifer Grace

Cover art But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 5:10-11 (NKJV)

God gave me this Bible verse the morning after I finished Don Piper’s book 90 Minutes in Heaven. Somehow I missed reading this book in the decade since it was published, but I’m thankful to finally have been immersed in Pastor Piper’s story.

1 Peter 5:10-11 describes Piper’s experience well…

First, he was called to eternal glory in heaven, following a terrible car accident.

Second, he was sent back to earth to suffer quite a while!

Third, through all his healing and continuing in ministry, God has perfected, established, strengthened and settled Don Piper. To God be the glory forever and ever!

This is a true story you won’t want to miss reading. It has also recently been made into a movie, but I vote for the book to avoid the gruesome scenes from the accident and medical world.

What impresses this reader most is Pastor Piper’s emphasis on prayer. The book’s dedication to his prayer warriors says, “You prayed. I’m here,” the same four words he spoke his first day back at church. It was the prayers of a passing minister who climbed into his crushed automobile to pray for a dead man that brought him back to earth. It was the prayers of his family, friends, congregation and complete strangers who pulled him through the worst pain and healing of his life. And it is prayer today that helps him continue in ministry, reaching out to others who are hurting. Certainly, this is an inspiration for all to keep praying!

Another blessing from 90 Minutes in Heaven are the beautiful descriptions of heaven. These word illustrations cause us to understand why Piper wanted to go back, and burn in us a desire to be there, as well. The first people who greeted him in heaven were his grandfather and a childhood friend who had led him to Jesus. The people kept coming; Piper describes it as “the greatest family reunion of all.” Then there was the music, the singing of thousands and millions of angels, harmonizing both old and new hymns. And just as Piper was enjoying this amazing chorus, he was called back to earth, singing “What a Friend we have in Jesus” with the praying pastor in his mangled vehicle. That’s when they realized he was still alive.

I especially value how each chapter of 90 Minutes from Heaven begins with a Bible verse, making God’s Word the focus. God’s Word is where we find our story and healing and hope for the future. The Bible is also where we find the truth about heaven and how to get there. If I could add one chapter to Piper’s book, it would be entitled, “Your ticket to heaven,” describing for readers how to make sure they also will be in heaven. And so, dear friend, I offer you a ticket to heaven today:

Today’s TEA CUPP: If you want a glimpse of heaven and the power of prayer, I highly recommend Don Piper’s book, 90 Minutes in Heaven. If you desire more than a glimpse and want to spend eternity in heaven (Yes, you do! You don’t want the alternative!), please read these Bible verses and pray to Jesus today. Welcome to heaven, my friend!

Jesus is the Ticket:

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. John 14:6 (NKJV)

So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” Acts 16:31 (NKJV)

Acknowledge your sin:

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23 (NKJV)

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 (NKJV)

If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 (NKJV)

For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. Romans 10:13 (NKJV)

Keep reading your Bible and seeking Jesus each day:

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen. 2 Peter 3:18 (NKJV)

Celebrate the promise of heaven!:

In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. John 14:2-3 (NKJV)

…rejoice because your names are written in heaven. Luke 20:20 (NKJV)

And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me,“Write, for these words are true and faithful.” Revelation 21:3-5 (NKJV)

My TEA CUPP Prayers

Praying God's Word … Inviting Ladies to TEA with the King of kings!

Tag Archives: encouragement for women