Thought for the day
A mother wishing to encourage her young son's progress at the piano brought him to a concert given by the famous Polish pianist, Paderewski. When the evening arrived, they found their seats near the front of the concert hall and eyed the majestic Steinway waiting on stage. Soon the mother found a friend to talk to, and the boy slipped away.
At eight o'clock, the lights in the auditorium began to dim, the spotlights came on, and only then did they notice the boy upon the bench, innocently picking out "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star".
His mother gasped, but before she could retrieve her son, the master appeared on the stage and quickly moved to the keyboard. He whispered to the boy, "Don't quit. Keep playing. "Leaning over, Paderewski reached down with his left hand and began filling in the bass part. Soon his right arm reached around the other side and improvised a delightful obbligato. Together, the old master and the young novice held the crowd mesmerized.
In our lives, unpolished though we may be, it is the Master who surrounds us and whispers in our ear time and time again, "Don't quit. Keep playing." And as we do, He augments and supplements, until a work of amazing beauty is created.
"Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power, that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ." (2 Thessalonians 1:11-12)
Verses
2 Corinthians 4:13
But since we have the same spirit of faith as shown in the Scripture passage, "I believe, and so I spoke," we also believe, and that is why we also speak.
Exodus 15:26
"If you will listen to the voice of the Lord your God, and obey it, and do what is right, then I will not make you suffer the diseases I sent on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord who heals you."
2 Corinthians 3:5
Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.
3 John 1:2
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
Proverbs 22:4
The reward for humility and fear of the LORD is riches and honor and life.
Prayer
Father, deep within our soul there is a yearning to know You more, to identify with You in Your power, and even in Your suffering, and also in Your victory over Satan. What a powerful example You give us when Jesus was tempted in the desert for 40 days and 40 nights. Satan had a plot, but You had a plan to refute every scheme he laid out when Jesus responded with Scripture. Scripture that was spoken and recorded long before the wilderness battle ensued. Help us to be like-minded, to learn and embrace the Scriptures, so that we will do battle with the enemy not by our might or strength that might actually be weakened in the midst of the battle, but in the powerful strength that comes through the inspiration of Your Holy Word meant for all time. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verses (30 06 2009)
Thought for the day
The tribal wisdom of the Dakota Indians, passed on from one generation to the next, says that when you discover you are riding a dead horse, the best strategy is to dismount.
However, in modern business, because of the heavy investment factors to be taken into consideration, often other strategies have to be tried with dead horses, including the following:
1. Buying a stronger whip.
2. Changing riders.
3. Threatening the horse with termination.
4. Appointing a committee to study the horse.
5. Arranging to visit other sites to see how they ride dead horses.
6. Lowering the standards so that dead horses can be included.
7. Reclassifying the dead horse as living-impaired.
8. Change the form so that it reads: "This horse is not dead."
9. Hire outside contractors to ride the dead horse.
10. Harness several dead horses together for increased speed.
11. Donate the dead horse to a recognized charity, thereby deducting itsfull original cost.
12. Providing additional funding to increase the horse's performance.
13. Do a time management study to see if the lighter riders would improveproductivity.
14. Declare that a dead horse has lower overhead and therefore performsbetter.
15. Promote the dead horse to a supervisory position.
We've all done it before -- committed a significant amount of time and energy to a particular project (or even a person) only to find that all our effort was to no avail. But we find it difficult to cut our losses and move on, so we keep trying and keep trying, pouring more and more of ourselves into it, all the while taking away resources that could be spent on something more profitable.
As difficult as it may be at times to do, the Dakota Indians were right -- when you find you are riding a dead horse, the only sensible thing to do is to dismount.
Jesus put it this way: "Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces." (Matthew 7:6)
Jesus was saying that there may come a time when we need to realize that we are wasting our time and energy trying to reach someone who has shown a total disregard for God and the things of God. We dare not reach such a conclusion too quickly (many of us are thankful for others who refused to give up on us), but once you become convinced you're riding a dead horse, there's only one sensible thing to do.
Take a look at how you're spending your time. If you're "spinning your wheels" and not making any progress, make sure that the horse you're riding is still alive.
Verses
Joshua 1:3
Every spot on which your foot treads I give to you, as I promised Moses.
Luke 9:6
So they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
Matthew 7:11
"If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!
1 Thessalonians 5:17
Never omit your prayers;
2 Corinthians 8:9
You know what graciousness was shown by our Lord Jesus Christ, how, although He was so rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, in order that you might as a result of His poverty become rich.
Prayer
Father, we consider the sentiment of the hymn writer who asked, “Where could I go, oh, where could I go? Seeking a refuge for my soul. Needing a Friend to save me in the end, where could I go but to the Lord?” Father, though You love us so much that You sent Your only Son to die on the cross for our sins we put up a struggle with You instead of surrendering to You. But when we finally do surrender, we find You to be a mighty Refuge from the storms of life, a Savior who redeems us from the sins that held us in Satan’s captivity. Even as we have received Your mercy and forgiveness from sins, we want to see others released from the devil’s stronghold as well. Enable us to be faithful witnesses to the lost. Give us a passion for souls so that Your kingdom will be enlarged and Satan’s domain will decrease. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
The tribal wisdom of the Dakota Indians, passed on from one generation to the next, says that when you discover you are riding a dead horse, the best strategy is to dismount.
However, in modern business, because of the heavy investment factors to be taken into consideration, often other strategies have to be tried with dead horses, including the following:
1. Buying a stronger whip.
2. Changing riders.
3. Threatening the horse with termination.
4. Appointing a committee to study the horse.
5. Arranging to visit other sites to see how they ride dead horses.
6. Lowering the standards so that dead horses can be included.
7. Reclassifying the dead horse as living-impaired.
8. Change the form so that it reads: "This horse is not dead."
9. Hire outside contractors to ride the dead horse.
10. Harness several dead horses together for increased speed.
11. Donate the dead horse to a recognized charity, thereby deducting itsfull original cost.
12. Providing additional funding to increase the horse's performance.
13. Do a time management study to see if the lighter riders would improveproductivity.
14. Declare that a dead horse has lower overhead and therefore performsbetter.
15. Promote the dead horse to a supervisory position.
We've all done it before -- committed a significant amount of time and energy to a particular project (or even a person) only to find that all our effort was to no avail. But we find it difficult to cut our losses and move on, so we keep trying and keep trying, pouring more and more of ourselves into it, all the while taking away resources that could be spent on something more profitable.
As difficult as it may be at times to do, the Dakota Indians were right -- when you find you are riding a dead horse, the only sensible thing to do is to dismount.
Jesus put it this way: "Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces." (Matthew 7:6)
Jesus was saying that there may come a time when we need to realize that we are wasting our time and energy trying to reach someone who has shown a total disregard for God and the things of God. We dare not reach such a conclusion too quickly (many of us are thankful for others who refused to give up on us), but once you become convinced you're riding a dead horse, there's only one sensible thing to do.
Take a look at how you're spending your time. If you're "spinning your wheels" and not making any progress, make sure that the horse you're riding is still alive.
Verses
Joshua 1:3
Every spot on which your foot treads I give to you, as I promised Moses.
Luke 9:6
So they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
Matthew 7:11
"If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!
1 Thessalonians 5:17
Never omit your prayers;
2 Corinthians 8:9
You know what graciousness was shown by our Lord Jesus Christ, how, although He was so rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, in order that you might as a result of His poverty become rich.
Prayer
Father, we consider the sentiment of the hymn writer who asked, “Where could I go, oh, where could I go? Seeking a refuge for my soul. Needing a Friend to save me in the end, where could I go but to the Lord?” Father, though You love us so much that You sent Your only Son to die on the cross for our sins we put up a struggle with You instead of surrendering to You. But when we finally do surrender, we find You to be a mighty Refuge from the storms of life, a Savior who redeems us from the sins that held us in Satan’s captivity. Even as we have received Your mercy and forgiveness from sins, we want to see others released from the devil’s stronghold as well. Enable us to be faithful witnesses to the lost. Give us a passion for souls so that Your kingdom will be enlarged and Satan’s domain will decrease. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Monday prayer & verses (29 06 2009)
Thought for the day
"One day a drill sergeant came out and threw a hand grenade into a group of young soldiers. The men all ran away and took cover away from the grenade. Then the drill sergeant told them that the grenade was not set to explode and he just did it to see their reaction.
"The next day a newly recruited soldier joined the group. The drill sergeant told the other soldiers not to tell the new soldier what was going to happen. As the drill sergeant came out and threw the grenade into the crowd of soldiers, the new soldier, not knowing it wasn't going to explode, threw himself on top of the grenade to prevent it from killing the other men. He was willing to die for his fellow soldiers.
"That year the young man was awarded the only medal for courage and bravery that had not been won during battle."
How many people would you be willing to die for? Be honest now! Maybe your husband or wife, one of your children, but the list starts to get pretty short after that, doesn't it?
Can you imagine dying in the place of a convicted criminal? Someone is scheduled to die on death row for murder, and you say, "Please let me take his place!" Not very likely, huh? Paul was so right when he said, "For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love towards us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:7-8).
Why would Christ do that? As long as I define love by my own personal limitations, it will always be impossible to comprehend. Only the love of an Almighty God could be willing to sacrifice so much. I am led to respond in praise, and in a desire to give all my love and obedience to the One who loved me more than life itself.
Verses
Revelation 12:11
Our brethren have defeated him through the blood of the Lamb and through the might of their faith. For they preferred death to apostasy.
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.
1 John 5:4
for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.
Luke 20:47
"who devour widows' houses, and for a pretense make long prayers. These will receive greater condemnation."
Psalm 35:27
Let them shout for joy and be glad, Who favor my righteous cause; And let them say continually, "Let the Lord be magnified, Who has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant."
Prayer
God, You’ve given the greatest treasure that is available to all people. We don’t have to fit into a particular segment of our population nor are we required to live during a certain time period to receive this unsurpassed gift. The gift of Your grace is available to every generation and exceeds any temporary material blessing that we’ll ever receive. Your grace not only brings reconciliation through Your Son, but it continues to pour into us grace upon grace, much like the waves of the ocean. Thank you that You gave in abundance so that we could be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God through the incarnation of your Son, Jesus Christ. How unlimited and ceaseless is your grace upon grace!
"One day a drill sergeant came out and threw a hand grenade into a group of young soldiers. The men all ran away and took cover away from the grenade. Then the drill sergeant told them that the grenade was not set to explode and he just did it to see their reaction.
"The next day a newly recruited soldier joined the group. The drill sergeant told the other soldiers not to tell the new soldier what was going to happen. As the drill sergeant came out and threw the grenade into the crowd of soldiers, the new soldier, not knowing it wasn't going to explode, threw himself on top of the grenade to prevent it from killing the other men. He was willing to die for his fellow soldiers.
"That year the young man was awarded the only medal for courage and bravery that had not been won during battle."
How many people would you be willing to die for? Be honest now! Maybe your husband or wife, one of your children, but the list starts to get pretty short after that, doesn't it?
Can you imagine dying in the place of a convicted criminal? Someone is scheduled to die on death row for murder, and you say, "Please let me take his place!" Not very likely, huh? Paul was so right when he said, "For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love towards us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:7-8).
Why would Christ do that? As long as I define love by my own personal limitations, it will always be impossible to comprehend. Only the love of an Almighty God could be willing to sacrifice so much. I am led to respond in praise, and in a desire to give all my love and obedience to the One who loved me more than life itself.
Verses
Revelation 12:11
Our brethren have defeated him through the blood of the Lamb and through the might of their faith. For they preferred death to apostasy.
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.
1 John 5:4
for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.
Luke 20:47
"who devour widows' houses, and for a pretense make long prayers. These will receive greater condemnation."
Psalm 35:27
Let them shout for joy and be glad, Who favor my righteous cause; And let them say continually, "Let the Lord be magnified, Who has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant."
Prayer
God, You’ve given the greatest treasure that is available to all people. We don’t have to fit into a particular segment of our population nor are we required to live during a certain time period to receive this unsurpassed gift. The gift of Your grace is available to every generation and exceeds any temporary material blessing that we’ll ever receive. Your grace not only brings reconciliation through Your Son, but it continues to pour into us grace upon grace, much like the waves of the ocean. Thank you that You gave in abundance so that we could be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God through the incarnation of your Son, Jesus Christ. How unlimited and ceaseless is your grace upon grace!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (26 06 2009)
Thought for the day
Everyday, without fail, there are a host of negatives in the world around us. Some of these negatives are passed down by family and friends, and some are in every conversation you hear between co-workers, or those you just happen to hear at the coffee shop, or around the water cooler. Just ask yourself, how many times have you engaged in negative thinking, negative conversations, or personal complaints?
On the other hand, how many times have you heard positive conversations, conversations of gratitude expressing thankfulness for what we have, of what we can do, or the choice of options that are available to us?
We are fortunate to live in a democracy where free choice to do, to have, to be what we desire is available. The sad situation, however, is that most people have lost sight of available options by falling prey to negative messages from those who choose NOT to make the most of countless opportunities. What is really interesting to learn is that you need to develop a mindset of "creativity" not "competitiveness".
This concept was clearly explained in a book from 1910 by Wallace D. Wattles, called "Science of Getting Rich". Napoleon Hill also wrote about aspects of the power of the positive mind in his book, "Think and Grow Rich", first published in 1937.
Despite information available to the contrary, it would seem that a lot of people would rather complain and moan about what they don't have, can't do, or wish they could have or do without exercising even one act that could start to turn their lives into a positive. Sure, there are obstacles - sure there are challenges - no one ever said that you'd get everything you wanted for nothing. The real fact is this - you can do what you want, have more, be more, but you need to develop a vision, an outlook of possibilities not an age old path of seeing a problem in everything you view.
Simple truth. By forming a thought or vision in your mind, you connect to a source of energy that can create what you're thinking about. If your thoughts are negative, you'll probably attract negative events into your life. You will see the bad, not the good. On the other hand, you can attract positives by being positive. Just try a simple exercise like smiling and saying hello to everyone at work. When you smile, in all likelihood, you will receive a warm response in return.
Verses
Hebrews 6:12
We don't want you to become lazy. We want you to be like those people who get the things that God promised.Those people get God's promises because they have faith and patience.
Exodus 23:25
You shall serve the LORD your God, and I will bless your bread and your water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of you.
Matthew 4:23
Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people.
Isaiah 56:7
even them I will bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on My altar; for My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations."
1 Corinthians 1:5
For in union with Christ you have become rich in all things, including all speech and all knowledge.
Prayer
Father, You grow and stretch our maturity through circumstances that don’t always reflect our choosing. It helps us to gain needed perspective and experience in situations not of our own choosing, but to our overall benefit. Help us to be patient as we search Your Scripture and seek to understand Your plan as it unfolds in our lives. Align our desires with Your own as we submit our will to Yours. May we not be overcome by adversity but ask You, Father, to use adversity as a tool by which You carve Your image and character deep into our hearts. We may make our plans but we realize that, as Your children, You will have the final say. Amen.
Everyday, without fail, there are a host of negatives in the world around us. Some of these negatives are passed down by family and friends, and some are in every conversation you hear between co-workers, or those you just happen to hear at the coffee shop, or around the water cooler. Just ask yourself, how many times have you engaged in negative thinking, negative conversations, or personal complaints?
On the other hand, how many times have you heard positive conversations, conversations of gratitude expressing thankfulness for what we have, of what we can do, or the choice of options that are available to us?
We are fortunate to live in a democracy where free choice to do, to have, to be what we desire is available. The sad situation, however, is that most people have lost sight of available options by falling prey to negative messages from those who choose NOT to make the most of countless opportunities. What is really interesting to learn is that you need to develop a mindset of "creativity" not "competitiveness".
This concept was clearly explained in a book from 1910 by Wallace D. Wattles, called "Science of Getting Rich". Napoleon Hill also wrote about aspects of the power of the positive mind in his book, "Think and Grow Rich", first published in 1937.
Despite information available to the contrary, it would seem that a lot of people would rather complain and moan about what they don't have, can't do, or wish they could have or do without exercising even one act that could start to turn their lives into a positive. Sure, there are obstacles - sure there are challenges - no one ever said that you'd get everything you wanted for nothing. The real fact is this - you can do what you want, have more, be more, but you need to develop a vision, an outlook of possibilities not an age old path of seeing a problem in everything you view.
Simple truth. By forming a thought or vision in your mind, you connect to a source of energy that can create what you're thinking about. If your thoughts are negative, you'll probably attract negative events into your life. You will see the bad, not the good. On the other hand, you can attract positives by being positive. Just try a simple exercise like smiling and saying hello to everyone at work. When you smile, in all likelihood, you will receive a warm response in return.
Verses
Hebrews 6:12
We don't want you to become lazy. We want you to be like those people who get the things that God promised.Those people get God's promises because they have faith and patience.
Exodus 23:25
You shall serve the LORD your God, and I will bless your bread and your water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of you.
Matthew 4:23
Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people.
Isaiah 56:7
even them I will bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on My altar; for My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations."
1 Corinthians 1:5
For in union with Christ you have become rich in all things, including all speech and all knowledge.
Prayer
Father, You grow and stretch our maturity through circumstances that don’t always reflect our choosing. It helps us to gain needed perspective and experience in situations not of our own choosing, but to our overall benefit. Help us to be patient as we search Your Scripture and seek to understand Your plan as it unfolds in our lives. Align our desires with Your own as we submit our will to Yours. May we not be overcome by adversity but ask You, Father, to use adversity as a tool by which You carve Your image and character deep into our hearts. We may make our plans but we realize that, as Your children, You will have the final say. Amen.
The Homeless Man
I was sent this remarkable story by a friend via email. I hope it encourages you all today, and warms your heart. It’s quite long, but well worth the read…
I sat, with two friends, in the picture window of a quaint restaurant just off the corner of the town-square. The food and the company were both especially good that day. As we talked, my attention was drawn outside, across the street. There, walking into town, was a man who appeared to be carrying all his worldly goods on his back. He was carrying, a well-worn sign that read, “I will work for food.” My heart sank.
I brought him to the attention of my friends and noticed that others around us had stopped eating to focus on him. Heads moved in a mixture of sadness and disbelief.
We continued with our meal, but his image lingered in my mind. We finished our meal and went our separate ways. I had errands to do and quickly set out to accomplish them. I glanced toward the town square, looking somewhat half-heartedly for the strange visitor. I was fearful, knowing that seeing him again would call some response. I drove through town and saw nothing of him. I made some purchases at a store and got back in my car.
Deep within me, the Spirit of God kept speaking to me: “Don’t go back to the office until you’ve at least driven once more around the square.” Then with some hesitancy, I headed back into town. As I turned the square’s third corner, I saw him. He was standing on the steps of the store front church, going through his sack.
I stopped and looked; feeling both compelled to speak to him, yet wanting to drive on. The empty parking space on the corner seemed to be a sign from God: an invitation to park. I pulled in, got out and approached the town’s newest visitor.
“Looking for the pastor?” I asked.
“Not really,” he replied, “just resting.”
“Have you eaten today?”
“Oh, I ate something early this morning.”
“Would you like to have lunch with me?”
“Do you have some work I could do for you?”
“No work,” I replied “I commute here to work from the city, but I would like to take you to lunch.”
“Sure,” he replied with a smile.
As he began to gather his things, I asked some surface questions. Where you headed?”
” St. Louis ”
“Where you from?”
“Oh, all over; mostly Florida .”
“How long you been walking?”
“Fourteen years,” came the reply.
I knew I had met someone unusual. We sat across from each other in the same restaurant I had left earlier. His face was weathered slightly beyond his 38 years. His eyes were dark yet clear, and he spoke with an eloquence and articulation that was startling. He removed his jacket to reveal a bright red T-shirt that said, “Jesus is The Never Ending Story.”
Then Daniel’s story began to unfold. He had seen rough times early in life. He’d made some wrong choices and reaped the consequences. Fourteen years earlier, while backpacking across the country, he had stopped on the beach in Daytona. He tried to hire on with some men who were putting up a large tent and some equipment. A concert, he thought.
He was hired, but the tent would not house a concert but revival services, and in those services he saw life more clearly. He gave his life over to God. ”Nothing’s been the same since,” he said, “I felt the Lord telling me to keep walking, and so I did, some 14 years now.”
“Ever think of stopping?” I asked.
“Oh, once in a while, when it seems to get the best of me But God has given me this calling. I give out Bibles . That’s what’s in my sack. I work to buy food and Bibles, and I give them out when His Spirit leads.”
I sat amazed. My homeless friend was not homeless. He was on a mission and lived this way by choice. The question burned inside for a moment and then I asked: “What’s it like?”
“What?”
“To walk into a town carrying all your things on your back and to show your sign?”
“Oh, it was humiliating at first. People would stare and make comments. Once someone tossed a piece of half-eaten bread and made a gesture that certainly didn’t make me feel welcome. But then it became humbling to realize that God was using me to touch lives and change people’s concepts of other folks like me.”
My concept was changing, too. We finished our dessert and gathered his things. Just outside the door, he paused He turned to me and said, “Come Ye blessed of my Father and inherit the kingdom I’ve prepared for you. For when I was hungry you gave me food, when I was thirsty you gave me drink, a stranger and you took me in.”
I felt as if we were on holy ground. “Could you use another Bible?” I asked.
He said he preferred a certain translation. It travelled well and was not too heavy. It was also his personal favorite. “I’ve read through it 14 times,” he said.
“I’m not sure we’ve got one of those, but let’s stop by our church and see” I was able to find my new friend a Bible that would do well, and he seemed very grateful.
“Where are you headed from here?” I asked.
“Well, I found this little map on the back of this amusement park coupon.”
“Are you hoping to hire on there for awhile?”
“No, I just figure I should go there. I figure someone under that star right there needs a Bible, so that’s where I’m going next.”
He smiled, and the warmth of his spirit radiated the sincerity of his mission. I drove him back to the town-square where we’d met two hours earlier, and as we drove, it started raining. We parked and unloaded his things.
“Would you sign my autograph book?” he asked. “I like to keep messages from folks I meet.”
I wrote in his little book that his commitment to his calling had touched my life. I encouraged him to stay strong. And I left him with a verse of scripture from Jeremiah, “I know the plans I have for you, declared the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you; Plans to give you a future and a hope.”
“Thanks, man,” he said. “I know we just met and we’re really just strangers, but I love you.”
“I know,” I said, “I love you, too.” “The Lord is good!”
“Yes, He is. How long has it been since someone hugged you?” I asked.
A long time,” he replied
And so on the busy street corner in the drizzling rain, my new friend and I embraced, and I felt deep inside that I had been changed. He put his things on his back, smiled his winning smile and said, “See you in the New Jerusalem.”
“I’ll be there!” was my reply.
He began his journey again. He headed away with his sign dangling from his bedroll and pack of Bibles. He stopped, turned and said, “When you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?”
“You bet,” I shouted back, “God bless.”
“God bless.” And that was the last I saw of him.
Late that evening as I left my office, the wind blew strong. The cold front had settled hard upon the town. I bundled up and hurried to my car. As I sat back and reached for the hand brake, I saw them… a pair of well-worn brown work gloves neatly laid over the length of the handle. I picked them up and thought of my friend and wondered if his hands would stay warm that night without them.
Then I remembered his words: “If you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?”
Today his gloves lie on my desk in my office. They help me to see the world and its people in a new way, and they help me remember those two hours with my unique friend and to pray for his ministry. “See you in the New Jerusalem,” he said. Yes, Daniel, I know I will…“I shall pass this way but once. Therefore, any good that I can do or any kindness that I can show, let me do it now, for I shall not pass this way again.”
I sat, with two friends, in the picture window of a quaint restaurant just off the corner of the town-square. The food and the company were both especially good that day. As we talked, my attention was drawn outside, across the street. There, walking into town, was a man who appeared to be carrying all his worldly goods on his back. He was carrying, a well-worn sign that read, “I will work for food.” My heart sank.
I brought him to the attention of my friends and noticed that others around us had stopped eating to focus on him. Heads moved in a mixture of sadness and disbelief.
We continued with our meal, but his image lingered in my mind. We finished our meal and went our separate ways. I had errands to do and quickly set out to accomplish them. I glanced toward the town square, looking somewhat half-heartedly for the strange visitor. I was fearful, knowing that seeing him again would call some response. I drove through town and saw nothing of him. I made some purchases at a store and got back in my car.
Deep within me, the Spirit of God kept speaking to me: “Don’t go back to the office until you’ve at least driven once more around the square.” Then with some hesitancy, I headed back into town. As I turned the square’s third corner, I saw him. He was standing on the steps of the store front church, going through his sack.
I stopped and looked; feeling both compelled to speak to him, yet wanting to drive on. The empty parking space on the corner seemed to be a sign from God: an invitation to park. I pulled in, got out and approached the town’s newest visitor.
“Looking for the pastor?” I asked.
“Not really,” he replied, “just resting.”
“Have you eaten today?”
“Oh, I ate something early this morning.”
“Would you like to have lunch with me?”
“Do you have some work I could do for you?”
“No work,” I replied “I commute here to work from the city, but I would like to take you to lunch.”
“Sure,” he replied with a smile.
As he began to gather his things, I asked some surface questions. Where you headed?”
” St. Louis ”
“Where you from?”
“Oh, all over; mostly Florida .”
“How long you been walking?”
“Fourteen years,” came the reply.
I knew I had met someone unusual. We sat across from each other in the same restaurant I had left earlier. His face was weathered slightly beyond his 38 years. His eyes were dark yet clear, and he spoke with an eloquence and articulation that was startling. He removed his jacket to reveal a bright red T-shirt that said, “Jesus is The Never Ending Story.”
Then Daniel’s story began to unfold. He had seen rough times early in life. He’d made some wrong choices and reaped the consequences. Fourteen years earlier, while backpacking across the country, he had stopped on the beach in Daytona. He tried to hire on with some men who were putting up a large tent and some equipment. A concert, he thought.
He was hired, but the tent would not house a concert but revival services, and in those services he saw life more clearly. He gave his life over to God. ”Nothing’s been the same since,” he said, “I felt the Lord telling me to keep walking, and so I did, some 14 years now.”
“Ever think of stopping?” I asked.
“Oh, once in a while, when it seems to get the best of me But God has given me this calling. I give out Bibles . That’s what’s in my sack. I work to buy food and Bibles, and I give them out when His Spirit leads.”
I sat amazed. My homeless friend was not homeless. He was on a mission and lived this way by choice. The question burned inside for a moment and then I asked: “What’s it like?”
“What?”
“To walk into a town carrying all your things on your back and to show your sign?”
“Oh, it was humiliating at first. People would stare and make comments. Once someone tossed a piece of half-eaten bread and made a gesture that certainly didn’t make me feel welcome. But then it became humbling to realize that God was using me to touch lives and change people’s concepts of other folks like me.”
My concept was changing, too. We finished our dessert and gathered his things. Just outside the door, he paused He turned to me and said, “Come Ye blessed of my Father and inherit the kingdom I’ve prepared for you. For when I was hungry you gave me food, when I was thirsty you gave me drink, a stranger and you took me in.”
I felt as if we were on holy ground. “Could you use another Bible?” I asked.
He said he preferred a certain translation. It travelled well and was not too heavy. It was also his personal favorite. “I’ve read through it 14 times,” he said.
“I’m not sure we’ve got one of those, but let’s stop by our church and see” I was able to find my new friend a Bible that would do well, and he seemed very grateful.
“Where are you headed from here?” I asked.
“Well, I found this little map on the back of this amusement park coupon.”
“Are you hoping to hire on there for awhile?”
“No, I just figure I should go there. I figure someone under that star right there needs a Bible, so that’s where I’m going next.”
He smiled, and the warmth of his spirit radiated the sincerity of his mission. I drove him back to the town-square where we’d met two hours earlier, and as we drove, it started raining. We parked and unloaded his things.
“Would you sign my autograph book?” he asked. “I like to keep messages from folks I meet.”
I wrote in his little book that his commitment to his calling had touched my life. I encouraged him to stay strong. And I left him with a verse of scripture from Jeremiah, “I know the plans I have for you, declared the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you; Plans to give you a future and a hope.”
“Thanks, man,” he said. “I know we just met and we’re really just strangers, but I love you.”
“I know,” I said, “I love you, too.” “The Lord is good!”
“Yes, He is. How long has it been since someone hugged you?” I asked.
A long time,” he replied
And so on the busy street corner in the drizzling rain, my new friend and I embraced, and I felt deep inside that I had been changed. He put his things on his back, smiled his winning smile and said, “See you in the New Jerusalem.”
“I’ll be there!” was my reply.
He began his journey again. He headed away with his sign dangling from his bedroll and pack of Bibles. He stopped, turned and said, “When you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?”
“You bet,” I shouted back, “God bless.”
“God bless.” And that was the last I saw of him.
Late that evening as I left my office, the wind blew strong. The cold front had settled hard upon the town. I bundled up and hurried to my car. As I sat back and reached for the hand brake, I saw them… a pair of well-worn brown work gloves neatly laid over the length of the handle. I picked them up and thought of my friend and wondered if his hands would stay warm that night without them.
Then I remembered his words: “If you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?”
Today his gloves lie on my desk in my office. They help me to see the world and its people in a new way, and they help me remember those two hours with my unique friend and to pray for his ministry. “See you in the New Jerusalem,” he said. Yes, Daniel, I know I will…“I shall pass this way but once. Therefore, any good that I can do or any kindness that I can show, let me do it now, for I shall not pass this way again.”
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (25 06 2009)
Thought for the day
Maybe you've seen a chain letter that's been going around for a number of years.
It says: "The result of a computerized survey indicates that the perfect preacher:
Preaches 15 minutesCondemns sin; but never offends anyone.
Works from 8 till midnight including janitorial work.
Makes $60 per week, wears good clothes, buys good books, drives a good car and gives $50 per week to the poor.
Is 28 years old and has been preaching for 30 years.
Is wonderfully, perfectly handsome.
Has a burning desire to work with teenagers but spends all his time with the older folk.
Smiles with a straight face because his sense of humor keeps him seriously dedicated to his work.
He makes 15 calls per day on church family, shut-ins, hospitalized, while evangelizing the lost.
He's always in his office when needed.
If your preacher does not measure up to this chain letter, send this letter to six other churches who also are tired of their preacher. Bundle up your preacher and send him to the church at the top of the list. In one year you will receive 1,643 preachers one of them should be perfect.
WARNING: Keep this letter going. One church broke the chain and got their old preacher back in six months. "The truth is, we use a lot of criteria to judge preachers. By contrast, here's God's view of preachers: "Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God." (4:1)(1) Preachers are "servants". There are several Greek words in the New Testament that are translated "servant" and the word that Paul has chosen to use here is an interesting one.
The word literally means "under rower". Have you ever seen one of those old movies where the Roman ship is powered by slaves pulling hundreds of oars? This big guard cracks his whip and all the slaves pull on the oars. That's what this word "servant" originally meant. The lowest galley slaves, the ones rowing the bottom tier of the ship. They were the most menial, unenvied and despised of slaves. From that meaning the term came to refer to subordinates of any sort, to those under the authority of another.
Paul says that ministers of the gospel are first and foremost "servants of Christ". In everything they do, they are to be subordinate and subject to him.(2) Preachers are "stewards." A steward was a servant, but he was a servant with very special responsibilities. Perhaps the best way to express it is with the term "household manager". A steward was a servant who was placed in complete control of a house or an estate. He supervised the property, the fields and vineyards, the finances, the food, the staff members on behalf of his master.
Joseph in the Old Testament is a good example. He was a steward in Potiphar's house. Paul says that ministers of the gospel are stewards because they are entrusted with proclaiming the mysteries of God -- the gospel. As a steward of the gospel, it is the minister's responsibility to take God's Word and dispense it to God's household.
Those of us who are preachers appreciate being encouraged and edified like anyone else. But, when you're tempted to put your preacher up on a pedastal (or if he insists on climbing up there all by himself!), remember that we are but servants and stewards."So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gave the increase." (I Cor. 3:7).
To God be the glory!
Verses
Ephesians 6:11
Put on all of God's armor. Then you will be able to stand against the evil tricks of the Devil.
Matthew 8:17
This fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, "He took our sicknesses and bore our diseases."
1 John 2:12
I write to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for His name's sake.
1 Thessalonians 5:17
pray constantly,
Psalm 112:1,3
Praise the LORD! How blessed the man who fears the LORD, who takes great delight in His commandments. There will be wealth and riches in his home. His righteousness goes on forever.
Prayer
Jesus, the race You’ve marked out for us doesn’t require nearly as much physical stamina as it does spiritual endurance. Those who are physically weak due to disease, illness, and aging are just as qualified to run as those who have young athletic bodies. It’s a spiritual race where You call us to perseverance as we discard anything that would trip us up or lead us on a disastrous detour. The great cloud of witnesses spur us on; those from the Biblical period, throughout history, and from our own generation. But above all we thank You, Jesus, that You endured the cross and all the suffering that accompanied it, being spurred on by the joy You knew that would be Yours afterward. You cheer us on by Your own example and by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit that sustains us in our struggle against sin. Keep us faithful to the end, for the end is only the beginning. Amen
Maybe you've seen a chain letter that's been going around for a number of years.
It says: "The result of a computerized survey indicates that the perfect preacher:
Preaches 15 minutesCondemns sin; but never offends anyone.
Works from 8 till midnight including janitorial work.
Makes $60 per week, wears good clothes, buys good books, drives a good car and gives $50 per week to the poor.
Is 28 years old and has been preaching for 30 years.
Is wonderfully, perfectly handsome.
Has a burning desire to work with teenagers but spends all his time with the older folk.
Smiles with a straight face because his sense of humor keeps him seriously dedicated to his work.
He makes 15 calls per day on church family, shut-ins, hospitalized, while evangelizing the lost.
He's always in his office when needed.
If your preacher does not measure up to this chain letter, send this letter to six other churches who also are tired of their preacher. Bundle up your preacher and send him to the church at the top of the list. In one year you will receive 1,643 preachers one of them should be perfect.
WARNING: Keep this letter going. One church broke the chain and got their old preacher back in six months. "The truth is, we use a lot of criteria to judge preachers. By contrast, here's God's view of preachers: "Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God." (4:1)(1) Preachers are "servants". There are several Greek words in the New Testament that are translated "servant" and the word that Paul has chosen to use here is an interesting one.
The word literally means "under rower". Have you ever seen one of those old movies where the Roman ship is powered by slaves pulling hundreds of oars? This big guard cracks his whip and all the slaves pull on the oars. That's what this word "servant" originally meant. The lowest galley slaves, the ones rowing the bottom tier of the ship. They were the most menial, unenvied and despised of slaves. From that meaning the term came to refer to subordinates of any sort, to those under the authority of another.
Paul says that ministers of the gospel are first and foremost "servants of Christ". In everything they do, they are to be subordinate and subject to him.(2) Preachers are "stewards." A steward was a servant, but he was a servant with very special responsibilities. Perhaps the best way to express it is with the term "household manager". A steward was a servant who was placed in complete control of a house or an estate. He supervised the property, the fields and vineyards, the finances, the food, the staff members on behalf of his master.
Joseph in the Old Testament is a good example. He was a steward in Potiphar's house. Paul says that ministers of the gospel are stewards because they are entrusted with proclaiming the mysteries of God -- the gospel. As a steward of the gospel, it is the minister's responsibility to take God's Word and dispense it to God's household.
Those of us who are preachers appreciate being encouraged and edified like anyone else. But, when you're tempted to put your preacher up on a pedastal (or if he insists on climbing up there all by himself!), remember that we are but servants and stewards."So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gave the increase." (I Cor. 3:7).
To God be the glory!
Verses
Ephesians 6:11
Put on all of God's armor. Then you will be able to stand against the evil tricks of the Devil.
Matthew 8:17
This fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, "He took our sicknesses and bore our diseases."
1 John 2:12
I write to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for His name's sake.
1 Thessalonians 5:17
pray constantly,
Psalm 112:1,3
Praise the LORD! How blessed the man who fears the LORD, who takes great delight in His commandments. There will be wealth and riches in his home. His righteousness goes on forever.
Prayer
Jesus, the race You’ve marked out for us doesn’t require nearly as much physical stamina as it does spiritual endurance. Those who are physically weak due to disease, illness, and aging are just as qualified to run as those who have young athletic bodies. It’s a spiritual race where You call us to perseverance as we discard anything that would trip us up or lead us on a disastrous detour. The great cloud of witnesses spur us on; those from the Biblical period, throughout history, and from our own generation. But above all we thank You, Jesus, that You endured the cross and all the suffering that accompanied it, being spurred on by the joy You knew that would be Yours afterward. You cheer us on by Your own example and by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit that sustains us in our struggle against sin. Keep us faithful to the end, for the end is only the beginning. Amen
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Wednesday prayer & verses (24 06 2009)
Thought for the day
The rules at a particular university were such that if the professor were not present in the classroom by 15 minutes past the hour, the class was considered a "walk" and the students were free to leave -- with no penalties for missing a class. The rooms were equipped with the type wall clocks which "jumped" ahead each minute, in a very noticeable fashion.
These clocks were also not of the most sophisticated construction. Some enterprising student discovered that if one were to hit the clock with chalkboard erasers, it would cause the clock to "jump" ahead one minute.So, it became almost daily routine for these students to take target practice at the clock (as it would have it, this particular professor was not the most punctual). A few well-aimed erasers, and lo, 15 minutes were passed, and class dismissed itself.
When the day for the next exam rolled around, the professor strolled into the room, passed out the exams, and told them "You have one hour to complete it."The professor then proceeded to collect the erasers from around the room and gleefully took aim at the clock. When he had successfully "jumped"the clock forward one hour, he closed the class and collected the exam papers.We'll all been in situations where we would like for time to jump ahead and move faster than it does. But, as we get older, we become aware than time is moving quite fast enough on its own, without any help!
"My days are swifter than a weaver's shuttle..." (Job 2:6)"Now my days are swifter than a runner; They flee away....They pass bylike swift ships, Like an eagle swooping on its prey." (Job 9:25-26)"For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away." (James 4:14b)
The Bible speaks often about how quickly life passes, not to depress us, but to bring us to the realization that we had better be preparing nowfor the eternity that lies beyond this life.If you find yourself watching the clock at work today, wishing the timewould pass faster, be careful! It will be gone before you know it.
Verses
Romans 10:17
Then believing comes out of hearing; and hearing, through Christ's word.
Exodus 23:26
There will be no miscarriages or infertility among your people, and I will give you long, full lives.
Romans 5:1-2
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Philippians 4:6
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
Romans 8:32
If God did not spare his only Son, but gave him up for the sake of us all, can we not be sure that with him there is nothing that he will not freely give us?
Prayer
Father, we don’t pray for a life of ease since we know that virtues listed in Scripture are often refined in our lives through the challenges, the overcomings, the mistakes and the hours we spend in prayer seeking You above all else. May the nature of Christ be much more visible than our human nature so that we are truly a reflection of Your image that is stamped deep in our hearts. We desire to “follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and meekness” so that we are truly fruitful in our pursuit of holiness. Amen.
The rules at a particular university were such that if the professor were not present in the classroom by 15 minutes past the hour, the class was considered a "walk" and the students were free to leave -- with no penalties for missing a class. The rooms were equipped with the type wall clocks which "jumped" ahead each minute, in a very noticeable fashion.
These clocks were also not of the most sophisticated construction. Some enterprising student discovered that if one were to hit the clock with chalkboard erasers, it would cause the clock to "jump" ahead one minute.So, it became almost daily routine for these students to take target practice at the clock (as it would have it, this particular professor was not the most punctual). A few well-aimed erasers, and lo, 15 minutes were passed, and class dismissed itself.
When the day for the next exam rolled around, the professor strolled into the room, passed out the exams, and told them "You have one hour to complete it."The professor then proceeded to collect the erasers from around the room and gleefully took aim at the clock. When he had successfully "jumped"the clock forward one hour, he closed the class and collected the exam papers.We'll all been in situations where we would like for time to jump ahead and move faster than it does. But, as we get older, we become aware than time is moving quite fast enough on its own, without any help!
"My days are swifter than a weaver's shuttle..." (Job 2:6)"Now my days are swifter than a runner; They flee away....They pass bylike swift ships, Like an eagle swooping on its prey." (Job 9:25-26)"For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away." (James 4:14b)
The Bible speaks often about how quickly life passes, not to depress us, but to bring us to the realization that we had better be preparing nowfor the eternity that lies beyond this life.If you find yourself watching the clock at work today, wishing the timewould pass faster, be careful! It will be gone before you know it.
Verses
Romans 10:17
Then believing comes out of hearing; and hearing, through Christ's word.
Exodus 23:26
There will be no miscarriages or infertility among your people, and I will give you long, full lives.
Romans 5:1-2
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Philippians 4:6
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
Romans 8:32
If God did not spare his only Son, but gave him up for the sake of us all, can we not be sure that with him there is nothing that he will not freely give us?
Prayer
Father, we don’t pray for a life of ease since we know that virtues listed in Scripture are often refined in our lives through the challenges, the overcomings, the mistakes and the hours we spend in prayer seeking You above all else. May the nature of Christ be much more visible than our human nature so that we are truly a reflection of Your image that is stamped deep in our hearts. We desire to “follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and meekness” so that we are truly fruitful in our pursuit of holiness. Amen.
Tuesday prayer & verses (23 06 2009)
Thought for the day
Below are excerpts reported to be from U.S. and British officer performance reviews:
Actual (?) lines out of U.S. Military OERs (Officer Efficiency Report):
-- Not the sharpest knife in the drawer.
-- Got into the gene pool while the life guard wasn't watching.
-- A room temperature IQ.
-- Got a full 6-pack, but lacks the plastic thingy to hold it all together.
-- Bright as Alaska in December.
-- Gates are down, the lights are flashing, but the train isn't coming.
-- So dense, light bends around him.
-- If brains were taxed, he'd get a rebate.
-- If he were any more stupid, he'd have to be watered twice a week.
-- Was left on the Tilt-A-Whirl a bit too long as a baby.
-- Wheel is turning, but the hamster is dead.
Actual (?) excerpts from Royal Navy and Marines officer fitness reports:
-- His men would follow him anywhere, but only out of curiosity.
-- I would not breed from this officer.
-- He has carried out each and every one of his duties to his entire satisfaction.
-- He would be out of his depth in a car park puddle.
-- This young lady has delusions of adequacy.
-- Since my last report he has reached rock bottom, and has started to dig.
-- She sets low personal standards and then consistently fails to achieve them.
-- He has the wisdom of youth, and the energy of old age.
-- Works well when under constant supervision and cornered like a rat in a trap.
-- This man is depriving a village somewhere of an idiot.
It may be that the comments above are an indication of the intelligence of the men involved. But I suspect rather that they reflect the attitude of those men. You see, whether we want to admit it or not, the attitude that we have in the workplace makes an impression on others. And if we give only a half-hearted effort, or show disrespect for those in authority over us, then it not only leaves a negative impression of us, but of the Christianity we claim to believe and live.
Paul speaks in Colossians 3 to slaves of the first century, but his words apply to all Christians in the workplace: "Slaves, obey your masters in all things. Do not obey just when they are watching you, to gain their favor, but serve them honestly, because you respect the Lord. In all the work you are doing, work the best you can. Work as if you were doing it for the Lord, not for people." (Col. 3:22-24) In all that you do at work, it should be the very best you have to offer!
May that be the motto of every Christian in the workplace.
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the turning of dreams into deeds; it is betting your life on the unseen realities.
Matthew 8:13
Then Jesus said to the centurion, "Go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you." And his servant was healed that same hour.
Genesis 8:22
"As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease."
Romans 12:12
Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Psalm 35:27
Let all who want me to win be happy and joyful. From now on let them say, "The LORD is wonderful! God is glad when all goes well for his servant."
Prayer
Father, it is Your desire that we stay faithful to Your teachings. Scripture gives many examples of those who knew to do right, but instead yielded to temptation. The consequences of their wrong actions inflicted a great deal of loss, life-long regret and emotional pain. Help us to avoid the traps Satan has set for the believers by not only reading the Word, but applying its truth to our lives, and standing firm when the temptation to do wrong is ever before us.
Below are excerpts reported to be from U.S. and British officer performance reviews:
Actual (?) lines out of U.S. Military OERs (Officer Efficiency Report):
-- Not the sharpest knife in the drawer.
-- Got into the gene pool while the life guard wasn't watching.
-- A room temperature IQ.
-- Got a full 6-pack, but lacks the plastic thingy to hold it all together.
-- Bright as Alaska in December.
-- Gates are down, the lights are flashing, but the train isn't coming.
-- So dense, light bends around him.
-- If brains were taxed, he'd get a rebate.
-- If he were any more stupid, he'd have to be watered twice a week.
-- Was left on the Tilt-A-Whirl a bit too long as a baby.
-- Wheel is turning, but the hamster is dead.
Actual (?) excerpts from Royal Navy and Marines officer fitness reports:
-- His men would follow him anywhere, but only out of curiosity.
-- I would not breed from this officer.
-- He has carried out each and every one of his duties to his entire satisfaction.
-- He would be out of his depth in a car park puddle.
-- This young lady has delusions of adequacy.
-- Since my last report he has reached rock bottom, and has started to dig.
-- She sets low personal standards and then consistently fails to achieve them.
-- He has the wisdom of youth, and the energy of old age.
-- Works well when under constant supervision and cornered like a rat in a trap.
-- This man is depriving a village somewhere of an idiot.
It may be that the comments above are an indication of the intelligence of the men involved. But I suspect rather that they reflect the attitude of those men. You see, whether we want to admit it or not, the attitude that we have in the workplace makes an impression on others. And if we give only a half-hearted effort, or show disrespect for those in authority over us, then it not only leaves a negative impression of us, but of the Christianity we claim to believe and live.
Paul speaks in Colossians 3 to slaves of the first century, but his words apply to all Christians in the workplace: "Slaves, obey your masters in all things. Do not obey just when they are watching you, to gain their favor, but serve them honestly, because you respect the Lord. In all the work you are doing, work the best you can. Work as if you were doing it for the Lord, not for people." (Col. 3:22-24) In all that you do at work, it should be the very best you have to offer!
May that be the motto of every Christian in the workplace.
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the turning of dreams into deeds; it is betting your life on the unseen realities.
Matthew 8:13
Then Jesus said to the centurion, "Go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you." And his servant was healed that same hour.
Genesis 8:22
"As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease."
Romans 12:12
Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Psalm 35:27
Let all who want me to win be happy and joyful. From now on let them say, "The LORD is wonderful! God is glad when all goes well for his servant."
Prayer
Father, it is Your desire that we stay faithful to Your teachings. Scripture gives many examples of those who knew to do right, but instead yielded to temptation. The consequences of their wrong actions inflicted a great deal of loss, life-long regret and emotional pain. Help us to avoid the traps Satan has set for the believers by not only reading the Word, but applying its truth to our lives, and standing firm when the temptation to do wrong is ever before us.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Monday prayer & verses (22 06 2009)
Thought for the day
A man dressed as Napoleon went to see a psychiatrist at the urging of his wife. "What's your problem?" the doctor asked."I have no problem," the man replied. "I'm one of the most famous people in the world. I have a great army behind me. I have all the money I'll ever need, and I live in great luxury."
"Then why are you here?"
"It's because of my wife," the man said. "She thinks she's Mrs. Smith.
"Pride tends to do two things with us. It causes us to see ourselves as more important than what we really are. That's why Paul wrote, "...Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought..." (Rom. 12:3, NIV).
But pride also causes us to see other people as less important than what they are. Someone has described us as having a "crab mentality." The term refers to a pot of crabs in which one tries to escape over the side, but is relentlessly pulled down by the others in the pot. As humans, we often act the same way. If we can't be somebody great, we can at least pull down others around us so that we look better by comparison!
In the Corinthian church, there was a lot of competition involving spiritual gifts. Those who had the more prominent or public gifts, such as the ability to preach or the ability to speak in different languages, regarded themselves as superior to those who held what they viewed as "less significant" gifts. Paul says, though:
"On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor....But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other." (I Cor. 12:22-25, NIV).
May God help us not only to ourselves as He sees us, but to see others around us as He sees them as well.
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
You must not throw away your confidence, for it will bring you a rich reward. What you need is the power to see things through. If you have that, you will obey the will of God, and so receive what he has promised.
Luke 10:9
"And heal the sick who are there, and say to them, 'The kingdom of God has come near to you.'
Romans 12:2
Do not model yourselves on the behavior of the world around you, but let your behavior change, modeled by your new mind.
This is the only way to discover the will of God and know what is good, what it is that God wants, what is the perfect thing to do.
Job 42:10
And the Lord restored Job's losses when he prayed for his friends. Indeed the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.
Isaiah 61:6
but you shall be called priests of the LORD, you shall be named ministers of our God; you shall enjoy the wealth of the nations, and in their riches you shall glory.
Prayer
Father, we pray for our fathers, grandfathers, husbands and sons that they will pursue godliness above any earthly pursuit. We pray that they will resist the temptation to fall into the devil’s trap where foolishness and harmful desires will plunge them to ruin resulting in disappointment, loss and heartache. Help them to flee from all this and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Help them to lead their families in the good fight of faith as they take hold of eternal life. Make them strong in their faith so that they throw away anything that hinders their spiritual walk. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
A man dressed as Napoleon went to see a psychiatrist at the urging of his wife. "What's your problem?" the doctor asked."I have no problem," the man replied. "I'm one of the most famous people in the world. I have a great army behind me. I have all the money I'll ever need, and I live in great luxury."
"Then why are you here?"
"It's because of my wife," the man said. "She thinks she's Mrs. Smith.
"Pride tends to do two things with us. It causes us to see ourselves as more important than what we really are. That's why Paul wrote, "...Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought..." (Rom. 12:3, NIV).
But pride also causes us to see other people as less important than what they are. Someone has described us as having a "crab mentality." The term refers to a pot of crabs in which one tries to escape over the side, but is relentlessly pulled down by the others in the pot. As humans, we often act the same way. If we can't be somebody great, we can at least pull down others around us so that we look better by comparison!
In the Corinthian church, there was a lot of competition involving spiritual gifts. Those who had the more prominent or public gifts, such as the ability to preach or the ability to speak in different languages, regarded themselves as superior to those who held what they viewed as "less significant" gifts. Paul says, though:
"On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor....But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other." (I Cor. 12:22-25, NIV).
May God help us not only to ourselves as He sees us, but to see others around us as He sees them as well.
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
You must not throw away your confidence, for it will bring you a rich reward. What you need is the power to see things through. If you have that, you will obey the will of God, and so receive what he has promised.
Luke 10:9
"And heal the sick who are there, and say to them, 'The kingdom of God has come near to you.'
Romans 12:2
Do not model yourselves on the behavior of the world around you, but let your behavior change, modeled by your new mind.
This is the only way to discover the will of God and know what is good, what it is that God wants, what is the perfect thing to do.
Job 42:10
And the Lord restored Job's losses when he prayed for his friends. Indeed the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.
Isaiah 61:6
but you shall be called priests of the LORD, you shall be named ministers of our God; you shall enjoy the wealth of the nations, and in their riches you shall glory.
Prayer
Father, we pray for our fathers, grandfathers, husbands and sons that they will pursue godliness above any earthly pursuit. We pray that they will resist the temptation to fall into the devil’s trap where foolishness and harmful desires will plunge them to ruin resulting in disappointment, loss and heartache. Help them to flee from all this and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Help them to lead their families in the good fight of faith as they take hold of eternal life. Make them strong in their faith so that they throw away anything that hinders their spiritual walk. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Honorable lives
HONORABLE LIVES - Prophet Riaan du Toit
No two people on earth are alike in taste, experience or lifestyle. We all have to have certain character traits developed in us that is a requisite for life and godliness. I believe we have come to a season of no more compromise in our lives! This scripture therefore says separate yourself from the iniquity in the world!
In 2 TIMOTHY 2:19-21 there is a challenge for every believer to become a vessel of honor!How do we do this? It lists three statements of how to turn yourself into an honorable vessel:a) Whoever cleanses himselfb) Whoever separates himselfc) Whoever resists corrupting influencesThis is it. The moment you apply these, you have turned yourself into a honorable vessel! We generally want to put the responsibility on the pastor, our teachers or even our spouses. It emphatically states WE ARE RESPONSIBLE!
Those with whom you fellowship will form your future and direct your destiny. It’s a fact that our associates and fellowships are a door to our future! Be careful with whom you fellowship. The church has this issue with fellowships whether great or small. Every program designed is to get people together and have them fellowship with one another. Here we get a mixed multitude and mixed breed of opinions, contributions and backgrounds. It is also a fact that among those are vessels of dishonor. We can impact them and change their values or outlook.
How can we do this?1 JOHN 1:7 says if we live and walk in the Light AS HE IS in the Light a few things are evident:
a) We have true unbroken fellowship with one another
b) The blood of Jesus cleanses us
c) The blood of Jesus removes us from all sin and guilt
d) The blood of Jesus keeps us cleansed from sin!
The responsibility lies on us to walk holy, honorable and in the light, exactly as He is in the Light. When we do this, take responsibility for living honorable lives, we have UNBROKEN fellowship with one another!
We can then receive from God and declare that the blood of Jesus cleanses us and REMOVES US from sin. It does not state that our sin will be removed but we will be removed from sin! God will direct my steps and path away from all evil and snares. Not only that but He will keep me cleansed!Press in and live honorable lives. There is so much that will open for you!
All of heaven is available to work on your behalf if you will just take responsibility. In the Garden of Eden, God gave man responsibility and man lost it. We were born for greater things than what we are experiencing now. Make the transition and Transform Your World!
No two people on earth are alike in taste, experience or lifestyle. We all have to have certain character traits developed in us that is a requisite for life and godliness. I believe we have come to a season of no more compromise in our lives! This scripture therefore says separate yourself from the iniquity in the world!
In 2 TIMOTHY 2:19-21 there is a challenge for every believer to become a vessel of honor!How do we do this? It lists three statements of how to turn yourself into an honorable vessel:a) Whoever cleanses himselfb) Whoever separates himselfc) Whoever resists corrupting influencesThis is it. The moment you apply these, you have turned yourself into a honorable vessel! We generally want to put the responsibility on the pastor, our teachers or even our spouses. It emphatically states WE ARE RESPONSIBLE!
Those with whom you fellowship will form your future and direct your destiny. It’s a fact that our associates and fellowships are a door to our future! Be careful with whom you fellowship. The church has this issue with fellowships whether great or small. Every program designed is to get people together and have them fellowship with one another. Here we get a mixed multitude and mixed breed of opinions, contributions and backgrounds. It is also a fact that among those are vessels of dishonor. We can impact them and change their values or outlook.
How can we do this?1 JOHN 1:7 says if we live and walk in the Light AS HE IS in the Light a few things are evident:
a) We have true unbroken fellowship with one another
b) The blood of Jesus cleanses us
c) The blood of Jesus removes us from all sin and guilt
d) The blood of Jesus keeps us cleansed from sin!
The responsibility lies on us to walk holy, honorable and in the light, exactly as He is in the Light. When we do this, take responsibility for living honorable lives, we have UNBROKEN fellowship with one another!
We can then receive from God and declare that the blood of Jesus cleanses us and REMOVES US from sin. It does not state that our sin will be removed but we will be removed from sin! God will direct my steps and path away from all evil and snares. Not only that but He will keep me cleansed!Press in and live honorable lives. There is so much that will open for you!
All of heaven is available to work on your behalf if you will just take responsibility. In the Garden of Eden, God gave man responsibility and man lost it. We were born for greater things than what we are experiencing now. Make the transition and Transform Your World!
Friday prayer & verses (19 06 2009)
Thought for the day
There is a story about a bride and groom long ago who were leaving on their honeymoon in a buggy pulled by a horse. As they traveled, a piece of paper fluttered across the road and the horse bolted. When the man regained control of the horse he said, "That's one!"
Later in the day, a rabbit jumped from the side of the road and ran in front of the horse. Again the horse bolted. When the man regained control of the horse this time he said, "That's two!"
Something similar happened later in the day and the groom said, "That's three!"
He then pulled out his gun and killed the horse.
His startled and bewildered wife said, "Why John, that's terrible; you can't do that!" Her new husband looked at her with expressionless eyes and said, "That's one!"
We have limits on how much we're willing to tolerate from others. Peter thought a generous limit was "seven times" of being sinned against (Matt. 18:21). Jesus said, though, that we are to forgive up to "seventy times seven" (Matt. 18:22), without limit.
I think one of the most difficult Christian traits for us to develop is forbearance, which is the ability to "put up with others". We expect others to tolerate and overlook our shortcomings, but we are often slow to do the same for others. Let us be reminded of these words from Paul: "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do." (Col. 3:12-13).
Verses
Hebrews 10:23
let us hold fast the confession of our hope that it waver not; for he is faithful that promised:
Matthew 8:17
in order that this prediction of the Prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled, <"He took on Him our weaknesses, and bore the burden of our diseases.">
Ephesians 5:1
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children
Matthew 7:8
"For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (that is, He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do
without) a cheerful (joyous, prompt-to-do-it) giver -- whose heart is in his giving.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for Jesus and His obedience in dying for our sins that we might be forgiven and experience eternal life. We’re so glad that You did not abandon Him to the grave, but instead You raised Him up on the third day so that we might have eternal salvation. We place our hope in You for all that concerns us in this life. We also look beyond the grave knowing that our greatest hope awaits us there. Keep us faithful in life’s journey so that our hope on this side will be fully realized on the other side. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
There is a story about a bride and groom long ago who were leaving on their honeymoon in a buggy pulled by a horse. As they traveled, a piece of paper fluttered across the road and the horse bolted. When the man regained control of the horse he said, "That's one!"
Later in the day, a rabbit jumped from the side of the road and ran in front of the horse. Again the horse bolted. When the man regained control of the horse this time he said, "That's two!"
Something similar happened later in the day and the groom said, "That's three!"
He then pulled out his gun and killed the horse.
His startled and bewildered wife said, "Why John, that's terrible; you can't do that!" Her new husband looked at her with expressionless eyes and said, "That's one!"
We have limits on how much we're willing to tolerate from others. Peter thought a generous limit was "seven times" of being sinned against (Matt. 18:21). Jesus said, though, that we are to forgive up to "seventy times seven" (Matt. 18:22), without limit.
I think one of the most difficult Christian traits for us to develop is forbearance, which is the ability to "put up with others". We expect others to tolerate and overlook our shortcomings, but we are often slow to do the same for others. Let us be reminded of these words from Paul: "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do." (Col. 3:12-13).
Verses
Hebrews 10:23
let us hold fast the confession of our hope that it waver not; for he is faithful that promised:
Matthew 8:17
in order that this prediction of the Prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled, <"He took on Him our weaknesses, and bore the burden of our diseases.">
Ephesians 5:1
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children
Matthew 7:8
"For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (that is, He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do
without) a cheerful (joyous, prompt-to-do-it) giver -- whose heart is in his giving.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for Jesus and His obedience in dying for our sins that we might be forgiven and experience eternal life. We’re so glad that You did not abandon Him to the grave, but instead You raised Him up on the third day so that we might have eternal salvation. We place our hope in You for all that concerns us in this life. We also look beyond the grave knowing that our greatest hope awaits us there. Keep us faithful in life’s journey so that our hope on this side will be fully realized on the other side. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (18 06 2009)
Thought for the day
ATTENTION CHILDREN: The Bathroom Door is Closed.
Please do not stand here and talk, whine, or ask questions. Wait until I get out.
Yes, it is locked. I want it that way. It is not broken, I am not trapped. I know I have left it unlocked, and even open at times, since you were born, because I was afraid some horrible tragedy might occur while I was in here, but it's been 10 years and I want some PRIVACY.
Do not ask me how long I will be. I will come out when I am done.
Do not bring the phone to the bathroom door.
Do not go running back to the phone yelling, "She's in the BATHROOM!"
Do not begin to fight as soon as I go in.
Do not stick your little fingers under the door and wiggle them. This was funny when you were two, but not now.
Do not slide pennies, Legos, or notes under the door. Even when you were two this got a little tiresome.
If you have followed me down the hall talking, and are still talking as you face this closed door, please turn around, walk away, and wait for me in another room. I will be glad to listen to you when I am done.
And yes, I still love you.
(signed)Mom
I know that every parent (and especially every mother) can relate to that. Sometimes it seems that there is no hope of any privacy. No matter where you go, little steps are heard right behind you. You try to hold a private conversation and little ears are listening. There's no getting away from it!
That's true of God as well. Though we may sometimes wish that we could get away from Him for just a few minutes, there's no way. Listen to how David put it:
"Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there." (Psalm 139:7-8, NIV)Though, at first, it may seem that God's continual presence is something to dread, David realizes that there is great comfort in such knowledge:
"If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast." (Psalm 139:9, NIV)
God's omnipresence means that He will always be there to take care of us, no matter where we may be. Instead of being something to fear, His presence is something which gives us comfort.
Take comfort today in knowing that you can never get away from God -- not even by closing the bathroom door!
Verses
Romans 8:37
But in all these things we are winning an overwhelming victory through him who loved us.
Romans 4:19
And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah's womb.
John 8:31-32
Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, "If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free."
Luke 2:37
and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
Romans 8:32
If God did not spare his only Son, but gave him up for the sake of us all, can we not be sure that with him there is nothing that he will not freely give us?
Prayer
Father, as we experience Your amazing grace through Your forgiveness of our sins it compels us to also show compassion to others who have not yet applied Your grace to their lives. As Jude writes, we are to “Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.” In reaching out to others who are still living in sin we must not lower our standards, nor do we want to appear more righteous then them. So give us the words along with a compassionate heart to reach the lost without losing our soul or lowering our standards, as we choose to love the sinner and hate the sin. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
ATTENTION CHILDREN: The Bathroom Door is Closed.
Please do not stand here and talk, whine, or ask questions. Wait until I get out.
Yes, it is locked. I want it that way. It is not broken, I am not trapped. I know I have left it unlocked, and even open at times, since you were born, because I was afraid some horrible tragedy might occur while I was in here, but it's been 10 years and I want some PRIVACY.
Do not ask me how long I will be. I will come out when I am done.
Do not bring the phone to the bathroom door.
Do not go running back to the phone yelling, "She's in the BATHROOM!"
Do not begin to fight as soon as I go in.
Do not stick your little fingers under the door and wiggle them. This was funny when you were two, but not now.
Do not slide pennies, Legos, or notes under the door. Even when you were two this got a little tiresome.
If you have followed me down the hall talking, and are still talking as you face this closed door, please turn around, walk away, and wait for me in another room. I will be glad to listen to you when I am done.
And yes, I still love you.
(signed)Mom
I know that every parent (and especially every mother) can relate to that. Sometimes it seems that there is no hope of any privacy. No matter where you go, little steps are heard right behind you. You try to hold a private conversation and little ears are listening. There's no getting away from it!
That's true of God as well. Though we may sometimes wish that we could get away from Him for just a few minutes, there's no way. Listen to how David put it:
"Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there." (Psalm 139:7-8, NIV)Though, at first, it may seem that God's continual presence is something to dread, David realizes that there is great comfort in such knowledge:
"If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast." (Psalm 139:9, NIV)
God's omnipresence means that He will always be there to take care of us, no matter where we may be. Instead of being something to fear, His presence is something which gives us comfort.
Take comfort today in knowing that you can never get away from God -- not even by closing the bathroom door!
Verses
Romans 8:37
But in all these things we are winning an overwhelming victory through him who loved us.
Romans 4:19
And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah's womb.
John 8:31-32
Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, "If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free."
Luke 2:37
and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
Romans 8:32
If God did not spare his only Son, but gave him up for the sake of us all, can we not be sure that with him there is nothing that he will not freely give us?
Prayer
Father, as we experience Your amazing grace through Your forgiveness of our sins it compels us to also show compassion to others who have not yet applied Your grace to their lives. As Jude writes, we are to “Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.” In reaching out to others who are still living in sin we must not lower our standards, nor do we want to appear more righteous then them. So give us the words along with a compassionate heart to reach the lost without losing our soul or lowering our standards, as we choose to love the sinner and hate the sin. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Wednesday prayer & verses 17 06 2009)
Thought for the day
A voyaging ship was wrecked during a storm at sea and only two of the men on it were able to swim to a small, desert-like island. The two survivors, not knowing what else to do, agreed that they had no other recourse but to pray to God. However, to find out whose prayer was more powerful, they agreed to divide the territory between them and stay on opposite sides of the island. The first thing they prayed for was food.
The next morning, the first man saw a fruit-bearing tree on his side of the land, and he was able to eat its fruit. The other man's parcel of land remained barren.
After some days, the first man was lonely and he decided to pray for a wife. The next day, another ship was wrecked, and the only survivor was a woman who swam to his side of the island. On the other side of the island, the second man had nothing. Soon the first man prayed for a house, clothes, and more food. The next day, like magic, all of these were given to him. However, the second man still had nothing.
Finally, the first man prayed for a ship, so that he and his wife could leave the island. In the morning, he found a ship docked at his side on the island. The first man boarded the ship with his wife and decided to leave the second man on the island. He considered the other man unworthy to receive God's blessings, since none of his prayers had been answered.
As the ship was about to leave, the first man heard God speak from heaven booming: "Why are you leaving your companion on the island?"
"My blessings are mine alone, since I was the one who prayed for them," the first man replied. "His prayers were all unanswered and so he does not deserve anything."
"You are mistaken," God rebuked him. "He had only one prayer, which I answered."
"Tell me," the first man asked God, "what did he pray for that I should owe him anything?"
"He prayed that all your prayers be answered."
We have many of the apostle Paul's prayers recorded in his epistles. It is significant to me how large a percentage of those prayers involved petitions for other people (mostly for spiritual needs rather than physical, incidentally) and how few involved petitions for personal needs.
It is easy to get so caught up in asking God to provide us what we need (or merely want) that we forget to pray for others. May God help us to be sensitive to the needs of others around us, and may we take advantage of every opportunity to approach the throne of grace and lay their concerns at the feet of our Father.
"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone..." (I Timothy 2:1, NIV)
Verses
Hebrews 10:23
let us hold the hope we avow without wavering (for we can rely on him who gave us the Promise);
Isaiah 61:1
"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the Lord has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
John 8:31-32
Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."
Colossians 4:2
Be giving constant attention to prayer, constantly vigilant in it with thanksgiving,
2 Corinthians 9:11
God will make you rich in every way so that you can always give freely. And your giving through us will cause many to give thanks to God.
Prayer
Lord, everything we see or touch with our hands has a shelf life and eventually wears out or is destroyed. Our family members and the people we hold dear to our hearts in time also depart from our lives. But when we contemplate thoughts of eternity we are filled with unending praise as we consider that You, O Lord, reign forever. Of your kingdom there will be no end. We’ll gather with our dear brothers and sisters from all over the world, from every tribe, tongue and nation to exalt the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ for all eternity! Amen.
A voyaging ship was wrecked during a storm at sea and only two of the men on it were able to swim to a small, desert-like island. The two survivors, not knowing what else to do, agreed that they had no other recourse but to pray to God. However, to find out whose prayer was more powerful, they agreed to divide the territory between them and stay on opposite sides of the island. The first thing they prayed for was food.
The next morning, the first man saw a fruit-bearing tree on his side of the land, and he was able to eat its fruit. The other man's parcel of land remained barren.
After some days, the first man was lonely and he decided to pray for a wife. The next day, another ship was wrecked, and the only survivor was a woman who swam to his side of the island. On the other side of the island, the second man had nothing. Soon the first man prayed for a house, clothes, and more food. The next day, like magic, all of these were given to him. However, the second man still had nothing.
Finally, the first man prayed for a ship, so that he and his wife could leave the island. In the morning, he found a ship docked at his side on the island. The first man boarded the ship with his wife and decided to leave the second man on the island. He considered the other man unworthy to receive God's blessings, since none of his prayers had been answered.
As the ship was about to leave, the first man heard God speak from heaven booming: "Why are you leaving your companion on the island?"
"My blessings are mine alone, since I was the one who prayed for them," the first man replied. "His prayers were all unanswered and so he does not deserve anything."
"You are mistaken," God rebuked him. "He had only one prayer, which I answered."
"Tell me," the first man asked God, "what did he pray for that I should owe him anything?"
"He prayed that all your prayers be answered."
We have many of the apostle Paul's prayers recorded in his epistles. It is significant to me how large a percentage of those prayers involved petitions for other people (mostly for spiritual needs rather than physical, incidentally) and how few involved petitions for personal needs.
It is easy to get so caught up in asking God to provide us what we need (or merely want) that we forget to pray for others. May God help us to be sensitive to the needs of others around us, and may we take advantage of every opportunity to approach the throne of grace and lay their concerns at the feet of our Father.
"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone..." (I Timothy 2:1, NIV)
Verses
Hebrews 10:23
let us hold the hope we avow without wavering (for we can rely on him who gave us the Promise);
Isaiah 61:1
"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the Lord has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
John 8:31-32
Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."
Colossians 4:2
Be giving constant attention to prayer, constantly vigilant in it with thanksgiving,
2 Corinthians 9:11
God will make you rich in every way so that you can always give freely. And your giving through us will cause many to give thanks to God.
Prayer
Lord, everything we see or touch with our hands has a shelf life and eventually wears out or is destroyed. Our family members and the people we hold dear to our hearts in time also depart from our lives. But when we contemplate thoughts of eternity we are filled with unending praise as we consider that You, O Lord, reign forever. Of your kingdom there will be no end. We’ll gather with our dear brothers and sisters from all over the world, from every tribe, tongue and nation to exalt the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ for all eternity! Amen.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verses (16 06 2009)
Thought for the day
A father took his little seven-year-old boy fishing with him one day. They put out the trout line and then went up to the cabin.
After an hour they went back down to the river to see if they had caught anything. Sure enough, there were several fish on the line. "I knew there would be, daddy," said the boy. "How did you know?" asked the father. "Because I prayed about it," said the child.
So they baited the hooks again and put out the line and went back to the cabin for supper. Afterward they went back to the river; again, there were fish on the line. "I knew it," said the boy. "And how?" asked his father. "I prayed again."
So they put the line back out into the river and went to the cabin. Before bedtime they went down again. This time there were no fish. "I knew there wouldn't be," said the child. "How did you know?" asked the father. "Because," said the boy, "I didn't pray about it this time."
"And why didn't you?" asked his father."Because," said the boy, "I remembered that we forgot to bait the hooks. "There is a familiar saying which goes like this: "Pray as if everything depends on God, but work as if everything depends on you."
I'm not fully comfortable with that quotation because it seems to be saying that we should live our lives as if God isn't going to do anything (when the truth is, if anything happens at all, it will be because He does it).
But I can appreciate the sentiment that we shouldn't pray and then just sit back and wait for God to do something. And yet, we do that all the time. We pray for God to bless those who are needy. But then what do we do to help the needy? Do we suppose that God is going to somehow airlift care packages and drop them from the sky? He will help them through people like us meeting their needs. But, somehow it seems to soothe our consciences to tell God to take care of the sick, the hurting, the lonely, and the sorrowful while we sit back and do nothing. It makes us feel good to pray for all the people who have never heard about Jesus Christ while we live our lives saying nothing to the people we are around.
We feel we have "done our duty" by praying for missionaries, but never take a few moments to send a note of encouragement.In essence, we fail to bait the hook, then pray that God will fill the line with fish. Notice the difference, though, in this example that Nehemiah set for us:
"One of my brothers named Hanani came with some other men from Judah. I asked them about Jerusalem and the Jewish people who lived through the captivity. They answered me, 'Those who are left from the captivity are back in Judah, but they are in much trouble and are full of shame. The wall around Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned.' When I heard these things, I sat down and cried for several days. I was sad and ate nothing. I prayed to the God of heaven....Then the king said to me, 'What do you want?' First I prayed to the God of heaven. Then I answered the king, 'If you are willing and if I have pleased you, send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so I can rebuild it.'" (Nehemiah 1:2-4; 2:4-5, NCV)
Notice that Nehemiah didn't just pray to God that He would rebuild the wall of Jerusalem. He prayed and then he set out to do all that he could to make that project possible. Both elements are essential. May our prayers not merely be that God will bless others, but that God will use us to bless others. Don't pray for fish unless you're willing to bait the hook!
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
Do not, therefore, abandon your confident attitude, for it brings great recompense. For you still have need of steadfastness, in order that, after having done the will of God, you may obtain what He has promised.
Genesis 20:17
So Abraham prayed to God; and God healed Abimelech, his wife, and his maidservants. Then they bore children;
Galatians 3:14
that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
Romans 15:30
Now I beg you, brethren, through the Lord Jesus Christ, and through the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me in your prayers to God for me,
Proverbs 13:22
The good bequeaths his heritage to his children's children, the wealth of the sinner is stored away for the upright.
PrayerFather, those things which are true, honorable, right and pure stimulate us to wholesome thinking which not only purifies us within, but adhering to them also purifies that which is around us as we stimulate toward godly character. Remind us often that our words and actions give us opportunity to bring You glory as we reflect Your image. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
A father took his little seven-year-old boy fishing with him one day. They put out the trout line and then went up to the cabin.
After an hour they went back down to the river to see if they had caught anything. Sure enough, there were several fish on the line. "I knew there would be, daddy," said the boy. "How did you know?" asked the father. "Because I prayed about it," said the child.
So they baited the hooks again and put out the line and went back to the cabin for supper. Afterward they went back to the river; again, there were fish on the line. "I knew it," said the boy. "And how?" asked his father. "I prayed again."
So they put the line back out into the river and went to the cabin. Before bedtime they went down again. This time there were no fish. "I knew there wouldn't be," said the child. "How did you know?" asked the father. "Because," said the boy, "I didn't pray about it this time."
"And why didn't you?" asked his father."Because," said the boy, "I remembered that we forgot to bait the hooks. "There is a familiar saying which goes like this: "Pray as if everything depends on God, but work as if everything depends on you."
I'm not fully comfortable with that quotation because it seems to be saying that we should live our lives as if God isn't going to do anything (when the truth is, if anything happens at all, it will be because He does it).
But I can appreciate the sentiment that we shouldn't pray and then just sit back and wait for God to do something. And yet, we do that all the time. We pray for God to bless those who are needy. But then what do we do to help the needy? Do we suppose that God is going to somehow airlift care packages and drop them from the sky? He will help them through people like us meeting their needs. But, somehow it seems to soothe our consciences to tell God to take care of the sick, the hurting, the lonely, and the sorrowful while we sit back and do nothing. It makes us feel good to pray for all the people who have never heard about Jesus Christ while we live our lives saying nothing to the people we are around.
We feel we have "done our duty" by praying for missionaries, but never take a few moments to send a note of encouragement.In essence, we fail to bait the hook, then pray that God will fill the line with fish. Notice the difference, though, in this example that Nehemiah set for us:
"One of my brothers named Hanani came with some other men from Judah. I asked them about Jerusalem and the Jewish people who lived through the captivity. They answered me, 'Those who are left from the captivity are back in Judah, but they are in much trouble and are full of shame. The wall around Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned.' When I heard these things, I sat down and cried for several days. I was sad and ate nothing. I prayed to the God of heaven....Then the king said to me, 'What do you want?' First I prayed to the God of heaven. Then I answered the king, 'If you are willing and if I have pleased you, send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so I can rebuild it.'" (Nehemiah 1:2-4; 2:4-5, NCV)
Notice that Nehemiah didn't just pray to God that He would rebuild the wall of Jerusalem. He prayed and then he set out to do all that he could to make that project possible. Both elements are essential. May our prayers not merely be that God will bless others, but that God will use us to bless others. Don't pray for fish unless you're willing to bait the hook!
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
Do not, therefore, abandon your confident attitude, for it brings great recompense. For you still have need of steadfastness, in order that, after having done the will of God, you may obtain what He has promised.
Genesis 20:17
So Abraham prayed to God; and God healed Abimelech, his wife, and his maidservants. Then they bore children;
Galatians 3:14
that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
Romans 15:30
Now I beg you, brethren, through the Lord Jesus Christ, and through the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me in your prayers to God for me,
Proverbs 13:22
The good bequeaths his heritage to his children's children, the wealth of the sinner is stored away for the upright.
PrayerFather, those things which are true, honorable, right and pure stimulate us to wholesome thinking which not only purifies us within, but adhering to them also purifies that which is around us as we stimulate toward godly character. Remind us often that our words and actions give us opportunity to bring You glory as we reflect Your image. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday prayer & verses (15 06 2009)
Thought for the day
A certain daughter complained to her father about her life and how things have been so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and she wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed that just as one problem was solved another arose.
Her father, a chef, took her to the kitchen, filled three pots with water and placed the fire on high. Soon the three pots came to a boil. In one he placed carrots, in the other he placed eggs, and in the last he placed ground coffee beans. He let them sit and boil, without saying a word.
The daughter sucked her teeth and impatiently wondered what he was trying to do. She had problems, and he was making this strange concoction.
In half an hour he walked over to the oven and turned down the fire. He pulled the carrots out and placed them in the bowl. He pulled the eggs out and placed them in the bowl. Then he ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl.
Turning to her he asked. "Darling what do you see,"
Smartly, she replied. "Carrots, eggs, and coffee."
He brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. He then asked her to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard-boiled egg. Finally, he asked her to sip the coffee. Her face frowned from the strength of the coffee.
Humbly, she asked. "What does it mean Father?"
He explained. "Each of them faced the same adversity, 212 degrees of boiling water. However each reacted differently."
"The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. But after going through boiling water, it softened and became weak."
"The egg was fragile. A thin outer shell protected a liquid center. But after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened."
"The coffee beans are unique however. After they were in the boiling water, it became stronger and richer."
"Which are you," he asked his daughter.
When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond?Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?
Are you the carrot that seems hard, but with the smallest amount of pain, adversity, heat you wilt and become soft with no strength?
Are you the egg, which starts off with a malleable heart? A fluid spirit. But after a death, a breakup, a divorce, a layoff you became hardened and stiff. Your shell looks the same, but you are so bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and heart, internally.
Or are you like the coffee bean? The bean does not get its peak flavor and robust until it reaches 212 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water gets the hottest, it just tastes better. When things are there worst, you get better.
When people talk the most, your praises increase. When the hour is the darkest, trials are their greatest, your worship elevates to another level.
How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?
Verses
Romans 8:28
We know that God works all things out for good for those who love God, who are called according to His plan.
Proverbs 18:21
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
Joshua 1:9
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
Jeremiah 33:3
Let your cry come to me, and I will give you an answer, and let you see great things and secret things of which you had no knowledge.
Philippians 4:19
And my God will supply you with everything that you need, in keeping with His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Prayer
Father, the Word declares that those who are mature in their walk with You are those who’ve repeatedly made hard choices. They’ve come up against the tempter time after time and because of their spiritual training have said “No” to ungodly behavior and ungodly attitudes, to temporary pleasures that leave unending regret. You continue to train our senses to instantly know that which is good and that which is evil as we adhere to Your standards of righteousness, as modeled and written in Scripture. Amen.
A certain daughter complained to her father about her life and how things have been so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and she wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed that just as one problem was solved another arose.
Her father, a chef, took her to the kitchen, filled three pots with water and placed the fire on high. Soon the three pots came to a boil. In one he placed carrots, in the other he placed eggs, and in the last he placed ground coffee beans. He let them sit and boil, without saying a word.
The daughter sucked her teeth and impatiently wondered what he was trying to do. She had problems, and he was making this strange concoction.
In half an hour he walked over to the oven and turned down the fire. He pulled the carrots out and placed them in the bowl. He pulled the eggs out and placed them in the bowl. Then he ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl.
Turning to her he asked. "Darling what do you see,"
Smartly, she replied. "Carrots, eggs, and coffee."
He brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. He then asked her to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard-boiled egg. Finally, he asked her to sip the coffee. Her face frowned from the strength of the coffee.
Humbly, she asked. "What does it mean Father?"
He explained. "Each of them faced the same adversity, 212 degrees of boiling water. However each reacted differently."
"The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. But after going through boiling water, it softened and became weak."
"The egg was fragile. A thin outer shell protected a liquid center. But after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened."
"The coffee beans are unique however. After they were in the boiling water, it became stronger and richer."
"Which are you," he asked his daughter.
When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond?Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?
Are you the carrot that seems hard, but with the smallest amount of pain, adversity, heat you wilt and become soft with no strength?
Are you the egg, which starts off with a malleable heart? A fluid spirit. But after a death, a breakup, a divorce, a layoff you became hardened and stiff. Your shell looks the same, but you are so bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and heart, internally.
Or are you like the coffee bean? The bean does not get its peak flavor and robust until it reaches 212 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water gets the hottest, it just tastes better. When things are there worst, you get better.
When people talk the most, your praises increase. When the hour is the darkest, trials are their greatest, your worship elevates to another level.
How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?
Verses
Romans 8:28
We know that God works all things out for good for those who love God, who are called according to His plan.
Proverbs 18:21
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
Joshua 1:9
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
Jeremiah 33:3
Let your cry come to me, and I will give you an answer, and let you see great things and secret things of which you had no knowledge.
Philippians 4:19
And my God will supply you with everything that you need, in keeping with His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Prayer
Father, the Word declares that those who are mature in their walk with You are those who’ve repeatedly made hard choices. They’ve come up against the tempter time after time and because of their spiritual training have said “No” to ungodly behavior and ungodly attitudes, to temporary pleasures that leave unending regret. You continue to train our senses to instantly know that which is good and that which is evil as we adhere to Your standards of righteousness, as modeled and written in Scripture. Amen.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (12 06 2009)
Thought for the day
If you are TC (technologically challenged), you'll be the able to sympathize with some of the problems below. The following is an excerpt taken from a Wall Street Journal article:
1. Compaq is considering changing the command "Press Any Key" to "Press Return Key" because of the flood of calls asking where the "Any" key is.
2. A Compaq technician received a call from a man complaining that the system wouldn't read word processing files from his old diskettes. It was found that the customer had labeled the diskettes, then rolled them into the typewriter to type the labels.
3. An AST customer was asked to send a copy of her defective diskettes. A few days later a letter arrived from the customer along with photocopies of the floppies.
4. A Dell technician advised his customer to put his troubled floppy back in the drive and close the door. The customer asked the tech to hold on, and was heard putting the phone down, getting up and crossing the room to close the door to his room.
5. Another Dell customer called to say he couldn't get his computer to fax anything. After 40 minutes of trouble-shooting, the technician discovered the man was trying to fax a piece of paper by holding it in front of the monitor screen and hitting the "send" key.
6. A confused caller to IBM was having troubles printing documents. He told the technician that the computer had said it "couldn't find printer". The user had also tried turning the computer screen to face the printer -but that his computer still couldn't "see" the printer.
7. An exasperated caller to Dell Computer Tech Support couldn't get her new Dell Computer to turn on. After ensuring the computer was plugged in, the technician asked her what happened when she pushed the power button. Her response, "I pushed and pushed on this foot pedal and nothing happens." The "foot pedal" turned out to be the computer's mouse.
8. An IBM customer had troubles installing software and rang for support. "I put in the first disk, and that was OK. It said to put in the second disk, and had some problems with the disk. When it said to put in the third disk - I couldn't even fit it in..." The user hadn't realized that "Insert Disk 2" meant to remove Disk 1 first.
9. Another customer called Compaq tech support to say her brand-new computer wouldn't work. She said she unpacked the unit, plugged it in and sat there for 20 minutes waiting for something to happen. When asked what happened when she pressed the power switch, she asked "What power switch?"
It seems to me a lot of these problems could have been solved by looking in the instruction book (What? You don't read it either?). And not to even know where the power switch is!
We're not much different spiritually. So many of our times of confusion are caused by not spending enough time with our "instruction book" (the Bible) and not knowing the source of our power.
When the Sadducees asked Jesus a question about the resurrection, he rebuked them with these words, "You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God." (Matthew 22:29)
It's not too late to add one more New Year's resolution to your list. Resolve this year to spend more time with God's Word, looking to God as the source of power in your life. There may still be times you're uncertain what to do next. Fortunately, the tech support line (prayer) is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Don't hesitate to use it.
Verses
Romans 10:17
So then, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message comes through preaching Christ.
Malachi 4:2
But to you who fear My name the Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings; and you shall go out and grow fat like stall-fed calves.
1 John 4:17
Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.
3 John 1:2
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Each person should give as he planned ahead of time in his heart. He should not be sorry that he gave or feel forced to give. God loves a cheerful giver.
Prayer
Father, we consider the sentiment of the hymn writer who asked, “Where could I go, oh, where could I go? Seeking a refuge for my soul. Needing a Friend to save me in the end, where could I go but to the Lord?” Father, though You love us so much that You sent Your only Son to die on the cross for our sins we put up a struggle with You instead of surrendering to You. But when we finally do surrender, we find You to be a mighty Refuge from the storms of life, a Savior who redeems us from the sins that held us in Satan’s captivity. Even as we have received Your mercy and forgiveness from sins, we want to see others released from the devil’s stronghold as well. Enable us to be faithful witnesses to the lost. Give us a passion for souls so that Your kingdom will be enlarged and Satan’s domain will decrease. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
If you are TC (technologically challenged), you'll be the able to sympathize with some of the problems below. The following is an excerpt taken from a Wall Street Journal article:
1. Compaq is considering changing the command "Press Any Key" to "Press Return Key" because of the flood of calls asking where the "Any" key is.
2. A Compaq technician received a call from a man complaining that the system wouldn't read word processing files from his old diskettes. It was found that the customer had labeled the diskettes, then rolled them into the typewriter to type the labels.
3. An AST customer was asked to send a copy of her defective diskettes. A few days later a letter arrived from the customer along with photocopies of the floppies.
4. A Dell technician advised his customer to put his troubled floppy back in the drive and close the door. The customer asked the tech to hold on, and was heard putting the phone down, getting up and crossing the room to close the door to his room.
5. Another Dell customer called to say he couldn't get his computer to fax anything. After 40 minutes of trouble-shooting, the technician discovered the man was trying to fax a piece of paper by holding it in front of the monitor screen and hitting the "send" key.
6. A confused caller to IBM was having troubles printing documents. He told the technician that the computer had said it "couldn't find printer". The user had also tried turning the computer screen to face the printer -but that his computer still couldn't "see" the printer.
7. An exasperated caller to Dell Computer Tech Support couldn't get her new Dell Computer to turn on. After ensuring the computer was plugged in, the technician asked her what happened when she pushed the power button. Her response, "I pushed and pushed on this foot pedal and nothing happens." The "foot pedal" turned out to be the computer's mouse.
8. An IBM customer had troubles installing software and rang for support. "I put in the first disk, and that was OK. It said to put in the second disk, and had some problems with the disk. When it said to put in the third disk - I couldn't even fit it in..." The user hadn't realized that "Insert Disk 2" meant to remove Disk 1 first.
9. Another customer called Compaq tech support to say her brand-new computer wouldn't work. She said she unpacked the unit, plugged it in and sat there for 20 minutes waiting for something to happen. When asked what happened when she pressed the power switch, she asked "What power switch?"
It seems to me a lot of these problems could have been solved by looking in the instruction book (What? You don't read it either?). And not to even know where the power switch is!
We're not much different spiritually. So many of our times of confusion are caused by not spending enough time with our "instruction book" (the Bible) and not knowing the source of our power.
When the Sadducees asked Jesus a question about the resurrection, he rebuked them with these words, "You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God." (Matthew 22:29)
It's not too late to add one more New Year's resolution to your list. Resolve this year to spend more time with God's Word, looking to God as the source of power in your life. There may still be times you're uncertain what to do next. Fortunately, the tech support line (prayer) is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Don't hesitate to use it.
Verses
Romans 10:17
So then, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message comes through preaching Christ.
Malachi 4:2
But to you who fear My name the Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings; and you shall go out and grow fat like stall-fed calves.
1 John 4:17
Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.
3 John 1:2
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Each person should give as he planned ahead of time in his heart. He should not be sorry that he gave or feel forced to give. God loves a cheerful giver.
Prayer
Father, we consider the sentiment of the hymn writer who asked, “Where could I go, oh, where could I go? Seeking a refuge for my soul. Needing a Friend to save me in the end, where could I go but to the Lord?” Father, though You love us so much that You sent Your only Son to die on the cross for our sins we put up a struggle with You instead of surrendering to You. But when we finally do surrender, we find You to be a mighty Refuge from the storms of life, a Savior who redeems us from the sins that held us in Satan’s captivity. Even as we have received Your mercy and forgiveness from sins, we want to see others released from the devil’s stronghold as well. Enable us to be faithful witnesses to the lost. Give us a passion for souls so that Your kingdom will be enlarged and Satan’s domain will decrease. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (11 06 2009)
Thought for the day
A man asked his wife, "What would you most like for your birthday?"
She said, "I'd love to be ten again."
On the morning of her birthday, he got her up bright and early and off they went to a theme park. He put her on every ride in the park -- the Death Slide, The Screaming Loop, the Wall of Fear. Everything there was, sherode. She staggered out of the theme park five hours later, her head reeling and her stomach upside down.
Into McDonalds they went, where she was given a Double Big Mac with extra fries and a strawberry shake. Then off to a theater to see Star Wars--more burgers, popcorn, cola and sweets. At last she staggered home with her husband and collapsed into bed.
Her husband leaned over and asked, "Well, dear, what was it like being ten again?"
One eye opened and she groaned, "Actually, I meant dress size."
That story reminds me of what happened to James and John. They came to Jesus with a request. Jesus said, "What do you want Me to do for you?"(Mark 10:36)."They said to Him, 'Grant us that we may sit, one on Your right hand and the other on Your left, in Your glory.'" (Mark 10:37).
Jesus told them they really didn't know what they were asking for. He asked them, "Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?" (Mark 10:38).
Their response? "Of course!" However, what they had in mind (prestige,power and glory) wasn't the same thing Jesus had in mind (persecution,suffering and servant hood). Jesus gave them exactly what they asked for,but it wasn't at all what they were hoping for when they made the request!
So often, the same thing happens in my life. God has a way of answering my requests, my prayers, in ways I never even dreamed of -- not always in a pleasant way, not always in a way I would have chosen, but always in a way that He sees best.
Verses
Ephesians 6:11
And you must put on all the armor God gives you, so that you'll be able to stand up against the devil's clever tricks.
2 Chronicles 30:20
And the Lord listened to Hezekiah and healed the people.
Ephesians 5:1
Try, then, to imitate God, as children of His that He loves,
John 15:7
"If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you.
Joshua 1:8
Let not this Book of the Teaching cease from your lips, but recite it day and night, so that you may observe faithfully all that is written in it. Only then will you prosper in your undertakings and only then will you be successful.
Prayer
Father, we submit to You our desire for those things that might be derived from our studies, our abilities, our interests, our accumulation of material things or anything else that makes us who we are. We want to be careful to seek You above everything else, submitting these “other things” to You so they will be of blessing to us and useful for Your kingdom. When they compete for our allegiance they choke out the vibrant, growing relationship we have with You and soon make our lives unfruitful leading to a spiritual death. Instead we want our hearts to be cultivated ground so that the good seed of the Word may produce a great harvest of spiritual fruit to Your praise and glory, Father. Amen.
A man asked his wife, "What would you most like for your birthday?"
She said, "I'd love to be ten again."
On the morning of her birthday, he got her up bright and early and off they went to a theme park. He put her on every ride in the park -- the Death Slide, The Screaming Loop, the Wall of Fear. Everything there was, sherode. She staggered out of the theme park five hours later, her head reeling and her stomach upside down.
Into McDonalds they went, where she was given a Double Big Mac with extra fries and a strawberry shake. Then off to a theater to see Star Wars--more burgers, popcorn, cola and sweets. At last she staggered home with her husband and collapsed into bed.
Her husband leaned over and asked, "Well, dear, what was it like being ten again?"
One eye opened and she groaned, "Actually, I meant dress size."
That story reminds me of what happened to James and John. They came to Jesus with a request. Jesus said, "What do you want Me to do for you?"(Mark 10:36)."They said to Him, 'Grant us that we may sit, one on Your right hand and the other on Your left, in Your glory.'" (Mark 10:37).
Jesus told them they really didn't know what they were asking for. He asked them, "Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?" (Mark 10:38).
Their response? "Of course!" However, what they had in mind (prestige,power and glory) wasn't the same thing Jesus had in mind (persecution,suffering and servant hood). Jesus gave them exactly what they asked for,but it wasn't at all what they were hoping for when they made the request!
So often, the same thing happens in my life. God has a way of answering my requests, my prayers, in ways I never even dreamed of -- not always in a pleasant way, not always in a way I would have chosen, but always in a way that He sees best.
Verses
Ephesians 6:11
And you must put on all the armor God gives you, so that you'll be able to stand up against the devil's clever tricks.
2 Chronicles 30:20
And the Lord listened to Hezekiah and healed the people.
Ephesians 5:1
Try, then, to imitate God, as children of His that He loves,
John 15:7
"If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you.
Joshua 1:8
Let not this Book of the Teaching cease from your lips, but recite it day and night, so that you may observe faithfully all that is written in it. Only then will you prosper in your undertakings and only then will you be successful.
Prayer
Father, we submit to You our desire for those things that might be derived from our studies, our abilities, our interests, our accumulation of material things or anything else that makes us who we are. We want to be careful to seek You above everything else, submitting these “other things” to You so they will be of blessing to us and useful for Your kingdom. When they compete for our allegiance they choke out the vibrant, growing relationship we have with You and soon make our lives unfruitful leading to a spiritual death. Instead we want our hearts to be cultivated ground so that the good seed of the Word may produce a great harvest of spiritual fruit to Your praise and glory, Father. Amen.
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Thought for the day
Someone has compiled the following list of observations about married life:
* A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend. A successful woman is one who can find such a man.
* Men wake up as good-looking as they went to bed. Women somehow deteriorate during the night.
* A man is a person who will pay two dollars for a one-dollar item he wants. A woman will pay one dollar for a two-dollar item that she doesn't want.
* To be happy with a man you must understand him a lot and love him a little. To be happy with a woman you must love her a lot and not try to understand her at all.
* When women are depressed, they either eat or go shopping. Men invade another country.
* A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he doesn't. A man marries a woman expecting that she won't change and she does.
* A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband. A man never worries about the future until he gets a wife.
* There are two times when a man doesn't understand a woman - before marriage and after marriage.
* Only two things are necessary to keep one's wife happy. One is to let her think she is having her own way. The other is to let her have it.
* Any married man should forget his mistakes - there's no use in two people remembering the same thing.
* A man has six items in his bathroom - a toothbrush, shaving cream, razor, a bar of soap, deodorant and a towel. The average number of items in the typical woman's bathroom is 437. A man would not be able to identify most of these items.
* A woman always has the last word in any argument. Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new argument.
Although I am sometimes accused of being personally responsible for the deterioration of relations between men and women in this country, my wife and I can joke about such things because, deep down, we realize how much we mean to each other.
Allow me to share some personal thoughts with you. God has truly blessed me with the most wonderful woman on the face of this earth. We have shared our lives together for over 23 years. We thought when we first got married that it couldn't get any better, but it has (and it continues to do so!).I hold my wife personally responsible for anything I may achieve in this life. She is my source of strength and my encouragement when things are rough. She is the one who knows me best, with all my shortcomings and failures, and yet still loves me. She always sees the best in me, and always manages to bring out the best in me. She is one I most enjoy talking to and spending time with. She is my best friend.
How blessed I am!"
"He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the LORD."(Prov. 18:22)"
"Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice with the wife of your youth." (Prov. 5:18)
Those of you who are married, I encourage you to give thanks to God for the blessing He has given you. Those who are not married (but hope to be), I pray that God will bless you with a mate as wonderful as mine.
Verses
Hebrews 6:12
so that you may not grow careless, but may follow the example of those who through their faith and patient endurance are now possessors of the blessings promised.
Matthew 12:15
But when Jesus knew it, He withdrew from there; and great multitudes followed Him, and He healed them all.
John 8:34
Jesus answered them, "Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin.
1 Timothy 2:8
Therefore I desire that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting;
Proverbs 22:7
The rich lord it over the poor; the borrower becomes the lender's slave.
Prayer
Father, for the blessing of another day we are thankful. The greatest riches in this world cannot be bought with money, but are provided through Your abundant goodness and faithfulness to us such as the early hour sunrise or the evening sunset; the birds awakening us with their melodic chants, the fragrant flowers that bring vibrant color to our landscape, the love of a parent, spouse or child, the loyalty of a friend, the dedication of a worker, the stirring passion of a soul winner. All of these, and far more than we could enumerate, are blessings that come from you, not purchased with money nor earned by our works, but given to us as gifts from Your grace. Thank You, Father. Amen
Someone has compiled the following list of observations about married life:
* A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend. A successful woman is one who can find such a man.
* Men wake up as good-looking as they went to bed. Women somehow deteriorate during the night.
* A man is a person who will pay two dollars for a one-dollar item he wants. A woman will pay one dollar for a two-dollar item that she doesn't want.
* To be happy with a man you must understand him a lot and love him a little. To be happy with a woman you must love her a lot and not try to understand her at all.
* When women are depressed, they either eat or go shopping. Men invade another country.
* A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he doesn't. A man marries a woman expecting that she won't change and she does.
* A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband. A man never worries about the future until he gets a wife.
* There are two times when a man doesn't understand a woman - before marriage and after marriage.
* Only two things are necessary to keep one's wife happy. One is to let her think she is having her own way. The other is to let her have it.
* Any married man should forget his mistakes - there's no use in two people remembering the same thing.
* A man has six items in his bathroom - a toothbrush, shaving cream, razor, a bar of soap, deodorant and a towel. The average number of items in the typical woman's bathroom is 437. A man would not be able to identify most of these items.
* A woman always has the last word in any argument. Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new argument.
Although I am sometimes accused of being personally responsible for the deterioration of relations between men and women in this country, my wife and I can joke about such things because, deep down, we realize how much we mean to each other.
Allow me to share some personal thoughts with you. God has truly blessed me with the most wonderful woman on the face of this earth. We have shared our lives together for over 23 years. We thought when we first got married that it couldn't get any better, but it has (and it continues to do so!).I hold my wife personally responsible for anything I may achieve in this life. She is my source of strength and my encouragement when things are rough. She is the one who knows me best, with all my shortcomings and failures, and yet still loves me. She always sees the best in me, and always manages to bring out the best in me. She is one I most enjoy talking to and spending time with. She is my best friend.
How blessed I am!"
"He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the LORD."(Prov. 18:22)"
"Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice with the wife of your youth." (Prov. 5:18)
Those of you who are married, I encourage you to give thanks to God for the blessing He has given you. Those who are not married (but hope to be), I pray that God will bless you with a mate as wonderful as mine.
Verses
Hebrews 6:12
so that you may not grow careless, but may follow the example of those who through their faith and patient endurance are now possessors of the blessings promised.
Matthew 12:15
But when Jesus knew it, He withdrew from there; and great multitudes followed Him, and He healed them all.
John 8:34
Jesus answered them, "Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin.
1 Timothy 2:8
Therefore I desire that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting;
Proverbs 22:7
The rich lord it over the poor; the borrower becomes the lender's slave.
Prayer
Father, for the blessing of another day we are thankful. The greatest riches in this world cannot be bought with money, but are provided through Your abundant goodness and faithfulness to us such as the early hour sunrise or the evening sunset; the birds awakening us with their melodic chants, the fragrant flowers that bring vibrant color to our landscape, the love of a parent, spouse or child, the loyalty of a friend, the dedication of a worker, the stirring passion of a soul winner. All of these, and far more than we could enumerate, are blessings that come from you, not purchased with money nor earned by our works, but given to us as gifts from Your grace. Thank You, Father. Amen
Monday, June 08, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verses (09 06 2009)
Thought for the day
Another of those “stupid criminals”:
A man walked into a convenience store, put a $20 bill on the counter and asked for change. When the clerk opened the drawer, the man pulled a gun and asked for all the cash in the register.
The man took the cash from the clerk and fled, leaving his $20 bill on the counter.
So how much did he get from the drawer? Fifteen bucks.
How often have we done the same thing, given up something of value in an attempt to get something else of even more value, only to be disappointed in what we ended up with?Remember Esau? He left his birthright on the counter as he grabbed a bowl of stew and ran! Not a smart trade!
Any time we trade God's favor for the popularity of men, we do the same thing. Any time we trade an eternity with God to "live for the moment", we do the same thing. Any time we trade our character and reputation for a few minutes of passion or pleasure, we do the same thing."Be careful that no one fails to receive God's grace....Be careful that no one takes part in sexual sin or is like Esau and never thinks about God. As the oldest son, Esau would have received everything from his father, but he sold all that for a single meal." (Hebrews 12:15a,16, NCV)
Don't make any foolish trades today. Hold on to that which is most important.
Verses
Psalm 89:34
my compact I will never violate, my spoken word I will not change.
Colossians 2:10
and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.
Hebrews 11:6
But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
Luke 11:11
"If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish?
1 Timothy 6:17
Advise those who are rich in this world's goods not to think themselves superior. Let them not pin their hope on such transient wealth but rather upon God who is the provider of all riches for our enjoyment.
Prayer
Father, we read throughout the period of the Judges that the people of Israel endured great heartache and spiritual defeat because each one became his own authority and acted on his own opinions of what was right and wrong. They did not make You the final authority; they disregarded Your holy laws and chose to do that which was right in their own eyes. We see this prevailing attitude in our own day. But as believers we acknowledge that our judgment is flawed and our motives are selfish when we do not submit our will to a holy God who knows what is best for His children. Today we want to obey Your laws and surrender our will as we seek to do what is good and right in Your eyes. This will result in our hearts being strengthened and our lives being blessed by You. Amen.
Another of those “stupid criminals”:
A man walked into a convenience store, put a $20 bill on the counter and asked for change. When the clerk opened the drawer, the man pulled a gun and asked for all the cash in the register.
The man took the cash from the clerk and fled, leaving his $20 bill on the counter.
So how much did he get from the drawer? Fifteen bucks.
How often have we done the same thing, given up something of value in an attempt to get something else of even more value, only to be disappointed in what we ended up with?Remember Esau? He left his birthright on the counter as he grabbed a bowl of stew and ran! Not a smart trade!
Any time we trade God's favor for the popularity of men, we do the same thing. Any time we trade an eternity with God to "live for the moment", we do the same thing. Any time we trade our character and reputation for a few minutes of passion or pleasure, we do the same thing."Be careful that no one fails to receive God's grace....Be careful that no one takes part in sexual sin or is like Esau and never thinks about God. As the oldest son, Esau would have received everything from his father, but he sold all that for a single meal." (Hebrews 12:15a,16, NCV)
Don't make any foolish trades today. Hold on to that which is most important.
Verses
Psalm 89:34
my compact I will never violate, my spoken word I will not change.
Colossians 2:10
and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.
Hebrews 11:6
But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
Luke 11:11
"If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish?
1 Timothy 6:17
Advise those who are rich in this world's goods not to think themselves superior. Let them not pin their hope on such transient wealth but rather upon God who is the provider of all riches for our enjoyment.
Prayer
Father, we read throughout the period of the Judges that the people of Israel endured great heartache and spiritual defeat because each one became his own authority and acted on his own opinions of what was right and wrong. They did not make You the final authority; they disregarded Your holy laws and chose to do that which was right in their own eyes. We see this prevailing attitude in our own day. But as believers we acknowledge that our judgment is flawed and our motives are selfish when we do not submit our will to a holy God who knows what is best for His children. Today we want to obey Your laws and surrender our will as we seek to do what is good and right in Your eyes. This will result in our hearts being strengthened and our lives being blessed by You. Amen.
Monday prayer & verses (08 06 2009)
Thought for the day
A preacher was giving the children's message during church. For this part of the service, he would gather all the children around him and give a brief lesson before dismissing them for children's church.
On this particular Sunday, he was using squirrels for an object lesson on industry and preparation. He started out by saying, "I'm going to describe something, and I want you to raise your hand when you know what it is." The children nodded eagerly.
"This thing lives in trees (pause) and eats nuts (pause)..." No hands went up. "And it is grey (pause) and has a long bushy tail (pause)..." The children were looking at each other, but still no hands raised. "And it jumps from branch to branch (pause) and chatters and flips its tail when it's excited (pause)..."
Finally one little boy tentatively raised his hand. The preacher breathed a sigh of relief and called on him. "Well...," said the boy, "I know the answer is Jesus...but it sure sounds like a squirrel to me!
"I have to smile at a child who expects the answer to every question to be "Jesus"! But then again, I wonder how much better life would be if I lived the same way. What if I expected the answer to every question to be "Jesus"?
Questions like: How can I possibly cope in the face of the disaster I'm facing (divorce, rebellious children, financial troubles, disease, death of a loved one)? How can I possibly find the strength to overcome the addiction I'm enslaved to? How can I salvage a marriage where we don't love each other anymore? How do I deal with people who want to hurt me? How can I overcome the bitterness and resentment I'm struggling with? How can I find true joy and peace in life?
Whatever your question, may you have the faith of a child who says, "I know the answer is Jesus." Because it is."[God has] set us up in the kingdom of the Son he loves so much, the Son who got us out of the pit we were in, got rid of the sins we were doomed to keep repeating. We look at this Son and see the God who cannot be seen. We look at this Son and see God's original purpose in everything created. For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels - everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. He was there before any of it came into existence and holds it all together right up to this moment." (Col. 1:13-17, The Message)
Verses
2 Corinthians 5:7
We live by trusting him rather than actually seeing him.
Exodus 23:25
You shall serve the LORD your God, and I will bless your bread and your water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of you.
Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Jude 1:20
But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit,
1 Timothy 6:17
Advise those who are rich in this world's goods not to think themselves superior. Let them not pin their hope on such transient wealth but rather upon God who is the provider of all riches for our enjoyment.
Prayer
Father, all my anxieties and all my cares I bring to the mercy seat and leave them there. You demonstrate mercy and compassion as You become strength in place of my weakness, wisdom in place of my lack of understanding and patience in my impatient heart. I look to You, not myself or to others, for the answers to my troubles and for Spirit-directed perspective in knowing how to deal with them. I choose to trust in You, Father, as I pray these things in the name of Jesus. Amen.
A preacher was giving the children's message during church. For this part of the service, he would gather all the children around him and give a brief lesson before dismissing them for children's church.
On this particular Sunday, he was using squirrels for an object lesson on industry and preparation. He started out by saying, "I'm going to describe something, and I want you to raise your hand when you know what it is." The children nodded eagerly.
"This thing lives in trees (pause) and eats nuts (pause)..." No hands went up. "And it is grey (pause) and has a long bushy tail (pause)..." The children were looking at each other, but still no hands raised. "And it jumps from branch to branch (pause) and chatters and flips its tail when it's excited (pause)..."
Finally one little boy tentatively raised his hand. The preacher breathed a sigh of relief and called on him. "Well...," said the boy, "I know the answer is Jesus...but it sure sounds like a squirrel to me!
"I have to smile at a child who expects the answer to every question to be "Jesus"! But then again, I wonder how much better life would be if I lived the same way. What if I expected the answer to every question to be "Jesus"?
Questions like: How can I possibly cope in the face of the disaster I'm facing (divorce, rebellious children, financial troubles, disease, death of a loved one)? How can I possibly find the strength to overcome the addiction I'm enslaved to? How can I salvage a marriage where we don't love each other anymore? How do I deal with people who want to hurt me? How can I overcome the bitterness and resentment I'm struggling with? How can I find true joy and peace in life?
Whatever your question, may you have the faith of a child who says, "I know the answer is Jesus." Because it is."[God has] set us up in the kingdom of the Son he loves so much, the Son who got us out of the pit we were in, got rid of the sins we were doomed to keep repeating. We look at this Son and see the God who cannot be seen. We look at this Son and see God's original purpose in everything created. For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels - everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. He was there before any of it came into existence and holds it all together right up to this moment." (Col. 1:13-17, The Message)
Verses
2 Corinthians 5:7
We live by trusting him rather than actually seeing him.
Exodus 23:25
You shall serve the LORD your God, and I will bless your bread and your water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of you.
Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Jude 1:20
But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit,
1 Timothy 6:17
Advise those who are rich in this world's goods not to think themselves superior. Let them not pin their hope on such transient wealth but rather upon God who is the provider of all riches for our enjoyment.
Prayer
Father, all my anxieties and all my cares I bring to the mercy seat and leave them there. You demonstrate mercy and compassion as You become strength in place of my weakness, wisdom in place of my lack of understanding and patience in my impatient heart. I look to You, not myself or to others, for the answers to my troubles and for Spirit-directed perspective in knowing how to deal with them. I choose to trust in You, Father, as I pray these things in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Friday, June 05, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (05 06 2009)
Thought for the day
An instructor was sitting in his office one afternoon when an attractive, sexy-looking lady knocked on his door.
"Yes?", he replied, "how may I help you?"
The lady said "I need to talk to you about my grade in your class."
"Come in and have a seat," said the instructor.
Is there anything I can do to get an "A" in your class?
"What do you mean by anything?", he replied.
"Anything", she said.
"Anything?", he asked again.
She said, in her best sultry voice, "I mean anything.
"The instructor got up from behind his desk, sat down beside her and whispered in her ear, "Would you study?"
There are many goals that we want to achieve -- better grades, lower weight, a place on an athletic team, success in business, greater Bible knowledge, a closer relationship with God. The question is, "Are we willing the put forth the necessary effort to achieve our goals? Are we truly willing to do anything?"I heard once about a Christian who approached a great man of God (I believe it was Gus Nichols) and said, "I'd give my life to know the Bible as well as you do." His reply was, "That's what it took."
We want the end result, but we often don't want to put forth the effort to achieve that result. Paul exhorted the young man Timothy with these words: "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15).
The word "diligence" suggests a great deal of effort and dedication on our part. May God grant you the strength to accomplish your goals as you supply the diligence.Verses
2 Corinthians 4:13
The scripture says, "I spoke because I believed." In the same spirit of faith, we also speak because we believe.
Colossians 2:10
and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.
Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
John 15:7
If you live in me, and my words stay part of you, you may ask what you will -- it will be done for you.
Deuteronomy 8:18
"And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day."
Prayer
Father, I want my spirit to be receptive of the seed You sow in my life as I read and apply Your Scriptural truths. I don’t want to be like a barren wasteland or a patch of weeds, but I want my heart to be like the rich, fertile soil that produced fruit; a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. I avail myself to the Scriptures that teaches me to properly cultivate my spirit so that I grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. As I do so spiritual fruit is evident in my words and actions as it flows forth from my inner spirit. Amen.
An instructor was sitting in his office one afternoon when an attractive, sexy-looking lady knocked on his door.
"Yes?", he replied, "how may I help you?"
The lady said "I need to talk to you about my grade in your class."
"Come in and have a seat," said the instructor.
Is there anything I can do to get an "A" in your class?
"What do you mean by anything?", he replied.
"Anything", she said.
"Anything?", he asked again.
She said, in her best sultry voice, "I mean anything.
"The instructor got up from behind his desk, sat down beside her and whispered in her ear, "Would you study?"
There are many goals that we want to achieve -- better grades, lower weight, a place on an athletic team, success in business, greater Bible knowledge, a closer relationship with God. The question is, "Are we willing the put forth the necessary effort to achieve our goals? Are we truly willing to do anything?"I heard once about a Christian who approached a great man of God (I believe it was Gus Nichols) and said, "I'd give my life to know the Bible as well as you do." His reply was, "That's what it took."
We want the end result, but we often don't want to put forth the effort to achieve that result. Paul exhorted the young man Timothy with these words: "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15).
The word "diligence" suggests a great deal of effort and dedication on our part. May God grant you the strength to accomplish your goals as you supply the diligence.Verses
2 Corinthians 4:13
The scripture says, "I spoke because I believed." In the same spirit of faith, we also speak because we believe.
Colossians 2:10
and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.
Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
John 15:7
If you live in me, and my words stay part of you, you may ask what you will -- it will be done for you.
Deuteronomy 8:18
"And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day."
Prayer
Father, I want my spirit to be receptive of the seed You sow in my life as I read and apply Your Scriptural truths. I don’t want to be like a barren wasteland or a patch of weeds, but I want my heart to be like the rich, fertile soil that produced fruit; a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. I avail myself to the Scriptures that teaches me to properly cultivate my spirit so that I grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. As I do so spiritual fruit is evident in my words and actions as it flows forth from my inner spirit. Amen.
Thursday Prayer & verses (04 06 2009)
Thought for the day
Today's thought is based on a story that appeared on the Reuters news network:
"TEHRAN (Reuters) - An Iranian bridegroom bit off more than he could chew when, according to custom, he licked honey from his bride's finger during their marriage ceremony and choked to death on one of her false nails. The Jam-e Jam newspaper said on Wednesday the 28-year-old groom died on the spot in the northwestern city of Qazvin while the bride was rushed to hospital after fainting from shock. Iranian couples lick honey from each other's fingers when they get married so that their life together starts sweetly.
"While this groom's death is a tragedy, my first reaction was that this is a beautiful wedding custom. Isn't it a great idea to start your wedding life out sweetly? But, as I thought about it, I realized that the honey might be better saved for a later point in the marriage. After all, virtually every marriage begins sweetly. The trick is to maintain that sweetness after years and years of being together. Starting sweetly is not nearly as important as continuing sweetly.
Those of you who are married may do well to ask if the sweetness is still there. Husbands and wives, do you treat each other just as sweetly as you did those first few days of wedded bliss?How about in your other relationships? Do you communicate with others in a way that can honestly be categorized as "sweet"? Listen to these words of Solomon:
"Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones." (Prov. 16:24)May your life be filled with sweetness, and may you be blessed to be surrounded by sweet people.
Verses
Matthew 8:13
Then Jesus said to the centurion, "Go! It will be done just as you believed it would." And his servant was healed at that very hour.
Luke 10:19
"Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
1 John 3:2
Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.
Luke 18:1
And he told them a parable of which the point was that they must always pray and never give up:
Psalm 1:1-3
Happy is the man who has not followed the counsel of the wicked, or taken the path of sinners, or joined the company of the insolent; rather, the teaching of the LORD is his delight, and he studies (lit. "utters") that teaching day and night. He is like a tree planted beside streams of water, that yields its fruit in season, whose foliage never fades, and whatever it produces thrives (Or "he does prospers").
Prayer
Father, we want to grow in the grace and knowledge imparted to us through the teachings of Jesus and Your faithful servants as they were inspired by the Holy Spirit. We know this involves much more than simply reading the Scriptures; it includes meditating and memorizing principles and portions of the inspired text. It includes saying “no to ungodliness and worldly passions and living self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.” As our world continues the slide into decadence and self-indulgence, it means that we, with great intention, set our heart’s desires on that which is pure and holy so that we grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen
Today's thought is based on a story that appeared on the Reuters news network:
"TEHRAN (Reuters) - An Iranian bridegroom bit off more than he could chew when, according to custom, he licked honey from his bride's finger during their marriage ceremony and choked to death on one of her false nails. The Jam-e Jam newspaper said on Wednesday the 28-year-old groom died on the spot in the northwestern city of Qazvin while the bride was rushed to hospital after fainting from shock. Iranian couples lick honey from each other's fingers when they get married so that their life together starts sweetly.
"While this groom's death is a tragedy, my first reaction was that this is a beautiful wedding custom. Isn't it a great idea to start your wedding life out sweetly? But, as I thought about it, I realized that the honey might be better saved for a later point in the marriage. After all, virtually every marriage begins sweetly. The trick is to maintain that sweetness after years and years of being together. Starting sweetly is not nearly as important as continuing sweetly.
Those of you who are married may do well to ask if the sweetness is still there. Husbands and wives, do you treat each other just as sweetly as you did those first few days of wedded bliss?How about in your other relationships? Do you communicate with others in a way that can honestly be categorized as "sweet"? Listen to these words of Solomon:
"Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones." (Prov. 16:24)May your life be filled with sweetness, and may you be blessed to be surrounded by sweet people.
Verses
Matthew 8:13
Then Jesus said to the centurion, "Go! It will be done just as you believed it would." And his servant was healed at that very hour.
Luke 10:19
"Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
1 John 3:2
Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.
Luke 18:1
And he told them a parable of which the point was that they must always pray and never give up:
Psalm 1:1-3
Happy is the man who has not followed the counsel of the wicked, or taken the path of sinners, or joined the company of the insolent; rather, the teaching of the LORD is his delight, and he studies (lit. "utters") that teaching day and night. He is like a tree planted beside streams of water, that yields its fruit in season, whose foliage never fades, and whatever it produces thrives (Or "he does prospers").
Prayer
Father, we want to grow in the grace and knowledge imparted to us through the teachings of Jesus and Your faithful servants as they were inspired by the Holy Spirit. We know this involves much more than simply reading the Scriptures; it includes meditating and memorizing principles and portions of the inspired text. It includes saying “no to ungodliness and worldly passions and living self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.” As our world continues the slide into decadence and self-indulgence, it means that we, with great intention, set our heart’s desires on that which is pure and holy so that we grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
Wednesday prayer & verses (03 06 2009)
Thought for the day
Joe died. His will provided $30,000 for an elaborate funeral.
As the last guests departed the affair, his wife, Susan turned to her oldest and dearest friend. "Well, I'm sure Joe would be pleased," she said.
"I'm sure you're right," replied Joan, who lowered her voice and leaned in close. "How much did this really cost?"
"All of it," said Susan . "Thirty thousand."
"No!" Joan exclaimed. "I mean, it was very nice, but $30,000?"Susan answered, "The funeral was $6,500. I donated $500 to the church. The refreshments $500. The rest went for the memorial stone.
"Joan computed quickly. "$22,500 for a memorial stone?
My goodness, how big is it?""Two and a half carats."
That humorous story serves as a reminder to us that there are many different kinds of stones -- from granite to diamonds -- which are of varying value. People all around the world are agreed that a stone of granite is not very valuable, while a diamond gemstone is of great value. Sometimes, though, a stone can have great value, but not be appreciated by some people.
In I Peter 2:4, Jesus is described as a "living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious." In I Peter 2:6, Jesus is referred to as "a chief cornerstone", the most important stone in any building. But he was a stone "which the builders rejected" and is viewed as 'a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense." (I Peter 2:7,8).Peter uses these Old Testament concepts (as Jesus himself did) to point out that, while Jesus was chosen by God, he was rejected by men. He was not the kind of Messiah they were expected, so they stumbled over him. It was the same stone, but Jesus was viewed by some as a very valuable stone and by others as a worthless rock.
The application of this passage to us as Christians is found in Peter's description of us as "living stones, [who] are being built up a spiritual house." (I Peter 2:5). Peter is writing this epistle to Christians who are suffering persecution, and are getting discouraged because this world is making life hard for them even though they are doing what is right.
Peter's point is that, as followers of Jesus Christ, we can expect no different treatment than he received. We are living stones who follow "the stone," a stone that was rejected by men. We shouldn't be surprised when the same thing happens to us. Our responsibility, as living stones, is simply to continue to live in a way that will bring honor and glory to God. Some will appreciate our effort, some will not, but, in the end, all that matters is that we are "chosen by God" just as Jesus was.
"Father, there are times when we get so very discouraged. There are times when it seems that, the harder we strive to serve you faithfully, the more difficult life becomes. Help us to remember that we are followers of Jesus and that we can expect nothing different from what Jesus received while he was on this earth. Father, we ask your blessing as we seek to live in a way that glorifies you. In Jesus' name, Amen."
Verses
1 Peter 5:7
And you must throw your whole load of worries on Him, because He really cares about you.
Galatians 3:13
Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree")
Ephesians 5:1
In a word, as God's dear children, try to be like him,
Jeremiah 33:3
'Ask me, and I will answer, and inform you of great events, and treasures you know not!'"
Proverbs 28:25
Selfishness only causes trouble. You are much better off to trust the LORD.
Prayer
Father, we give thanks to You that we can walk in victory because of Your Son Jesus Christ. Once we were held captive by sin and its enslavement, but we have been set free through the redemptive work of Jesus and His glorious resurrection. Each day brings new challenges, but we overcome them through the blood of the Lamb. Help us to stand firm in our faith and immovable in Your truths, as we daily serve You. We are encouraged to know that nothing we do for You is in vain though we may not see immediate results. Keep us obedient and trusting. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Joe died. His will provided $30,000 for an elaborate funeral.
As the last guests departed the affair, his wife, Susan turned to her oldest and dearest friend. "Well, I'm sure Joe would be pleased," she said.
"I'm sure you're right," replied Joan, who lowered her voice and leaned in close. "How much did this really cost?"
"All of it," said Susan . "Thirty thousand."
"No!" Joan exclaimed. "I mean, it was very nice, but $30,000?"Susan answered, "The funeral was $6,500. I donated $500 to the church. The refreshments $500. The rest went for the memorial stone.
"Joan computed quickly. "$22,500 for a memorial stone?
My goodness, how big is it?""Two and a half carats."
That humorous story serves as a reminder to us that there are many different kinds of stones -- from granite to diamonds -- which are of varying value. People all around the world are agreed that a stone of granite is not very valuable, while a diamond gemstone is of great value. Sometimes, though, a stone can have great value, but not be appreciated by some people.
In I Peter 2:4, Jesus is described as a "living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious." In I Peter 2:6, Jesus is referred to as "a chief cornerstone", the most important stone in any building. But he was a stone "which the builders rejected" and is viewed as 'a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense." (I Peter 2:7,8).Peter uses these Old Testament concepts (as Jesus himself did) to point out that, while Jesus was chosen by God, he was rejected by men. He was not the kind of Messiah they were expected, so they stumbled over him. It was the same stone, but Jesus was viewed by some as a very valuable stone and by others as a worthless rock.
The application of this passage to us as Christians is found in Peter's description of us as "living stones, [who] are being built up a spiritual house." (I Peter 2:5). Peter is writing this epistle to Christians who are suffering persecution, and are getting discouraged because this world is making life hard for them even though they are doing what is right.
Peter's point is that, as followers of Jesus Christ, we can expect no different treatment than he received. We are living stones who follow "the stone," a stone that was rejected by men. We shouldn't be surprised when the same thing happens to us. Our responsibility, as living stones, is simply to continue to live in a way that will bring honor and glory to God. Some will appreciate our effort, some will not, but, in the end, all that matters is that we are "chosen by God" just as Jesus was.
"Father, there are times when we get so very discouraged. There are times when it seems that, the harder we strive to serve you faithfully, the more difficult life becomes. Help us to remember that we are followers of Jesus and that we can expect nothing different from what Jesus received while he was on this earth. Father, we ask your blessing as we seek to live in a way that glorifies you. In Jesus' name, Amen."
Verses
1 Peter 5:7
And you must throw your whole load of worries on Him, because He really cares about you.
Galatians 3:13
Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree")
Ephesians 5:1
In a word, as God's dear children, try to be like him,
Jeremiah 33:3
'Ask me, and I will answer, and inform you of great events, and treasures you know not!'"
Proverbs 28:25
Selfishness only causes trouble. You are much better off to trust the LORD.
Prayer
Father, we give thanks to You that we can walk in victory because of Your Son Jesus Christ. Once we were held captive by sin and its enslavement, but we have been set free through the redemptive work of Jesus and His glorious resurrection. Each day brings new challenges, but we overcome them through the blood of the Lamb. Help us to stand firm in our faith and immovable in Your truths, as we daily serve You. We are encouraged to know that nothing we do for You is in vain though we may not see immediate results. Keep us obedient and trusting. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Tuesday prayer & verses (02 06 2009)
Thought for the day
Have you ever have one of those days when, no matter how hard you try, things just seem to go from bad to worse?
The story is told of two cowboys who were working cattle one day. One of them discovered he was in trouble when a wild bull, with his head down and nostrils flaring, came charging toward him. The cowboy saw a deep hole in the ground and quickly jumped in it. As soon as the bull passed over him, he jumped out of the hole.
The bull, madder than ever, came charging back again, and the cowboy jumped back down into the hole. When the bull passed, the cowboy jumped out of the hole again. He did this several times.
Finally, the other cowboy, who was watching it all from a distance yelled out, "Why don't you just stay in the hole?"
The cowboy yelled back, "I would, but there's a bear in the hole!"
Maybe some of you feel like every day is like that! If ever there was someone who must have felt that way, it was the apostle Paul, though. Listen to him describing his life as a Christian:
"From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness..." (2 Cor. 11:24-27)
Sounds a man who ought to be miserable, doesn't it? I mean, how much can one man take? How much worse can it possibly get? It convicts me to read through that list as I think of the minor problems in my life that I allow to create a dark cloud over my life. If I had to deal with the problems on Paul's list on a daily basis, then I'd really have reason to moan and whine, "Why, me Lord? Why does life have to be so hard?"
The funny thing is, though, that wasn't Paul's reaction at all. He didn't list all those problems to garner sympathy. In fact, he finishes out this section by writing:
"Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake....." (2 Cor. 12:10).
Taking pleasure in distresses? When is the last time you took pleasure in locking your keys in your car? When is the last time you took pleasure in running your cell phone through the washing machine (don't laugh! I actually did that this week)? When is the last time you took pleasure is hearing the news that you're getting laid off, the biopsy came back positive, or there was a terrible auto accident?
The "pleasure" in such things is not the ability to laugh and joke. The "pleasure" is found in the last half of 2 Cor 12:10, "...For when I am weak, then I am strong."
Everything that happens to me in life is a reminder that I am not in control, but I am a child of the One who is. It is a reminder that I don't have the power to fix everything that breaks in life, but I serve the one who does have that power. It is reminder that I sometimes don't know how I'm going to have the strength to cope, but I rest in the arms of the One who has promised to be there with me no matter what. And it is during those moments when life throws its worst at me that I feel closest to God.
"Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Cor. 12:10)
Whatever trials you are facing this day, may you find your strength in God.
Verses
1 Peter 5:7
And you must throw your whole load of worries on Him, because He really cares about you.
Matthew 8:17
This fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, "He took our sicknesses and bore our diseases."
John 8:36
So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.
Jeremiah 33:3
'Ask me, and I will answer, and inform you of great events, and treasures you know not!'"
Proverbs 28:25
Selfishness only causes trouble. You are much better off to trust the LORD.
Prayer
Father, You do the impossible and provide for our every need. You divided the sea and led the Israelites through to safety. You guided them with the cloud by day and the fire by night. You split rocks in the desert and gave water in abundance. You rained down manna and gave them more than they could eat. And yet in spite of all this they kept on sinning; in spite of Your miraculous wonders they did not believe. What a picture this is for us today when we put You to the test, when we rebel against Your statutes, when we abandon Your truths. Father, search our hearts today and see if there be unbelief or wickedness within. Cleanse us by the fire of Your Holy Spirit so that we may be renewed in spirit and resolved in our absolute commitment to be faithful in our walk. No matter the wilderness ahead we are guided by You to safety and we are consoled by the fact that the Promised Land awaits those who endure to the end. Amen.
Have you ever have one of those days when, no matter how hard you try, things just seem to go from bad to worse?
The story is told of two cowboys who were working cattle one day. One of them discovered he was in trouble when a wild bull, with his head down and nostrils flaring, came charging toward him. The cowboy saw a deep hole in the ground and quickly jumped in it. As soon as the bull passed over him, he jumped out of the hole.
The bull, madder than ever, came charging back again, and the cowboy jumped back down into the hole. When the bull passed, the cowboy jumped out of the hole again. He did this several times.
Finally, the other cowboy, who was watching it all from a distance yelled out, "Why don't you just stay in the hole?"
The cowboy yelled back, "I would, but there's a bear in the hole!"
Maybe some of you feel like every day is like that! If ever there was someone who must have felt that way, it was the apostle Paul, though. Listen to him describing his life as a Christian:
"From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness..." (2 Cor. 11:24-27)
Sounds a man who ought to be miserable, doesn't it? I mean, how much can one man take? How much worse can it possibly get? It convicts me to read through that list as I think of the minor problems in my life that I allow to create a dark cloud over my life. If I had to deal with the problems on Paul's list on a daily basis, then I'd really have reason to moan and whine, "Why, me Lord? Why does life have to be so hard?"
The funny thing is, though, that wasn't Paul's reaction at all. He didn't list all those problems to garner sympathy. In fact, he finishes out this section by writing:
"Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake....." (2 Cor. 12:10).
Taking pleasure in distresses? When is the last time you took pleasure in locking your keys in your car? When is the last time you took pleasure in running your cell phone through the washing machine (don't laugh! I actually did that this week)? When is the last time you took pleasure is hearing the news that you're getting laid off, the biopsy came back positive, or there was a terrible auto accident?
The "pleasure" in such things is not the ability to laugh and joke. The "pleasure" is found in the last half of 2 Cor 12:10, "...For when I am weak, then I am strong."
Everything that happens to me in life is a reminder that I am not in control, but I am a child of the One who is. It is a reminder that I don't have the power to fix everything that breaks in life, but I serve the one who does have that power. It is reminder that I sometimes don't know how I'm going to have the strength to cope, but I rest in the arms of the One who has promised to be there with me no matter what. And it is during those moments when life throws its worst at me that I feel closest to God.
"Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Cor. 12:10)
Whatever trials you are facing this day, may you find your strength in God.
Verses
1 Peter 5:7
And you must throw your whole load of worries on Him, because He really cares about you.
Matthew 8:17
This fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, "He took our sicknesses and bore our diseases."
John 8:36
So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.
Jeremiah 33:3
'Ask me, and I will answer, and inform you of great events, and treasures you know not!'"
Proverbs 28:25
Selfishness only causes trouble. You are much better off to trust the LORD.
Prayer
Father, You do the impossible and provide for our every need. You divided the sea and led the Israelites through to safety. You guided them with the cloud by day and the fire by night. You split rocks in the desert and gave water in abundance. You rained down manna and gave them more than they could eat. And yet in spite of all this they kept on sinning; in spite of Your miraculous wonders they did not believe. What a picture this is for us today when we put You to the test, when we rebel against Your statutes, when we abandon Your truths. Father, search our hearts today and see if there be unbelief or wickedness within. Cleanse us by the fire of Your Holy Spirit so that we may be renewed in spirit and resolved in our absolute commitment to be faithful in our walk. No matter the wilderness ahead we are guided by You to safety and we are consoled by the fact that the Promised Land awaits those who endure to the end. Amen.
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