WOW… Where has this year gone? I can’t believe how fast time is passing. And no, I don’t think that it is just because I am getting older. Lol.
The Bible says that God will shorten the days for the elect’s sake. I believe that we are seeing this happen; just one of those signs that everyone is so desperately seeking, but obliviously missing.
It has been a tough year. My daughter got engaged (sniff). Work has been overwhelming (sigh). A dear friend went home to the Lord (weeping). My mother’s health is slipping rapidly (more weeping). I’ve been sick again (cough). And battles aplenty scattered in between. My stress level is up all over and Satan is striving to destroy all he can.
But you know, there have been rays of light mixed in with the darkness…
o I witnessed a miracle of 33 men in Chile being rescued from a rock tomb after being buried for near 3 months.
o I survived another nasty bout with bronchitis, again.
o My baby found a man that she wants to marry.
o I am expecting my first great-great niece around my birthday next year.
o My daughter and I survived and walked away from a roll-over car wreck with minimal injuries.
I am thankful that God is faithful and always there to help us carry any burden. I love that about Him.
I pray that you will let Him help you carry those burdens, too. Have a blessed day!
Bereaved...
I lost a dear friend a few days ago. I am saddened and grieved by the loss, but I am comforted by the fact that she had a relationship with Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour.
She suffered a lot pain at the end of a battle with cancer, but she continued to cry out to Jesus and pray. I can only hope to do the same when my time comes. Her family is wounded by the loss of such a dear soul. Please, take a moment to pray for them.
Her husband writes and sings songs for the Lord. One of his songs is called "Too Much To Gain To Lose". It is one that I love and is so true. We have another loved one waiting for us over there. There is less and less of interest to me in this world, but more and more in God's Kingdom that beckons to me.
"He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him." John 3:36
I pray that the Lord will beckon each of you to share in His Kingdom. May God be with us all.
She suffered a lot pain at the end of a battle with cancer, but she continued to cry out to Jesus and pray. I can only hope to do the same when my time comes. Her family is wounded by the loss of such a dear soul. Please, take a moment to pray for them.
Her husband writes and sings songs for the Lord. One of his songs is called "Too Much To Gain To Lose". It is one that I love and is so true. We have another loved one waiting for us over there. There is less and less of interest to me in this world, but more and more in God's Kingdom that beckons to me.
"He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him." John 3:36
I pray that the Lord will beckon each of you to share in His Kingdom. May God be with us all.
Legal vs Ethical
I chose not to jump in the middle of a nasty debate on a forum that I frequent, but thought I would post a couple of thoughts on the matter here instead of fanning flames there. Basically, the issue was whether a blogger was responsible or liable for the opinions, ideas, or actions that they promoted.
For me, the guiding line is "What would Jesus do?", but not everyone in the world is a Christian (even if they profess to be). Therefore, what do we adhere to as a society to keep order?
The law would the simplest answer in a nutshell, but it goes beyond that even. Ethics is the new by word today. And lawmakers are incorporating ethics into the law because of various scandals that have rocked the business world. They are, also, racing to address the vast new world of the Internet and all it's implications on the world that we live in. So, the law may not yet address every situation that pertains to the Internet. Blogging is probably one of those.
I was reading something that a prominent businessman said the other day. It was something to the effect that, "You have to ask your self, not only whether your actions are legal, but whether they are ethical." (I am paraphrasing.) In essence, it this right?
Well, my question is who determines what is right? Politicians? Lawmakers? Congressmen/women? Presidents? Lawyers? Voters? People? Please, exercise your right to vote whenever you have the chance. It makes a difference. *This was totally off the topic.
Back to the topic, as a blogger I try to reflect God's truth, share my own experiences, and lift others up along the way. As a person I may occasionally say or do something that isn't appropriate. I pray that God reveals my errors, shows me the correct way, and forgives me for doing wrong. I pray others will be as forgiving. This is what the Bible teaches and what I feel is right.
However, I don't believe that a blog (or anywhere really) is the place to call an individual out and stone them for their transgressions (real or imagined). I don't feel that it is the place to spew forth anger, hate, bitterness, jealousy, etc. I don't feel it is the place to humiliate, embarrass, berate, belittle, shame, or persecute anyone. I don't feel it is a place to gather a posse to validate, reinforce, and/or spread the previously mentioned ideas to the rest of the world.
Is doing so legal? Maybe/maybe not, that will be decided in a courtroom near you soon (probably).
Is doing so ethical? NO. It is NOT ethical to hurt others for your own agenda.
I am staunch supporter of the Bill of Rights. I believe in and exercise my freedom of speech all the time. I support others in their use of their God given rights. Our rights and freedoms are NOT an license to run others over. With great freedom comes great responsibility. Please, use it wisely.
For me, the guiding line is "What would Jesus do?", but not everyone in the world is a Christian (even if they profess to be). Therefore, what do we adhere to as a society to keep order?
The law would the simplest answer in a nutshell, but it goes beyond that even. Ethics is the new by word today. And lawmakers are incorporating ethics into the law because of various scandals that have rocked the business world. They are, also, racing to address the vast new world of the Internet and all it's implications on the world that we live in. So, the law may not yet address every situation that pertains to the Internet. Blogging is probably one of those.
I was reading something that a prominent businessman said the other day. It was something to the effect that, "You have to ask your self, not only whether your actions are legal, but whether they are ethical." (I am paraphrasing.) In essence, it this right?
Well, my question is who determines what is right? Politicians? Lawmakers? Congressmen/women? Presidents? Lawyers? Voters? People? Please, exercise your right to vote whenever you have the chance. It makes a difference. *This was totally off the topic.
Back to the topic, as a blogger I try to reflect God's truth, share my own experiences, and lift others up along the way. As a person I may occasionally say or do something that isn't appropriate. I pray that God reveals my errors, shows me the correct way, and forgives me for doing wrong. I pray others will be as forgiving. This is what the Bible teaches and what I feel is right.
However, I don't believe that a blog (or anywhere really) is the place to call an individual out and stone them for their transgressions (real or imagined). I don't feel that it is the place to spew forth anger, hate, bitterness, jealousy, etc. I don't feel it is the place to humiliate, embarrass, berate, belittle, shame, or persecute anyone. I don't feel it is a place to gather a posse to validate, reinforce, and/or spread the previously mentioned ideas to the rest of the world.
Is doing so legal? Maybe/maybe not, that will be decided in a courtroom near you soon (probably).
Is doing so ethical? NO. It is NOT ethical to hurt others for your own agenda.
I am staunch supporter of the Bill of Rights. I believe in and exercise my freedom of speech all the time. I support others in their use of their God given rights. Our rights and freedoms are NOT an license to run others over. With great freedom comes great responsibility. Please, use it wisely.
VBS time again...
School is out. Summertime is here. And it is time to start planning our church's Vacation Bible School again.
This is only the second year that I have organized a VBS. If any of you have ideas or suggestions, I would love to hear from you.
I would love to see a real growth in our church from this ministry. I am praying hard for it. Please, join me in praying for all the VBS ministries.
I pray that God will richly bless all you that are working for His harvest. Have a great day!
This is only the second year that I have organized a VBS. If any of you have ideas or suggestions, I would love to hear from you.
I would love to see a real growth in our church from this ministry. I am praying hard for it. Please, join me in praying for all the VBS ministries.
I pray that God will richly bless all you that are working for His harvest. Have a great day!
Witness for God
I have not been posting here for some time. It is easy to fall out of the habit, I am afraid I must confess.
However, God is so good to me that I can't remain quiet very long. I am a witness for God. He is good and kind and merciful and I can't say enough good things about my Lord. He blesses me beyond measure and certainly above what I deserve.
Need examples? Ok...
My daughter and I were in a roll over vehicle accident about two weeks ago. We extricated ourselves and walked away from the wreck. Yes, we had injuries, but nothing life threatening and certainly nothing like you would expect if you saw our vehicle. I give Jesus ALL the glory for our very survival.
One of my sisters got to come home for a few days and we had such a good time during her visit. The first time in YEARS that we had really had an opportunity to talk and be together. Doesn't sound very miraculous? Well, considering all the turmoil and chaos in our lives and the facts that we live 1500 miles apart, she usually only gets to come home once a year for a day or two, I usually have to work when they do get to come, and I haven't been to visit her in about 20 years, I consider it a miracle and at the very least a great blessing. God knows what we need, whether we do or not.
I attand an awesome church. My church family is a great blessing. They have been there lifting me up in prayer and fellowship for many years. Satan has come against this church so many times, but God just keeps lifting it up, putting it back together, and making it stronger. The Holy Spirit moves amongst God's children.
I have a great job.
I have a wonderful, if unconventional, home and family.
I have a roof over my head and plenty of food on the table...
I could go on and on, but I think you get the idea. I pray that you will let Jesus light your way, too.
Have a blessed day and remember to give God the praise.
However, God is so good to me that I can't remain quiet very long. I am a witness for God. He is good and kind and merciful and I can't say enough good things about my Lord. He blesses me beyond measure and certainly above what I deserve.
Need examples? Ok...
My daughter and I were in a roll over vehicle accident about two weeks ago. We extricated ourselves and walked away from the wreck. Yes, we had injuries, but nothing life threatening and certainly nothing like you would expect if you saw our vehicle. I give Jesus ALL the glory for our very survival.
One of my sisters got to come home for a few days and we had such a good time during her visit. The first time in YEARS that we had really had an opportunity to talk and be together. Doesn't sound very miraculous? Well, considering all the turmoil and chaos in our lives and the facts that we live 1500 miles apart, she usually only gets to come home once a year for a day or two, I usually have to work when they do get to come, and I haven't been to visit her in about 20 years, I consider it a miracle and at the very least a great blessing. God knows what we need, whether we do or not.
I attand an awesome church. My church family is a great blessing. They have been there lifting me up in prayer and fellowship for many years. Satan has come against this church so many times, but God just keeps lifting it up, putting it back together, and making it stronger. The Holy Spirit moves amongst God's children.
I have a great job.
I have a wonderful, if unconventional, home and family.
I have a roof over my head and plenty of food on the table...
I could go on and on, but I think you get the idea. I pray that you will let Jesus light your way, too.
Have a blessed day and remember to give God the praise.
...let him hear...
"... He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." Luke 14:35
Jesus used this particular phrase many times in his teaching. I just love it!
How much do we hear in a days time? How much of it do we retain?
If you are like me, most of it goes in one ear and out the other without pause between. And a lot of it probably should never have entered to begin with.
But there are some words...teachings that we need to hold on to. We need to let them sink deep inside and take root to grow to produce fruits of the spirit. The words that Jesus taught are food for the spirit and balm for the soul; manna from above if you will.
Please, take a few moments out of your day to read a few verses from the Bible. Ponder them... Remember them... Apply them...
May God bless you with wisdom and understanding of His word. Have a blessed day!
Jesus used this particular phrase many times in his teaching. I just love it!
How much do we hear in a days time? How much of it do we retain?
If you are like me, most of it goes in one ear and out the other without pause between. And a lot of it probably should never have entered to begin with.
But there are some words...teachings that we need to hold on to. We need to let them sink deep inside and take root to grow to produce fruits of the spirit. The words that Jesus taught are food for the spirit and balm for the soul; manna from above if you will.
Please, take a few moments out of your day to read a few verses from the Bible. Ponder them... Remember them... Apply them...
May God bless you with wisdom and understanding of His word. Have a blessed day!
Children...
Blame not the children for the world in which they live today. They are the innocent victims of sin and lust for youth most often. They often are merely reacting to their environment, not creating one. Meeting a child is like a breath of fresh air in a stale world.
Jesus said to allow them to come unto him and that they were like unto the kingdom of God. Let no man hinder God's children for they are the future and the promise of God to the people.
God is testing our faith and endurance in this time that we live. Do not allow the children to suffer from our iniquities, O Lord. Let them grow and prosper in your kingdom and shine with your light.
May God bless you with children in your life. Be sure to pray for the children for they walk in a perilous world.
Jesus said to allow them to come unto him and that they were like unto the kingdom of God. Let no man hinder God's children for they are the future and the promise of God to the people.
God is testing our faith and endurance in this time that we live. Do not allow the children to suffer from our iniquities, O Lord. Let them grow and prosper in your kingdom and shine with your light.
May God bless you with children in your life. Be sure to pray for the children for they walk in a perilous world.
Uplifted...
As I study the Bible, I find so many verses that uplift me; especially in Psalm. The following is one that blesses my heart.
"But let all thoses that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.
For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favor wilt thou compass him as with a shield." Psalm 5:11-12
I pray that you will find God's word a blessing, too. May He always walk with us.
"But let all thoses that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.
For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favor wilt thou compass him as with a shield." Psalm 5:11-12
I pray that you will find God's word a blessing, too. May He always walk with us.
Failing hearts...
For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled.
But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people.
And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.
And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;
Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.
And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
--Luke 21:22-27 (KJV)
I am not a doomsday prophet, but I do not relish the prospect of people being lost and cast into hell. I am grieved at the very notion of the pain and suffering that lost souls will have to endure in the end. I am appalled at the loss of the beautiful world that the Lord has made. And I see the end approaching as has been foretold in His word. That is why I must blog on the very subject of the end of the world.
This world is going to be destroyed by fire and brimstone according to the Bible. Whether this happens today or a thousand years from today, it is already done. The BIG picture is already framed. We must accept this truth and deal with our circumstances. The small details must be added to the canvas.
I can’t save anyone no matter how much I would like to. I do not have that power or authority. It belongs to God who assumed a human form named Jesus.
God, in His human form – Jesus, walked among us and taught His truth to all who would listen. Jesus left a written record of His teaching, His instruction, His truth in the words of the New Testament of the Holy Bible. Jesus showed us that there was so much more to life than just these flesh covered bones. He died on a cross and was raised by His Holy Spirit to live again as an example to us of the life that we can have with Him. If you would have Jesus save you, please, read the Bible and learn to apply it to your life.
I do not know the hour or the day that He will return, but He is coming. I don’t know the means of the end, but I believe the words that He left for us. I am no doomsday prophet, but I preach Christ crucified, risen, and returning. I pray that each of us will be prepared and ready to meet Him joyfully, not fearfully.
May the Lord bless you with the clarity of mind to understand His word and enjoy another beautiful day!
But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people.
And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.
And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;
Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.
And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
--Luke 21:22-27 (KJV)
I am not a doomsday prophet, but I do not relish the prospect of people being lost and cast into hell. I am grieved at the very notion of the pain and suffering that lost souls will have to endure in the end. I am appalled at the loss of the beautiful world that the Lord has made. And I see the end approaching as has been foretold in His word. That is why I must blog on the very subject of the end of the world.
This world is going to be destroyed by fire and brimstone according to the Bible. Whether this happens today or a thousand years from today, it is already done. The BIG picture is already framed. We must accept this truth and deal with our circumstances. The small details must be added to the canvas.
I can’t save anyone no matter how much I would like to. I do not have that power or authority. It belongs to God who assumed a human form named Jesus.
God, in His human form – Jesus, walked among us and taught His truth to all who would listen. Jesus left a written record of His teaching, His instruction, His truth in the words of the New Testament of the Holy Bible. Jesus showed us that there was so much more to life than just these flesh covered bones. He died on a cross and was raised by His Holy Spirit to live again as an example to us of the life that we can have with Him. If you would have Jesus save you, please, read the Bible and learn to apply it to your life.
I do not know the hour or the day that He will return, but He is coming. I don’t know the means of the end, but I believe the words that He left for us. I am no doomsday prophet, but I preach Christ crucified, risen, and returning. I pray that each of us will be prepared and ready to meet Him joyfully, not fearfully.
May the Lord bless you with the clarity of mind to understand His word and enjoy another beautiful day!
Who knows the hour and the day?
And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is some for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe... Revelation 14:15
The harvest is great and it is upon us. The time of your harvest or mine may be any day, but there is a great harvest coming if we linger that long and we do not want to miss it. Jesus is coming back for you and me.
Are you ready?
Have you accepted Jesus?
Have you followed Jesus' examples?
Have you repented of your sins?
Have you been baptized in Jesus' name?
Have you determined to obey his teaching?
Are you seeking Jesus daily?
If you aren't, then please, please, consider the alternative. No one wants to spend an eternity in Hell in torment.
If you know the truth, Jesus is working in your life. Jesus is calling you. He is knocking. Let Him in. If you make that first step then He will walk with you the rest of your life. You will never be alone again. Jesus loves you and is trying to save you. Please, don't turn Him away.
The harvest is great and it is upon us. The time of your harvest or mine may be any day, but there is a great harvest coming if we linger that long and we do not want to miss it. Jesus is coming back for you and me.
Are you ready?
Have you accepted Jesus?
Have you followed Jesus' examples?
Have you repented of your sins?
Have you been baptized in Jesus' name?
Have you determined to obey his teaching?
Are you seeking Jesus daily?
If you aren't, then please, please, consider the alternative. No one wants to spend an eternity in Hell in torment.
If you know the truth, Jesus is working in your life. Jesus is calling you. He is knocking. Let Him in. If you make that first step then He will walk with you the rest of your life. You will never be alone again. Jesus loves you and is trying to save you. Please, don't turn Him away.
Scripture of the Day...
And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins... Ephesians 2:1
May God watch over and bless you!
May God watch over and bless you!
Final Call...
Matthew 11:29
Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
How long will Jesus continue to issue His invitation?
How long will He tolerate the evils that He calls abominations in the Bible that are so widespread in our world today?
How many times will He call you before He turns you over to a reprobate mind?
How many times will He answer your prayers and protect you when you aren't following after Him?
At what point did Sodom and Gomorrah cross the line?
These questions strike fear into my heart - fear of the Lord. I think that every person that has heard the truth of God's salavation plan should have this fear. The Bible tells that this world's end is coming. Are we going to be ready when that day dawns?
Are you a gambler?
If you haven't made yourself ready according to the Bible (not yourself), you are gambling that today isn't the day that the Lord is returning.
You are gambling that you won't have an accident and lose your life on your way to work.
You are gambling that the doctor won't tell you that you have some terminal disease at that appointment today.
You are gambling that the Lord isn't going to say enough is enough and I am through with them today.
I would say the odds against you are going up everyday.
Jesus Christ is going to appear one of these fine days to take His bride home. Please, examine your life to see if you are ready. If you aren't in order with scriptures, please, take the time and make the effort to make yourself right in His eyes (yours and mine don't count).
Don't keep gambling with your soul.
May God open your heart and mind to His truth and make your path straight to Heaven. Have a blessed day!
Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
How long will Jesus continue to issue His invitation?
How long will He tolerate the evils that He calls abominations in the Bible that are so widespread in our world today?
How many times will He call you before He turns you over to a reprobate mind?
How many times will He answer your prayers and protect you when you aren't following after Him?
At what point did Sodom and Gomorrah cross the line?
These questions strike fear into my heart - fear of the Lord. I think that every person that has heard the truth of God's salavation plan should have this fear. The Bible tells that this world's end is coming. Are we going to be ready when that day dawns?
Are you a gambler?
If you haven't made yourself ready according to the Bible (not yourself), you are gambling that today isn't the day that the Lord is returning.
You are gambling that you won't have an accident and lose your life on your way to work.
You are gambling that the doctor won't tell you that you have some terminal disease at that appointment today.
You are gambling that the Lord isn't going to say enough is enough and I am through with them today.
I would say the odds against you are going up everyday.
Jesus Christ is going to appear one of these fine days to take His bride home. Please, examine your life to see if you are ready. If you aren't in order with scriptures, please, take the time and make the effort to make yourself right in His eyes (yours and mine don't count).
Don't keep gambling with your soul.
May God open your heart and mind to His truth and make your path straight to Heaven. Have a blessed day!
VBS
Just three little letters...
IF you have ever organize a VBS, please, don't take it lightly. To have a good one takes much planning and organization. Sadly, I have not had as much time to invest in this project as I would have liked. But isn't that the way anything worthwhile is?
Even with a shortness of time and preparation, night one went fairly well (if I do say so myself). I think that the children enjoyed themselves and we had some good discussion during our lesson. I am praying that the rest of the week goes as well.
Working with children is such a blessing. It is especially rewarding when they are interested and interactive. I love it when they see the Lord moving in their lives for the first. Or when they finally understand a concept that you have been teaching fully. It is an awesome feeling.
If you have the opportunity the minister to children - take it. I don't think that there is any greater reward to be had in this world. Please, say an extra pray for all those children out there that don't have anyone willing to spend the time teaching them about our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ (or anything else meaningful).
Hug your child today and have a blessed day!
IF you have ever organize a VBS, please, don't take it lightly. To have a good one takes much planning and organization. Sadly, I have not had as much time to invest in this project as I would have liked. But isn't that the way anything worthwhile is?
Even with a shortness of time and preparation, night one went fairly well (if I do say so myself). I think that the children enjoyed themselves and we had some good discussion during our lesson. I am praying that the rest of the week goes as well.
Working with children is such a blessing. It is especially rewarding when they are interested and interactive. I love it when they see the Lord moving in their lives for the first. Or when they finally understand a concept that you have been teaching fully. It is an awesome feeling.
If you have the opportunity the minister to children - take it. I don't think that there is any greater reward to be had in this world. Please, say an extra pray for all those children out there that don't have anyone willing to spend the time teaching them about our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ (or anything else meaningful).
Hug your child today and have a blessed day!
FIRST FOR HIM!
I am, so often, crushed and broken by the things of this world that I find my grasp on the truth slipping. The truth that God loves us wants us to serve one another in His presence. Jesus did not come to rule over the earth as a king in the world's eyes. He came to teach and preach and set an example for us to follow. How often do we follow that example in our hustle and bustle life?
Forgiveness is all I can beg, because I am guilty of ignoring His calling and His teaching 99.9% of the time. My mind is clouded by the demands of this world and I allow them to draw me away from where I need to be headed. The Lord has to get my attention over and over again when in truth - my attention should never waver from Him.
"...seek ye first the kingdom of God and these others things will added to you..." comes to mind. GOD FIRST. Everything else after that. Stop and think about that for a moment... How often do we put God first in our lives?
Who is the first person that you speak to in the morning?
Who is the first person that you call and rejoice with when something good happens?
Who is the first person that you ask for help?
Who is the first person that you call on for healing?
Who is the first person that you share your troubles with?
Who is the first person that you thank for helping you?
If we put Jesus first then we are beginning to put our lives in the the proper order. A life ordered by God is a life that is worth living. It is a life that will bear fruit. It is a life that will take us all the way through eternity.
Let's put Him first today. Have a blessed day!
Forgiveness is all I can beg, because I am guilty of ignoring His calling and His teaching 99.9% of the time. My mind is clouded by the demands of this world and I allow them to draw me away from where I need to be headed. The Lord has to get my attention over and over again when in truth - my attention should never waver from Him.
"...seek ye first the kingdom of God and these others things will added to you..." comes to mind. GOD FIRST. Everything else after that. Stop and think about that for a moment... How often do we put God first in our lives?
Who is the first person that you speak to in the morning?
Who is the first person that you call and rejoice with when something good happens?
Who is the first person that you ask for help?
Who is the first person that you call on for healing?
Who is the first person that you share your troubles with?
Who is the first person that you thank for helping you?
If we put Jesus first then we are beginning to put our lives in the the proper order. A life ordered by God is a life that is worth living. It is a life that will bear fruit. It is a life that will take us all the way through eternity.
Let's put Him first today. Have a blessed day!
Eye Opening Words ...
Friends, Psalm 139 is an eye opener and such wonderful instruction if we will just open our hearts and minds to God. Please, consider His words and weigh the full impact of what He is saying here.
PSALM 139 (KJV)
O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me.
Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising; thou understandest my thought afar off.
Thou compasseth my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways.
For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether.
Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me.
Nothing is hidden from God. It doesn't matter where you go or what you do, God knows.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.
Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence?
If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.
If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea;
Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.
If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me.
Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee.
For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb.
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
My substance was not hid from thee when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfected; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.
How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them!
If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.
Where ever you are God is there, too. You cannot hide. You cannot runaway. Whether you accept Him or not, He is still GOD. He is your creator and you cannot escape the truth. You are His! He knew you before you were even born. On the earth or in heaven or in hell, you are still His child and you will be reckoned with in the end.
Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: depart from me therefore, ye bloody men.
For they speak against thee wickedly, and thine enemies take thy name in vain.
Do not I hate them, O Lord, that hate thee? And am I not grieved with those that rise up against thee?
I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies.
PSALM 139 (KJV)
O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me.
Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising; thou understandest my thought afar off.
Thou compasseth my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways.
For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether.
Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me.
Nothing is hidden from God. It doesn't matter where you go or what you do, God knows.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.
Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence?
If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.
If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea;
Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.
If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me.
Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee.
For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb.
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
My substance was not hid from thee when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfected; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.
How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them!
If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.
Where ever you are God is there, too. You cannot hide. You cannot runaway. Whether you accept Him or not, He is still GOD. He is your creator and you cannot escape the truth. You are His! He knew you before you were even born. On the earth or in heaven or in hell, you are still His child and you will be reckoned with in the end.
Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: depart from me therefore, ye bloody men.
For they speak against thee wickedly, and thine enemies take thy name in vain.
Do not I hate them, O Lord, that hate thee? And am I not grieved with those that rise up against thee?
I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies.
Perhaps it is time to ask yourself where it is that you stand.
Matthew 12:30
He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.
We need to be clear about where we stand. Are we going to stand with God in that final battle that is to come or are we going to be those hewn down on the battle field? Is God going to say "Well done! Enter in." Or is He going to tell you to depart because He never knew you?
Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
We have hardened our hearts and deafened our ears to God's voice. We fill our lives with non-stop activity from daylight to way after dark. We fill our day with the TV, the radio, our spouse, our children, our job, our friends, our home, and yes, even our church. And we wonder why we aren't hearing God speak to us!?
God's thought are continually in our minds; if only, we will slow down and listen for it. It is like a rare and precious gem buried in the earth. You may move a lot of dirt, but you will not find it with a backhoe or a bulldozer. You must carefully consider His word and quietly sift through your thoughts to find His precious voice speaking to your heart.
Jesus left His word for us to read, because most of the time, we will never listen for that small still voice calling us or guiding us. But God wants us to hear and to read and to know that He is here and He loves us.
Sin is what separates us from God. We allow it to come between us and our Lord. It hardens our hearts and deafens our ears when we can't admit the truth that we have done something wrong. We try to fill that empty place that God should fill with the things of the world that will never suffice. It makes us bitter and angry and sad and scared and hurt and sick.
But God doesn't want us to be separated from Him for any reason. He knows your sins. He knows what is in your heart. He knows what comes out your mouth. And He came to earth and lived as a man and his name was Jesus. He lived among us and taught and ultimately paid the price for our sins on the cross at Calvary. HE KNOWS!
Jesus doesn't care where you have been. Jesus doesn't care what you have done in the past. He wants you to do something so simple and so easy that the children even did it when He walked this earth. He wants you to come to Him. He wants you to seek Him. He wants you to believe in Him. He wants you to confess your sins to Him and ask for forgiveness.
When you do these small, simple things, Jesus can do great things! He will wash those sins into the sea of forgetfullness. He will fill you with His Holy Spirit. He will write your name Book of Life. He will save your soul! He will bless you and your family. He will give you strength. He will even move mountains if we believe! Yes, Jesus can do great things.
Won't you let Him do great things for you today? Have a blessed and glorious day in our Lord Jesus Christ!
Birthday Thoughts...
Today is my birthday. And Satan has been plaguing me non stop. I tell you this not to discourage you, but to share some of the insight God has given me through my many trials and tribulations.
My New Year's resolution was to find my joy in the Lord this year. Joy has been something that I feel has been sorely lacking in my life the last few years and I believe God wants us to enjoy the life He has given us. So, everytime that I have started feeling lonely or depressed or put upon, I am turning my mind to Jesus and away from the world for at least a few minutes. In these moments, I am finding that God is filling those empty, aching, irritated places in my soul with a joy for Him. He is showing me a comfort and peace that transcends joy. It isn't the joy born of the world, but something that gives me greater strength and direction.
I am so thankful to be a child of the most high God. He loves us and cares for us in ways we will never understand. I pray that I never find myself living outside of His wonderful mercy and grace.
I am not alone therfore, how can I be lonely? God is with us.
Depression is Satan's tool of warfare in many cases. How can I surrender to depression when God is just a prayer away when I reach out to him? He has angels camped round about us.
People reach out to me and call on me to help them for one reason or another. When I serve them, I'm serving my God. Where is my strength, but in the Lord?
May God fill you with His great spirit and dwell with you all your days.
My New Year's resolution was to find my joy in the Lord this year. Joy has been something that I feel has been sorely lacking in my life the last few years and I believe God wants us to enjoy the life He has given us. So, everytime that I have started feeling lonely or depressed or put upon, I am turning my mind to Jesus and away from the world for at least a few minutes. In these moments, I am finding that God is filling those empty, aching, irritated places in my soul with a joy for Him. He is showing me a comfort and peace that transcends joy. It isn't the joy born of the world, but something that gives me greater strength and direction.
I am so thankful to be a child of the most high God. He loves us and cares for us in ways we will never understand. I pray that I never find myself living outside of His wonderful mercy and grace.
I am not alone therfore, how can I be lonely? God is with us.
Depression is Satan's tool of warfare in many cases. How can I surrender to depression when God is just a prayer away when I reach out to him? He has angels camped round about us.
People reach out to me and call on me to help them for one reason or another. When I serve them, I'm serving my God. Where is my strength, but in the Lord?
May God fill you with His great spirit and dwell with you all your days.
The Narrow Way...
Friends, you do not know me and I don't know you. But I want you to know that my ministry is based on the Holy Bible. The King James version is my favorite. I have read and studied many books and philosophies, but the only real solid truths that I have found is in God's word.
I have to admit that I don't like everything that I read in His word. That part about loving those who despitefully use you is really, really hard to do when some person runs a stop sign nearly hitting you, then flips you off, and continues on his merry way while you are sitting there with your nerves shaking. But I have to because God is right. What is the alternative? To behave like those who have no love in their heart or hope for the future? The Bible offers me the hope of a better world if I follow Jesus.
(MY TIP OF THE DAY)
Pray for people who despitefully use you. Praying heaps coals of fire on their heads. Since God doesn't hear a sinner's prayers then our prayers maybe the only chance to bring God's attention to bear on these lost souls. Pray that God will touch their hearts and open their minds to Him and help them to accept His truth and light into their lives.
A Christian life will never be a picnic or walk in the park. The earth is overrun with Satan, his minions, and those he has in his grasp. Please, consider this - if you aren't serving God and following Jesus then Satan probably has you. There is no fence to straddle - no neutral ground. There is God's side. And there is Satan's side. You can not serve two masters.
Matthew 12:30
He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.
Jesus Christ has been given all power and authority in heaven and earth. He is our saviour, our comfort, our refuge, ... Do not be fooled by the world's meager and temporary pleasures. The rewards that we seek are heavenly and eternal. We need to stay focused on what is important.
God's word is not old, out of date, or unrelated to our lives today. It is still as meaningful and important today as when it was given. The truths, guidance, and wisdom stored in the Bible can order and preserve your life and your soul anytime - anywhere. Read, study, and apply them to your life and be blessed!
I have to admit that I don't like everything that I read in His word. That part about loving those who despitefully use you is really, really hard to do when some person runs a stop sign nearly hitting you, then flips you off, and continues on his merry way while you are sitting there with your nerves shaking. But I have to because God is right. What is the alternative? To behave like those who have no love in their heart or hope for the future? The Bible offers me the hope of a better world if I follow Jesus.
(MY TIP OF THE DAY)
Pray for people who despitefully use you. Praying heaps coals of fire on their heads. Since God doesn't hear a sinner's prayers then our prayers maybe the only chance to bring God's attention to bear on these lost souls. Pray that God will touch their hearts and open their minds to Him and help them to accept His truth and light into their lives.
A Christian life will never be a picnic or walk in the park. The earth is overrun with Satan, his minions, and those he has in his grasp. Please, consider this - if you aren't serving God and following Jesus then Satan probably has you. There is no fence to straddle - no neutral ground. There is God's side. And there is Satan's side. You can not serve two masters.
Matthew 12:30
He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.
Jesus Christ has been given all power and authority in heaven and earth. He is our saviour, our comfort, our refuge, ... Do not be fooled by the world's meager and temporary pleasures. The rewards that we seek are heavenly and eternal. We need to stay focused on what is important.
God's word is not old, out of date, or unrelated to our lives today. It is still as meaningful and important today as when it was given. The truths, guidance, and wisdom stored in the Bible can order and preserve your life and your soul anytime - anywhere. Read, study, and apply them to your life and be blessed!
Inspirational Speakers...
I am not a public speaker by any twist of the imagination. If I have something written down, I can usually get up and read my message. But there is a world of difference between reading and speaking. Which leads me to my point...
I enjoyed listening to a wonderful speaker on the way home yesterday. I have heard this man speak via the radio previously and he is just a wonderful speaker. He is a very dynamic speaker who delivers a clear and direct message. He inflects his own passion without overwhelming the message. This man is a pastor at a local church with the wonderful gift of speaking.
It is inspiring and humbling to see God's gifts serving Him and His purpose; not merely to our own benefit. God bestows gifts as He sees fit. I am afraid too many times we use those same gifts to our purpose without considering that we should be first using them to serve the One who gave them to us.
I have several gifts that God has given me. I teach Sunday School. I teach in our homeschool. I have a discernment of spirits. I am a prayer warrior. I write this ministry. I am comforted and guided by the Holy Spirit...
Do I use these gifts to serve my God who gave them to me as well as I should or could? No, I don't. I am human and I get caught up in my busy, little life. I don't even think about it until something hits me (usually over the head). Hearing this gifted man speak about Christ yesterday was one of those moments. It hit me what an impact this man was making with his gift. It, also, made me wonder how many others were using their gift(s) or just merely plodding along making a token effort to serve God.
I would like to encourage each of you to examine if you are using your gifts in God's service as well as you could be. I can only imagine the difference that each of us could be making if we served God first before our own interest.
Have a inspiring and blessed day!
I enjoyed listening to a wonderful speaker on the way home yesterday. I have heard this man speak via the radio previously and he is just a wonderful speaker. He is a very dynamic speaker who delivers a clear and direct message. He inflects his own passion without overwhelming the message. This man is a pastor at a local church with the wonderful gift of speaking.
It is inspiring and humbling to see God's gifts serving Him and His purpose; not merely to our own benefit. God bestows gifts as He sees fit. I am afraid too many times we use those same gifts to our purpose without considering that we should be first using them to serve the One who gave them to us.
I have several gifts that God has given me. I teach Sunday School. I teach in our homeschool. I have a discernment of spirits. I am a prayer warrior. I write this ministry. I am comforted and guided by the Holy Spirit...
Do I use these gifts to serve my God who gave them to me as well as I should or could? No, I don't. I am human and I get caught up in my busy, little life. I don't even think about it until something hits me (usually over the head). Hearing this gifted man speak about Christ yesterday was one of those moments. It hit me what an impact this man was making with his gift. It, also, made me wonder how many others were using their gift(s) or just merely plodding along making a token effort to serve God.
I would like to encourage each of you to examine if you are using your gifts in God's service as well as you could be. I can only imagine the difference that each of us could be making if we served God first before our own interest.
Have a inspiring and blessed day!
Voting...
I would like to encourage and bless all those who step out to help govern our great nation from the candidates to each and every person that votes their conscience in the upcoming elections.
I do believe that every decision we make and every prayer we pray can make a difference. Please, pray for God's guidance and then vote your conscience. Perilous times are upon us today, but there have been perilous times in the past. Prayer and God's guidance preserves His people. Voting isn't just our civic duty and a privelege. It is a spiritual opportunity to stand for God and all that He teaches us.
Please, don't allow Satan to belittle you or tell you that your actions don't matter, bacause they DO! Satan would like for God's people to sit down and shut up, so, that he can run things the way he wants to. I pray that the American people - God's people - will not allow Satan to run rampant, but instead will stand up and be counted with God during this election.
May God watch over and protect each of you. And may God bless our nation with freedom and security forever.
I do believe that every decision we make and every prayer we pray can make a difference. Please, pray for God's guidance and then vote your conscience. Perilous times are upon us today, but there have been perilous times in the past. Prayer and God's guidance preserves His people. Voting isn't just our civic duty and a privelege. It is a spiritual opportunity to stand for God and all that He teaches us.
Please, don't allow Satan to belittle you or tell you that your actions don't matter, bacause they DO! Satan would like for God's people to sit down and shut up, so, that he can run things the way he wants to. I pray that the American people - God's people - will not allow Satan to run rampant, but instead will stand up and be counted with God during this election.
May God watch over and protect each of you. And may God bless our nation with freedom and security forever.
Psalm 37
"Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.
For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb..."
With all the evil goings on in the world today, this verse gives me comfort and hope. I don't have to pointedly or vigorously oppose every form of evil that I run across. My God does it. He will take care of these things in his time, not ours.
That isn't to say that I should accept evil things. Far from it, I am called by God to spread His light and goodness. But if I were to spend all my time talking about all the wrong being done and trying to stop the spread of evil then I wouldn't have time to be doing good and spreading God's word, would I?
I am not not going to keep worrying myself about what others are doing. I am not going to envy those who are walking in sin. Because God's judgment will be upon them who oppose him and I certainly don't want to be in that number.
Have a blessed weekend full of the Holy Spirit of God!
For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb..."
With all the evil goings on in the world today, this verse gives me comfort and hope. I don't have to pointedly or vigorously oppose every form of evil that I run across. My God does it. He will take care of these things in his time, not ours.
That isn't to say that I should accept evil things. Far from it, I am called by God to spread His light and goodness. But if I were to spend all my time talking about all the wrong being done and trying to stop the spread of evil then I wouldn't have time to be doing good and spreading God's word, would I?
I am not not going to keep worrying myself about what others are doing. I am not going to envy those who are walking in sin. Because God's judgment will be upon them who oppose him and I certainly don't want to be in that number.
Have a blessed weekend full of the Holy Spirit of God!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)