Thought for the day
Some weeks ago, a pastor from Letlhakane village in Botswana was transferred to a much bigger church in Mochudi also in Botswana. There was such a big difference between the two places, no more salty water, less dust and there are buses to ride to Gaborone City if he did not want to use his car. One day he chose to have a ride on a bus to Gaborone.
He inquired from the conductor as to how much he needed to pay and was informed as he paid and took a seat but, when he got his change from the conductor after giving him a ten Pula note he discovered that he was accidentally given 50 thebe more as change. As he considered what to do, he thought to himself, 'You'd better giveback the 50 thebe. It would be wrong to keep it.
'Then he thought, 'Oh, forget it, it's only a 50 thebe after all, Who would worry about this little amount? Anyway, the bus company gets too much fare; they will never miss it. Accept it as a 'gift from God' and keep quiet.
'When his stop came, he paused momentarily at the door, and then he handed the 50 thebe back to the conductor and said, 'Here, you gave me too much change. 'The conductor with a smile, replied, 'Aren't you the new pastor in town?
''Yes yes ' he replied.
'Well, I have been thinking a lot lately about going somewhere to worship. I just wanted to see what you would do if I gave you too much change. I'll see you at church on Sunday.
'When the pastor stepped off of the bus, he literally grabbed the nearest light pole, held on, and said, 'Oh God, I almost sold your Son for a mere 50 thebe, the conductor is coming to church on Sunday, choosing our Church because of the small deed of handing back the overpaid 50 thebe?
'Our lives are the only Bible some people will ever read. This is areally scary example of how much people watch us as Christians, and will put us to the test! Always be on guard -- and remember -- You carry the name of Christ on your shoulders when you call yourself 'Christian.
'Watch your thoughts; they become words.
Watch your words; they become actions.
Watch your actions; they become habits.
Watch your habits; they become character.
Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.
The Will of God will never take you to where the Grace of God will notPROTECT you...
Verses
Ephesians 3:20
Now to him who by the action of his power within us is able to do all, aye far more than we can ever ask or imagine,
1 Peter 2:24
and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.
John 3:16
For so greatly did God love the world that He gave His only Son, that everyone who trusts in Him may not perish but may have the Life of Ages.
1 Thessalonians 1:2
We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers,
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.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (30 04 2009)
Thought for the day
A retired gentleman spent most afternoons at the local golf course. Every day he would spend about three hours out on the course, playing a round by himself. When he would return to the club house, the resident pro would inquire about his score.
"Ed, how'd you shoot today?", to which the man would always reply, "Another perfect par."The golf pro (being of average intelligence) knew that there was no way the old man was shooting straight par every day, but since he was a regular customer, he didn't want to insult the man by accusing him of lying.
Finally, one day, the pro decided to accompany the old man on his daily round, just to see for himself. On the first tee, the older gentleman sliced the ball way off into the rough. He found his ball, but his second shot was even worse. Finally putting it into the first hole (a par 4) took him 8 swings. The golf pro thought to himself, "I knew it. This old geezer's been lying all this time. There is no way he is gonna shoot anywhere near par."
They continued on, and the old man's game stayed the same, never once getting a par on any one hole. After almost 3 hours, they teed off on the 13th hole. The old man actually hit it straight down the middle -- it was the best shot he had made all day! He promptly walked down the fairway to his ball, picked it up, and began walking back to the clubhouse.
The pro was confused. "Hey, that was a great shot. Where are you going now?"
"Oh, I'm done," the old man replied with a smile, "That shot was number 72...another perfect par!"
I'll have to try that sometime (of course, I'd never find out what the back nine looks like! :-) I guess the moral of the story above is: If you know when to quit, you can shoot par every time! As Christians, it's also important for us to know when to quit.
"But now also put these things out of your life: anger, bad temper, doing or saying things to hurt others, and using evil words when you talk. Do not lie to each other. You have left your old sinful life and the things you did before. You have begun to live the new life, in which you are being made new and are becoming like the One who made you...." (Col. 3:8-10a, NCV)
If you're having trouble "shooting par" in your Christian life (our goal is to become like Christ), maybe you just need to learn when to quit!
Verses
Jeremiah 1:12
Then said the Lord to me, You have seen well, for I am alert and active, watching over My word to perform it.
Jeremiah 30:17
For I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds,’ says the Lord, 'Because they called you an outcast saying: "this is Zion; no one seeks her."
Psalm 34:5
They looked to Him and were radiant, And their faces were not ashamed.
2 Corinthians 8:9
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, how, when he was rich, He became poor for your sakes, so that you by His poverty might grow rich.
Prayer
Father, help us to be ever watchful and always prayerful as we see the foundations of our Christian faith attacked. Through the power of Your Spirit we want to take a firm position against the enemy and be strong in our faith. We stand with our Christian brothers and sisters all over the world who are going through the same kind of struggles, or worse, and especially pray for those who are paying a great price for their uncompromising stand. You assure us that after we suffer for a little while, You will restore, support, strengthen and sustain us as we remain firm on Your foundation. Amen.
A retired gentleman spent most afternoons at the local golf course. Every day he would spend about three hours out on the course, playing a round by himself. When he would return to the club house, the resident pro would inquire about his score.
"Ed, how'd you shoot today?", to which the man would always reply, "Another perfect par."The golf pro (being of average intelligence) knew that there was no way the old man was shooting straight par every day, but since he was a regular customer, he didn't want to insult the man by accusing him of lying.
Finally, one day, the pro decided to accompany the old man on his daily round, just to see for himself. On the first tee, the older gentleman sliced the ball way off into the rough. He found his ball, but his second shot was even worse. Finally putting it into the first hole (a par 4) took him 8 swings. The golf pro thought to himself, "I knew it. This old geezer's been lying all this time. There is no way he is gonna shoot anywhere near par."
They continued on, and the old man's game stayed the same, never once getting a par on any one hole. After almost 3 hours, they teed off on the 13th hole. The old man actually hit it straight down the middle -- it was the best shot he had made all day! He promptly walked down the fairway to his ball, picked it up, and began walking back to the clubhouse.
The pro was confused. "Hey, that was a great shot. Where are you going now?"
"Oh, I'm done," the old man replied with a smile, "That shot was number 72...another perfect par!"
I'll have to try that sometime (of course, I'd never find out what the back nine looks like! :-) I guess the moral of the story above is: If you know when to quit, you can shoot par every time! As Christians, it's also important for us to know when to quit.
"But now also put these things out of your life: anger, bad temper, doing or saying things to hurt others, and using evil words when you talk. Do not lie to each other. You have left your old sinful life and the things you did before. You have begun to live the new life, in which you are being made new and are becoming like the One who made you...." (Col. 3:8-10a, NCV)
If you're having trouble "shooting par" in your Christian life (our goal is to become like Christ), maybe you just need to learn when to quit!
Verses
Jeremiah 1:12
Then said the Lord to me, You have seen well, for I am alert and active, watching over My word to perform it.
Jeremiah 30:17
For I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds,’ says the Lord, 'Because they called you an outcast saying: "this is Zion; no one seeks her."
Psalm 34:5
They looked to Him and were radiant, And their faces were not ashamed.
2 Corinthians 8:9
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, how, when he was rich, He became poor for your sakes, so that you by His poverty might grow rich.
Prayer
Father, help us to be ever watchful and always prayerful as we see the foundations of our Christian faith attacked. Through the power of Your Spirit we want to take a firm position against the enemy and be strong in our faith. We stand with our Christian brothers and sisters all over the world who are going through the same kind of struggles, or worse, and especially pray for those who are paying a great price for their uncompromising stand. You assure us that after we suffer for a little while, You will restore, support, strengthen and sustain us as we remain firm on Your foundation. Amen.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Wednesday prayer & verses (29 04 2009)
Thought for the day
The USS Astoria was the first U.S. cruiser to engage the Japanese during the Battle of Savo Island which was fought in August of 1942. The Astoria was badly damaged in the battle and sank shortly after noon August 9, 1942.
Ten hours before the ship sank, a young Midwesterner, Signalman 3rd Class Elgin Staples, was swept overboard by the blast when the Astoria's number one eight-inch gun turret exploded. Wounded in both legs by shrapnel and in semi-shock, he was kept afloat by a narrow life belt that he managed to activate with a simple trigger mechanism. Four hours later, he was rescued by a passing destroyer and returned to the Astoria, whose captain was attempting to save the cruiser. The effort failed, and Staples, still wearing the same life belt, found himself back in the water.
Picked up again, this time by the USS President Jackson, he was one of 500 survivors of the battle. On board the transport, Staples closely examined the life belt that had served him so well and decided to keep it as a souvenir, a reminder of how lucky he had been. The label showed that it had been manufactured by Firestone Tire and Rubber Company of Akron, Ohio.
When he got home on leave, Staples told his story and learned that his mother had taken a wartime job with Firestone. Staples jumped up, grabbed his life belt out of his duffel bag and showed his mother that it was made at her plant. She looked at the label on the belt and was shocked. There was a number on the belt which indicated who had inspected it before it left the plant. The number on Staple's belt was his mother's personal code and was affixed to every item she was responsible for approving.
Elgin Staples writes, "My mother had put her arms halfway around the world to save me.
"What a powerful story! And it makes me wonder about our attitude in the workplace. What if Elgin's mother's attitude toward her work was the same as ours is so often? Suppose she went in to the plant every day saying, "I'll do just as little as possible to get by. I'll work hard when the boss is watching, but when he's not, I'll slack off. Why put everything I've got into my work? Nobody appreciates it anyway.
"Do you suppose anything about our attitude might change if we knew that the quality of work we produce every day could possibly result in the life or death of someone we dearly love? Would we take our jobs any more seriously? Would we work harder, more carefully?
Most of us will never find ourselves in that situation. But the apostle Paul does give one bit of advice to the slaves of his day that relates to each of us in our workplace:
"Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." (Col. 3:22-24)
What a great attitude for Christians to have in the workplace -- whatever you do, do it as if you were doing it for Christ. I truly believe that if we as Christians were to take this principle to heart, we would immediately stand out as the very best workers that an employer has.
I don't believe Jesus ever produced a piece of shoddy workmanship in his carpentry shop. I don't believe he ever made excuses for why something was done at less than his very best ability. I believe he always gave his best.May that attitude characterize his people as well. And who knows? Your diligence could very well result some day in saving the life of someone you dearly love!
Verses
Proverbs 18:21
What you say can mean life or death. Those who love to talk will be rewarded for what they say.
Proverbs 15:30
The light of the eyes rejoices the heart, and a good report makes the bones healthy.
Psalm 16:11
You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Luke 22:41
And He was withdrawn from them about a stone's throw, and He knelt down and prayed,
Psalm 35:27
Let them shout for joy and rejoice, who favor my vindication; And let them say continually, "The Lord be magnified, Who delights in the prosperity of His servant."
Prayer
Father, we find ourselves often like Adam and Eve who, instead of looking upon ALL that You had given to them for enjoyment and sustenance, chose to partake of what little You forbid. Sometimes we set our eyes on that which is too expensive and unnecessary, or that which belongs to another causing us to covet and break Your commandment. Help us to be thankful for that which we have and share with those who have less. Guard us from greed and discontent as we are daily mindful of our blessings. Help us to rejoice in other’s blessings instead of resenting them. All that we have need of is daily provided by Your generous hand. We thank You, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
The USS Astoria was the first U.S. cruiser to engage the Japanese during the Battle of Savo Island which was fought in August of 1942. The Astoria was badly damaged in the battle and sank shortly after noon August 9, 1942.
Ten hours before the ship sank, a young Midwesterner, Signalman 3rd Class Elgin Staples, was swept overboard by the blast when the Astoria's number one eight-inch gun turret exploded. Wounded in both legs by shrapnel and in semi-shock, he was kept afloat by a narrow life belt that he managed to activate with a simple trigger mechanism. Four hours later, he was rescued by a passing destroyer and returned to the Astoria, whose captain was attempting to save the cruiser. The effort failed, and Staples, still wearing the same life belt, found himself back in the water.
Picked up again, this time by the USS President Jackson, he was one of 500 survivors of the battle. On board the transport, Staples closely examined the life belt that had served him so well and decided to keep it as a souvenir, a reminder of how lucky he had been. The label showed that it had been manufactured by Firestone Tire and Rubber Company of Akron, Ohio.
When he got home on leave, Staples told his story and learned that his mother had taken a wartime job with Firestone. Staples jumped up, grabbed his life belt out of his duffel bag and showed his mother that it was made at her plant. She looked at the label on the belt and was shocked. There was a number on the belt which indicated who had inspected it before it left the plant. The number on Staple's belt was his mother's personal code and was affixed to every item she was responsible for approving.
Elgin Staples writes, "My mother had put her arms halfway around the world to save me.
"What a powerful story! And it makes me wonder about our attitude in the workplace. What if Elgin's mother's attitude toward her work was the same as ours is so often? Suppose she went in to the plant every day saying, "I'll do just as little as possible to get by. I'll work hard when the boss is watching, but when he's not, I'll slack off. Why put everything I've got into my work? Nobody appreciates it anyway.
"Do you suppose anything about our attitude might change if we knew that the quality of work we produce every day could possibly result in the life or death of someone we dearly love? Would we take our jobs any more seriously? Would we work harder, more carefully?
Most of us will never find ourselves in that situation. But the apostle Paul does give one bit of advice to the slaves of his day that relates to each of us in our workplace:
"Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." (Col. 3:22-24)
What a great attitude for Christians to have in the workplace -- whatever you do, do it as if you were doing it for Christ. I truly believe that if we as Christians were to take this principle to heart, we would immediately stand out as the very best workers that an employer has.
I don't believe Jesus ever produced a piece of shoddy workmanship in his carpentry shop. I don't believe he ever made excuses for why something was done at less than his very best ability. I believe he always gave his best.May that attitude characterize his people as well. And who knows? Your diligence could very well result some day in saving the life of someone you dearly love!
Verses
Proverbs 18:21
What you say can mean life or death. Those who love to talk will be rewarded for what they say.
Proverbs 15:30
The light of the eyes rejoices the heart, and a good report makes the bones healthy.
Psalm 16:11
You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Luke 22:41
And He was withdrawn from them about a stone's throw, and He knelt down and prayed,
Psalm 35:27
Let them shout for joy and rejoice, who favor my vindication; And let them say continually, "The Lord be magnified, Who delights in the prosperity of His servant."
Prayer
Father, we find ourselves often like Adam and Eve who, instead of looking upon ALL that You had given to them for enjoyment and sustenance, chose to partake of what little You forbid. Sometimes we set our eyes on that which is too expensive and unnecessary, or that which belongs to another causing us to covet and break Your commandment. Help us to be thankful for that which we have and share with those who have less. Guard us from greed and discontent as we are daily mindful of our blessings. Help us to rejoice in other’s blessings instead of resenting them. All that we have need of is daily provided by Your generous hand. We thank You, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Set the past behind you.
By prophet Riaan du Toit (Transforming your World)
In PSALM 51 we see David’s battle. Too many children of God still battle guilt and sin as enemies however, they are actually defeated foes. The Law would not release him because
sacrifice and offerings keep bringing me back to the point of transgression!
According to 1 SAMUEL 15 the Law required sacrifices when a man sinned. The Law required the death and blood of an animal when a man sinned but the blood of animals could not do what the transgressor needed!
It could not remove it but merely covered it until his guilt devoured him later again and he had to bring another sacrifice!
In HEBREWS 10 the Law kept sins forever before them and can never perfect those who keep on bringing sacrifices! If the worshiper was cleansed once for all then:
a) No guilt anymore;
b) No consciousness of sins.
But they continually bring sacrifices and their sacrifices could not take away sin!
When Jesus Christ entered the world He said I don’t bring sacrifices and offering but just give me a body! The Body of the Lord Jesus was broken ONCE FOR ALL meaning we have been made holy once for all through that final sacrifice!
Your sin has no right to be forever before you! The door of guilt-free and sin-free was opened!
HEBREWS 10:12-14 declares He has offered ONE offering and then He sat down, now waiting till His enemies are made a stool beneath His feet !
1 CORINTHIANS 15 says the last enemy to be conquered is death! Notice it says CONQUERED and not given in to! One sacrifice was brought ONCE for ALL!
We don't bring sacrifice of praise anymore - No more sacrifices!
We don't enter His gates with thanksgiving anymore - there are no more divisions to keep us out (HEBREWS 9)!
We don't enter His courts with praise anymore because the temple as we knew it has been destroyed and no more Outer Court, Holy place and Holy of Holies!
WE ARE IN HIM!
In Him, there’s no guilt;
In Him, there’s no sin;
In Him, there’s no disease nor weakness!
He Paid ONCE-FOR-ALL!
Accept Him and accept your FREEDOM!
In PSALM 51 we see David’s battle. Too many children of God still battle guilt and sin as enemies however, they are actually defeated foes. The Law would not release him because
sacrifice and offerings keep bringing me back to the point of transgression!
According to 1 SAMUEL 15 the Law required sacrifices when a man sinned. The Law required the death and blood of an animal when a man sinned but the blood of animals could not do what the transgressor needed!
It could not remove it but merely covered it until his guilt devoured him later again and he had to bring another sacrifice!
In HEBREWS 10 the Law kept sins forever before them and can never perfect those who keep on bringing sacrifices! If the worshiper was cleansed once for all then:
a) No guilt anymore;
b) No consciousness of sins.
But they continually bring sacrifices and their sacrifices could not take away sin!
When Jesus Christ entered the world He said I don’t bring sacrifices and offering but just give me a body! The Body of the Lord Jesus was broken ONCE FOR ALL meaning we have been made holy once for all through that final sacrifice!
Your sin has no right to be forever before you! The door of guilt-free and sin-free was opened!
HEBREWS 10:12-14 declares He has offered ONE offering and then He sat down, now waiting till His enemies are made a stool beneath His feet !
1 CORINTHIANS 15 says the last enemy to be conquered is death! Notice it says CONQUERED and not given in to! One sacrifice was brought ONCE for ALL!
We don't bring sacrifice of praise anymore - No more sacrifices!
We don't enter His gates with thanksgiving anymore - there are no more divisions to keep us out (HEBREWS 9)!
We don't enter His courts with praise anymore because the temple as we knew it has been destroyed and no more Outer Court, Holy place and Holy of Holies!
WE ARE IN HIM!
In Him, there’s no guilt;
In Him, there’s no sin;
In Him, there’s no disease nor weakness!
He Paid ONCE-FOR-ALL!
Accept Him and accept your FREEDOM!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verses (28 04 2009)
Thought for the day
Some years ago, the Journal of the American Medical Association published an article by Dr. Paul Ruskin on the "Stages of Aging." In the article, Dr. Ruskin described a case study he had presented to his students when teaching a class in medical school. He described the case study patient under his care like this:
"The patient neither speaks nor comprehends the spoken word. Sometimes she babbles incoherently for hours on end. She is disoriented about person, place, and time. She does, however, respond to her name I have worked with her for the past six months, but she still shows complete disregard for her physical appearance and makes no effort to assist her own care. She must be fed, bathed, and clothed by others.
"Because she has no teeth, her food must be pureed. Her shirt is usually soiled from almost incessant drooling. She does not walk. Her sleep pattern is erratic. Often she wakes in the middle of the night and her screaming awakens others. Most of the time she is friendly and happy, but several times a day she gets quite agitated without apparent cause. Then she wails until someone comes to comfort her."
After presenting the class with this challenging case, Dr. Ruskin then asked his students if any of them would like to volunteer to take care of this person. No one volunteered. Then Dr. Ruskin said, "I'm surprised that none of you offered to help, because actually she is my favorite patient. I get immense pleasure from taking care of her and I am learning so much from her. She has taught me a depth of gratitude I never knew before. She has taught me the spirit of unwavering trust. And she has taught me the power of unconditional love."
Then Dr. Ruskin said, "Let me show you her picture." He pulled out the picture and passed it around. It was the photo of his six-month-old baby daughter.
I'm not sure exactly what the doctor's point was intended to be when he presented that lecture, but it reminds me that those of us who are parents do things for our children that we would never dream of doing for anyone else.
Allow me to clarify that thought just a bit: We do things for those we love that we would not be willing to do for anyone else. It's true, isn't it? We make sacrifices for those we love, but we are unwilling to make the same sacrifices for those we don't know well (or that we don't know at all). We gladly give of our time, money and energy to assist those we are close to. But when Jesus told us to do good to those who are our enemies, it goes against our natural instinct.
What seems so obvious to us is used by Paul to demonstrate the amazing love of Jesus Christ."Look at it this way: At the right time, while we were still helpless, Christ died for ungodly people. Finding someone who would die for a godly person is rare. Maybe someone would have the courage to die for a good person. Christ died for us while we were still sinners. This demonstrates God's love for us." (Romans 5:6-8, God's Word)
To have the love we are willing to express toward our children and those we hold dear, and be willing to show that same sacrificial love toward toward who oppose us -- enough that we are willing to die -- is love beyond anything we have ever experienced (or can even imagine). But such is the love that God has for each and every one of us. May that love motivate you to respond to the one who has given up so much just for you.
Verses
2 Corinthians 1:20
For, many as were the promises of God, in Christ is the 'Yes' that fulfils them. Therefore, through Christ again, let the 'Amen' rise, through us, to the glory of God.
Exodus 15:26
"If you will listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in his sight, obeying his commands and laws, then I will not make you suffer the diseases I sent on the Egyptians; for I am the LORD who heals you."
Deuteronomy 5:29
`Oh, that they had such a heart in them that they would fear Me and always keep all My commandments, that it might be well with them and with their children forever!
Colossians 4:2
Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving;
Prayer
Jesus, You know the very intention of all that I say and do. As I invite You to examine my heart, I lay before You the people and pursuits that drive me further away from a heart of worship. You have not removed me bodily from this world, but You have raised me up spiritually to abide in Your presence even as I carry out my daily duties. As Your presence graciously overshadows me it is there that Your love and faithfulness sustains me and gives me a true heart of worship. Even as a vehicle needs fuel to properly function, I need prayer to uphold and equip me for the day that lies ahead. Amen.
Some years ago, the Journal of the American Medical Association published an article by Dr. Paul Ruskin on the "Stages of Aging." In the article, Dr. Ruskin described a case study he had presented to his students when teaching a class in medical school. He described the case study patient under his care like this:
"The patient neither speaks nor comprehends the spoken word. Sometimes she babbles incoherently for hours on end. She is disoriented about person, place, and time. She does, however, respond to her name I have worked with her for the past six months, but she still shows complete disregard for her physical appearance and makes no effort to assist her own care. She must be fed, bathed, and clothed by others.
"Because she has no teeth, her food must be pureed. Her shirt is usually soiled from almost incessant drooling. She does not walk. Her sleep pattern is erratic. Often she wakes in the middle of the night and her screaming awakens others. Most of the time she is friendly and happy, but several times a day she gets quite agitated without apparent cause. Then she wails until someone comes to comfort her."
After presenting the class with this challenging case, Dr. Ruskin then asked his students if any of them would like to volunteer to take care of this person. No one volunteered. Then Dr. Ruskin said, "I'm surprised that none of you offered to help, because actually she is my favorite patient. I get immense pleasure from taking care of her and I am learning so much from her. She has taught me a depth of gratitude I never knew before. She has taught me the spirit of unwavering trust. And she has taught me the power of unconditional love."
Then Dr. Ruskin said, "Let me show you her picture." He pulled out the picture and passed it around. It was the photo of his six-month-old baby daughter.
I'm not sure exactly what the doctor's point was intended to be when he presented that lecture, but it reminds me that those of us who are parents do things for our children that we would never dream of doing for anyone else.
Allow me to clarify that thought just a bit: We do things for those we love that we would not be willing to do for anyone else. It's true, isn't it? We make sacrifices for those we love, but we are unwilling to make the same sacrifices for those we don't know well (or that we don't know at all). We gladly give of our time, money and energy to assist those we are close to. But when Jesus told us to do good to those who are our enemies, it goes against our natural instinct.
What seems so obvious to us is used by Paul to demonstrate the amazing love of Jesus Christ."Look at it this way: At the right time, while we were still helpless, Christ died for ungodly people. Finding someone who would die for a godly person is rare. Maybe someone would have the courage to die for a good person. Christ died for us while we were still sinners. This demonstrates God's love for us." (Romans 5:6-8, God's Word)
To have the love we are willing to express toward our children and those we hold dear, and be willing to show that same sacrificial love toward toward who oppose us -- enough that we are willing to die -- is love beyond anything we have ever experienced (or can even imagine). But such is the love that God has for each and every one of us. May that love motivate you to respond to the one who has given up so much just for you.
Verses
2 Corinthians 1:20
For, many as were the promises of God, in Christ is the 'Yes' that fulfils them. Therefore, through Christ again, let the 'Amen' rise, through us, to the glory of God.
Exodus 15:26
"If you will listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in his sight, obeying his commands and laws, then I will not make you suffer the diseases I sent on the Egyptians; for I am the LORD who heals you."
Deuteronomy 5:29
`Oh, that they had such a heart in them that they would fear Me and always keep all My commandments, that it might be well with them and with their children forever!
Colossians 4:2
Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving;
Prayer
Jesus, You know the very intention of all that I say and do. As I invite You to examine my heart, I lay before You the people and pursuits that drive me further away from a heart of worship. You have not removed me bodily from this world, but You have raised me up spiritually to abide in Your presence even as I carry out my daily duties. As Your presence graciously overshadows me it is there that Your love and faithfulness sustains me and gives me a true heart of worship. Even as a vehicle needs fuel to properly function, I need prayer to uphold and equip me for the day that lies ahead. Amen.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Monday prayer & verses (27 04 2009)
Thought for the day
Suppose we raised our children with guidelines patterned after the Old Testament law. Instructions regarding where they can eat and where they can't might sound something like this:
Of the beasts of the field, and of the fishes of the sea, and of all foods that are acceptable in my sight you may eat, but not in the living room. Of the hoofed animals, broiled or ground into burgers, you may eat, but not in the living room.
Of the cloven-hoofed animal, plain or with cheese, you may eat,but not in the living room.
Of the cereal grains, of the corn and of the wheat and of the oats, and of all the cereals that are of bright color and unknown provenance you may eat, but not in the living room.
Of the juices and other beverages, yes, even of those insippy-cups, you may drink, but not in the living room, neither may you carry such therein.
Indeed, when you reach the place where the living room carpet begins, of any food or beverage there you may not eat, neither may you drink. But if you are sick, and are lying down and watching something, then may you eat in the living room.
When I was a child, the rule may not have been worded quite that way, but the principle was surely in place. There were places where I was forbidden to go except in extreme or unusual circumstances.
The Jews of the Old Testament were in a similar situation. There was a place forbidden to them -- that special room in the tabernacle and later the temple called the Most Holy Place, the Holy of Holies. It represented the very presence of God and the punishment for entering was nothing short of death. The only exception took place on the Day of Atonement when the high priest alone entered -- and then only after the room was filled with the smoke of incense.
One of the things Jesus did for us on the cross was to open our access into God's presence. Have you considered the significance of the tearing of the veil in the temple when Jesus was on the cross (Matt. 27:51)? What once was forbidden has now been made available!"...[W]e have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body." (Hebrews 10:19-20, NIV)
You may still be restricted from eating in the living room, but going into the presence of God is now a possibility!
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
Then don't lose your courage. There's a great reward for it. You need endurance to do what God wants and so to get what He promised.
Exodus 15:26
and He saith, `If thou dost really hearken to the voice of Jehovah thy God, and dost that which is right in His eyes, and hast hearkened to His commands, and kept all His statutes: none of the sickness which I laid on the Egyptians do I lay on thee, for I, Jehovah, am healing thee.
Ephesians 1:3
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ,
2 Corinthians 9:10
And God, who supplies seed for the sower and bread to eat, will also supply you with all the seed you need and make it grow, to produce a rich harvest from your generosity.
Prayer
Jesus, when I chose to follow You, You changed the direction of my life. I truly want to follow in Your steps because Your steps direct me in the paths of righteousness and blessing, rather than aimlessly wandering in the paths of wickedness and regret. Keep my heart faithful and my eyes fixed on the paths marked out for me on this earthly journey that will lead me to my heavenly home.
Suppose we raised our children with guidelines patterned after the Old Testament law. Instructions regarding where they can eat and where they can't might sound something like this:
Of the beasts of the field, and of the fishes of the sea, and of all foods that are acceptable in my sight you may eat, but not in the living room. Of the hoofed animals, broiled or ground into burgers, you may eat, but not in the living room.
Of the cloven-hoofed animal, plain or with cheese, you may eat,but not in the living room.
Of the cereal grains, of the corn and of the wheat and of the oats, and of all the cereals that are of bright color and unknown provenance you may eat, but not in the living room.
Of the juices and other beverages, yes, even of those insippy-cups, you may drink, but not in the living room, neither may you carry such therein.
Indeed, when you reach the place where the living room carpet begins, of any food or beverage there you may not eat, neither may you drink. But if you are sick, and are lying down and watching something, then may you eat in the living room.
When I was a child, the rule may not have been worded quite that way, but the principle was surely in place. There were places where I was forbidden to go except in extreme or unusual circumstances.
The Jews of the Old Testament were in a similar situation. There was a place forbidden to them -- that special room in the tabernacle and later the temple called the Most Holy Place, the Holy of Holies. It represented the very presence of God and the punishment for entering was nothing short of death. The only exception took place on the Day of Atonement when the high priest alone entered -- and then only after the room was filled with the smoke of incense.
One of the things Jesus did for us on the cross was to open our access into God's presence. Have you considered the significance of the tearing of the veil in the temple when Jesus was on the cross (Matt. 27:51)? What once was forbidden has now been made available!"...[W]e have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body." (Hebrews 10:19-20, NIV)
You may still be restricted from eating in the living room, but going into the presence of God is now a possibility!
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
Then don't lose your courage. There's a great reward for it. You need endurance to do what God wants and so to get what He promised.
Exodus 15:26
and He saith, `If thou dost really hearken to the voice of Jehovah thy God, and dost that which is right in His eyes, and hast hearkened to His commands, and kept all His statutes: none of the sickness which I laid on the Egyptians do I lay on thee, for I, Jehovah, am healing thee.
Ephesians 1:3
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ,
2 Corinthians 9:10
And God, who supplies seed for the sower and bread to eat, will also supply you with all the seed you need and make it grow, to produce a rich harvest from your generosity.
Prayer
Jesus, when I chose to follow You, You changed the direction of my life. I truly want to follow in Your steps because Your steps direct me in the paths of righteousness and blessing, rather than aimlessly wandering in the paths of wickedness and regret. Keep my heart faithful and my eyes fixed on the paths marked out for me on this earthly journey that will lead me to my heavenly home.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Answers from Genesis.
Many people have asked basic questions about the origins of things such as:
• "Who or what is God?"
• "What is the origin of the universe?"
• "How did life come to be?"
All these questions, and many more, are answered in the first book of the Bible, Genesis, which means origin. Here we receive God's answers about many important questions—and from Someone who was there! So let's go to this, the first book in the Bible, to find its answers to commonly asked questions.
When Genesis 1:1 says, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth," who is God?
In this first verse, we are introduced to the majestic Creator God who made the entire universe—including us. The term for God in the original language is the Hebrew word Elohim, which is a plural term that can also have a singular meaning.
In John 1 we see why the term God can mean one or more persons. Here we read: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God ... And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us ... the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth" (verses 1, 14, emphasis added throughout).
Thus the term God applies to God the Father or God the Word (who later became Jesus Christ)—or both. They can therefore act separately or together. Notice how in Genesis 1 God can be referred to by a singular personal pronoun, "He made the stars also" (Genesis 1:16). Or God can be referred to by a plural personal pronoun: "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness" (Genesis 1:26).
Both the Father and the One who became Christ were involved in creation—the second acting on behalf of the first. Hebrews 1:1-2 says, "God ... has in these last days spoken to us by His Son...through whom also He made the worlds." We thus see that God the Father created the universe through the preincarnate Jesus Christ (see also Ephesians 3:9).
Does the description in Genesis 1:1 fit with scientific explanations of the universe?
Yes, it does. Many scientists, through numerous lines of evidence, have come to accept the "Big Bang" theory of the universe in which the universe has a starting point. This indicates that nothing physical existed previous to that instant. According to this model, the universe is now expanding from that initial moment and even the background radiation from the original "explosion" can still be detected.
George S. Johnston sums it up well: "The book of Genesis has held up well under the scrutiny of modern geology and archaeology. Twentieth-century physics, moreover, describes the beginning of the universe in virtually the same cosmological terms as Genesis. Space, time and matter came out of nothing in a single burst of light entirely hospitable to carbon-based life. A growing number of chemists and biologists agree that life had its origin from clay templates... I would say all this is a curious development for Darwinists" (Reader's Digest, May 1991, p. 31).
Even without the Big Bang model, the laws of thermodynamics—fundamental laws of the physical sciences—also indicate that the universe had a beginning. The first law states that the amount of mass-energy in the universe is constant. The second law states that the amount of energy available for work is running out.
Taken together, they require that the universe had a beginning with much usable energy from which it is now running down. Both the Big Bang theory and the laws of thermodynamics are in harmony with Genesis 1:1.
While the New International Version of the Bible translates Genesis 1:2 to say that "the earth was formless and empty," why does it have a footnote stating that the word "was" here could be "become"?
The original Hebrew for "formless and empty" (tohu and bohu)—"without form, and void" in the King James Version—literally means "chaotic and in confusion." When God originally created the heavens and the earth, they were a thing of beauty.
Of the earth, Scripture elsewhere says that God "did not create it in vain [tohu ]" (Isaiah 45:18). We read in Job 38:4-7 that the angels shouted for joy at the sight. But we also read in the Bible that Lucifer, one of the chief angels, rebelled against God and was cast down to the earth (Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:14-17; Luke 10:18).
It then appears that the earth became a wasteland due to Satan's rebellion, and God had to renew the face of the earth, as we read in Psalm 104:30: "You send forth Your Spirit, they are created; and You renew the face of the earth." The following verses in Genesis 1 reveal God raising the continents to the surface and filling them with vegetation and living creatures through six days of work.
Do plants and animals really reproduce according to their "kind," as Genesis 1 says, or did they evolve as the theory of evolution teaches?
Darwinian evolution, as taught in schools, claims all plants and animals evolved from tiny, primitive ancestors. This theory asks us to believe that microscopic kinds of creatures, such as amoebas, eventually evolved into fish, then amphibians, then birds, then mammals and finally human beings!
Yet this is directly contradicted by the scientific law of biogenesis, which has never been known to fail! It states that 1) living matter comes only from living matter and 2) living things reproduce only according to their own kind. In other words, chickens produce eggs that produce more chickens—not some other type of creature.
Changes within a species, which can be called microevolution, do indeed occur. But macroevolution, or the change from one animal kind to another, has never been verified in nature.
So apple trees keep producing apples, lions give birth to lions, bears engender more bears, and rabbits keep making rabbits—and plenty of them. So in this regard, science actually backs the Bible and not evolution!
What is meant by the statement that God created man and woman in His own image?
Genesis 1:27 says, "So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him, male and female He created them."
This means that both man and woman reflect God—that is, they are like God in some ways because "we are the offspring of God" (Acts 17:29). Indeed, it should be noted that the first man, Adam, later begets a son in his own image and likeness (Genesis 5:1-3).
Scriptures indicate that we share some of the same characteristics of God our Father, only in a more limited way. Some of our similarities include our general shape, having dominion (rulership) over the earth, and the ability to think and communicate on far higher levels than animals.
In short, being created in God's image is what makes us human and of a different "kind" than animals. While the theory of evolution describes early man as only being capable of crude grunts, the first chapters of the book of Genesis show Adam and Eve immediately after their creation being able to name the animals, communicate in complete sentences and reason for themselves whether to obey God's instruction to not eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
Being made in God's image also indicates the ultimate purpose for which human beings were made.
Amazingly, humankind was created to be of the "God kind." Although God has made us physical beings for now, His ultimate desire is that all men and women accept His authority over their lives and eventually become part of His eternal family as His literal children (John 1:12; 2 Corinthians 6:18).
• "Who or what is God?"
• "What is the origin of the universe?"
• "How did life come to be?"
All these questions, and many more, are answered in the first book of the Bible, Genesis, which means origin. Here we receive God's answers about many important questions—and from Someone who was there! So let's go to this, the first book in the Bible, to find its answers to commonly asked questions.
When Genesis 1:1 says, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth," who is God?
In this first verse, we are introduced to the majestic Creator God who made the entire universe—including us. The term for God in the original language is the Hebrew word Elohim, which is a plural term that can also have a singular meaning.
In John 1 we see why the term God can mean one or more persons. Here we read: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God ... And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us ... the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth" (verses 1, 14, emphasis added throughout).
Thus the term God applies to God the Father or God the Word (who later became Jesus Christ)—or both. They can therefore act separately or together. Notice how in Genesis 1 God can be referred to by a singular personal pronoun, "He made the stars also" (Genesis 1:16). Or God can be referred to by a plural personal pronoun: "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness" (Genesis 1:26).
Both the Father and the One who became Christ were involved in creation—the second acting on behalf of the first. Hebrews 1:1-2 says, "God ... has in these last days spoken to us by His Son...through whom also He made the worlds." We thus see that God the Father created the universe through the preincarnate Jesus Christ (see also Ephesians 3:9).
Does the description in Genesis 1:1 fit with scientific explanations of the universe?
Yes, it does. Many scientists, through numerous lines of evidence, have come to accept the "Big Bang" theory of the universe in which the universe has a starting point. This indicates that nothing physical existed previous to that instant. According to this model, the universe is now expanding from that initial moment and even the background radiation from the original "explosion" can still be detected.
George S. Johnston sums it up well: "The book of Genesis has held up well under the scrutiny of modern geology and archaeology. Twentieth-century physics, moreover, describes the beginning of the universe in virtually the same cosmological terms as Genesis. Space, time and matter came out of nothing in a single burst of light entirely hospitable to carbon-based life. A growing number of chemists and biologists agree that life had its origin from clay templates... I would say all this is a curious development for Darwinists" (Reader's Digest, May 1991, p. 31).
Even without the Big Bang model, the laws of thermodynamics—fundamental laws of the physical sciences—also indicate that the universe had a beginning. The first law states that the amount of mass-energy in the universe is constant. The second law states that the amount of energy available for work is running out.
Taken together, they require that the universe had a beginning with much usable energy from which it is now running down. Both the Big Bang theory and the laws of thermodynamics are in harmony with Genesis 1:1.
While the New International Version of the Bible translates Genesis 1:2 to say that "the earth was formless and empty," why does it have a footnote stating that the word "was" here could be "become"?
The original Hebrew for "formless and empty" (tohu and bohu)—"without form, and void" in the King James Version—literally means "chaotic and in confusion." When God originally created the heavens and the earth, they were a thing of beauty.
Of the earth, Scripture elsewhere says that God "did not create it in vain [tohu ]" (Isaiah 45:18). We read in Job 38:4-7 that the angels shouted for joy at the sight. But we also read in the Bible that Lucifer, one of the chief angels, rebelled against God and was cast down to the earth (Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:14-17; Luke 10:18).
It then appears that the earth became a wasteland due to Satan's rebellion, and God had to renew the face of the earth, as we read in Psalm 104:30: "You send forth Your Spirit, they are created; and You renew the face of the earth." The following verses in Genesis 1 reveal God raising the continents to the surface and filling them with vegetation and living creatures through six days of work.
Do plants and animals really reproduce according to their "kind," as Genesis 1 says, or did they evolve as the theory of evolution teaches?
Darwinian evolution, as taught in schools, claims all plants and animals evolved from tiny, primitive ancestors. This theory asks us to believe that microscopic kinds of creatures, such as amoebas, eventually evolved into fish, then amphibians, then birds, then mammals and finally human beings!
Yet this is directly contradicted by the scientific law of biogenesis, which has never been known to fail! It states that 1) living matter comes only from living matter and 2) living things reproduce only according to their own kind. In other words, chickens produce eggs that produce more chickens—not some other type of creature.
Changes within a species, which can be called microevolution, do indeed occur. But macroevolution, or the change from one animal kind to another, has never been verified in nature.
So apple trees keep producing apples, lions give birth to lions, bears engender more bears, and rabbits keep making rabbits—and plenty of them. So in this regard, science actually backs the Bible and not evolution!
What is meant by the statement that God created man and woman in His own image?
Genesis 1:27 says, "So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him, male and female He created them."
This means that both man and woman reflect God—that is, they are like God in some ways because "we are the offspring of God" (Acts 17:29). Indeed, it should be noted that the first man, Adam, later begets a son in his own image and likeness (Genesis 5:1-3).
Scriptures indicate that we share some of the same characteristics of God our Father, only in a more limited way. Some of our similarities include our general shape, having dominion (rulership) over the earth, and the ability to think and communicate on far higher levels than animals.
In short, being created in God's image is what makes us human and of a different "kind" than animals. While the theory of evolution describes early man as only being capable of crude grunts, the first chapters of the book of Genesis show Adam and Eve immediately after their creation being able to name the animals, communicate in complete sentences and reason for themselves whether to obey God's instruction to not eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
Being made in God's image also indicates the ultimate purpose for which human beings were made.
Amazingly, humankind was created to be of the "God kind." Although God has made us physical beings for now, His ultimate desire is that all men and women accept His authority over their lives and eventually become part of His eternal family as His literal children (John 1:12; 2 Corinthians 6:18).
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (24 04 2009)
Thought for the day
In view of the trials that so many are going through right now (both as individuals and as a nation), I thought it would be appropriate to share the following with you. It serves as a reminder that while we may not fully understand why terrible things happen, we can know what God hopes to accomplish with even the worst of tragedies.
Some time ago, a few ladies met to read the scriptures. While reading the third chapter of Malachi they came upon a remarkable expression in the third verse: "And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.
"One lady's opinion was that it was intended to convey the view of the sanctifying influence of the grace of Christ. Then she proposed to visit a silversmith and report to her friends what he said on the subject. She went accordingly and without telling the objective of her errand, begged to know the process of refining silver, which he fully described to her.
"But, sir," she said, "Do you sit while the work of refining is going on?"
"Oh, yes, madam," replied the silversmith,
"I must sit with my eye steadily fixed on the furnace, for if the time necessary for refining is exceeded in the slightest degree, the silver will be injured."
The lady at once saw the beauty, and comfort too, of the expression, "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." Christ sees it needful to put His children into a furnace. His eye is steadily intent on the work of purifying, and His wisdom and love are both engaged in the best manner for them.....
As the lady was leaving the shop, the silversmith called her back, and said that he had one more thing further to mention, that he only knows when the process of purifying is complete, by seeing his own image reflected in the silver.
"And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." (2 Cor. 3:18, NIV).May the events of this past week (and all the other trials that we face) serve to draw us closer to the image of the One who made us and sustains us.
Verses
Mark 5:34
But he said to her, "Daughter, it is your faith that has healed you. Go home in peace, and be free from your trouble."
1 Corinthians 6:20
For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.
Galatians 6:6
He who is taught God's Word should share the good things he has with his teacher.
Matthew 21:22
And all things for which you shall ask in prayer, if you believe that you will get them, you will receive."
Psalm 112:1,3
Alleluia. Happy the man who fears the LORD, who greatly delights in his commands. Wealth and riches shall be in his house; his generosity shall endure forever.
Prayer
Jesus, help me to determine in my heart that Your words, “Follow Me” will far surpass the importance of any other mission I am called to in my life time. I pray that my goals, achievements, and ambitions never conflict with the major calling You have placed on my life. Lord, may all that I pursue establish for me a firm foundation where my faith will grow and where I bring glory to Your name, both in life and in death.
In view of the trials that so many are going through right now (both as individuals and as a nation), I thought it would be appropriate to share the following with you. It serves as a reminder that while we may not fully understand why terrible things happen, we can know what God hopes to accomplish with even the worst of tragedies.
Some time ago, a few ladies met to read the scriptures. While reading the third chapter of Malachi they came upon a remarkable expression in the third verse: "And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.
"One lady's opinion was that it was intended to convey the view of the sanctifying influence of the grace of Christ. Then she proposed to visit a silversmith and report to her friends what he said on the subject. She went accordingly and without telling the objective of her errand, begged to know the process of refining silver, which he fully described to her.
"But, sir," she said, "Do you sit while the work of refining is going on?"
"Oh, yes, madam," replied the silversmith,
"I must sit with my eye steadily fixed on the furnace, for if the time necessary for refining is exceeded in the slightest degree, the silver will be injured."
The lady at once saw the beauty, and comfort too, of the expression, "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." Christ sees it needful to put His children into a furnace. His eye is steadily intent on the work of purifying, and His wisdom and love are both engaged in the best manner for them.....
As the lady was leaving the shop, the silversmith called her back, and said that he had one more thing further to mention, that he only knows when the process of purifying is complete, by seeing his own image reflected in the silver.
"And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." (2 Cor. 3:18, NIV).May the events of this past week (and all the other trials that we face) serve to draw us closer to the image of the One who made us and sustains us.
Verses
Mark 5:34
But he said to her, "Daughter, it is your faith that has healed you. Go home in peace, and be free from your trouble."
1 Corinthians 6:20
For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.
Galatians 6:6
He who is taught God's Word should share the good things he has with his teacher.
Matthew 21:22
And all things for which you shall ask in prayer, if you believe that you will get them, you will receive."
Psalm 112:1,3
Alleluia. Happy the man who fears the LORD, who greatly delights in his commands. Wealth and riches shall be in his house; his generosity shall endure forever.
Prayer
Jesus, help me to determine in my heart that Your words, “Follow Me” will far surpass the importance of any other mission I am called to in my life time. I pray that my goals, achievements, and ambitions never conflict with the major calling You have placed on my life. Lord, may all that I pursue establish for me a firm foundation where my faith will grow and where I bring glory to Your name, both in life and in death.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (23 04 2009)
Thought for the day
Little Betsy had faithfully attended baptism classes. Her mother, wanting to be sure her daughter understood its significance, asked,
"Honey, what does baptism mean?"
"Well, it isn't the water that makes you clean … " she began.
Smiling, Mother thought, Yes, she understands."
… it's the soap."Well, Betsy was at least half right. Baptism is indeed the point at which the sins of a penitent sinner are washed away (Acts 22:16), but it's not the water itself that makes you clean. Paul makes reference to the cleansing that comes in "the washing of water by the word." (Eph. 5:26). Jesus, himself, spoke of the new birth as being "born of the water and the Spirit" (John 3:3,5). But there is no regenerational power in the water itself.
No, the power of baptism is the blood of Jesus Christ. As John acknowledged in the opening of his Revelation: "To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood." (Rev. 1:5).
Does that detract from the value of baptism? Not at all. Baptism is no less important. It just means that the power of baptism is found not in the water, but in the blood of Jesus Christ. That's why Paul connects the two so closely in Romans 6:"Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death..." (Romans 6:3-4). Separating baptism from the blood of Jesus Christ is like separating the chassis of a car from its motor. A car is useless without a motor -- that's where the power is! And baptism is worthless without the blood of Jesus -- that's where the power is!
What a beautiful symbol baptism is of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Rom. 6:4-5). Thanks be to God for the cleansing that comes at the point of baptism, but greater thanks indeed for the blood of Jesus Christ which provides the power for that cleansing!
Verses
1 John 5:4
because every child of God conquers the world, and our faith in God is what has conquered it.
Mark 9:23
Jesus said to him, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes."
James 1:17
Every gift which is good, and every perfect boon, is from above, and comes down from the Father, who is the source of all Light. In Him there is no variation nor the slightest suggestion of change.
1 Thessalonians 5:17
Always keep on praying.
Isaiah 1:19
If you will give ear to my word and do it, the good things of the land will be yours;
Prayer
Jesus, as I exchange places with Peter today I hear the same question, “Do you truly love me more than these?” As I contemplate what “these” things are in my life I want my love and devotion for You to exceed anyone or anything that I value in this life. In searching my heart this day I lay before You anything that would conflict or compete with Your supreme control of my life. I yield my affections to You, my Lord and Master. In loving You more than these my primary allegiance is to You and the Kingdom of God. May my actions be a reflection of my words, I pray. Amen.
Little Betsy had faithfully attended baptism classes. Her mother, wanting to be sure her daughter understood its significance, asked,
"Honey, what does baptism mean?"
"Well, it isn't the water that makes you clean … " she began.
Smiling, Mother thought, Yes, she understands."
… it's the soap."Well, Betsy was at least half right. Baptism is indeed the point at which the sins of a penitent sinner are washed away (Acts 22:16), but it's not the water itself that makes you clean. Paul makes reference to the cleansing that comes in "the washing of water by the word." (Eph. 5:26). Jesus, himself, spoke of the new birth as being "born of the water and the Spirit" (John 3:3,5). But there is no regenerational power in the water itself.
No, the power of baptism is the blood of Jesus Christ. As John acknowledged in the opening of his Revelation: "To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood." (Rev. 1:5).
Does that detract from the value of baptism? Not at all. Baptism is no less important. It just means that the power of baptism is found not in the water, but in the blood of Jesus Christ. That's why Paul connects the two so closely in Romans 6:"Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death..." (Romans 6:3-4). Separating baptism from the blood of Jesus Christ is like separating the chassis of a car from its motor. A car is useless without a motor -- that's where the power is! And baptism is worthless without the blood of Jesus -- that's where the power is!
What a beautiful symbol baptism is of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Rom. 6:4-5). Thanks be to God for the cleansing that comes at the point of baptism, but greater thanks indeed for the blood of Jesus Christ which provides the power for that cleansing!
Verses
1 John 5:4
because every child of God conquers the world, and our faith in God is what has conquered it.
Mark 9:23
Jesus said to him, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes."
James 1:17
Every gift which is good, and every perfect boon, is from above, and comes down from the Father, who is the source of all Light. In Him there is no variation nor the slightest suggestion of change.
1 Thessalonians 5:17
Always keep on praying.
Isaiah 1:19
If you will give ear to my word and do it, the good things of the land will be yours;
Prayer
Jesus, as I exchange places with Peter today I hear the same question, “Do you truly love me more than these?” As I contemplate what “these” things are in my life I want my love and devotion for You to exceed anyone or anything that I value in this life. In searching my heart this day I lay before You anything that would conflict or compete with Your supreme control of my life. I yield my affections to You, my Lord and Master. In loving You more than these my primary allegiance is to You and the Kingdom of God. May my actions be a reflection of my words, I pray. Amen.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Wednesday prayer & verses (22 04 2009)
Thought for the day
I thought you would enjoy the following list of "Rules and Regulations for Teachers in 1872":
1. Teachers each day will fill lamps, clean chimneys, and trim wicks.
2. Each teacher will bring a bucket of water and scuttle of coal for the day's sessions.
3. Make your pens carefully: you may whittle nibs to the individual taste of pupils.
4. Men teachers may take one evening each week for courting purposes, or two evenings a week if they go to church regularly.
5. After 10 hours in school, the teachers spend the remaining time reading the Bible or other good books.
6. Women teachers who marry or engage in unseemly conduct will be dismissed.
7. Each teacher should lay aside from each pay a goodly sum of his earnings for his benefit during his declining years so that he will not become a burden on society.
8. Any teacher who smokes, uses liquor in any form, frequents pool or public halls, or get shaved in a barber shop will give good reason to suspect his worth, intentions, integrity and honesty.
9. The teacher who performs his labors faithfully and without fault for five years will be given an increase of 25 cents per week in his pay, providing the Board of Education approves.
I was intrigued by the wording of #9 above.
It sounded somewhat familiar to me. Then it dawned on me that there is a similarity to what Jesus had to say to the seven churches of Asia Minor in Revelation 2 and 3.
"Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life." (Rev.2:10b)"...[T]hey shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels." (Rev. 3:4-5)
There are a couple of significant differences, though, between the promise given to teachers in 1872 and the promises given by Jesus. Jesus doesn't require that we live "without fault" (and oh, how I'm thankful for that!). The reward that Jesus promises is considerably better than 25 cents for every five years of service (and I'm thankful for that as well!). And it's not a matter of gaining the approval of a group of men. The only approval that matters is the smile we'll see on our Father's face.
Father, thank you for the promises that you have given -- not just the promise of a crown or of white garments, but the promise of an opportunity to be in your presence, to be held in your arms. I don't live before you "without fault", so I thank you for your grace as I seek to live faithfully as your child. I commit all that I am and all that I have to be used in your service. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Verses
1 John 5:4
because every child of God conquers the world, and our faith in God is what has conquered it.
Exodus 23:25
And ye shall serve Jehovah your God; and he shall bless thy bread and thy water; and I will take sickness away from thy midst.
Psalm 34:1
I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
Matthew 7:7
"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.
Psalm 35:27
Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant.
Prayer
Father, if You care for the lilies of the field that neither labor nor spin, and You clothe the grass of the field, which is here today and yet tomorrow is mowed down how much more will You care for us who are made in Your own image. You desire our fellowship, our devotion, and our reliance on You for all our needs, for You delight in providing everything we have need of.
I thought you would enjoy the following list of "Rules and Regulations for Teachers in 1872":
1. Teachers each day will fill lamps, clean chimneys, and trim wicks.
2. Each teacher will bring a bucket of water and scuttle of coal for the day's sessions.
3. Make your pens carefully: you may whittle nibs to the individual taste of pupils.
4. Men teachers may take one evening each week for courting purposes, or two evenings a week if they go to church regularly.
5. After 10 hours in school, the teachers spend the remaining time reading the Bible or other good books.
6. Women teachers who marry or engage in unseemly conduct will be dismissed.
7. Each teacher should lay aside from each pay a goodly sum of his earnings for his benefit during his declining years so that he will not become a burden on society.
8. Any teacher who smokes, uses liquor in any form, frequents pool or public halls, or get shaved in a barber shop will give good reason to suspect his worth, intentions, integrity and honesty.
9. The teacher who performs his labors faithfully and without fault for five years will be given an increase of 25 cents per week in his pay, providing the Board of Education approves.
I was intrigued by the wording of #9 above.
It sounded somewhat familiar to me. Then it dawned on me that there is a similarity to what Jesus had to say to the seven churches of Asia Minor in Revelation 2 and 3.
"Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life." (Rev.2:10b)"...[T]hey shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels." (Rev. 3:4-5)
There are a couple of significant differences, though, between the promise given to teachers in 1872 and the promises given by Jesus. Jesus doesn't require that we live "without fault" (and oh, how I'm thankful for that!). The reward that Jesus promises is considerably better than 25 cents for every five years of service (and I'm thankful for that as well!). And it's not a matter of gaining the approval of a group of men. The only approval that matters is the smile we'll see on our Father's face.
Father, thank you for the promises that you have given -- not just the promise of a crown or of white garments, but the promise of an opportunity to be in your presence, to be held in your arms. I don't live before you "without fault", so I thank you for your grace as I seek to live faithfully as your child. I commit all that I am and all that I have to be used in your service. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Verses
1 John 5:4
because every child of God conquers the world, and our faith in God is what has conquered it.
Exodus 23:25
And ye shall serve Jehovah your God; and he shall bless thy bread and thy water; and I will take sickness away from thy midst.
Psalm 34:1
I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
Matthew 7:7
"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.
Psalm 35:27
Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant.
Prayer
Father, if You care for the lilies of the field that neither labor nor spin, and You clothe the grass of the field, which is here today and yet tomorrow is mowed down how much more will You care for us who are made in Your own image. You desire our fellowship, our devotion, and our reliance on You for all our needs, for You delight in providing everything we have need of.
Tuesday prayer & verses (21 04 2009)
Thought for the day
This story was told by a chemistry teacher at school. A female student wanted to make some potassium hydroxide solution (aqueous) and decided to throw a large lump of potassium into a bucket of water.
Out of the corner of his eye, her professor observed what she was about to do and hurried toward her. After confirming what she was intending to do, he asked her to first stir the water in the bucket for five minutes before adding the potassium.
She was puzzled and asked the purpose of this action. “It will give me time to get away,” said the professor.
There are times when running away is the proper response. In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul said to “Flee sexual immorality” (I Cor. 6:18) and “Flee from idolatry.” (I Cor. 10:14). Fleeing is especially important when we encounter temptation. We sometimes make the mistake of putting ourselves in situations where we are tempted, thinking that we are strong enough to handle it. Sometimes we are, but often we are not.
Remember when Joseph was tempted by Potiphar’s wife? She “cast longing eyes on Joseph and she said, ‘Lie with me.’” (Gen. 39:7). Joseph refused to commit adultery with her, but she persisted to the point that finally Joseph needed to flee. “He left his garment in her hand, and fled outside.” (Gen. 39:12).
There may not be a Potiphar’s wife in your life, but there is likely some temptation which you find difficult to resist. If alcohol is your temptation, flee. Make a decision to avoid people and places where alcohol will be readily available. If sexual impurity with a boyfriend or girlfriend is a temptation, flee. Make a decision to avoid situations where you are alone and the temptation is stronger. If inappropriate use of your money is a temptation, flee. Stay away from the mall!
The worst mistake any of us can make is to think that “I can handle it. I know this is a strong temptation but I won’t give in. I’ll hang around close, but I won’t cross the line.” The real question we need to consider is this: “Who (or what) do we want to stay close to?” Because fleeing is not just running away from something; it is also running toward something.“But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.” (I Timothy 6:11)
Father, more than anything in this world I desire to be close to you. Help me to flee from those things which tend to pull me away from you, and draw me close. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Verses
1 John 5:4
because every child of God is victor over the godless world. The victory that defeats the world is our faith,
Isaiah 53:5
But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.
James 1:19
My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,
Romans 12:12
Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and prayerful always.
Prayer
Father, as You awakened me in the night with the recurring thought, “Ponder anew what the Almighty can do” it brought me to my knees in prayer. There are so many ways that You influence our lives through Your teaching, Your healing, Your companionship, Your provision, Your guidance, and Your everlasting hope. I pray for our readers today that You would revive their hearts as they ponder Your mighty works, Your miraculous ways and follow Your leading. Just as the angel told your servant Mary, “Nothing is impossible with God” who are we to limit Your power or wisdom through our vain thinking or lack of faith. We want to fully trust You to guide us according to Your will. Amen
This story was told by a chemistry teacher at school. A female student wanted to make some potassium hydroxide solution (aqueous) and decided to throw a large lump of potassium into a bucket of water.
Out of the corner of his eye, her professor observed what she was about to do and hurried toward her. After confirming what she was intending to do, he asked her to first stir the water in the bucket for five minutes before adding the potassium.
She was puzzled and asked the purpose of this action. “It will give me time to get away,” said the professor.
There are times when running away is the proper response. In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul said to “Flee sexual immorality” (I Cor. 6:18) and “Flee from idolatry.” (I Cor. 10:14). Fleeing is especially important when we encounter temptation. We sometimes make the mistake of putting ourselves in situations where we are tempted, thinking that we are strong enough to handle it. Sometimes we are, but often we are not.
Remember when Joseph was tempted by Potiphar’s wife? She “cast longing eyes on Joseph and she said, ‘Lie with me.’” (Gen. 39:7). Joseph refused to commit adultery with her, but she persisted to the point that finally Joseph needed to flee. “He left his garment in her hand, and fled outside.” (Gen. 39:12).
There may not be a Potiphar’s wife in your life, but there is likely some temptation which you find difficult to resist. If alcohol is your temptation, flee. Make a decision to avoid people and places where alcohol will be readily available. If sexual impurity with a boyfriend or girlfriend is a temptation, flee. Make a decision to avoid situations where you are alone and the temptation is stronger. If inappropriate use of your money is a temptation, flee. Stay away from the mall!
The worst mistake any of us can make is to think that “I can handle it. I know this is a strong temptation but I won’t give in. I’ll hang around close, but I won’t cross the line.” The real question we need to consider is this: “Who (or what) do we want to stay close to?” Because fleeing is not just running away from something; it is also running toward something.“But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.” (I Timothy 6:11)
Father, more than anything in this world I desire to be close to you. Help me to flee from those things which tend to pull me away from you, and draw me close. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Verses
1 John 5:4
because every child of God is victor over the godless world. The victory that defeats the world is our faith,
Isaiah 53:5
But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.
James 1:19
My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,
Romans 12:12
Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and prayerful always.
Prayer
Father, as You awakened me in the night with the recurring thought, “Ponder anew what the Almighty can do” it brought me to my knees in prayer. There are so many ways that You influence our lives through Your teaching, Your healing, Your companionship, Your provision, Your guidance, and Your everlasting hope. I pray for our readers today that You would revive their hearts as they ponder Your mighty works, Your miraculous ways and follow Your leading. Just as the angel told your servant Mary, “Nothing is impossible with God” who are we to limit Your power or wisdom through our vain thinking or lack of faith. We want to fully trust You to guide us according to Your will. Amen
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Family
F A M I L Y
I ran into a stranger as he passed by, 'Oh excuse me please' was my reply.
He said, 'Please excuse me too; I wasn't watching for you.'
We were very polite, this stranger and I.
We went on our way and we said goodbye.
But at home a different story is told, How we treat our loved ones, young and old.
Later that day, cooking the evening meal, My son stood beside me very still..
When I turned, I nearly knocked him down.
'Move out of the way,' I said with a frown. He walked away, his little heart broken..
I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken.
While I lay awake in bed, God's still small voice came to me and said,
'While dealing with a stranger, common courtesy you use, but the family you love, you seem to abuse.
Go and look on the kitchen floor, You'll find some flowers there by the door.
Those are the flowers he brought for you.
He picked them himself: pink, yellow and blue.
He stood very quietly not to spoil the surprise, you never saw the tears that filled his little eyes.'
By this time, I felt very small, And now my tears began to fall.
I quietly went and knelt by his bed; 'Wake up, little one, wake up,' I said.
'Are these the flowers you picked for me?'
He smiled, 'I found 'em, out by the tree.
I picked 'em because they're pretty like you.
I knew you'd like 'em, especially the blue.'
I said, 'Son, I'm very sorry for the way I acted today;
I shouldn't have yelled at you that way.'
He said, 'Oh, Mom, that's okay. I love you anyway.'
I said, 'Son, I love you too, and I do like the flowers, especially the blue.'
FAMILY
Are you aware that if we died tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days. But the family we left behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more into work than into our own family, an unwise investment indeed, don't you think? So what is behind the story?
Do you know what the word FAMILY means? FAMILY = (F)ATHER (A)ND (M)OTHER (I) (L)OVE (Y)OU
I ran into a stranger as he passed by, 'Oh excuse me please' was my reply.
He said, 'Please excuse me too; I wasn't watching for you.'
We were very polite, this stranger and I.
We went on our way and we said goodbye.
But at home a different story is told, How we treat our loved ones, young and old.
Later that day, cooking the evening meal, My son stood beside me very still..
When I turned, I nearly knocked him down.
'Move out of the way,' I said with a frown. He walked away, his little heart broken..
I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken.
While I lay awake in bed, God's still small voice came to me and said,
'While dealing with a stranger, common courtesy you use, but the family you love, you seem to abuse.
Go and look on the kitchen floor, You'll find some flowers there by the door.
Those are the flowers he brought for you.
He picked them himself: pink, yellow and blue.
He stood very quietly not to spoil the surprise, you never saw the tears that filled his little eyes.'
By this time, I felt very small, And now my tears began to fall.
I quietly went and knelt by his bed; 'Wake up, little one, wake up,' I said.
'Are these the flowers you picked for me?'
He smiled, 'I found 'em, out by the tree.
I picked 'em because they're pretty like you.
I knew you'd like 'em, especially the blue.'
I said, 'Son, I'm very sorry for the way I acted today;
I shouldn't have yelled at you that way.'
He said, 'Oh, Mom, that's okay. I love you anyway.'
I said, 'Son, I love you too, and I do like the flowers, especially the blue.'
FAMILY
Are you aware that if we died tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days. But the family we left behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more into work than into our own family, an unwise investment indeed, don't you think? So what is behind the story?
Do you know what the word FAMILY means? FAMILY = (F)ATHER (A)ND (M)OTHER (I) (L)OVE (Y)OU
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Spreading the Word of God.
Hi all,
I would just like to share something that happened to me last night after prayer, it came clear to me that I should tell people to do what I will explain with me. And this is to start do something that will tell people in a simple manner what God and Jesus is all about as well as spreading the Word of God.
And how to do this so that millions of people will read that God loves them, Jesus loves them, that God is awesome etc. And how will you be able to do that without handing out flyers etc., well it is easy - all the paper MONEY you handle everyday shopping with to write a scripture on it not the whole scripture but just the book and verse e.g. Isaiah 54:17 and then on another clear piece something such as God loves you, God is an awesome God etc.
The scripture must be different for each note and must be written on both sides, it is human that people are nosy and believe me the scriptures will be read and if it is not read at least the people will know that God loves them etc. I am sure that if we do this we will be Blessed by God and we will receive His Favor. And just imagine if this mail travels around the world the impact it is going to have, just think even the poor will be able with the little they have to read that God is awesome/ God loves them etc.
So I would like to ask each and everyone reading this to send this along to friends and family and then before you send it to add your name to the list and when your name is at every 100th name (100, 200, 300 etc) to send the list back to me. This is so that I can use it in my prayer room to pray over it, just lastly just imagine God’s Word flowing through millions of people’s hands daily and them reading daily how awesome he is.
Please if you work at a firm that have the facility to send an mail to ALL in your company, please refrain from doing that because it causes trouble and that is not what I intended with this mail.
Name Country Message
1. Leon Potgieter South Africa God is an awesome God
I would just like to share something that happened to me last night after prayer, it came clear to me that I should tell people to do what I will explain with me. And this is to start do something that will tell people in a simple manner what God and Jesus is all about as well as spreading the Word of God.
And how to do this so that millions of people will read that God loves them, Jesus loves them, that God is awesome etc. And how will you be able to do that without handing out flyers etc., well it is easy - all the paper MONEY you handle everyday shopping with to write a scripture on it not the whole scripture but just the book and verse e.g. Isaiah 54:17 and then on another clear piece something such as God loves you, God is an awesome God etc.
The scripture must be different for each note and must be written on both sides, it is human that people are nosy and believe me the scriptures will be read and if it is not read at least the people will know that God loves them etc. I am sure that if we do this we will be Blessed by God and we will receive His Favor. And just imagine if this mail travels around the world the impact it is going to have, just think even the poor will be able with the little they have to read that God is awesome/ God loves them etc.
So I would like to ask each and everyone reading this to send this along to friends and family and then before you send it to add your name to the list and when your name is at every 100th name (100, 200, 300 etc) to send the list back to me. This is so that I can use it in my prayer room to pray over it, just lastly just imagine God’s Word flowing through millions of people’s hands daily and them reading daily how awesome he is.
Please if you work at a firm that have the facility to send an mail to ALL in your company, please refrain from doing that because it causes trouble and that is not what I intended with this mail.
Name Country Message
1. Leon Potgieter South Africa God is an awesome God
Friday prayer & verses (17 04 2009)
Thought for the day
Jeremy was not a normal child. He had a terminal illness which affected both his body and his mind. Still, his parents had tried to give him as normal a life as possible and had sent him to a religious elementary school. At the age of 12, Jeremy was only in second grade, seemingly unable to learn. He was a frustration to his teacher and to all the children in the class.
Springtime came, and the children talked excitedly about the coming of Easter. Their teacher told them the story of Jesus, and then to emphasize the idea of new life springing forth, she gave each of the children a large plastic egg with this assignment: "I want you to take this home and bring it back tomorrow with something inside that shows new life. Do you understand?"
All the children responded enthusiastically, "Yes, Miss Miller!"
All of them, that is, except for Jeremy. He just listened carefully, his eyes never leaving the teacher's face. Had he understood what she had said about Jesus' death and resurrection?
Did he understand the assignment? The teacher thought perhaps she should call his parents and explain the project to them, but she got busy and forgot.
The next morning, 19 children came to school, laughing and talking as they placed their eggs in a large wicker basket on Miss Miller's desk. After they completed their math lesson, it was time to open the eggs. In the first egg, Miss Miller found a flower. She said, "Oh yes, a flower is certainly a sign of new life. When plants peek through the ground, we know that spring is here." A small girl in the first row waved her arms. "That's my egg, Miss Miller," she called out.
The next egg contained a plastic butterfly, which looked real. The teacher held it up. She said, "We all know that a caterpillar changes and grows into a beautiful butterfly. Yes, that is new life, too." Little Judy smiled proudly and said, "Miss Miller, that one is mine!"
Next, the teacher found a rock with moss on it. She explained that moss, too, showed life. Billy spoke up from the back of the classroom. "My daddy helped me!"
Then the teacher opened the fourth egg. But the egg was empty! Surely it must be Jeremy's, she thought, and, obviously, he didn't understand her instructions. If only she hadn't forgotten to phone his parents. Because she did not want to embarrass him, she quietly set the egg aside and reached for another.
Suddenly Jeremy spoke up. "Miss Miller, aren't you going to talk about my egg?" A bit flustered, the teacher said, "But Jeremy -- your egg is empty!" He looked into her eyes and said softly, "Yes, but Jesus' tomb was empty, too!"
Truly, the greatest symbol of new life is found in an empty tomb!
"But the angel answered and said to the women, 'Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead." (Matt. 28:5-7)"But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you." (Rom. 8:11)
May you come to know the true life which is found in Him who was responsible for that empty tomb.
Verse
Mark 5:34
He said to her, "Daughter, it is your faith that has cured you. Go in peace and be free of this illness."
1 Peter 2:24
Christ carried our sins in his body on the cross. He did this so that we would stop living for sin and start living for what is right. And we are healed because of his wounds.
Matthew 18:19
"Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven.
1 Thessalonians 5:17
Never quit praying.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Everyone should make up his mind how much he will give, and give it freely and without regret; it is the cheerful giver whom God loves.
Prayer
Father, Your Word indicates the way we interact with those outside the faith will have a positive or a negative influence on whether they choose to follow You. There appears to be no neutral mode in our lives, for we do not live unto ourselves, but regularly give account for our actions and attitudes daily. Inconsistency and double standards are ancient, effective traps Satan has set for believers. For those ensnared by this trap the unbelieving world points their accusatory finger crying, “Hypocrite!” Sadly, it is often a true characterization. May we, as Your disciples, be faithful in our walk and consistent in our talk as we serve You at home, in the workplace, in our churches, and in our sphere of influence. We do not want to disgrace the holy name of Jesus, but we want to honor His name as we glorify You in all we do. It is in Jesus’ holy name that we pray. Amen.
Jeremy was not a normal child. He had a terminal illness which affected both his body and his mind. Still, his parents had tried to give him as normal a life as possible and had sent him to a religious elementary school. At the age of 12, Jeremy was only in second grade, seemingly unable to learn. He was a frustration to his teacher and to all the children in the class.
Springtime came, and the children talked excitedly about the coming of Easter. Their teacher told them the story of Jesus, and then to emphasize the idea of new life springing forth, she gave each of the children a large plastic egg with this assignment: "I want you to take this home and bring it back tomorrow with something inside that shows new life. Do you understand?"
All the children responded enthusiastically, "Yes, Miss Miller!"
All of them, that is, except for Jeremy. He just listened carefully, his eyes never leaving the teacher's face. Had he understood what she had said about Jesus' death and resurrection?
Did he understand the assignment? The teacher thought perhaps she should call his parents and explain the project to them, but she got busy and forgot.
The next morning, 19 children came to school, laughing and talking as they placed their eggs in a large wicker basket on Miss Miller's desk. After they completed their math lesson, it was time to open the eggs. In the first egg, Miss Miller found a flower. She said, "Oh yes, a flower is certainly a sign of new life. When plants peek through the ground, we know that spring is here." A small girl in the first row waved her arms. "That's my egg, Miss Miller," she called out.
The next egg contained a plastic butterfly, which looked real. The teacher held it up. She said, "We all know that a caterpillar changes and grows into a beautiful butterfly. Yes, that is new life, too." Little Judy smiled proudly and said, "Miss Miller, that one is mine!"
Next, the teacher found a rock with moss on it. She explained that moss, too, showed life. Billy spoke up from the back of the classroom. "My daddy helped me!"
Then the teacher opened the fourth egg. But the egg was empty! Surely it must be Jeremy's, she thought, and, obviously, he didn't understand her instructions. If only she hadn't forgotten to phone his parents. Because she did not want to embarrass him, she quietly set the egg aside and reached for another.
Suddenly Jeremy spoke up. "Miss Miller, aren't you going to talk about my egg?" A bit flustered, the teacher said, "But Jeremy -- your egg is empty!" He looked into her eyes and said softly, "Yes, but Jesus' tomb was empty, too!"
Truly, the greatest symbol of new life is found in an empty tomb!
"But the angel answered and said to the women, 'Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead." (Matt. 28:5-7)"But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you." (Rom. 8:11)
May you come to know the true life which is found in Him who was responsible for that empty tomb.
Verse
Mark 5:34
He said to her, "Daughter, it is your faith that has cured you. Go in peace and be free of this illness."
1 Peter 2:24
Christ carried our sins in his body on the cross. He did this so that we would stop living for sin and start living for what is right. And we are healed because of his wounds.
Matthew 18:19
"Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven.
1 Thessalonians 5:17
Never quit praying.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Everyone should make up his mind how much he will give, and give it freely and without regret; it is the cheerful giver whom God loves.
Prayer
Father, Your Word indicates the way we interact with those outside the faith will have a positive or a negative influence on whether they choose to follow You. There appears to be no neutral mode in our lives, for we do not live unto ourselves, but regularly give account for our actions and attitudes daily. Inconsistency and double standards are ancient, effective traps Satan has set for believers. For those ensnared by this trap the unbelieving world points their accusatory finger crying, “Hypocrite!” Sadly, it is often a true characterization. May we, as Your disciples, be faithful in our walk and consistent in our talk as we serve You at home, in the workplace, in our churches, and in our sphere of influence. We do not want to disgrace the holy name of Jesus, but we want to honor His name as we glorify You in all we do. It is in Jesus’ holy name that we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (16 04 2009)
Thought for the day
After being with his blind date all evening, the man couldn't take another minute with her. Earlier, he had secretly arranged to have a friend call him to the phone so he would have an excuse to leave if something like this happened.
When he returned to the table, he lowered his eyes, put on a grim expression and said, "I have some bad news. My grandfather just died."
"Thank goodness," his date replied. "If yours hadn't, mine would have had to!"
I am so glad that I don't have to deal with the "dating scene" -- worrying about making a good first impression so that I can meet her/his expectations and trying to deal with the awkwardness of the situation if she's/he's doesn't meet my expectations. That's especially the problem with "blind dates", something I managed to avoid altogether in my dating years. You get an image in your mind of what your date is going to be like (or what you hope she's going to be like), and it often doesn't take much to shatter that misconception. Granted, your date could possibly turn out to be better than you expected, but it seldom seems to work out that way.
That was a problem that Jesus faced when he came to this earth. He should have been greeted with open arms -- after all, he was the long-awaited Messiah. The problem is that the Jews had expectations of what the Messiah would be like. For most of the Jews, that preconception involved an earthly king who would boot the Romans out of the land and assume control. In fact, they were quite prepared to make Jesus that king (John 6:15).
Even without that misconception, though, none of the Jews could imagine a Messiah hanging on a cross. So the cross became a "stumbling block" to the Jews and "foolishness" to the Greeks (I Cor. 1:23). Jesus didn't meet their expectations and they hurried to find a way to end the relationship.
Philip Yancey deals with this topic in his book "The Jesus I Never Knew". He speaks of his own misconceptions of Jesus at an early age: "I recalled the Sunday school image of Jesus that I grew up with: someone kind and reassuring, with no sharp edges at all -- a Mister Rogers before the age of children's television." Certainly Jesus was kind and reassuring, but he was so much more than that -- he was a man who was strong (physically and emotionally) and passionate.
What's important is that we allow the Gospels to define who Jesus was, and not expect him to measure up to our preconceived ideas. I challenge you to read the Gospels in a fresh light. Remove all expectations and allow the Word of God to define and shape who Jesus was. I guarantee the Messiah will turn out to be better than you expected!
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14)
Verses
1 Peter 5:7
casting upon Him all your anxiety, for He is concerned for you.
Matthew 8:17
This fulfilled the word of the Lord through Isaiah, who said, "He took our sicknesses and removed our diseases."
Galatians 6:6
The man under Christian instruction should be willing to share the good things of life with his teacher.
Mark 11:25
"And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.
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, we are thankful that there is no one who comes to You through Jesus who goes away unable to find reconciliation with You, for You save completely and to the uttermost. Because Your Son lives and intercedes for us we have renewed hope daily for the circumstances of our lives and for the people that are dear to our hearts. Fill our hearts anew with hope, encouragement and endurance as we stand upon Your Word and fully trust You to guide our lives this day. Amen.
After being with his blind date all evening, the man couldn't take another minute with her. Earlier, he had secretly arranged to have a friend call him to the phone so he would have an excuse to leave if something like this happened.
When he returned to the table, he lowered his eyes, put on a grim expression and said, "I have some bad news. My grandfather just died."
"Thank goodness," his date replied. "If yours hadn't, mine would have had to!"
I am so glad that I don't have to deal with the "dating scene" -- worrying about making a good first impression so that I can meet her/his expectations and trying to deal with the awkwardness of the situation if she's/he's doesn't meet my expectations. That's especially the problem with "blind dates", something I managed to avoid altogether in my dating years. You get an image in your mind of what your date is going to be like (or what you hope she's going to be like), and it often doesn't take much to shatter that misconception. Granted, your date could possibly turn out to be better than you expected, but it seldom seems to work out that way.
That was a problem that Jesus faced when he came to this earth. He should have been greeted with open arms -- after all, he was the long-awaited Messiah. The problem is that the Jews had expectations of what the Messiah would be like. For most of the Jews, that preconception involved an earthly king who would boot the Romans out of the land and assume control. In fact, they were quite prepared to make Jesus that king (John 6:15).
Even without that misconception, though, none of the Jews could imagine a Messiah hanging on a cross. So the cross became a "stumbling block" to the Jews and "foolishness" to the Greeks (I Cor. 1:23). Jesus didn't meet their expectations and they hurried to find a way to end the relationship.
Philip Yancey deals with this topic in his book "The Jesus I Never Knew". He speaks of his own misconceptions of Jesus at an early age: "I recalled the Sunday school image of Jesus that I grew up with: someone kind and reassuring, with no sharp edges at all -- a Mister Rogers before the age of children's television." Certainly Jesus was kind and reassuring, but he was so much more than that -- he was a man who was strong (physically and emotionally) and passionate.
What's important is that we allow the Gospels to define who Jesus was, and not expect him to measure up to our preconceived ideas. I challenge you to read the Gospels in a fresh light. Remove all expectations and allow the Word of God to define and shape who Jesus was. I guarantee the Messiah will turn out to be better than you expected!
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14)
Verses
1 Peter 5:7
casting upon Him all your anxiety, for He is concerned for you.
Matthew 8:17
This fulfilled the word of the Lord through Isaiah, who said, "He took our sicknesses and removed our diseases."
Galatians 6:6
The man under Christian instruction should be willing to share the good things of life with his teacher.
Mark 11:25
"And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.
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, we are thankful that there is no one who comes to You through Jesus who goes away unable to find reconciliation with You, for You save completely and to the uttermost. Because Your Son lives and intercedes for us we have renewed hope daily for the circumstances of our lives and for the people that are dear to our hearts. Fill our hearts anew with hope, encouragement and endurance as we stand upon Your Word and fully trust You to guide our lives this day. Amen.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Thought for the day
One day a gentleman walked into one of Ben Franklin's book stores. As one of the clerks went to assist him, the gentleman asked the clerk the price of the book he wished to purchase. The young clerk looked at the price posted on the book and said, "That book is one dollar, sir.
"The gentleman began to haggle with the clerk over the price. The clerk assured him that the correct price for the book was one dollar and no lower. As the man realized that his efforts to haggle with the clerk were going nowhere, he insisted on speaking with Ben Franklin directly.
Franklin stopped his work, walked out to the storefront and the gentleman asked,
"What is the price of this book?"
Franklin answered, "One dollar and a quarter."
The gentleman was confused and replied, "Your clerk just said it was a dollar."
Franklin looked at the book again and answered, "Yes, it was a dollar. But now you're wasting my time."
Chances are you have haggled over the price of something. Maybe you've haggled over the price of a new (or used) car. Maybe you've gone to yard sales or flea markets and haggled over some treasure you discovered. In some countries, you are expected to haggle over much of what you buy in the stores.
So, I wonder if you've ever haggled with God. I wonder if you've ever thought that God's expectations are too high, and you've tried to get God to lower his "price." I'm reminded of the rich young ruler who had a conversation with Jesus about what he must do to inherit eternal life (Luke 18:23). Though he had done much, Jesus said that one more thing was required: "You still lack one thing. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me." (Luke 18:22).
The response of the young man is sad. He turned and walked away, "for he was very rich."
What strikes me about that passage is that there is no room for haggling with Jesus. When this young man walked away, Jesus didn't go running after him and say, "No, wait, maybe I was asking a bit too much. Let's renegotiate."
No, Jesus demands our all. All that we have. All that we are. He will not settle for any less. The price is not negotiable, so don't waste God's time trying to haggle with Him.
Verse
Matthew 8:13
And Jesus said to the commander of a hundred soldiers, Be going on your way. In the manner in which you believed, let it become to you. And the servant was healed in that hour.
1 Peter 2:24
Christ carried our sins in his body on the cross. He did this so that we would stop living for sin and start living for what is right. And we are healed because of his wounds.
Ephesians 2:10
For we are God's own handiwork, created in Christ Jesus for good works which He has pre-destined us to practice.
Matthew 21:22
If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."
Philippians 4:19
And my God, from the wealth of his divine perfection, and in proportion to its greatness, will fully supply your every need as followers of Christ Jesus.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, I will never fully comprehend the depth of Your sacrificial death where we see man at his worst and God at His best. In my place You took my guilt and shame as You became the guilt offering pouring out Your life unto death and taking on my iniquity. You gave all so that I could be forgiven. Though my sins were as scarlet they were washed white as snow, cleansed by the saving blood of the sinless Lamb. You turned my hopeless condition into a life full of hope for this life and glorious anticipation for eternal life beyond the grave. Nothing in all of history will ever compare to the Divine Exchange where my sins were exchanged for Your pardon. I walk in newness of life and in the power of the resurrected Savior. Praise Your name, Lord Jesus! You are risen, You are risen indeed! Amen.
God's Favor upon you,
One day a gentleman walked into one of Ben Franklin's book stores. As one of the clerks went to assist him, the gentleman asked the clerk the price of the book he wished to purchase. The young clerk looked at the price posted on the book and said, "That book is one dollar, sir.
"The gentleman began to haggle with the clerk over the price. The clerk assured him that the correct price for the book was one dollar and no lower. As the man realized that his efforts to haggle with the clerk were going nowhere, he insisted on speaking with Ben Franklin directly.
Franklin stopped his work, walked out to the storefront and the gentleman asked,
"What is the price of this book?"
Franklin answered, "One dollar and a quarter."
The gentleman was confused and replied, "Your clerk just said it was a dollar."
Franklin looked at the book again and answered, "Yes, it was a dollar. But now you're wasting my time."
Chances are you have haggled over the price of something. Maybe you've haggled over the price of a new (or used) car. Maybe you've gone to yard sales or flea markets and haggled over some treasure you discovered. In some countries, you are expected to haggle over much of what you buy in the stores.
So, I wonder if you've ever haggled with God. I wonder if you've ever thought that God's expectations are too high, and you've tried to get God to lower his "price." I'm reminded of the rich young ruler who had a conversation with Jesus about what he must do to inherit eternal life (Luke 18:23). Though he had done much, Jesus said that one more thing was required: "You still lack one thing. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me." (Luke 18:22).
The response of the young man is sad. He turned and walked away, "for he was very rich."
What strikes me about that passage is that there is no room for haggling with Jesus. When this young man walked away, Jesus didn't go running after him and say, "No, wait, maybe I was asking a bit too much. Let's renegotiate."
No, Jesus demands our all. All that we have. All that we are. He will not settle for any less. The price is not negotiable, so don't waste God's time trying to haggle with Him.
Verse
Matthew 8:13
And Jesus said to the commander of a hundred soldiers, Be going on your way. In the manner in which you believed, let it become to you. And the servant was healed in that hour.
1 Peter 2:24
Christ carried our sins in his body on the cross. He did this so that we would stop living for sin and start living for what is right. And we are healed because of his wounds.
Ephesians 2:10
For we are God's own handiwork, created in Christ Jesus for good works which He has pre-destined us to practice.
Matthew 21:22
If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."
Philippians 4:19
And my God, from the wealth of his divine perfection, and in proportion to its greatness, will fully supply your every need as followers of Christ Jesus.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, I will never fully comprehend the depth of Your sacrificial death where we see man at his worst and God at His best. In my place You took my guilt and shame as You became the guilt offering pouring out Your life unto death and taking on my iniquity. You gave all so that I could be forgiven. Though my sins were as scarlet they were washed white as snow, cleansed by the saving blood of the sinless Lamb. You turned my hopeless condition into a life full of hope for this life and glorious anticipation for eternal life beyond the grave. Nothing in all of history will ever compare to the Divine Exchange where my sins were exchanged for Your pardon. I walk in newness of life and in the power of the resurrected Savior. Praise Your name, Lord Jesus! You are risen, You are risen indeed! Amen.
God's Favor upon you,
Monday, April 13, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verses (14 04 2009)
Thought for the day
An airline captain hired a new blonde stewardess. The first route they were flying had a stay-over in another city. Upon their arrival, the captain showed the stewardess the best place for airline personnel to eat, shop and stay overnight. The next morning, as the pilot was preparing the crew for the day's route, he noticed the new stewardess was missing. He knew which room she was in at the hotel and called her up wondering what happened to her.
She answered the phone, crying, and said she couldn't get out of her room.
"You can't get out of your room?" the captain asked, "Why not?"
The stewardess replied, "There are only three doors in here," she sobbed, "one is the bathroom, one is the closet, and one has a sign on it that says, 'Do Not Disturb'!"
Have you ever felt you didn't have access to God through the avenue of prayer because there's a "Do Not Disturb" sign hanging on His door? If there's one there, you can be sure God didn't put it there. Access is always available, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
"Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." (I John 5:14)
Go ahead, open the door! You'll be glad you did.
Verses
Numbers 23:19
God is not man that he should speak falsely, nor human, that he should change his mind. Is he one to speak and not act, to decree and not fulfill?
Exodus 23:25
"So you shall serve the Lord your God, and He will bless your bread and your water. And I will take sickness away from the midst of you.
Romans 8:32
He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?
Romans 1:9
For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers,
2 Corinthians 9:11
and you will always be rich enough to be generous. Through our action such generosity will issue in thanksgiving to God,
Prayer
Jesus, we crown You the Lord of love! Your love that endured the shameful actions of those You chose to die for. We crown You the Lord of life, for You triumphed over the physical grave and took away the permanence and sting of death for all believers. We crown You the Lord of heaven where You returned to be One with the Father. You’ve promised to return again and take us to be with You where we will dwell eternally with You and all the saints whose sins are cleansed by the blood You shed on the cross of Calvary. Thank You, Jesus! Amen.
An airline captain hired a new blonde stewardess. The first route they were flying had a stay-over in another city. Upon their arrival, the captain showed the stewardess the best place for airline personnel to eat, shop and stay overnight. The next morning, as the pilot was preparing the crew for the day's route, he noticed the new stewardess was missing. He knew which room she was in at the hotel and called her up wondering what happened to her.
She answered the phone, crying, and said she couldn't get out of her room.
"You can't get out of your room?" the captain asked, "Why not?"
The stewardess replied, "There are only three doors in here," she sobbed, "one is the bathroom, one is the closet, and one has a sign on it that says, 'Do Not Disturb'!"
Have you ever felt you didn't have access to God through the avenue of prayer because there's a "Do Not Disturb" sign hanging on His door? If there's one there, you can be sure God didn't put it there. Access is always available, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
"Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." (I John 5:14)
Go ahead, open the door! You'll be glad you did.
Verses
Numbers 23:19
God is not man that he should speak falsely, nor human, that he should change his mind. Is he one to speak and not act, to decree and not fulfill?
Exodus 23:25
"So you shall serve the Lord your God, and He will bless your bread and your water. And I will take sickness away from the midst of you.
Romans 8:32
He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?
Romans 1:9
For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers,
2 Corinthians 9:11
and you will always be rich enough to be generous. Through our action such generosity will issue in thanksgiving to God,
Prayer
Jesus, we crown You the Lord of love! Your love that endured the shameful actions of those You chose to die for. We crown You the Lord of life, for You triumphed over the physical grave and took away the permanence and sting of death for all believers. We crown You the Lord of heaven where You returned to be One with the Father. You’ve promised to return again and take us to be with You where we will dwell eternally with You and all the saints whose sins are cleansed by the blood You shed on the cross of Calvary. Thank You, Jesus! Amen.
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (10 04 2009)
Thought for the day
Here are the answers to some questions that you may have had about pregnancy:
Q. Should I have a baby after 35?
A. No, 35 children is enough.
Q. I'm two months pregnant now. When will my baby move?
A. With any luck, right after he finishes college.
Q. How will I know if my vomiting is morning sickness or the flu?
A. If it's the flu, you'll get better.
Q. What is the most common pregnancy craving?
A.. For men to be the ones who get pregnant.
Q. What is the most reliable method to determine a baby's sex?
A. Childbirth.
Q. My wife is five months pregnant and so moody that sometimes she's borderline irrational.
A. So what's your question?
Q. My childbirth instructor says it's not pain I'll feel during labor, but pressure. Is she right?
A. Yes, in the same way that a tornado might be called an air current.
Q. When is the best time to get an epidural?
A. Right after you find out you're pregnant.
Q. Is there any reason I have to be in the delivery room while my wife is in labor?
A. Not unless the word "alimony" means anything to you.
Q. Is there anything I should avoid while recovering from childbirth?
A. Yes, pregnancy.
Q. Does pregnancy cause headaches?
A. Pregnancy causes anything you want to blame it for.
Q. Our baby was born last week. When will my wife begin to feel and act normal again?
A. When the kids are in college.
The joy of pregnancy and childbirth! Mothers are quick to tell me that those two words don't belong together with the word "joy". And here's a helpful tip (from personal experience) for you fathers. When your wife is in labor and the needle on the graph is showing her contractions, don't ever say, "Is that the highest you can make the needle jump?" At that point, she will not see the humor in the situation. It will only make her angry. (Trust me!)
The Bible refers often to pregnancy and childbirth. But it never speaks of it as a time of joy. Rather, it refers accurately to the "pains of childbirth. "In Romans 8, Paul draws a parallel between what an expectant mother experiences and what we (and all of creation) experience as we await the return of Jesus Christ:
"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.....We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies." (Romans 8:18,22-23,NIV).
A mother in labor may feel the pain will never end. With what you are going through right now in your life, you may feel the same way. Someday, though, for God's children, the pain will pass and the joy will be greater than we ever imagined. For that day we "wait eagerly"!
Verses
2 Corinthians 5:7
For we guide our lives by faith, and not by what we see.
Exodus 23:25
Worship the LORD your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you,
Deuteronomy 7:14
"You shall be blessed above all peoples; there shall not be a male or female barren among you or among your livestock.
1 Peter 3:12
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayers; but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."
Joshua 1:8
This scroll of the law must not cease out of thy mouth but thou must talk to thyself therein day and night, that thou mayest take heed to do according to all that is written therein, -- for then shalt thou make thy way prosperous, and then shalt thou have good success.
Prayer
Jesus, we crown You the Lord of love! Your love that endured the shameful actions of those You chose to die for. We crown You the Lord of life, for You triumphed o’er the physical grave and took away the permanence and sting of death for all believers. We crown You the Lord of heaven where You returned to be One with the Father. You’ve promised to return again and take us to be with You where we will dwell eternally with You and all the saints whose sins are cleansed by the blood You shed on the cross of Calvary. Thank You, Jesus! Amen.
Here are the answers to some questions that you may have had about pregnancy:
Q. Should I have a baby after 35?
A. No, 35 children is enough.
Q. I'm two months pregnant now. When will my baby move?
A. With any luck, right after he finishes college.
Q. How will I know if my vomiting is morning sickness or the flu?
A. If it's the flu, you'll get better.
Q. What is the most common pregnancy craving?
A.. For men to be the ones who get pregnant.
Q. What is the most reliable method to determine a baby's sex?
A. Childbirth.
Q. My wife is five months pregnant and so moody that sometimes she's borderline irrational.
A. So what's your question?
Q. My childbirth instructor says it's not pain I'll feel during labor, but pressure. Is she right?
A. Yes, in the same way that a tornado might be called an air current.
Q. When is the best time to get an epidural?
A. Right after you find out you're pregnant.
Q. Is there any reason I have to be in the delivery room while my wife is in labor?
A. Not unless the word "alimony" means anything to you.
Q. Is there anything I should avoid while recovering from childbirth?
A. Yes, pregnancy.
Q. Does pregnancy cause headaches?
A. Pregnancy causes anything you want to blame it for.
Q. Our baby was born last week. When will my wife begin to feel and act normal again?
A. When the kids are in college.
The joy of pregnancy and childbirth! Mothers are quick to tell me that those two words don't belong together with the word "joy". And here's a helpful tip (from personal experience) for you fathers. When your wife is in labor and the needle on the graph is showing her contractions, don't ever say, "Is that the highest you can make the needle jump?" At that point, she will not see the humor in the situation. It will only make her angry. (Trust me!)
The Bible refers often to pregnancy and childbirth. But it never speaks of it as a time of joy. Rather, it refers accurately to the "pains of childbirth. "In Romans 8, Paul draws a parallel between what an expectant mother experiences and what we (and all of creation) experience as we await the return of Jesus Christ:
"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.....We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies." (Romans 8:18,22-23,NIV).
A mother in labor may feel the pain will never end. With what you are going through right now in your life, you may feel the same way. Someday, though, for God's children, the pain will pass and the joy will be greater than we ever imagined. For that day we "wait eagerly"!
Verses
2 Corinthians 5:7
For we guide our lives by faith, and not by what we see.
Exodus 23:25
Worship the LORD your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you,
Deuteronomy 7:14
"You shall be blessed above all peoples; there shall not be a male or female barren among you or among your livestock.
1 Peter 3:12
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayers; but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."
Joshua 1:8
This scroll of the law must not cease out of thy mouth but thou must talk to thyself therein day and night, that thou mayest take heed to do according to all that is written therein, -- for then shalt thou make thy way prosperous, and then shalt thou have good success.
Prayer
Jesus, we crown You the Lord of love! Your love that endured the shameful actions of those You chose to die for. We crown You the Lord of life, for You triumphed o’er the physical grave and took away the permanence and sting of death for all believers. We crown You the Lord of heaven where You returned to be One with the Father. You’ve promised to return again and take us to be with You where we will dwell eternally with You and all the saints whose sins are cleansed by the blood You shed on the cross of Calvary. Thank You, Jesus! Amen.
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (09 04 2009)
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 ourside.
"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'vebeen hesitant to do.
Verses
Revelation 12:11
By the sacrifice of the Lamb and by the witness they bore, they have conquered him; faced with death they did not cling to life.
Mark 1:34
Then He healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons; and He did not allow the demons to speak, because they knew Him.
Matthew 12:36-37
But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned."
Luke 18:1
Then Jesus used this story to teach the followers that they should always pray and never give up:
Proverbs 22:7
The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower becomes the lender's slave.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, I contemplate the infinite grace and self restraint You displayed as You were repeatedly assaulted by those who crucified You. As they hurled insults You prayed for them. As they ripped human flesh Your blood flowed for their sin. As they blasphemed Your name, You brought their name before the Father. With each pounding of the nail Your heart pounded with irrepressible love for all who mocked You. You took our sins and made them Your very own as You bore our burdens on Calvary. How marvelous and incomprehensible is Your selfless love for me!
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 ourside.
"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'vebeen hesitant to do.
Verses
Revelation 12:11
By the sacrifice of the Lamb and by the witness they bore, they have conquered him; faced with death they did not cling to life.
Mark 1:34
Then He healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons; and He did not allow the demons to speak, because they knew Him.
Matthew 12:36-37
But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned."
Luke 18:1
Then Jesus used this story to teach the followers that they should always pray and never give up:
Proverbs 22:7
The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower becomes the lender's slave.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, I contemplate the infinite grace and self restraint You displayed as You were repeatedly assaulted by those who crucified You. As they hurled insults You prayed for them. As they ripped human flesh Your blood flowed for their sin. As they blasphemed Your name, You brought their name before the Father. With each pounding of the nail Your heart pounded with irrepressible love for all who mocked You. You took our sins and made them Your very own as You bore our burdens on Calvary. How marvelous and incomprehensible is Your selfless love for me!
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Wednesday prayer & verses (08 04 2009)
Firstly the following: Just want to pray that you take care this coming Easter weekend and remember what it is all about and may God be with you where ever you go and bring you safely there and back. Just a prayer to keep close:
Dear Jesus, I want to fix my eyes, my thoughts, and my affections on You, my blessed Redeemer. Though You faced enormous opposition that would provide understandable excuse for altering Your redemption plan, nevertheless You endured Calvary’s cross. When I consider the depth of Your commitment I am determined to be faithful even in the night seasons of my Christian walk. Jesus, help me to endure by keeping my eyes, not on that which is seen, but on the future rewards that You promise to those who are faithful.
Thought for the day
The following are actual statements found in insurance forms where car drivers attempted to summarize the details of an accident in the fewest words.
1. Coming home, I drove into the wrong house and collided with a tree I don't have.
2. I thought my window was down, but I found out it was up when I put my head through it.
3. I collided with a stationary truck coming the other way.
4. A pedestrian hit me and went under my car.
5. The guy was all over the road, I had to swerve a number of times before I hit him.
6. I pulled away from the side of the road, glanced at my mother-in-law, and headed over the embankment.
7. I had been shopping for plants all day, and was on my way home. As I reached the intersection, a hedge sprang up obscuring my vision and I did not see the other car.
8. I had been driving for forty years, when I fell asleep at the wheel and had an accident.
9. As I approached the intersection, a sign suddenly appeared in a place where no sign had ever appeared before. I was unable to stop in time to avoid the accident.
10. My car was legally parked as it backed into the other vehicle.
11. An invisible car come out of nowhere, struck my car and vanished.
12. The pedestrian had no idea which direction to run, so I ran over him.
13. I saw a slow-moving, sad-faced old gentleman as he bounced off the hood of my car.
14. An indirect cause of the accident was a little guy in a small car with a big mouth.
15. The telephone pole was approaching. I was attempting to swerve out of its way when it struck my front end.
Excuses, excuses! We can come up with some "hum-dingers" in order to make it sound like it wasn't our fault. Making excuses is easy. Taking responsibility is much more difficult. But, in our relationship with God, it is essential.
"If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."(1 John 1:8-9)
Done something wrong lately? Don't make excuses. Be honest with yourself and with God. And if you have to be out driving today, please do watch out for those invisible cars! :-)
Verses
Hebrews 6:12
and that you should never slack off. We want you to be like those who through faith and patience are now taking possession of God's promises.
1 Corinthians 6:19
Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?
Mark 9:23
Jesus said to him, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes."
John 15:7
But if you stay in me and obey my commands, you may ask any request you like, and it will be granted!
2 Corinthians 8:9
Remember how generous the Lord Jesus was: he was rich, but he became poor for your sake, to make you rich out of his poverty.
Prayer
Jesus, Your act of humility in the midst of ridicule, mockery and abhorrent behavior by the very people that You created and willingly died for is not a picture of weakness, but instead it is one of incomparable self-sacrifice. You could have called a legion of angels to reveal Your power or to put Your accusers in their rightful place. But You chose to walk the road of humility and obedience all the way to Calvary, motivated by Your redemptive love for mankind. Love so amazing, so divine demands my soul, my life, my all.
Dear Jesus, I want to fix my eyes, my thoughts, and my affections on You, my blessed Redeemer. Though You faced enormous opposition that would provide understandable excuse for altering Your redemption plan, nevertheless You endured Calvary’s cross. When I consider the depth of Your commitment I am determined to be faithful even in the night seasons of my Christian walk. Jesus, help me to endure by keeping my eyes, not on that which is seen, but on the future rewards that You promise to those who are faithful.
Thought for the day
The following are actual statements found in insurance forms where car drivers attempted to summarize the details of an accident in the fewest words.
1. Coming home, I drove into the wrong house and collided with a tree I don't have.
2. I thought my window was down, but I found out it was up when I put my head through it.
3. I collided with a stationary truck coming the other way.
4. A pedestrian hit me and went under my car.
5. The guy was all over the road, I had to swerve a number of times before I hit him.
6. I pulled away from the side of the road, glanced at my mother-in-law, and headed over the embankment.
7. I had been shopping for plants all day, and was on my way home. As I reached the intersection, a hedge sprang up obscuring my vision and I did not see the other car.
8. I had been driving for forty years, when I fell asleep at the wheel and had an accident.
9. As I approached the intersection, a sign suddenly appeared in a place where no sign had ever appeared before. I was unable to stop in time to avoid the accident.
10. My car was legally parked as it backed into the other vehicle.
11. An invisible car come out of nowhere, struck my car and vanished.
12. The pedestrian had no idea which direction to run, so I ran over him.
13. I saw a slow-moving, sad-faced old gentleman as he bounced off the hood of my car.
14. An indirect cause of the accident was a little guy in a small car with a big mouth.
15. The telephone pole was approaching. I was attempting to swerve out of its way when it struck my front end.
Excuses, excuses! We can come up with some "hum-dingers" in order to make it sound like it wasn't our fault. Making excuses is easy. Taking responsibility is much more difficult. But, in our relationship with God, it is essential.
"If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."(1 John 1:8-9)
Done something wrong lately? Don't make excuses. Be honest with yourself and with God. And if you have to be out driving today, please do watch out for those invisible cars! :-)
Verses
Hebrews 6:12
and that you should never slack off. We want you to be like those who through faith and patience are now taking possession of God's promises.
1 Corinthians 6:19
Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?
Mark 9:23
Jesus said to him, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes."
John 15:7
But if you stay in me and obey my commands, you may ask any request you like, and it will be granted!
2 Corinthians 8:9
Remember how generous the Lord Jesus was: he was rich, but he became poor for your sake, to make you rich out of his poverty.
Prayer
Jesus, Your act of humility in the midst of ridicule, mockery and abhorrent behavior by the very people that You created and willingly died for is not a picture of weakness, but instead it is one of incomparable self-sacrifice. You could have called a legion of angels to reveal Your power or to put Your accusers in their rightful place. But You chose to walk the road of humility and obedience all the way to Calvary, motivated by Your redemptive love for mankind. Love so amazing, so divine demands my soul, my life, my all.
Monday, April 06, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verses (07 04 2009)
Thought for the day
The following story is one that is reported to have been told by Napoleon to spark patriotism among his men:
Once, while visiting a province he came upon an old soldier in full uniform but with one sleeve hanging empty. He proudly wore the coveted Legion of Honor. Napoleon asked, "Where did you lose your arm?" The soldier answered, "At Austerlitz, sire."
Napoleon asked, "And for that you received the Legion of Honor?"
The man said, "Yes, sire. It is but a small token to pay for the decoration."
Napoleon continued, "You must be the kind of man who regrets he did not lose both arms for his country."
The one-armed man asked, "What then would have been my reward?"
Napoleon answered, "I would have awarded you a double Legion of Honor."
And with that, the proud old fighter drew his sword and immediately cut off his other arm.
What a great story of patriotic duty! It apparently was quite effective in stirring up in Napoleon's men a desire to sacrifice even more for the cause of France!
There's only one problem with the story. You may have already noticed the inconsistency. But apparently it was years before anyone dared to ask Napoleon the question, "How did the soldier cut off his arm with only one arm to do it with?"
Nice story. Stirring, moving, motivating......but it wasn't true. It's possible for the same thing to happen to us in a religious sense. We can get all "fired up" without much thought as to the truth of what we're getting excited about. Paul said of those who were motivated in such a way:"...They are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge." (Romans 10:2, NIV)
Zeal is good. We all need more of it. But we need to make certain that our enthusiasm is firmly based on our knowledge of God's will.
Verses
Ephesians 6:11
Arm yourselves with the full equipment that God has provided to enable His soldiers to hold their own against the tactics of the Devil.
Mark 6:13
And they cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them.
Galatians 6:6
Let him who is taught the word share all good things with him who teaches.
Luke 11:9
"And I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.
Psalm 23:1
The Lord is my shepherd [to feed, guide and shield me]; I shall not lack.
Prayer
Jesus, the story of Malchus reminds us of those who come against You in their thoughts, words and actions. Yet You respond to them in love even as You extend Your saving grace toward them. When we were powerless, lost in our transgressions and sins, You died for us, the ungodly. You made a way for us to be justified through Your shedding of innocent blood so that we, though guilty, could be saved from the Father’s wrath. We are no longer enemies of the cross, but reconciled to the Father, through Your shed blood. We want to sow seeds of salvation wherever we go and trust You for the eventual saving of many lives. In Your name, Jesus, we pray. Amen.
The following story is one that is reported to have been told by Napoleon to spark patriotism among his men:
Once, while visiting a province he came upon an old soldier in full uniform but with one sleeve hanging empty. He proudly wore the coveted Legion of Honor. Napoleon asked, "Where did you lose your arm?" The soldier answered, "At Austerlitz, sire."
Napoleon asked, "And for that you received the Legion of Honor?"
The man said, "Yes, sire. It is but a small token to pay for the decoration."
Napoleon continued, "You must be the kind of man who regrets he did not lose both arms for his country."
The one-armed man asked, "What then would have been my reward?"
Napoleon answered, "I would have awarded you a double Legion of Honor."
And with that, the proud old fighter drew his sword and immediately cut off his other arm.
What a great story of patriotic duty! It apparently was quite effective in stirring up in Napoleon's men a desire to sacrifice even more for the cause of France!
There's only one problem with the story. You may have already noticed the inconsistency. But apparently it was years before anyone dared to ask Napoleon the question, "How did the soldier cut off his arm with only one arm to do it with?"
Nice story. Stirring, moving, motivating......but it wasn't true. It's possible for the same thing to happen to us in a religious sense. We can get all "fired up" without much thought as to the truth of what we're getting excited about. Paul said of those who were motivated in such a way:"...They are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge." (Romans 10:2, NIV)
Zeal is good. We all need more of it. But we need to make certain that our enthusiasm is firmly based on our knowledge of God's will.
Verses
Ephesians 6:11
Arm yourselves with the full equipment that God has provided to enable His soldiers to hold their own against the tactics of the Devil.
Mark 6:13
And they cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them.
Galatians 6:6
Let him who is taught the word share all good things with him who teaches.
Luke 11:9
"And I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.
Psalm 23:1
The Lord is my shepherd [to feed, guide and shield me]; I shall not lack.
Prayer
Jesus, the story of Malchus reminds us of those who come against You in their thoughts, words and actions. Yet You respond to them in love even as You extend Your saving grace toward them. When we were powerless, lost in our transgressions and sins, You died for us, the ungodly. You made a way for us to be justified through Your shedding of innocent blood so that we, though guilty, could be saved from the Father’s wrath. We are no longer enemies of the cross, but reconciled to the Father, through Your shed blood. We want to sow seeds of salvation wherever we go and trust You for the eventual saving of many lives. In Your name, Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Sunday, April 05, 2009
Monday prayer & verses (06 04 2009)
Thought for the day
I heard about a youth minister who sent a thank you letter to those adultswho had served in some way throughout the previous year. His letter began:"Last summer I asked you to consider working as a youth coach in our church's junior high youth group. I am thankful for your acceptance of that challenge over this past school year. You may have felt extremely incapable as you thought about working with junior higher’s, but you claimed 2Corinthians 12:9 nevertheless.
"Part of this verse says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."However, his secretary made the mistake of typing 2 Corinthians 12:8 as the scripture reference instead, which reads, "Three times I pleaded with theLord to take it away from me!
"Though the particular verse quoted may not have conveyed the proper thought,that whole passage in 2 Corinthians is a powerful lesson to us. Through it,we learn that God does not always grant us what we request in prayer.
Sometimes he sees that what would be best for us is not the same thing as what we believe would be best for us. We want the problems to disappear; God wants us to grow closer to him. We want life to be easier; God wants usto mature and be strengthened.
Listen again:
"Concerning this thing [the thorn in the flesh] I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christmay rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches,in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I amweak, then I am strong." (2 Cor. 12:8-10).
Perhaps there is a trial in your life that you are praying for God to remove. He may do so. But if he does not, may God bless you with grace and strength.
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith means that we are confident of what we hope for, convinced of what we do not see.
Isaiah 53:5
But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; The chastening for our well-being [fell] upon Him, And by His scourging we are healed.
Colossians 1:15
Christ is the visible representation of the invisible God, the Firstborn and Lord of all creation.
Luke 11:9
"And I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.
3 John 2
Dear friend, above all I pray that things go well with you, and that you may enjoy good health: I know it is well with your soul.
Prayer
Father, when we pause to think about the incredible journey that Abraham, Sarah, and Lot “set out” for so they could eventually “arrive” at the Promised Land I’m reminded of our journey that we, as believers, have “set out” for, from the time we surrendered our hearts to You. Our journey is filled with much accumulations, family and friends, the stuff of life, and it is often strenuous and marked by uncertainties and disappointments, but also achievements and gains. This spiritual journey also provides many opportunities for us to trust You for what lies ahead as we “set out” for our invisible Promised Land on the other side of Jordan. We’ve set out for the land of heaven, and by faith, we will “arrive” there in good time. And the blessing of this arrival is that we won’t have to pack or unpack a thing – all we have need of (and much, much more) will be provided in your well-furnished heaven, in Jesus Wondrous Name - Amen
I heard about a youth minister who sent a thank you letter to those adultswho had served in some way throughout the previous year. His letter began:"Last summer I asked you to consider working as a youth coach in our church's junior high youth group. I am thankful for your acceptance of that challenge over this past school year. You may have felt extremely incapable as you thought about working with junior higher’s, but you claimed 2Corinthians 12:9 nevertheless.
"Part of this verse says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."However, his secretary made the mistake of typing 2 Corinthians 12:8 as the scripture reference instead, which reads, "Three times I pleaded with theLord to take it away from me!
"Though the particular verse quoted may not have conveyed the proper thought,that whole passage in 2 Corinthians is a powerful lesson to us. Through it,we learn that God does not always grant us what we request in prayer.
Sometimes he sees that what would be best for us is not the same thing as what we believe would be best for us. We want the problems to disappear; God wants us to grow closer to him. We want life to be easier; God wants usto mature and be strengthened.
Listen again:
"Concerning this thing [the thorn in the flesh] I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christmay rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches,in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I amweak, then I am strong." (2 Cor. 12:8-10).
Perhaps there is a trial in your life that you are praying for God to remove. He may do so. But if he does not, may God bless you with grace and strength.
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith means that we are confident of what we hope for, convinced of what we do not see.
Isaiah 53:5
But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; The chastening for our well-being [fell] upon Him, And by His scourging we are healed.
Colossians 1:15
Christ is the visible representation of the invisible God, the Firstborn and Lord of all creation.
Luke 11:9
"And I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.
3 John 2
Dear friend, above all I pray that things go well with you, and that you may enjoy good health: I know it is well with your soul.
Prayer
Father, when we pause to think about the incredible journey that Abraham, Sarah, and Lot “set out” for so they could eventually “arrive” at the Promised Land I’m reminded of our journey that we, as believers, have “set out” for, from the time we surrendered our hearts to You. Our journey is filled with much accumulations, family and friends, the stuff of life, and it is often strenuous and marked by uncertainties and disappointments, but also achievements and gains. This spiritual journey also provides many opportunities for us to trust You for what lies ahead as we “set out” for our invisible Promised Land on the other side of Jordan. We’ve set out for the land of heaven, and by faith, we will “arrive” there in good time. And the blessing of this arrival is that we won’t have to pack or unpack a thing – all we have need of (and much, much more) will be provided in your well-furnished heaven, in Jesus Wondrous Name - Amen
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (03 04 2009)
Thought for the day
The following is a list of STRICT UNBENDING RULES for dealing with stray cats:
1. Stray cats will not be fed.
2. Stray cats will not be fed anything except dry cat food.
3. Stray cats will not be fed anything except dry cat food moistened with a little milk.
4. Stray cats will not be fed anything except dry cat food moistened with warm milk, yummy treats and leftover fish scraps.
5. Stray cats will not be encouraged to make this house their permanent residence.
6. Stray cats will not be petted, played with or picked up and cuddled unnecessarily.
7. Stray cats that are petted, played with, picked up and cuddled will absolutely not be given a name.
8. Stray cats with or without a name will not be allowed inside the house at any time.
9. Stray cats will not be allowed inside the house except at certain times.
10. Stray cats will not be allowed inside the house except on days ending in "y."
11. Stray cats allowed inside will not be permitted to jump up on or sharpen their claws on the furniture.
12. Stray cats will not be permitted to jump up on, or sharpen claws on the really good furniture.
13. Stray cats will be permitted on all furniture but must sharpen their claws on the new R299.99 sisal-rope cat-scratching post with three perches.
It's a humorous progression, but it reminds me of what happens spiritually (which is not at all humorous). We don't want to sin, so we establish boundaries. "I'm not going to go here, look there, think about that." But, before long, we've crossed the line. We think, "That's all right. I still haven't done anything wrong. I'll just re-establish my boundaries and not be quite so strict."
And slowly but surely, sin works its way further and further into our lives until we find that we're no longer in control of the situation.
"But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death." (James 1:14-15)
Father, far too often I have allowed sin to slowly work its way into my life. I didn't want it to. I didn't mean for it to happen. But it did, and I'm sorry. Please help me to keep my eyes focused on you as I strive to keep it from happening again. Give me strength as I resolve not to allow impure thoughts and motives to find a home in my heart. In Jesus' name, amen.
Verses
Romans 8:28
We know that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love Him and are chosen to be a part of His plan.
Ephesians 6:10
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
2 Corinthians 4:4
The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.
Hebrews 10:36
For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise:
Prayer
Father, if it takes a fool to say there is no God, then I want to be numbered among the wise who early on said,” You are God in heaven above and on the earth below; there is no other.” It is a declaration of faith that’s been thoroughly tested throughout the centuries that enables me to confidently pledge my allegiance to You, an invisible God, but a visible power in my life, in the lives of others, and throughout the world. Amen.
The following is a list of STRICT UNBENDING RULES for dealing with stray cats:
1. Stray cats will not be fed.
2. Stray cats will not be fed anything except dry cat food.
3. Stray cats will not be fed anything except dry cat food moistened with a little milk.
4. Stray cats will not be fed anything except dry cat food moistened with warm milk, yummy treats and leftover fish scraps.
5. Stray cats will not be encouraged to make this house their permanent residence.
6. Stray cats will not be petted, played with or picked up and cuddled unnecessarily.
7. Stray cats that are petted, played with, picked up and cuddled will absolutely not be given a name.
8. Stray cats with or without a name will not be allowed inside the house at any time.
9. Stray cats will not be allowed inside the house except at certain times.
10. Stray cats will not be allowed inside the house except on days ending in "y."
11. Stray cats allowed inside will not be permitted to jump up on or sharpen their claws on the furniture.
12. Stray cats will not be permitted to jump up on, or sharpen claws on the really good furniture.
13. Stray cats will be permitted on all furniture but must sharpen their claws on the new R299.99 sisal-rope cat-scratching post with three perches.
It's a humorous progression, but it reminds me of what happens spiritually (which is not at all humorous). We don't want to sin, so we establish boundaries. "I'm not going to go here, look there, think about that." But, before long, we've crossed the line. We think, "That's all right. I still haven't done anything wrong. I'll just re-establish my boundaries and not be quite so strict."
And slowly but surely, sin works its way further and further into our lives until we find that we're no longer in control of the situation.
"But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death." (James 1:14-15)
Father, far too often I have allowed sin to slowly work its way into my life. I didn't want it to. I didn't mean for it to happen. But it did, and I'm sorry. Please help me to keep my eyes focused on you as I strive to keep it from happening again. Give me strength as I resolve not to allow impure thoughts and motives to find a home in my heart. In Jesus' name, amen.
Verses
Romans 8:28
We know that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love Him and are chosen to be a part of His plan.
Ephesians 6:10
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
2 Corinthians 4:4
The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.
Hebrews 10:36
For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise:
Prayer
Father, if it takes a fool to say there is no God, then I want to be numbered among the wise who early on said,” You are God in heaven above and on the earth below; there is no other.” It is a declaration of faith that’s been thoroughly tested throughout the centuries that enables me to confidently pledge my allegiance to You, an invisible God, but a visible power in my life, in the lives of others, and throughout the world. Amen.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (02 04 2009)
Thought for the day
A little boy invited his mother to attend his elementary school's first teacher-parent conference. To the little boy's dismay, she said she would go. This would be the first time that his classmates and teacher met his mother and he was embarrassed by her appearance. Although she was a beautiful woman, there was a severe scar that covered nearly the entire right side of her face.
The boy never wanted to talk about why or how she got the scar. At the conference, the people were impressed by the kindness and natural beauty of his mother despite the scar, but the little boy was still embarrassed and hid himself from everyone. He did, however, get within earshot of a conversation between his mother and his teacher, and heard them speaking.
"How did you get the scar on your face?" the teacher asked.
The mother replied, "When my son was a baby, he was in a room that caught on fire. Everyone was too afraid to go in because the fire was out of control, so I went in. As I was running toward his crib, I saw a beam coming down and I placed myself over him trying to shield him. I was knocked unconscious but fortunately, a fireman came in and saved both of us."
She touched the burned side of her face. "This scar will be permanent, but to this day, I have never regretted doing what I did."
At this point, the little boy came out running towards his mother with tears in his eyes. He hugged her and felt an overwhelming sense of the sacrifice that his mother had made for him. He held her hand tightly for the rest of the day.
In a similar manner, Jesus Christ bears a scar -- many scars, in fact. There are those who find that somewhat embarrassing ("You mean to tell me you worship a man who was crucified?"). However, realizing that his ugly scars are the result of his efforts to save me, they suddenly take on a special beauty.
Those scars led Thomas to say, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28). They lead me to say the same thing. I'm so thankful that something so ugly and horrible has taken on such beauty, because of the great love that Jesus Christ had for me.
"He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon him, and by his stripes we are healed." (Isa. 53:5)
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
Do not throw away that confidence of yours, with its rich hope of reward; you still need endurance, if you are to attain the prize God has promised to those who do his will.
Joel 3:10
Beat your plowshares into swords and your pruning hooks into spears; let the weak say, 'I am strong.' "
Deuteronomy 12:28
"Observe and obey all these words which I command you, that it may go well with you and your children after you forever, when you do what is good and right in the sight of the Lord your God.
Luke 18:1
Also [Jesus] told them a parable, to the effect that they ought always to pray and not to turn coward -- faint, lose heart and give up.
Proverbs 28:25
Greed causes fighting; trusting God leads to prosperity.
Prayer
Father, how grateful we are that we live in the time of Your favor. You favor us with Your goodness, love, and provisions. But most of all You favor us with redemption through the precious blood of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus paid the price and we are recipients of His love and forgiveness. We give thanks for our salvation and we pray for anyone who has not made that divine appointment with You to make this the day of their salvation, for now is the time of Your favor and now is the day of their salvation. Amen.
A little boy invited his mother to attend his elementary school's first teacher-parent conference. To the little boy's dismay, she said she would go. This would be the first time that his classmates and teacher met his mother and he was embarrassed by her appearance. Although she was a beautiful woman, there was a severe scar that covered nearly the entire right side of her face.
The boy never wanted to talk about why or how she got the scar. At the conference, the people were impressed by the kindness and natural beauty of his mother despite the scar, but the little boy was still embarrassed and hid himself from everyone. He did, however, get within earshot of a conversation between his mother and his teacher, and heard them speaking.
"How did you get the scar on your face?" the teacher asked.
The mother replied, "When my son was a baby, he was in a room that caught on fire. Everyone was too afraid to go in because the fire was out of control, so I went in. As I was running toward his crib, I saw a beam coming down and I placed myself over him trying to shield him. I was knocked unconscious but fortunately, a fireman came in and saved both of us."
She touched the burned side of her face. "This scar will be permanent, but to this day, I have never regretted doing what I did."
At this point, the little boy came out running towards his mother with tears in his eyes. He hugged her and felt an overwhelming sense of the sacrifice that his mother had made for him. He held her hand tightly for the rest of the day.
In a similar manner, Jesus Christ bears a scar -- many scars, in fact. There are those who find that somewhat embarrassing ("You mean to tell me you worship a man who was crucified?"). However, realizing that his ugly scars are the result of his efforts to save me, they suddenly take on a special beauty.
Those scars led Thomas to say, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28). They lead me to say the same thing. I'm so thankful that something so ugly and horrible has taken on such beauty, because of the great love that Jesus Christ had for me.
"He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon him, and by his stripes we are healed." (Isa. 53:5)
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
Do not throw away that confidence of yours, with its rich hope of reward; you still need endurance, if you are to attain the prize God has promised to those who do his will.
Joel 3:10
Beat your plowshares into swords and your pruning hooks into spears; let the weak say, 'I am strong.' "
Deuteronomy 12:28
"Observe and obey all these words which I command you, that it may go well with you and your children after you forever, when you do what is good and right in the sight of the Lord your God.
Luke 18:1
Also [Jesus] told them a parable, to the effect that they ought always to pray and not to turn coward -- faint, lose heart and give up.
Proverbs 28:25
Greed causes fighting; trusting God leads to prosperity.
Prayer
Father, how grateful we are that we live in the time of Your favor. You favor us with Your goodness, love, and provisions. But most of all You favor us with redemption through the precious blood of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus paid the price and we are recipients of His love and forgiveness. We give thanks for our salvation and we pray for anyone who has not made that divine appointment with You to make this the day of their salvation, for now is the time of Your favor and now is the day of their salvation. Amen.
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