Thought for the day
The following is reported to be a true story (from Australian Aviation magazine):
After a particularly lousy landing by the co-pilot of an Australian commercial airline, that co-pilot heard the Captain say into his microphone, "Ladies and gentlemen, XXX airlines wishes to apologize for that rough landing provided today by our first officer".
Some months later the same crew were together and, you guessed it, the Captain had an even worse landing. The First Officer immediately jumped on the intercom announcing, "Ladies and gentlemen, XXX airlines wishes to apologize for that rough landing provided today by our Captain".
The Captain immediately responded angrily, "What did you say that for?"
The First Officer replied, "Remember a couple of months back? I owed it to you!"
"But I never keyed the mike!" responded the Captain.
How many times have we tried to "get even" with someone only to suffer embarrassment or hurt as a result? We think that paying someone back will make us feel better, but it doesn't, even when we truly have been done wrong.
Solomon gave this wise piece of advice: "Do not say, 'I'll do to him as he has done to me; I'll pay that man back for what he did.'" (Proverbs 24:29, NIV)
Suffering wrong without retaliation is one of the toughest things Jesus asks us to do, but it's the right thing.
"But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you." (Matthew 5:44)
Verses
Galatians 6:9
Let us not grow tired of doing good, for, unless we throw in our hand, the ultimate harvest is assured.
Matthew 19:2
And great multitudes followed Him, and He healed them there.
Matthew 21:22
and everything that you ask for in your prayers you shall have, if you believe."
2 Corinthians 9:11
God will make you rich in every way so that you can always give freely. And your giving through us will cause many to give thanks to God.
Prayer
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from You. As recipients of Your tender compassions and tremendous comfort help us to be like cisterns pouring out the mercies we receive from You into the lives of those who desperately need it. In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
The curse of riches
Thought for the day
I heard about an expert in diamonds who happened to be seated on an airplane beside a woman with a huge diamond on her finger. Finally, the man introduced himself and said, "I couldn't help but notice your beautiful diamond. I am an expert in precious stones. Please tell me about that stone." She replied, "That is the famous Klopman diamond, one of the largest in the world. But there is a strange curse that comes with it." Now the man was really interested. He asked, "What is the curse?" As he waited with bated breath, she replied, "It's Mr. Klopman."
Seriously, the true curse of any kind of valuable possession is its capacity to steal our hearts and souls. As Jesus said,
"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:19-21)
This passage is one of many references Jesus made to the use of money and possessions. In fact, someone has calculated that about 15 percent of everything Christ said relates to this topic -- to give you a little perspective, that's more than his teachings on heaven and hell combined.
So why did Jesus put such an emphasis on money and possessions? The reason is that there is a fundamental connection between our spiritual lives and how we think about and handle our money. We may try to separate our faith and our finances, but God sees them as inseparable.
God doesn't care so much about your money. He wants your heart. But he knows that your heart will always follow your treasures. That's the curse of all that we own.
"Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Verses
2 Corinthians 5:7
For by faith we guide our steps, by no clear vision yet:
Isaiah 33:24
And the inhabitant will not say, "I am sick"; the people who dwell in it will be forgiven their iniquity.
2 Corinthians 4:17
We have small troubles for a while now, but they are helping us gain an eternal glory that is much greater than the troubles.
1 Peter 3:7
Husbands, in the same way, show consideration for your wives in your life together, paying honor to the woman as the weaker sex, since they too are also heirs of the gracious gift of life--so that nothing may hinder your prayers.
Joshua 1:8
Let not this Book of the Teaching cease from your lips, but recite it day and night, so that you may observe faithfully all that is written in it. Only then will you prosper in your undertakings and only then will you be successful.
Prayer
Father, Your vast wisdom is given to those who seek godly wisdom and Your knowledge to the discerning believer. You are the bright light that comes bursting forth when darkness seeks to blind the godly. All foes are rendered powerless in Your presence. Thank You for the marvelous standing we have as Your children.
I heard about an expert in diamonds who happened to be seated on an airplane beside a woman with a huge diamond on her finger. Finally, the man introduced himself and said, "I couldn't help but notice your beautiful diamond. I am an expert in precious stones. Please tell me about that stone." She replied, "That is the famous Klopman diamond, one of the largest in the world. But there is a strange curse that comes with it." Now the man was really interested. He asked, "What is the curse?" As he waited with bated breath, she replied, "It's Mr. Klopman."
Seriously, the true curse of any kind of valuable possession is its capacity to steal our hearts and souls. As Jesus said,
"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:19-21)
This passage is one of many references Jesus made to the use of money and possessions. In fact, someone has calculated that about 15 percent of everything Christ said relates to this topic -- to give you a little perspective, that's more than his teachings on heaven and hell combined.
So why did Jesus put such an emphasis on money and possessions? The reason is that there is a fundamental connection between our spiritual lives and how we think about and handle our money. We may try to separate our faith and our finances, but God sees them as inseparable.
God doesn't care so much about your money. He wants your heart. But he knows that your heart will always follow your treasures. That's the curse of all that we own.
"Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Verses
2 Corinthians 5:7
For by faith we guide our steps, by no clear vision yet:
Isaiah 33:24
And the inhabitant will not say, "I am sick"; the people who dwell in it will be forgiven their iniquity.
2 Corinthians 4:17
We have small troubles for a while now, but they are helping us gain an eternal glory that is much greater than the troubles.
1 Peter 3:7
Husbands, in the same way, show consideration for your wives in your life together, paying honor to the woman as the weaker sex, since they too are also heirs of the gracious gift of life--so that nothing may hinder your prayers.
Joshua 1:8
Let not this Book of the Teaching cease from your lips, but recite it day and night, so that you may observe faithfully all that is written in it. Only then will you prosper in your undertakings and only then will you be successful.
Prayer
Father, Your vast wisdom is given to those who seek godly wisdom and Your knowledge to the discerning believer. You are the bright light that comes bursting forth when darkness seeks to blind the godly. All foes are rendered powerless in Your presence. Thank You for the marvelous standing we have as Your children.
Monday, January 17, 2011
All is discovered
Thought for the day
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was not only the creator of Sherlock Holmes, but apparently, he was a creative practical joker, too. The story is told of one horrendous - although clever - practical joke that he played one time. He just wrote a short, unsigned telegram - all in fun - to 12 of the best known men in England. The anonymous message was the same - only six words - six scary words, "All is discovered. Flee at once."
As the story goes, within 24 hours not one of those men could be found.
I don't know if that really happened, but I wouldn't be surprised if it did because almost everyone carries the burden of knowing they've done something in the past that they're ashamed of. One of the first things we do when we commit a sin is to try to hide (that's what Adam and Eve did!). And we will often go to great lengths to hide that part of our lives from everyone around else. The more we hide, the more the feelings of guilt grow and the greater we feel the need to hide.
Psalm 139 is a beautiful psalm where David acknowledges that God knows everything about us. He knows our words. He knows our every thought. There is no need to hide from God. There is no way to hide from God. And it is only when we realize that, and are honest about those pieces of our lives that we try to hide that we can come to know forgiveness (and the peace that comes with it).
Let us say with David, "For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is always before you." (Psalm 51:3)
All is discovered -- it always has been. And there is a need to flee at once -- to the arms of God.
Verses
Numbers 23:19
God is not a man. He will not lie. God is not a human being. He does not change his mind. What he says he will do, he does. What he promises, he keeps.
Luke 8:11
"Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.
Ephesians 4:29
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.
Luke 6:28
"bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you.
1 Timothy 6:17
Advise those who are rich in this world's goods not to think themselves superior. Let them not pin their hope on such transient wealth but rather upon God who is the provider of all riches for our enjoyment.
Prayer
Father, our hearts rejoice with resounding thanksgiving, as we consider that You chose us before the world was made so that we could be Your holy people; people without blame before You. Because of Your love, You chose to make us Your own children through Your Son, Jesus Christ. We are set free by the blood of His death as You forgive us of our sins. Your awesome power is seen not only in the vast universe but in the hearts of men and women, boys and girls whose lives are submitted to Your divine authority. What a magnificent God we serve!
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was not only the creator of Sherlock Holmes, but apparently, he was a creative practical joker, too. The story is told of one horrendous - although clever - practical joke that he played one time. He just wrote a short, unsigned telegram - all in fun - to 12 of the best known men in England. The anonymous message was the same - only six words - six scary words, "All is discovered. Flee at once."
As the story goes, within 24 hours not one of those men could be found.
I don't know if that really happened, but I wouldn't be surprised if it did because almost everyone carries the burden of knowing they've done something in the past that they're ashamed of. One of the first things we do when we commit a sin is to try to hide (that's what Adam and Eve did!). And we will often go to great lengths to hide that part of our lives from everyone around else. The more we hide, the more the feelings of guilt grow and the greater we feel the need to hide.
Psalm 139 is a beautiful psalm where David acknowledges that God knows everything about us. He knows our words. He knows our every thought. There is no need to hide from God. There is no way to hide from God. And it is only when we realize that, and are honest about those pieces of our lives that we try to hide that we can come to know forgiveness (and the peace that comes with it).
Let us say with David, "For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is always before you." (Psalm 51:3)
All is discovered -- it always has been. And there is a need to flee at once -- to the arms of God.
Verses
Numbers 23:19
God is not a man. He will not lie. God is not a human being. He does not change his mind. What he says he will do, he does. What he promises, he keeps.
Luke 8:11
"Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.
Ephesians 4:29
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.
Luke 6:28
"bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you.
1 Timothy 6:17
Advise those who are rich in this world's goods not to think themselves superior. Let them not pin their hope on such transient wealth but rather upon God who is the provider of all riches for our enjoyment.
Prayer
Father, our hearts rejoice with resounding thanksgiving, as we consider that You chose us before the world was made so that we could be Your holy people; people without blame before You. Because of Your love, You chose to make us Your own children through Your Son, Jesus Christ. We are set free by the blood of His death as You forgive us of our sins. Your awesome power is seen not only in the vast universe but in the hearts of men and women, boys and girls whose lives are submitted to Your divine authority. What a magnificent God we serve!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Getting what we pray for!!
Thought for the day
A mother sent her fifth grade boy up to bed. In a few minutes she went to make sure that he was getting in bed. When she stuck her head into his room, she saw that he was kneeling beside his bed in prayer. Pausing to listen to his prayers, she heard her son praying over and over again. "Let it be Tokyo! Please dear God, let it be Tokyo!"
When he finished his prayers, she asked him, "What did you mean, 'Let it be Tokyo'?"
"Oh," the boy said with embarrassment, "we had our geography exam today and I was praying that God would make Tokyo the capital of France."
Prayer is not a magical means by which we get God to do what we want. While God desires that we brings our petitions to Him, He has not promised to give us everything that our heart desires. In fact, if an earthly father were to do that to a child ("Oh, you want to touch the hot stove? Go ahead!"), we would consider that father guilty of child abuse. We realize that a godly father sorts through the needs and the wants of his child and ultimately decides to give his child what is in his best interest and what will bring that child the most happiness in the long run.
William Temple was right when he said, ""We do not pray in order to change His will, but to bring our own wills into harmony with His." As we make our requests to God, we remain open to the idea that God may have something better in mind for us. His purpose may be fulfilled in our lives in a way we cannot even imagine. So, if we pray we ought, we come away feeling blessed, knowing that God has received our petition, but confident as well knowing that if God knows a better path for our lives, He will lead us in that direction.
"And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's throw, and he knelt down and prayed, saying, 'Father, if it is your will, take this cup from me; nevertheless not my will, but yours, be done." (Luke 22:41-42)
Verses
1 Peter 5:7
Throw the whole of your anxiety upon Him, because He Himself cares for you.
Matthew 21:14
Then the blind and the lame came to Him in the temple, and He healed them.
2 Corinthians 8:9
You know how full of love and kindness our Lord Jesus was:
though he was so very rich, yet to help you he became so very poor, so that by being poor he could make you rich.
Colossians 4:2
Continue praying and keep alert. And when you pray, always thank God.
Psalm 1:1-3
Happy is the man who has not followed the counsel of the wicked, or taken the path of sinners, or joined the company of the insolent; rather, the teaching of the LORD is his delight, and he studies (lit. "utters") that teaching day and night. He is like a tree planted beside streams of water, that yields its fruit in season, whose foliage never fades, and whatever it produces thrives (Or "he does prospers").
Prayer
Father, our assurance and hope is in Your protection day and night. You made the mountains and the hills, the valleys and the streams. You do not leave us to fend for ourselves, but Your help is constant and ever-sufficient for all our needs. Our help comes from You, the Maker of heaven and earth, who watches over us both now and forevermore. Amen.
A mother sent her fifth grade boy up to bed. In a few minutes she went to make sure that he was getting in bed. When she stuck her head into his room, she saw that he was kneeling beside his bed in prayer. Pausing to listen to his prayers, she heard her son praying over and over again. "Let it be Tokyo! Please dear God, let it be Tokyo!"
When he finished his prayers, she asked him, "What did you mean, 'Let it be Tokyo'?"
"Oh," the boy said with embarrassment, "we had our geography exam today and I was praying that God would make Tokyo the capital of France."
Prayer is not a magical means by which we get God to do what we want. While God desires that we brings our petitions to Him, He has not promised to give us everything that our heart desires. In fact, if an earthly father were to do that to a child ("Oh, you want to touch the hot stove? Go ahead!"), we would consider that father guilty of child abuse. We realize that a godly father sorts through the needs and the wants of his child and ultimately decides to give his child what is in his best interest and what will bring that child the most happiness in the long run.
William Temple was right when he said, ""We do not pray in order to change His will, but to bring our own wills into harmony with His." As we make our requests to God, we remain open to the idea that God may have something better in mind for us. His purpose may be fulfilled in our lives in a way we cannot even imagine. So, if we pray we ought, we come away feeling blessed, knowing that God has received our petition, but confident as well knowing that if God knows a better path for our lives, He will lead us in that direction.
"And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's throw, and he knelt down and prayed, saying, 'Father, if it is your will, take this cup from me; nevertheless not my will, but yours, be done." (Luke 22:41-42)
Verses
1 Peter 5:7
Throw the whole of your anxiety upon Him, because He Himself cares for you.
Matthew 21:14
Then the blind and the lame came to Him in the temple, and He healed them.
2 Corinthians 8:9
You know how full of love and kindness our Lord Jesus was:
though he was so very rich, yet to help you he became so very poor, so that by being poor he could make you rich.
Colossians 4:2
Continue praying and keep alert. And when you pray, always thank God.
Psalm 1:1-3
Happy is the man who has not followed the counsel of the wicked, or taken the path of sinners, or joined the company of the insolent; rather, the teaching of the LORD is his delight, and he studies (lit. "utters") that teaching day and night. He is like a tree planted beside streams of water, that yields its fruit in season, whose foliage never fades, and whatever it produces thrives (Or "he does prospers").
Prayer
Father, our assurance and hope is in Your protection day and night. You made the mountains and the hills, the valleys and the streams. You do not leave us to fend for ourselves, but Your help is constant and ever-sufficient for all our needs. Our help comes from You, the Maker of heaven and earth, who watches over us both now and forevermore. Amen.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Revenge or Kindness?
Compliments for the new year
May your hair, your teeth, your face-lift, your abs and your stocks not fall; and may your blood pressure, your triglycerides, your cholesterol, your white blood count and your mortgage interest not rise.
May you get a clean bill of health from your dentist, your cardiologist, your gastro-enterologist, your urologist, your proctologist, your podiatrist, your psychiatrist and your plumber.
May what you see in the mirror delight you, and what others see in you delight them. May someone love you enough to forgive your faults, be blind to your blemishes, and tell the world about your virtues.
May New Year's Eve find you seated around the table, together with your beloved family and cherished friends. May you find the food better, the environment quieter, the cost much cheaper, and the pleasure much more fulfilling than anything else you might ordinarily do that night.
May the telemarketers wait to make their sales calls until you finish dinner, may the commercials on TV not be louder than the program you have been watching, and may your check book and your budget balance - and include generous amounts for charity.
May you remember to say "I love you" at least once a day to your spouse, your child, your parent, your siblings; but not to your secretary, your nurse, your masseuse, your hairdresser or your tennis instructor.
Thought for the day
Years ago, on the mighty Mississippi River, two tugboat captains who had been friends for years, would always cry "Aye!" and blow their whistles whenever they passed each other.
A new crewman asked his boat's mate, "What do they do that for?"
The mate looked surprised and replied, "You mean that you've never heard of... an aye for an aye and a toot for a toot?"
<>
I suspect that few of us would admit to living by the motto, "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" (Matthew 5:38), but let's be honest -- there is something instead us that enjoys the idea of getting revenge. Some of the more popular movies throughout the past years have been those that opened with someone being mistreated. We spend the rest of the movie anxiously waiting for the hero to get the opportunity to exact his revenge -- and then we cheer!
It's not much different on a personal level. I suspect that whenever somebody does you wrong, the temptation is there to immediately start thinking of what you can do to get them back. But, if you find yourself tempted to take revenge, may I suggest two things:
(1) Resist the temptation to exchange evil for evil. That temptation will always be strong and we need realize that it will be there. But we also need to remember the emptiness and hollowness of revenge and resentment.
(2) Show your enemy kindness. Abraham Lincoln was once accused of being too nice to his enemy. He was told to be firmer; he must destroy his enemies. He replied, "I do destroy them when they become my friends."
"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you." (Matt. 5:43-44)
Verses
Mark 5:36
(Overhearing) but ignoring what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, Do not be seized with alarm and have no fear, only keep on believing.
Acts 28:8-9
And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him. So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed.
1 Corinthians 15:58
Never give in then, my dear brothers, never admit defeat; keep on working at the Lord's work always, knowing that, in the Lord, you cannot be laboring in vain.
1 Corinthians 14:15
What is the result then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.
1 Timothy 6:17
Warn those who are rich in this world's goods not to be arrogant.
They must not set their hope on riches which are so uncertain, but on God who generously gives us all things to enjoy.
Prayer
Father, we join our spirits with Your spirit so that the whole world will know that we are one in You. We unite in purpose and oneness of heart as we go into the world and preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to every region and every race. A people that is divided against itself will surely fall, but a people united by a common foundation, motivated by the same purpose, will be strengthened. We look to You, as our Head, to impassion us with the desire to work together in rescuing the perishing as we trample down the forces of evil. Your redemptive love binds our hearts together in perfect unity.
May your hair, your teeth, your face-lift, your abs and your stocks not fall; and may your blood pressure, your triglycerides, your cholesterol, your white blood count and your mortgage interest not rise.
May you get a clean bill of health from your dentist, your cardiologist, your gastro-enterologist, your urologist, your proctologist, your podiatrist, your psychiatrist and your plumber.
May what you see in the mirror delight you, and what others see in you delight them. May someone love you enough to forgive your faults, be blind to your blemishes, and tell the world about your virtues.
May New Year's Eve find you seated around the table, together with your beloved family and cherished friends. May you find the food better, the environment quieter, the cost much cheaper, and the pleasure much more fulfilling than anything else you might ordinarily do that night.
May the telemarketers wait to make their sales calls until you finish dinner, may the commercials on TV not be louder than the program you have been watching, and may your check book and your budget balance - and include generous amounts for charity.
May you remember to say "I love you" at least once a day to your spouse, your child, your parent, your siblings; but not to your secretary, your nurse, your masseuse, your hairdresser or your tennis instructor.
Thought for the day
Years ago, on the mighty Mississippi River, two tugboat captains who had been friends for years, would always cry "Aye!" and blow their whistles whenever they passed each other.
A new crewman asked his boat's mate, "What do they do that for?"
The mate looked surprised and replied, "You mean that you've never heard of... an aye for an aye and a toot for a toot?"
<>
I suspect that few of us would admit to living by the motto, "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" (Matthew 5:38), but let's be honest -- there is something instead us that enjoys the idea of getting revenge. Some of the more popular movies throughout the past years have been those that opened with someone being mistreated. We spend the rest of the movie anxiously waiting for the hero to get the opportunity to exact his revenge -- and then we cheer!
It's not much different on a personal level. I suspect that whenever somebody does you wrong, the temptation is there to immediately start thinking of what you can do to get them back. But, if you find yourself tempted to take revenge, may I suggest two things:
(1) Resist the temptation to exchange evil for evil. That temptation will always be strong and we need realize that it will be there. But we also need to remember the emptiness and hollowness of revenge and resentment.
(2) Show your enemy kindness. Abraham Lincoln was once accused of being too nice to his enemy. He was told to be firmer; he must destroy his enemies. He replied, "I do destroy them when they become my friends."
"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you." (Matt. 5:43-44)
Verses
Mark 5:36
(Overhearing) but ignoring what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, Do not be seized with alarm and have no fear, only keep on believing.
Acts 28:8-9
And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him. So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed.
1 Corinthians 15:58
Never give in then, my dear brothers, never admit defeat; keep on working at the Lord's work always, knowing that, in the Lord, you cannot be laboring in vain.
1 Corinthians 14:15
What is the result then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.
1 Timothy 6:17
Warn those who are rich in this world's goods not to be arrogant.
They must not set their hope on riches which are so uncertain, but on God who generously gives us all things to enjoy.
Prayer
Father, we join our spirits with Your spirit so that the whole world will know that we are one in You. We unite in purpose and oneness of heart as we go into the world and preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to every region and every race. A people that is divided against itself will surely fall, but a people united by a common foundation, motivated by the same purpose, will be strengthened. We look to You, as our Head, to impassion us with the desire to work together in rescuing the perishing as we trample down the forces of evil. Your redemptive love binds our hearts together in perfect unity.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Don't save it for the funeral.
Thought for the day
An elderly man lay dying in his bed. In death's agony, he suddenly smelled the aroma of his favorite chocolate chip cookies wafting up the stairs. He gathered his remaining strength, and lifted himself from the bed. Leaning against the wall, he slowly made his way out of the bedroom, and with even greater effort forced himself down the stairs, gripping the railing with both hands.
With labored breath, he leaned against the doorframe, gazing into the kitchen. Were it not for death's agony, he would have thought himself already in heaven: There, spread out on the kitchen table were literally hundreds of his favorite chocolate chip cookies. Was it heaven? Or was it merely one final act of heroic love from his devoted wife, seeing to it that he left this world a happy man?
Mustering one great final effort, he threw himself toward the table. His aged and withered hand made its way to a cookie at the edge of the table, when his wife suddenly smacked it with a spatula.
"Stay out of those," she said. "They're for the funeral."
She's not the only person to save something for a funeral that should have been shared long before. It often seems a shame that flowers are sent at a funeral rather than beforehand when they could truly be enjoyed. Many of the comments made at a funeral reflect the realization that we didn't express our feelings adequately to those we love while they were alive: "What a wonderful friend she was. I never told her how much I appreciated what she meant to me!" "I hope he realizes how much I loved him!"
If someone means something special to you, don't save it for the funeral. Share it with them now!
"Therefore comfort one another and edify one another, just as you are doing." (I Thess. 5:11)
Verses
1 John 5:4
for everyone born of God has overcome the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.
2 Corinthians 5:7
For we walk by faith, not by sight.
Ephesians 4:29
Let there be no more foul language, but good words instead -- words suitable for the occasion, which God can use to help other people.
Psalm 145:19
He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them.
2 Corinthians 9:8
And God is able to give you an abundance of his every blessing so that your every want may in every respect and at all times be abundantly supplied, and, as a result, you may give abundantly to every worthy cause.
Prayer
Father, You have placed Your children in a world where people push and shove to be first. Because of their self-importance they clamor for recognition and will stop at nothing until they get what they want in life, even if it means hurting others in the process. But You’ve called us to view life from a perspective that considers others as important as ourselves. We are to have a humble attitude that puts You first, others second, and ourselves last in everything we do. In our humanity this is impossible, but as we are being transformed into the likeness of Your Son, Jesus, we become more like Him. Our love and consideration for others grows and we apply the golden rule to our lives where we do to others as we would have them do to us. May this relationship rule guide us as we make decisions that affect others and ourselves. Help us to have the mind of Christ in all that we do. Amen.
An elderly man lay dying in his bed. In death's agony, he suddenly smelled the aroma of his favorite chocolate chip cookies wafting up the stairs. He gathered his remaining strength, and lifted himself from the bed. Leaning against the wall, he slowly made his way out of the bedroom, and with even greater effort forced himself down the stairs, gripping the railing with both hands.
With labored breath, he leaned against the doorframe, gazing into the kitchen. Were it not for death's agony, he would have thought himself already in heaven: There, spread out on the kitchen table were literally hundreds of his favorite chocolate chip cookies. Was it heaven? Or was it merely one final act of heroic love from his devoted wife, seeing to it that he left this world a happy man?
Mustering one great final effort, he threw himself toward the table. His aged and withered hand made its way to a cookie at the edge of the table, when his wife suddenly smacked it with a spatula.
"Stay out of those," she said. "They're for the funeral."
She's not the only person to save something for a funeral that should have been shared long before. It often seems a shame that flowers are sent at a funeral rather than beforehand when they could truly be enjoyed. Many of the comments made at a funeral reflect the realization that we didn't express our feelings adequately to those we love while they were alive: "What a wonderful friend she was. I never told her how much I appreciated what she meant to me!" "I hope he realizes how much I loved him!"
If someone means something special to you, don't save it for the funeral. Share it with them now!
"Therefore comfort one another and edify one another, just as you are doing." (I Thess. 5:11)
Verses
1 John 5:4
for everyone born of God has overcome the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.
2 Corinthians 5:7
For we walk by faith, not by sight.
Ephesians 4:29
Let there be no more foul language, but good words instead -- words suitable for the occasion, which God can use to help other people.
Psalm 145:19
He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them.
2 Corinthians 9:8
And God is able to give you an abundance of his every blessing so that your every want may in every respect and at all times be abundantly supplied, and, as a result, you may give abundantly to every worthy cause.
Prayer
Father, You have placed Your children in a world where people push and shove to be first. Because of their self-importance they clamor for recognition and will stop at nothing until they get what they want in life, even if it means hurting others in the process. But You’ve called us to view life from a perspective that considers others as important as ourselves. We are to have a humble attitude that puts You first, others second, and ourselves last in everything we do. In our humanity this is impossible, but as we are being transformed into the likeness of Your Son, Jesus, we become more like Him. Our love and consideration for others grows and we apply the golden rule to our lives where we do to others as we would have them do to us. May this relationship rule guide us as we make decisions that affect others and ourselves. Help us to have the mind of Christ in all that we do. Amen.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Be a lion tamer
Thought for the day
A first grade teacher seated her students in a circle. She asked them what they wanted to be when they grew up. One by one, each child got up and announced, "I'd like to be a nurse like my mother," or "I want to be a banker like my father," or "I want to be a teacher like you, Miss Smith."
The last child to speak was the most shy and timid little boy in the class. He said, "When I get big, I'm going to be a lion tamer in the circus. I'm going to face those animals with my whip and chair and make them leap through hoops of fire and obey all of my commands." Seeing the disbelieving looks on the faces of his classmates that he could ever act so boldly or bravely, he was quick to reassure them, "Well, of course, I'll have my mother with me."
We are sometimes shy and timid about standing up for Christ in the midst of an immoral society. We keep quiet when we ought to speak up. We cower when we ought to take a stand. Where do we get the inner strength to be bold and brave? Only through the assurance that we have Christ by our side.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Phil. 4:13)
With that knowledge, take courage today to do something for God that you've been hesitant to do.
Verses
2 Corinthians 4:18
while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
Luke 10:9
"And heal the sick who are there, and say to them, 'The kingdom of God has come near to you.'
2 Corinthians 5:7
For we walk by faith, not by sight.
Luke 21:36
"Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man."
Romans 8:32
Surely He who did not spare His own Son but delivered Him up for us all, will together with this greatest of gifts grant us every other conceivable good.
Prayer
Father, thank You for Your repeated warnings in Scripture that informs, instructs and protects us from the evil one. Help us not to ignore your warnings or procrastinate in our obedience to Your commands. Embolden our spiritual leaders to be fearless watchmen who speak out Your truths, even when they’re not popular or politically expedient. May we be receptive to Your Word and obedient in our response. In the name of Jesus we pray, amen.
A first grade teacher seated her students in a circle. She asked them what they wanted to be when they grew up. One by one, each child got up and announced, "I'd like to be a nurse like my mother," or "I want to be a banker like my father," or "I want to be a teacher like you, Miss Smith."
The last child to speak was the most shy and timid little boy in the class. He said, "When I get big, I'm going to be a lion tamer in the circus. I'm going to face those animals with my whip and chair and make them leap through hoops of fire and obey all of my commands." Seeing the disbelieving looks on the faces of his classmates that he could ever act so boldly or bravely, he was quick to reassure them, "Well, of course, I'll have my mother with me."
We are sometimes shy and timid about standing up for Christ in the midst of an immoral society. We keep quiet when we ought to speak up. We cower when we ought to take a stand. Where do we get the inner strength to be bold and brave? Only through the assurance that we have Christ by our side.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Phil. 4:13)
With that knowledge, take courage today to do something for God that you've been hesitant to do.
Verses
2 Corinthians 4:18
while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
Luke 10:9
"And heal the sick who are there, and say to them, 'The kingdom of God has come near to you.'
2 Corinthians 5:7
For we walk by faith, not by sight.
Luke 21:36
"Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man."
Romans 8:32
Surely He who did not spare His own Son but delivered Him up for us all, will together with this greatest of gifts grant us every other conceivable good.
Prayer
Father, thank You for Your repeated warnings in Scripture that informs, instructs and protects us from the evil one. Help us not to ignore your warnings or procrastinate in our obedience to Your commands. Embolden our spiritual leaders to be fearless watchmen who speak out Your truths, even when they’re not popular or politically expedient. May we be receptive to Your Word and obedient in our response. In the name of Jesus we pray, amen.
Monday, November 22, 2010
How do you know when you're getting old?
Thought for the day
How do you know when you're getting old?
* Everything hurts, and what doesn't hurt, doesn't work.
* You feel like it's the "morning after", but you didn't go anywhere
the night before.
* You sit in a rocking chair but can't get it going.
* You bend over to tie your shoes and ask yourself, "Is there
anything else I need to do while I'm down here?"
* You sit down to the breakfast table, and the snap, crackle, pop
you hear isn't your breakfast cereal.
* People call at 9:00 p.m. and ask, "Did I wake you?"
* Dialing long distance wears you out.
* Your little black book contains names ending only in "M.D."
* Your daughter takes you out to dinner, and the cashier takes one
look and gives you both Senior discounts.
* You have as students the grandchildren of your former students.
* You sink your teeth into a steak, and they stay there.
* Your favorite part of the newspaper is "25 years ago today."
* You're proud of your lawn mower.
* The little gray-haired lady you help across the street is your wife.
* You have a party and the neighbors don't even realize it.
* The gleam in your eyes is from the sun hitting your glasses.
* You watch a pretty girl go by and your pacemaker makes the garage
door open.
* You finally know all the answers, but no one asks you the questions!
(author unknown)
That last line is almost too sad to be funny. I look around at some of the older saints who are filled with wisdom which has come about from a lifetime of experiences. So much they have to share. So much we have to learn. But no one is paying any attention.
"The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness." (Proverbs 16:31)
Allow me to make a suggestion. The next time you're having a hard time making a decision, talk to an older Christian. Ask their advice. You might be surprised to see what you can learn.
Verses
Joshua 1:3
Every place on which you put your foot I have given to you, as I said to Moses.
Romans 4:19
And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah's womb.
Ephesians 4:29
Don't use bad language. Say only what is good and helpful to those you are talking to, and what will give them a blessing.
Matthew 21:22
If you believe, then you will receive everything you ask for in prayer."
Romans 5:17
If one man by his sin made death a king, we, on whom God has poured His love and His gift of righteousness, are all the more certain the one Jesus Christ makes us live and be kings.
Prayer
Father, may holiness and truth continually flow from our lives and the words we speak. Help us to be obedient to Your commands and faithfully proclaim Your truths, making no concession to please the hearts of men rather than the heart of God. Some will turn away while others may carefully listen to the gospel message we proclaim. Above all may we be faithful to the Holy Scriptures and not be deterred by lack of receptivity. For, we seek Your approval far above the approval of others. Amen.
How do you know when you're getting old?
* Everything hurts, and what doesn't hurt, doesn't work.
* You feel like it's the "morning after", but you didn't go anywhere
the night before.
* You sit in a rocking chair but can't get it going.
* You bend over to tie your shoes and ask yourself, "Is there
anything else I need to do while I'm down here?"
* You sit down to the breakfast table, and the snap, crackle, pop
you hear isn't your breakfast cereal.
* People call at 9:00 p.m. and ask, "Did I wake you?"
* Dialing long distance wears you out.
* Your little black book contains names ending only in "M.D."
* Your daughter takes you out to dinner, and the cashier takes one
look and gives you both Senior discounts.
* You have as students the grandchildren of your former students.
* You sink your teeth into a steak, and they stay there.
* Your favorite part of the newspaper is "25 years ago today."
* You're proud of your lawn mower.
* The little gray-haired lady you help across the street is your wife.
* You have a party and the neighbors don't even realize it.
* The gleam in your eyes is from the sun hitting your glasses.
* You watch a pretty girl go by and your pacemaker makes the garage
door open.
* You finally know all the answers, but no one asks you the questions!
(author unknown)
That last line is almost too sad to be funny. I look around at some of the older saints who are filled with wisdom which has come about from a lifetime of experiences. So much they have to share. So much we have to learn. But no one is paying any attention.
"The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness." (Proverbs 16:31)
Allow me to make a suggestion. The next time you're having a hard time making a decision, talk to an older Christian. Ask their advice. You might be surprised to see what you can learn.
Verses
Joshua 1:3
Every place on which you put your foot I have given to you, as I said to Moses.
Romans 4:19
And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah's womb.
Ephesians 4:29
Don't use bad language. Say only what is good and helpful to those you are talking to, and what will give them a blessing.
Matthew 21:22
If you believe, then you will receive everything you ask for in prayer."
Romans 5:17
If one man by his sin made death a king, we, on whom God has poured His love and His gift of righteousness, are all the more certain the one Jesus Christ makes us live and be kings.
Prayer
Father, may holiness and truth continually flow from our lives and the words we speak. Help us to be obedient to Your commands and faithfully proclaim Your truths, making no concession to please the hearts of men rather than the heart of God. Some will turn away while others may carefully listen to the gospel message we proclaim. Above all may we be faithful to the Holy Scriptures and not be deterred by lack of receptivity. For, we seek Your approval far above the approval of others. Amen.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
The influence of fathers
Thought for the day
Through the years, we have different ideas of what our father means to us. Someone has composed the following list, showing the way that our view of Father changes through the years:
4 years: My daddy can do anything.
7 years: My dad knows a lot, a whole lot.
8 years: My father doesn't quite know everything.
12 years: Oh well, naturally Father doesn't know everything.
14 years: Father? Hopelessly old-fashioned.
21 years: Oh, that man is out-of-date. What did you expect?
25 years: He knows a little bit about it but not much.
30 years: Must find out what Dad thinks about it.
35 years: A little patience, let's get Dad''s meaning first.
40 years: What would Dad have thought about it?
50 years: My Dad knew literally everything.
60 years: I wish I could talk it over with Dad once more.
Fathers, what an awesome responsibility has been given to us. And even during those years when our children think we are "hopelessly old-fashioned", they are listening to us and learning from us. Much of what our children learn is caught rather than taught they learn from what they observe. That means we can’t afford to cheat on our taxes, lie to our boss, or be rude to a salesperson. Our lifestyle is the greatest lesson we teach.
You are a role model for your children and, like it or not good or bad they will, to one degree or another, model their lives after you. You have inherited some of your father’s characteristics and your children are inheriting some of yours.
So whether you know it or not (and whether you mean to or not), you are influencing the lives of your children, and your children’s children. As I said earlier, what an awesome responsibility has been given to us. And thank God for the godly fathers who influenced us!
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." (Deut. 6:5-7)
Verses
Romans 10:17
So faith comes from the willingness to hear, and what is heard is the word which tells of Christ.
Isaiah 53:5
But he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed.
Romans 12:2
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God -- what is good and acceptable and perfect.
1 Peter 3:7
You husbands must be careful of your wives, being thoughtful of their needs and honoring them as the weaker sex. Remember that you and your wife are partners in receiving God's blessings, and if you don't treat her as you should, your prayers will not get ready answers.
Proverbs 22:7
The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower becomes the lender's slave.
Prayer
Father, so many of us live in a state of discontent when we find ourselves loving things and using people. It distorts our priorities and gives us temporary thrills with things, but leaves us with long-term dissatisfaction within ourselves and in our relationships. Help us to enjoy material things but to place a higher value on greater pursuits such as growing friendships, solid marriage relations, developing godly character, giving without receiving in return, and other worthy goals. We will be content as we rejoice in the fact that whether we are in want or whether we have plenty You have promised that You will never leave us nor forsake us. What a treasured promise for the believer in times of need and in times of prosperity. We are content when we realize our all-sufficiency is in You, Lord. You will never leave us nor forsake us and You will meet all our needs according to Your glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Through the years, we have different ideas of what our father means to us. Someone has composed the following list, showing the way that our view of Father changes through the years:
4 years: My daddy can do anything.
7 years: My dad knows a lot, a whole lot.
8 years: My father doesn't quite know everything.
12 years: Oh well, naturally Father doesn't know everything.
14 years: Father? Hopelessly old-fashioned.
21 years: Oh, that man is out-of-date. What did you expect?
25 years: He knows a little bit about it but not much.
30 years: Must find out what Dad thinks about it.
35 years: A little patience, let's get Dad''s meaning first.
40 years: What would Dad have thought about it?
50 years: My Dad knew literally everything.
60 years: I wish I could talk it over with Dad once more.
Fathers, what an awesome responsibility has been given to us. And even during those years when our children think we are "hopelessly old-fashioned", they are listening to us and learning from us. Much of what our children learn is caught rather than taught they learn from what they observe. That means we can’t afford to cheat on our taxes, lie to our boss, or be rude to a salesperson. Our lifestyle is the greatest lesson we teach.
You are a role model for your children and, like it or not good or bad they will, to one degree or another, model their lives after you. You have inherited some of your father’s characteristics and your children are inheriting some of yours.
So whether you know it or not (and whether you mean to or not), you are influencing the lives of your children, and your children’s children. As I said earlier, what an awesome responsibility has been given to us. And thank God for the godly fathers who influenced us!
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." (Deut. 6:5-7)
Verses
Romans 10:17
So faith comes from the willingness to hear, and what is heard is the word which tells of Christ.
Isaiah 53:5
But he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed.
Romans 12:2
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God -- what is good and acceptable and perfect.
1 Peter 3:7
You husbands must be careful of your wives, being thoughtful of their needs and honoring them as the weaker sex. Remember that you and your wife are partners in receiving God's blessings, and if you don't treat her as you should, your prayers will not get ready answers.
Proverbs 22:7
The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower becomes the lender's slave.
Prayer
Father, so many of us live in a state of discontent when we find ourselves loving things and using people. It distorts our priorities and gives us temporary thrills with things, but leaves us with long-term dissatisfaction within ourselves and in our relationships. Help us to enjoy material things but to place a higher value on greater pursuits such as growing friendships, solid marriage relations, developing godly character, giving without receiving in return, and other worthy goals. We will be content as we rejoice in the fact that whether we are in want or whether we have plenty You have promised that You will never leave us nor forsake us. What a treasured promise for the believer in times of need and in times of prosperity. We are content when we realize our all-sufficiency is in You, Lord. You will never leave us nor forsake us and You will meet all our needs according to Your glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Do not ask questions
Thought for the day
I heard about an old blacksmith who realized he was soon going to have to quit working so hard. With retirement in mind, he picked out a strong young man to become his apprentice, who, as fate would have it, was not the smartest fellow around. The old blacksmith was crabby, impatient and exacting. He told the young man, "Don't ask me a lot of questions; Just do whatever I tell you to do and you will do fine."
One day the old blacksmith took a white hot iron out of the forge and laid it on the anvil. "Get the hammer over there," he said to the boy, "When I nod my head, hit it real good and hard."
Now the town is looking for a new blacksmith.
"Don't ask me a lot of questions" is not very good advice. The truth is, it is almost always in our best interest to ask questions. Ask questions to learn something you don't know. Ask questions to clarify something you're not sure about. Ask questions to gain a new perspective on a matter.
Think of the men and women in the scriptures who asked questions:
The disciples came to Jesus and "asked him about the parable (of the sower)" (Mark 4:10). They received the best commentary in the world on Jesus' parables -- from Jesus himself! Why? Because they asked.
John the Baptist asked a good question -- "Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?" (Luke 7:20) Even though this may have appeared to be a "stupid question" coming from John, Jesus sent him a gracious answer.
The Philippian jailer asked perhaps the most important question in the world -- "What must I do to be saved?" (Acts 16:30) which led him to respond to Christ in an obedient faith.
I have known many people through the years who were hesitant to ask questions -- either in a classroom setting or even in private -- because they didn't want to appear to be stupid. As the saying goes, "There are no stupid questions." Don't be afraid to ask. The more you are willing ask, the more you will have the opportunity to learn!
Verses
Hebrews 10:23
Let us maintain the confession of our hope unshaken, for he who has given us his promise will not fail us.
Exodus 23:25
You shall serve the LORD your God, and I will bless your bread and your water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of you.
Psalm 145:9
The Lord is good to all, And His tender mercies are over all His works.
Matthew 21:22
You will receive all that you pray for, provided you have faith."
Psalm 1:1-3
Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper.
Prayer
Father, we want to trust You at all times – in the good times and in troubled times. Thank You for Your promise that You will not let us drown when we pass through the deep waters. We will not be burned nor will the flames hurt us when we walk through the raging fires that seek to engulf us. We don’t have to be afraid because You have saved us and called us by name. You are truly our Refuge and we pour out our hearts out to You for all that we have need of. May our faith increase and our devotion deepen as we lean hard on You. Amen.
I heard about an old blacksmith who realized he was soon going to have to quit working so hard. With retirement in mind, he picked out a strong young man to become his apprentice, who, as fate would have it, was not the smartest fellow around. The old blacksmith was crabby, impatient and exacting. He told the young man, "Don't ask me a lot of questions; Just do whatever I tell you to do and you will do fine."
One day the old blacksmith took a white hot iron out of the forge and laid it on the anvil. "Get the hammer over there," he said to the boy, "When I nod my head, hit it real good and hard."
Now the town is looking for a new blacksmith.
"Don't ask me a lot of questions" is not very good advice. The truth is, it is almost always in our best interest to ask questions. Ask questions to learn something you don't know. Ask questions to clarify something you're not sure about. Ask questions to gain a new perspective on a matter.
Think of the men and women in the scriptures who asked questions:
The disciples came to Jesus and "asked him about the parable (of the sower)" (Mark 4:10). They received the best commentary in the world on Jesus' parables -- from Jesus himself! Why? Because they asked.
John the Baptist asked a good question -- "Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?" (Luke 7:20) Even though this may have appeared to be a "stupid question" coming from John, Jesus sent him a gracious answer.
The Philippian jailer asked perhaps the most important question in the world -- "What must I do to be saved?" (Acts 16:30) which led him to respond to Christ in an obedient faith.
I have known many people through the years who were hesitant to ask questions -- either in a classroom setting or even in private -- because they didn't want to appear to be stupid. As the saying goes, "There are no stupid questions." Don't be afraid to ask. The more you are willing ask, the more you will have the opportunity to learn!
Verses
Hebrews 10:23
Let us maintain the confession of our hope unshaken, for he who has given us his promise will not fail us.
Exodus 23:25
You shall serve the LORD your God, and I will bless your bread and your water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of you.
Psalm 145:9
The Lord is good to all, And His tender mercies are over all His works.
Matthew 21:22
You will receive all that you pray for, provided you have faith."
Psalm 1:1-3
Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper.
Prayer
Father, we want to trust You at all times – in the good times and in troubled times. Thank You for Your promise that You will not let us drown when we pass through the deep waters. We will not be burned nor will the flames hurt us when we walk through the raging fires that seek to engulf us. We don’t have to be afraid because You have saved us and called us by name. You are truly our Refuge and we pour out our hearts out to You for all that we have need of. May our faith increase and our devotion deepen as we lean hard on You. Amen.
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