Thought for the day
A preacher, a politician and an engineer were led to the guillotine. The preacher was asked if he wanted to be face up or face down when he met his fate. The preacher said that he would like to lie face up so he would be looking toward heaven when he died. The blade of the guillotine was raised and released. It came speeding down and suddenly stopped, just inches from his neck. The authorities took this as divine intervention and released the preacher.
Next, the politician came to the guillotine, and he also decided to die facing up, hoping he would be as fortunate as the preacher. So the blade of the guillotine was raised again and released. It came speeding down and suddenly stopped just inches from his neck, so he was released as well.
The engineer was next, and he too decided to die facing up. The executioner slowly raised the blade of the guillotine, when suddenly the engineer said, "Hey, I see what the problem is..."
Another reminder that we need to learn when to keep our mouths shut. As much as we may be anxious to share with people just how much we know, sometimes things are better left unsaid! Rarely will keeping quiet get us into trouble (though it can happen), but often do we find ourselves getting into trouble by saying something that should have gone unsaid.
One of my favorite proverbs is found in Proverbs 17:28: "Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive."
Very similar to the more recent saying: "Better to be thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt. "Lest you open your mouth today and say something you may later regret, stop for a moment before you speak and make sure it's the wise thing to do.
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
And what is faith? Faith gives substance to our hopes, and makes us certain of realities we do not see.
Luke 9:6
So they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
John 14:23
Jesus replied: 'If anyone loves me he will cherish my word; my Father will love him and we will come to him and make him our abode.
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.
2 Corinthians 9:10
And the One who provides seed for the planter and bread for eating will provide you with adequate resources, and multiply them and increase the harvest of your righteousness.
Prayer
I humbly ask you the simple question, do you know Jesus? Do you know if you were to die today where you will spend eternity (heaven or hell?). Do you want to be in heaven for sure?
Then why not pray this simple prayer, “Lord Jesus, come into my heart, I repent of all my sins, forgive me and cleanse me from all sins. Make me your dear child and give me the assurance of salvation. I choose to follow and live for you and to live according to your Word. Thank you for listening my prayer. I pray this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen!
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (30 07 2009)
Thought for the day
Richard Fairchild tells about a story that appeared years ago in the Christian Reader. It was called "Priceless Scribbles." It concerns a father who touched his child's life in an unexpected way.
A young boy watched as his father walked into the living room. The boy noticed that his younger brother, John, began to cower slightly as his father entered. The older boy sensed that John had done something wrong. Then he saw from a distance what his brother had done. The younger boy had opened his father's brand new hymnal and scribbled all over the first page with a pen.
Staring at their father fearfully, both brothers waited for John's punishment. Their father picked up his prized hymnal, looked at it carefully and then sat down, without saying a word. Books were precious to him; he was a minister with several academic degrees. For him, books were knowledge. What he did next was remarkable.
Instead of punishing his son, instead of scolding, or yelling, his father took the pen from the little boy's hand, and then wrote in the book himself, alongside the scribbles that John had made. Here is what that father wrote: "John's work, 1959, age 2. How many times have I looked into your beautiful face and into your warm, alert eyes looking up at me and thanked God for the one who has now scribbled in my new hymnal. You have made the book sacred, as have your brother and sister to so much of my life."
The author of the story, now an adult, goes on to say how that hymnal became a treasured family possession, how it was tangible proof that their parents loved them, how it taught the lesson that what really matters is people, not objects; patience, not judgment; love, not anger.
"And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord." (Eph. 6:4)
Verses
Habakkuk 2:3
For the vision still has its time, presses on to fulfillment, and will not disappoint; If it delays, wait for it, it will surely come, it will not be late.
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.
Romans 8:31
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
1 Thessalonians 5:17
pray unweariedly:
Proverbs 10:22
The blessing of Yahweh is what brings riches, to this hard toil has nothing to add.
Prayer
Father, thank You for Jesus who came that we might have life and have it in abundance. We’re grateful for Your grace that teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. We’re thankful that Jesus gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own. We realize that the one who sows to please the sinful nature from that nature reaps destruction, therefore we choose to sow to please the spiritual nature and from that nature reap eternal life. Keep us faithful in doing so. Amen.
Richard Fairchild tells about a story that appeared years ago in the Christian Reader. It was called "Priceless Scribbles." It concerns a father who touched his child's life in an unexpected way.
A young boy watched as his father walked into the living room. The boy noticed that his younger brother, John, began to cower slightly as his father entered. The older boy sensed that John had done something wrong. Then he saw from a distance what his brother had done. The younger boy had opened his father's brand new hymnal and scribbled all over the first page with a pen.
Staring at their father fearfully, both brothers waited for John's punishment. Their father picked up his prized hymnal, looked at it carefully and then sat down, without saying a word. Books were precious to him; he was a minister with several academic degrees. For him, books were knowledge. What he did next was remarkable.
Instead of punishing his son, instead of scolding, or yelling, his father took the pen from the little boy's hand, and then wrote in the book himself, alongside the scribbles that John had made. Here is what that father wrote: "John's work, 1959, age 2. How many times have I looked into your beautiful face and into your warm, alert eyes looking up at me and thanked God for the one who has now scribbled in my new hymnal. You have made the book sacred, as have your brother and sister to so much of my life."
The author of the story, now an adult, goes on to say how that hymnal became a treasured family possession, how it was tangible proof that their parents loved them, how it taught the lesson that what really matters is people, not objects; patience, not judgment; love, not anger.
"And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord." (Eph. 6:4)
Verses
Habakkuk 2:3
For the vision still has its time, presses on to fulfillment, and will not disappoint; If it delays, wait for it, it will surely come, it will not be late.
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.
Romans 8:31
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
1 Thessalonians 5:17
pray unweariedly:
Proverbs 10:22
The blessing of Yahweh is what brings riches, to this hard toil has nothing to add.
Prayer
Father, thank You for Jesus who came that we might have life and have it in abundance. We’re grateful for Your grace that teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. We’re thankful that Jesus gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own. We realize that the one who sows to please the sinful nature from that nature reaps destruction, therefore we choose to sow to please the spiritual nature and from that nature reap eternal life. Keep us faithful in doing so. Amen.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Wednesday rayer & verses (29 07 2009)
Thought for the day
A young private sought permission from his Commanding Officer to leave camp the following weekend.
"You see," he explained, "my wife's expecting." "Oh..." said the Officer, "I understand. Go ahead and tell your wife that I wish her luck."
The following week the same soldier was back again with the same explanation:
"My wife's expecting."The Officer looked surprised. "Still expecting?" he said, "Well, well, my boy, you must be pretty bothered. Of course you can have the week-end off."
When the same soldier appeared again the third week, however, the Officer lost his temper. "Don't tell me your wife is still expecting!" he bellowed."Yes sir!" said the soldier resolutely, "She's still expecting."
"What in the world is she expecting?" cried the Officer. "Me," said the soldier simply.
Christians are a people who live in expectation. We're expecting that someday all the wrongs of this world will be brought to justice. We're expecting that the sufferings of this life will someday be replaced by joys beyond our imagination. But, most of all, we're expecting our Lord to return for us and we are anxious for that day to come. Paul seems to indicate that all of creation is earnestly awaiting the same thing (Rom. 8:19).
"Now when [Jesus] had spoken these things, while [the apostles] watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, 'Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.' " (Acts 1:9-11)
Are you expecting?
Verses
Romans 8:37
But we are able to overcome all these things and more through his love.
Exodus 15:26
He said, "If you will listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God, and do what is right in his sight, and give heed to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will not bring upon you any of the diseases that I brought upon the Egyptians; for I am the LORD who heals you."
Ephesians 4:29
Watch your talk! No bad words should be coming from your mouth. Say what is good. Your words should help others grow as Christians.
Matthew 21:22
If you believe, then you will receive everything you ask for in prayer."
Philippians 4:19
My God is very rich with the glory of Christ Jesus. God will use his riches in Christ Jesus to give you everything you need.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for the way You bless Your people. You richly provide for our needs and supply us with hope that is not diminished by the circumstances of this world. We want to share from our spiritual and material abundance so that we lay up treasure for ourselves in the eternal life that is promised to all believers. Make us aware of opportunities to enrich others with the blessings we receive from You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
A young private sought permission from his Commanding Officer to leave camp the following weekend.
"You see," he explained, "my wife's expecting." "Oh..." said the Officer, "I understand. Go ahead and tell your wife that I wish her luck."
The following week the same soldier was back again with the same explanation:
"My wife's expecting."The Officer looked surprised. "Still expecting?" he said, "Well, well, my boy, you must be pretty bothered. Of course you can have the week-end off."
When the same soldier appeared again the third week, however, the Officer lost his temper. "Don't tell me your wife is still expecting!" he bellowed."Yes sir!" said the soldier resolutely, "She's still expecting."
"What in the world is she expecting?" cried the Officer. "Me," said the soldier simply.
Christians are a people who live in expectation. We're expecting that someday all the wrongs of this world will be brought to justice. We're expecting that the sufferings of this life will someday be replaced by joys beyond our imagination. But, most of all, we're expecting our Lord to return for us and we are anxious for that day to come. Paul seems to indicate that all of creation is earnestly awaiting the same thing (Rom. 8:19).
"Now when [Jesus] had spoken these things, while [the apostles] watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, 'Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.' " (Acts 1:9-11)
Are you expecting?
Verses
Romans 8:37
But we are able to overcome all these things and more through his love.
Exodus 15:26
He said, "If you will listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God, and do what is right in his sight, and give heed to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will not bring upon you any of the diseases that I brought upon the Egyptians; for I am the LORD who heals you."
Ephesians 4:29
Watch your talk! No bad words should be coming from your mouth. Say what is good. Your words should help others grow as Christians.
Matthew 21:22
If you believe, then you will receive everything you ask for in prayer."
Philippians 4:19
My God is very rich with the glory of Christ Jesus. God will use his riches in Christ Jesus to give you everything you need.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for the way You bless Your people. You richly provide for our needs and supply us with hope that is not diminished by the circumstances of this world. We want to share from our spiritual and material abundance so that we lay up treasure for ourselves in the eternal life that is promised to all believers. Make us aware of opportunities to enrich others with the blessings we receive from You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verses (28 07 2009)
Thought for the day
Someone has composed the following list of "Cards You'll Never See at Hallmark":
"Looking back over the years that we've been together, I can't help but wonder....What was I thinking?!"
"I've always wanted to have someone to hold, someone to love....After having met you, I've changed my mind."
"As the days go by, I think of how lucky I am....that you're not here to ruin it for me."
"As you grow older, Mom, I think of all the gifts you've given me.....Like the need for therapy."
"You look great for your age....Almost life-like!"
"When we were together, you always said you'd die for me....Now that we've broken up, I think it's time you kept your promise."
"We have been friends for a very long time....What do you say we call it quits?"
"I'm so miserable without you....It's almost like you're here."
"You are such a good friend that if we were on a sinking ship and there was only one life jacket....I'd miss you heaps and think of you often."
Somehow those cards truly don't seem very appropriate for a card company that advertises with the slogan, "When you care enough to send the very best." Greeting card companies certainly have made it easy for us to let our friends and relatives know that we care about them.
The apostle Paul didn't have the benefit of going into a card store, but many of the words he wrote to congregations and individuals are filled with sentiment and worded in such a way that perhaps they should be used in greeting cards. Listen to these words written to the Christians in Philippi:
"I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always with every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy....it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart....For God is my witness, how greatly I long for you all with the affection of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:3-4,7,8).
Warren Wiersbe outlines this section with these phrases: "I have you in my mind", "I have you in my heart" and "I have you in my prayers." That sums up well the affection that Paul had for those brethren.Is there someone that you care greatly about? Send them a card. Better yet, drop them a line of your own creation and let them know that they are on your mind, in your heart and in your prayers today. Only do it, though, if you care enough to send the "very best."
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
So do not throw away your confidence. It brings a great reward. You need to be steadfast if you are to do God's will and receive what he has promised.
Matthew 14:14
And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick.
Ephesians 3:14-15
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name.
Romans 12:12
Let hope keep you joyful; in trouble stand firm; persist in prayer.
2 Corinthians 9:6
Remember this -- meager sowing means meager reaping; generous sowing means generous reaping.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for making us joint heirs together with the family of believers in this wonderful eternal inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade kept in heaven for us. We gratefully claim this inheritance and await the appointed date when we will experience in full the blessings it provides. Troubles in this life diminish our hope, but rejoicing in the life yet to be revealed gives us a living hope! Help us to fix our present hope on the future return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in whose name we pray. Amen.
Someone has composed the following list of "Cards You'll Never See at Hallmark":
"Looking back over the years that we've been together, I can't help but wonder....What was I thinking?!"
"I've always wanted to have someone to hold, someone to love....After having met you, I've changed my mind."
"As the days go by, I think of how lucky I am....that you're not here to ruin it for me."
"As you grow older, Mom, I think of all the gifts you've given me.....Like the need for therapy."
"You look great for your age....Almost life-like!"
"When we were together, you always said you'd die for me....Now that we've broken up, I think it's time you kept your promise."
"We have been friends for a very long time....What do you say we call it quits?"
"I'm so miserable without you....It's almost like you're here."
"You are such a good friend that if we were on a sinking ship and there was only one life jacket....I'd miss you heaps and think of you often."
Somehow those cards truly don't seem very appropriate for a card company that advertises with the slogan, "When you care enough to send the very best." Greeting card companies certainly have made it easy for us to let our friends and relatives know that we care about them.
The apostle Paul didn't have the benefit of going into a card store, but many of the words he wrote to congregations and individuals are filled with sentiment and worded in such a way that perhaps they should be used in greeting cards. Listen to these words written to the Christians in Philippi:
"I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always with every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy....it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart....For God is my witness, how greatly I long for you all with the affection of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:3-4,7,8).
Warren Wiersbe outlines this section with these phrases: "I have you in my mind", "I have you in my heart" and "I have you in my prayers." That sums up well the affection that Paul had for those brethren.Is there someone that you care greatly about? Send them a card. Better yet, drop them a line of your own creation and let them know that they are on your mind, in your heart and in your prayers today. Only do it, though, if you care enough to send the "very best."
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
So do not throw away your confidence. It brings a great reward. You need to be steadfast if you are to do God's will and receive what he has promised.
Matthew 14:14
And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick.
Ephesians 3:14-15
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name.
Romans 12:12
Let hope keep you joyful; in trouble stand firm; persist in prayer.
2 Corinthians 9:6
Remember this -- meager sowing means meager reaping; generous sowing means generous reaping.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for making us joint heirs together with the family of believers in this wonderful eternal inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade kept in heaven for us. We gratefully claim this inheritance and await the appointed date when we will experience in full the blessings it provides. Troubles in this life diminish our hope, but rejoicing in the life yet to be revealed gives us a living hope! Help us to fix our present hope on the future return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in whose name we pray. Amen.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Monday prayer & verses (27 07 2009)
Thought for the day
Today's seed for thought is short. It's a motto going around:
ALWAYS GIVE 100% AT WORK:
12% Monday
23% Tuesday
40% Wednesday
20% Thursday
5% Friday
As much as we may hate to be reminded of it, Christians ought to allow their Christianity to affect their performance on the job. I truly believe that Christians should be the best workers an employer has. After all, can you picture anybody coming back to Jesus the carpenter complaining about shoddy workmanship? The words Paul wrote to servants in Colossae have just as much meaning to us no matter where we work:
"Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eye service, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ." (Colossians 3:22-24).
It is finished
While two visitors were visiting Annapolis, they noticed several students on their hands and knees assessing the courtyard with pencils and clipboards in hand.
"What are they doing?" one of them asked their tour guide.
"Each year," he replied with a grin, "The upperclassmen ask the freshmen how many bricks it took to finish paving this courtyard."
"So what's the answer?" one of the visitors asked the tour guide when they were out of earshot of the freshmen.
The guide replied, "One.
"That brings up an interesting theological question. How many sacrifices did it take to finish paying for our sins? The Jews would have needed lots of pencils and clipboards to make the calculation. "Let's see, let's take all the sin offerings, all the guilt offerings, the bulls, the goats, the lambs, the turtle doves......"So what's the answer?
How many sacrifices did it take to finish paying for our sins? Only one."And every priest stands ministering daily and offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God." (Heb. 10:11-12).After thousands and thousands of sacrificial animals had been sacrificed, Jesus Christ gave his own life on the cross. Only then could it be said, "It is finished." (John 19:30).
Verses
Galatians 6:9
So let us not grow tired of doing good. When the time comes, if we do not lose heart, we shall gather a good harvest.
Exodus 23:25
Worship only me, the LORD your God! I will bless you with plenty of food and water and keep you strong.
1 Corinthians 6:19
Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?
Philippians 4:6
Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart.
2 Corinthians 9:6
Remember this principle: He who sows scantily will reap scantily. He who sows generously will reap generously.
Prayer
Father, Your love is somewhat relentless but never forceful since You give to all a free will. You come to us again and again through the working of the Holy Spirit that convicts us of our sins. But that’s only the beginning, for once we respond there is the reassuring work of the Spirit that reminds us that we are no longer condemned but saved through the sacrificial death of Jesus who died in our place. We appropriate Christ’s redemptive work on our behalf and receive forgiveness of sins and eternal life in heaven. Thank You for Your marvelous provision and wondrous love on our behalf. Amen.
Today's seed for thought is short. It's a motto going around:
ALWAYS GIVE 100% AT WORK:
12% Monday
23% Tuesday
40% Wednesday
20% Thursday
5% Friday
As much as we may hate to be reminded of it, Christians ought to allow their Christianity to affect their performance on the job. I truly believe that Christians should be the best workers an employer has. After all, can you picture anybody coming back to Jesus the carpenter complaining about shoddy workmanship? The words Paul wrote to servants in Colossae have just as much meaning to us no matter where we work:
"Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eye service, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ." (Colossians 3:22-24).
It is finished
While two visitors were visiting Annapolis, they noticed several students on their hands and knees assessing the courtyard with pencils and clipboards in hand.
"What are they doing?" one of them asked their tour guide.
"Each year," he replied with a grin, "The upperclassmen ask the freshmen how many bricks it took to finish paving this courtyard."
"So what's the answer?" one of the visitors asked the tour guide when they were out of earshot of the freshmen.
The guide replied, "One.
"That brings up an interesting theological question. How many sacrifices did it take to finish paying for our sins? The Jews would have needed lots of pencils and clipboards to make the calculation. "Let's see, let's take all the sin offerings, all the guilt offerings, the bulls, the goats, the lambs, the turtle doves......"So what's the answer?
How many sacrifices did it take to finish paying for our sins? Only one."And every priest stands ministering daily and offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God." (Heb. 10:11-12).After thousands and thousands of sacrificial animals had been sacrificed, Jesus Christ gave his own life on the cross. Only then could it be said, "It is finished." (John 19:30).
Verses
Galatians 6:9
So let us not grow tired of doing good. When the time comes, if we do not lose heart, we shall gather a good harvest.
Exodus 23:25
Worship only me, the LORD your God! I will bless you with plenty of food and water and keep you strong.
1 Corinthians 6:19
Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?
Philippians 4:6
Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart.
2 Corinthians 9:6
Remember this principle: He who sows scantily will reap scantily. He who sows generously will reap generously.
Prayer
Father, Your love is somewhat relentless but never forceful since You give to all a free will. You come to us again and again through the working of the Holy Spirit that convicts us of our sins. But that’s only the beginning, for once we respond there is the reassuring work of the Spirit that reminds us that we are no longer condemned but saved through the sacrificial death of Jesus who died in our place. We appropriate Christ’s redemptive work on our behalf and receive forgiveness of sins and eternal life in heaven. Thank You for Your marvelous provision and wondrous love on our behalf. Amen.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (24 07 2009)
Thought for the day
The boss of a big company needed to call one of his employees about an urgent problem with one of the main computers. He dialed the employee's home phone number and was greeted with a child whispering, "Hello?"
Feeling put out at the inconvenience of having to talk to a youngster,the boss asked, "Is your Daddy home?" "Yes", whispered the small voice."May I talk with him?", the man asked. To the surprise of the boss,the small voice whispered, "No."Wanting to talk with an adult, the boss asked, "Is your Mommy there?" "Yes", came the answer. "May I talk with her?" Again the small voice whispered, "No."
Knowing that it was not likely that a young child would be left home alone, the boss decided he would just leave a message with the person who should be there watching over the child."Is there anyone there besides you?", the boss asked the child. "Yes", whispered the child, "A policeman."
Wondering what an officer would be doing at his employee's home, the boss asked, "May I speak with the policeman?" "No, he's busy",whispered the child. "Busy doing what?", asked the boss. "Talking to Daddy and Mommy and the fireman", came the whispered answer.
Growing concerned and even worried as he heard a loud noise through the earpiece on the phone, the boss asked, "What is that noise?" "A hello-copper", answered the whispering voice. "What is going on there?", asked the boss, now alarmed.
In an awed voice the child answered, "The search team just landed the hello-copper!"Alarmed, concerned and more than just a little frustrated the boss asked, "Why are they there?"Still whispering, the young voice replied along with a muffled giggle,"They're looking for me!
"Reminds me of how we act toward God at times. When we have done something that we know is wrong, we sometimes, like Adam and Eve inthe Garden, try to hide from God. Not physically, of course. But we try to distance ourselves from God by neglecting worship with God's people, Bible study, prayer. We try to avoid God, hoping He won't notice.
But like the little boy in the story, we know that God is searching for us, doing everything in His power to bring us back. And even at times when I've done something I'm ashamed of, I appreciate that so much."What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them,does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it?....Or what woman, having ten coins,if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it?" (Luke 15:4,8)
Is Somebody looking for you today?
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
Faith is a confident trust in the things we hope for, and a firm belief in things that cannot be seen with our physical eyes.
1 Peter 2:24
Christ carried the burden of our sins. He was nailed to the cross, so that we would stop sinning and start living right. By his cuts and bruises you are healed.
Romans 12:2
Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould, but let God re-make you so that your whole attitude of mind is changed. Thus you will prove in practice that the will of God's good, acceptable to him and perfect.
Psalm 5:2
Give heed to the voice of my cry, My King and my God, For to You I will pray.
Proverbs 10:22
It is the blessing of the LORD that enriches, And no toil can increase it.
Prayer
Father, You bless those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. The sweetness of Your Word is like honey in our mouth that reminds us of Your faithfulness, Your goodness and Your mercy that overflows into our lives as You forgive us of our sins and provide us with an abundant life. Your Words are a sweet savor to our soul as we walk obediently according to Your Word. Amen
The boss of a big company needed to call one of his employees about an urgent problem with one of the main computers. He dialed the employee's home phone number and was greeted with a child whispering, "Hello?"
Feeling put out at the inconvenience of having to talk to a youngster,the boss asked, "Is your Daddy home?" "Yes", whispered the small voice."May I talk with him?", the man asked. To the surprise of the boss,the small voice whispered, "No."Wanting to talk with an adult, the boss asked, "Is your Mommy there?" "Yes", came the answer. "May I talk with her?" Again the small voice whispered, "No."
Knowing that it was not likely that a young child would be left home alone, the boss decided he would just leave a message with the person who should be there watching over the child."Is there anyone there besides you?", the boss asked the child. "Yes", whispered the child, "A policeman."
Wondering what an officer would be doing at his employee's home, the boss asked, "May I speak with the policeman?" "No, he's busy",whispered the child. "Busy doing what?", asked the boss. "Talking to Daddy and Mommy and the fireman", came the whispered answer.
Growing concerned and even worried as he heard a loud noise through the earpiece on the phone, the boss asked, "What is that noise?" "A hello-copper", answered the whispering voice. "What is going on there?", asked the boss, now alarmed.
In an awed voice the child answered, "The search team just landed the hello-copper!"Alarmed, concerned and more than just a little frustrated the boss asked, "Why are they there?"Still whispering, the young voice replied along with a muffled giggle,"They're looking for me!
"Reminds me of how we act toward God at times. When we have done something that we know is wrong, we sometimes, like Adam and Eve inthe Garden, try to hide from God. Not physically, of course. But we try to distance ourselves from God by neglecting worship with God's people, Bible study, prayer. We try to avoid God, hoping He won't notice.
But like the little boy in the story, we know that God is searching for us, doing everything in His power to bring us back. And even at times when I've done something I'm ashamed of, I appreciate that so much."What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them,does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it?....Or what woman, having ten coins,if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it?" (Luke 15:4,8)
Is Somebody looking for you today?
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
Faith is a confident trust in the things we hope for, and a firm belief in things that cannot be seen with our physical eyes.
1 Peter 2:24
Christ carried the burden of our sins. He was nailed to the cross, so that we would stop sinning and start living right. By his cuts and bruises you are healed.
Romans 12:2
Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould, but let God re-make you so that your whole attitude of mind is changed. Thus you will prove in practice that the will of God's good, acceptable to him and perfect.
Psalm 5:2
Give heed to the voice of my cry, My King and my God, For to You I will pray.
Proverbs 10:22
It is the blessing of the LORD that enriches, And no toil can increase it.
Prayer
Father, You bless those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. The sweetness of Your Word is like honey in our mouth that reminds us of Your faithfulness, Your goodness and Your mercy that overflows into our lives as You forgive us of our sins and provide us with an abundant life. Your Words are a sweet savor to our soul as we walk obediently according to Your Word. Amen
Thursday prayer & verses (24 07 2009)
Thought for the day
The following excuses have been suggested if you get caught sleeping on the job:
"They told me at the blood bank this might happen."
"This is just a 15-minute power nap like they raved about in that time-management course you sent me to."
"Whew! I must have left the top off the liquid paper."
"I wasn't sleeping! I was meditating on the mission statement and envisioning a new paradigm!"
"This is in exchange for the six hours last night when I dreamed about work!"
"Just pacing myself for the all-nighter tonight!"
"Someone must have put decaf in the wrong pot."
"Boy, that cold medicine I took last night just won't wear off!"
"Ah, the unique and unpredictable circadian rhythms of the workaholic!"
"I'm sorry, I thought you (the boss) were gone for the day."
"Oh, man! Come in at 6 in the morning and look what happens!"
"...and I especially thank you for my excellent boss, Amen!"
There's nothing wrong with sleeping. It's just that there's a proper time to do it and an improper time. The term "sleep" is sometimes used in the New Testament as a euphemism for death, but it is also used at times to describe our inactivity, our failure to live for the Lord. Listen to this admonition from Paul:"....It is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light." (Romans 13:11-12).
Have a great day (and try to stay awake)!
Verses
Romans 4:21
He was fully convinced God could do what He promised.
Acts 5:16
Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed.
John 14:24
He that does not love me neglects my words. Yet the word you hear is not my own but that of the Father who sent me.
Psalm 5:2
Give heed to the voice of my cry, My King and my God, For to You I will pray.
2 Corinthians 9:10
It is God Who gives seed to the man to plant. He also gives the bread to eat. Then we know He will give you more seed to plant and make it grow so you will have more to give away.
Prayer
Father, we pray for those in positions of power that they would realize where their power comes from and give You the glory and honor due Your name. We pray for leaders whose attitudes and actions may not reflect those of Herod, Pilate or Nebuchadnezzar who became proud and abusive with the authority entrusted to them. May they come to realize that any power we have on this earth is given to us by You and that we will give account for how we use it. Let it be used for good to bless and enrich others, not to endanger or deprive them of the blessings You have in mind from those You have empowered to do good. Above all we want to honor You and give You the glory for anything done through us, for we in ourselves are powerless. Amen.
The following excuses have been suggested if you get caught sleeping on the job:
"They told me at the blood bank this might happen."
"This is just a 15-minute power nap like they raved about in that time-management course you sent me to."
"Whew! I must have left the top off the liquid paper."
"I wasn't sleeping! I was meditating on the mission statement and envisioning a new paradigm!"
"This is in exchange for the six hours last night when I dreamed about work!"
"Just pacing myself for the all-nighter tonight!"
"Someone must have put decaf in the wrong pot."
"Boy, that cold medicine I took last night just won't wear off!"
"Ah, the unique and unpredictable circadian rhythms of the workaholic!"
"I'm sorry, I thought you (the boss) were gone for the day."
"Oh, man! Come in at 6 in the morning and look what happens!"
"...and I especially thank you for my excellent boss, Amen!"
There's nothing wrong with sleeping. It's just that there's a proper time to do it and an improper time. The term "sleep" is sometimes used in the New Testament as a euphemism for death, but it is also used at times to describe our inactivity, our failure to live for the Lord. Listen to this admonition from Paul:"....It is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light." (Romans 13:11-12).
Have a great day (and try to stay awake)!
Verses
Romans 4:21
He was fully convinced God could do what He promised.
Acts 5:16
Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed.
John 14:24
He that does not love me neglects my words. Yet the word you hear is not my own but that of the Father who sent me.
Psalm 5:2
Give heed to the voice of my cry, My King and my God, For to You I will pray.
2 Corinthians 9:10
It is God Who gives seed to the man to plant. He also gives the bread to eat. Then we know He will give you more seed to plant and make it grow so you will have more to give away.
Prayer
Father, we pray for those in positions of power that they would realize where their power comes from and give You the glory and honor due Your name. We pray for leaders whose attitudes and actions may not reflect those of Herod, Pilate or Nebuchadnezzar who became proud and abusive with the authority entrusted to them. May they come to realize that any power we have on this earth is given to us by You and that we will give account for how we use it. Let it be used for good to bless and enrich others, not to endanger or deprive them of the blessings You have in mind from those You have empowered to do good. Above all we want to honor You and give You the glory for anything done through us, for we in ourselves are powerless. Amen.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Father, I invite your Favor
Father, I invite Your Favor! (Pastor Riaan du Toit)
It is of utmost importance that the children of God experience favor and prosperity. Yes I know that a lot has been said about prosperity and the rest. However, it’s impossible for any vision to be fulfilled unless there is PROVISION for such.
I took out a few scriptures on favor that we pray over our church and the people. I thought that this would really bless you the moment you start praying them.
So please make a printout of these and pray them in the morning, lunch time or whenever you have a quiet moment.
NUMBERS 6:25 The Lord make His face to shine upon and enlighten you and be gracious (kind, merciful, and giving favor) to you;
- Father, thank you for giving me favor!
1 CORINTHIANS 2:12 Now we have not received the spirit [that belongs to] the world, but the [Holy] Spirit Who is from God, [given to us] that we might realize and comprehend and appreciate the gifts [of divine favor and blessing so freely and lavishly] bestowed on us by God.
- Father I appreciate the gift of divine favor.
2 CORINTHIANS 5:20 So we are Christ's ambassadors, God making His appeal as it were through us. We [as Christ's personal representatives] beg you for His sake to lay hold of the divine favor [now offered you] and be reconciled to God.
- Father, help me to lay hold of the divine favor offered.
1 SAMUEL 2:26 Now the boy Samuel grew and was in favor both with the Lord and with men.
- Father, thank you that I have favor with God and favor with man!
PSALM 90:17 And let the beauty and delightfulness and favor of the Lord our God be upon us; confirm and establish the work of our hands--yes, the work of our hands, confirm and establish it.
- Father, let Your favor now be upon me!
- Father, now that we have Your favor please confirm and establish the work of our hands!
PSALM 5:12 For You, Lord, will bless the [uncompromisingly] righteous [him who is upright and in right standing with You]; as with a shield You will surround him with goodwill (pleasure and favor).
- Father thank you for surrounding me with favor, goodwill and pleasure!
- Father, I invite them as my shield!
PROVERBS 16:15 In the light of the king's countenance is life, and his favor is as acloud bringing the spring rain.
- Father, I receive the light of my Kings countenance producing life!
- Father, I receive Your favor as a cloud bringing my rain!
- Father, the drought in my life is broken today!
ISAIAH 48:17 Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: I am theLord your God, Who teaches you to profit, Who leads you in the way that you should go.
- Father, teach me to profit!
PROVERBS 13:22 A good man leaves an inheritance [of moral stability andgoodness] to his children's children, and the wealth of the sinner [finds its way eventually] intothe hands of the righteous, for whom it was laid up.
- Father, the wealth that sinners are storing up will find it's way into my hands now!
2 CORINTHIANS 9:6-8 [Remember] this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings.
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 (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]. [Prov. 22:9.]
2 CORINTHIANS 9:8 And God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation].
- Father, enable me to reap generously and with blessings!
- Father, touch my heart that I may be a giver without whom You will not do!
- Father, make all grace, every favor and earthly blessing come to me in abundance!
- Father, make me self-sufficient under all circumstances and whatever the need may be!
- Father, cause me to possess enough to require no aid or support!
- Father, cause me to have enough for any offering and donation You may require of me!
PSALM 84:11 For the Lord God is a Sun and Shield; the Lord bestows [present] graceand favor and [future] glory (honor, splendor, and heavenly bliss)! No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
- Father, thank you for giving me present grace, favor and future glory with heavenly bliss!
- Father, no good thing will you withhold from me and I receive every good thing coming to me now!
PSALM 30:5 For His anger is but for a moment, but His favor is for a lifetime or in His favor is life. Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.
- Father, Your favor is for a lifetime so never let it be removed from me!
- Father, in Your favor is life and I take it!
PSALM 145:16 You open Your hand and satisfy every living thing with favor.
- Father, open Your hand and satisfy me with Your favor!
JOHN 1:16 For out of His fullness (abundance) we have all received [all had a share and we were all supplied with] one grace after another and spiritual blessing upon spiritual blessing and even favor upon favor and gift [heaped] upon gift.
- Father, thank You for fullness and abundance!
- Father, thank You for grace heaped upon grace in my life!
- Father, thank You for blessing heaped upon blessing in my life!
- Father, thank You for favor heaped upon favor in my life!
- Father , thank You for gift heaped upon gift in my life!
- It's my time and season to reap these because of favor!
It is of utmost importance that the children of God experience favor and prosperity. Yes I know that a lot has been said about prosperity and the rest. However, it’s impossible for any vision to be fulfilled unless there is PROVISION for such.
I took out a few scriptures on favor that we pray over our church and the people. I thought that this would really bless you the moment you start praying them.
So please make a printout of these and pray them in the morning, lunch time or whenever you have a quiet moment.
NUMBERS 6:25 The Lord make His face to shine upon and enlighten you and be gracious (kind, merciful, and giving favor) to you;
- Father, thank you for giving me favor!
1 CORINTHIANS 2:12 Now we have not received the spirit [that belongs to] the world, but the [Holy] Spirit Who is from God, [given to us] that we might realize and comprehend and appreciate the gifts [of divine favor and blessing so freely and lavishly] bestowed on us by God.
- Father I appreciate the gift of divine favor.
2 CORINTHIANS 5:20 So we are Christ's ambassadors, God making His appeal as it were through us. We [as Christ's personal representatives] beg you for His sake to lay hold of the divine favor [now offered you] and be reconciled to God.
- Father, help me to lay hold of the divine favor offered.
1 SAMUEL 2:26 Now the boy Samuel grew and was in favor both with the Lord and with men.
- Father, thank you that I have favor with God and favor with man!
PSALM 90:17 And let the beauty and delightfulness and favor of the Lord our God be upon us; confirm and establish the work of our hands--yes, the work of our hands, confirm and establish it.
- Father, let Your favor now be upon me!
- Father, now that we have Your favor please confirm and establish the work of our hands!
PSALM 5:12 For You, Lord, will bless the [uncompromisingly] righteous [him who is upright and in right standing with You]; as with a shield You will surround him with goodwill (pleasure and favor).
- Father thank you for surrounding me with favor, goodwill and pleasure!
- Father, I invite them as my shield!
PROVERBS 16:15 In the light of the king's countenance is life, and his favor is as acloud bringing the spring rain.
- Father, I receive the light of my Kings countenance producing life!
- Father, I receive Your favor as a cloud bringing my rain!
- Father, the drought in my life is broken today!
ISAIAH 48:17 Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: I am theLord your God, Who teaches you to profit, Who leads you in the way that you should go.
- Father, teach me to profit!
PROVERBS 13:22 A good man leaves an inheritance [of moral stability andgoodness] to his children's children, and the wealth of the sinner [finds its way eventually] intothe hands of the righteous, for whom it was laid up.
- Father, the wealth that sinners are storing up will find it's way into my hands now!
2 CORINTHIANS 9:6-8 [Remember] this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings.
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 (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]. [Prov. 22:9.]
2 CORINTHIANS 9:8 And God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation].
- Father, enable me to reap generously and with blessings!
- Father, touch my heart that I may be a giver without whom You will not do!
- Father, make all grace, every favor and earthly blessing come to me in abundance!
- Father, make me self-sufficient under all circumstances and whatever the need may be!
- Father, cause me to possess enough to require no aid or support!
- Father, cause me to have enough for any offering and donation You may require of me!
PSALM 84:11 For the Lord God is a Sun and Shield; the Lord bestows [present] graceand favor and [future] glory (honor, splendor, and heavenly bliss)! No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
- Father, thank you for giving me present grace, favor and future glory with heavenly bliss!
- Father, no good thing will you withhold from me and I receive every good thing coming to me now!
PSALM 30:5 For His anger is but for a moment, but His favor is for a lifetime or in His favor is life. Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.
- Father, Your favor is for a lifetime so never let it be removed from me!
- Father, in Your favor is life and I take it!
PSALM 145:16 You open Your hand and satisfy every living thing with favor.
- Father, open Your hand and satisfy me with Your favor!
JOHN 1:16 For out of His fullness (abundance) we have all received [all had a share and we were all supplied with] one grace after another and spiritual blessing upon spiritual blessing and even favor upon favor and gift [heaped] upon gift.
- Father, thank You for fullness and abundance!
- Father, thank You for grace heaped upon grace in my life!
- Father, thank You for blessing heaped upon blessing in my life!
- Father, thank You for favor heaped upon favor in my life!
- Father , thank You for gift heaped upon gift in my life!
- It's my time and season to reap these because of favor!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verse (21 07 2009)
Thought for the day
Through the months I have probably send several pages being thankful for the ability to hear. I am learning also to be thankful for some of the things I do not hear. Here are some examples of things I am thankful I do not hear.
I am thankful I do not hear all the negative things said, thought, and felt about my writing, preaching, and teaching. Even a single comment can send me into a tailspin of questioning and self-doubt.
I am thankful I do not hear all the things the "other drivers" have to say about my driving. Reading lips is quite sufficient.
I am thankful I do not hear all the things my children say about me, especially after they have been disciplined. The look in their eyes says plenty.
I am thankful I do not hear more vulgarities and foul language than what I do. Standing in line for a cup of coffee can provide me with language I never cared to hear.
I am thankful I do not hear all the times people make fun of me. I have heard enough to understand the pain it can cause, and remind me to be thoughtful of others.
I am thankful I do not hear any more compliments that I hear. One or two can inflate my ego to a dangerous level.
I am thankful I do not hear all the cries for help that my Father hears. He knows how much I can handle and thankfully limits the number that I hear.
I am thankful I do not hear any more noise than what I do hear. I hear enough to make me appreciate a quiet morning.
I am thankful I do not hear more long periods of silence from the Lord than I do. Short periods of silence are enough to frighten me and cause me to question my relationship with Him.
I am thankful I do not hear the Lord condemn me, reject me, or tell me He no longer loves me. He knows I could not handle those words.
Jesus said, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." He wants us to listen. But, He also knows we cannot bear to hear all the sounds that He hears. He knows that for us, some things are better left unheard. He hears it all.
Thankful I don't hear what I don't need to hear,
Verses
Hebrews 11:6
Without living by the Unseen, it's impossible to get such approval. For anyone who is serious about the God-life, must stake everything on the fact that God is, and that he amply rewards those who make him their quest.
Matthew 8:17
So that the word of Isaiah the prophet might come true: He himself took our pains and our diseases.
Ephesians 4:29
Stop all your dirty talk. Say the right thing at the right time and help others by what you say.
Luke 5:16
So He Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed.
2 Corinthians 9:8
God has the power to supply you abundantly with every kind of blessing, so that, with all your needs well supplied at all times, you may have something to spare for every work of mercy.
Prayer
Father, we contemplate the deep thoughts of the Psalmist who asked why You bother Yourself to care for all humanity. We are so small in comparison to the great works of the universe which You not only created but also sustain with perfect order, viability and replenishment day by day, year after year. You know the millions of stars in the galaxy by name and yet You are moved by the smallest burden that I bear this day. Your power is evident all about me and within me. I praise You for I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You, the Master Designer. Amen.
Through the months I have probably send several pages being thankful for the ability to hear. I am learning also to be thankful for some of the things I do not hear. Here are some examples of things I am thankful I do not hear.
I am thankful I do not hear all the negative things said, thought, and felt about my writing, preaching, and teaching. Even a single comment can send me into a tailspin of questioning and self-doubt.
I am thankful I do not hear all the things the "other drivers" have to say about my driving. Reading lips is quite sufficient.
I am thankful I do not hear all the things my children say about me, especially after they have been disciplined. The look in their eyes says plenty.
I am thankful I do not hear more vulgarities and foul language than what I do. Standing in line for a cup of coffee can provide me with language I never cared to hear.
I am thankful I do not hear all the times people make fun of me. I have heard enough to understand the pain it can cause, and remind me to be thoughtful of others.
I am thankful I do not hear any more compliments that I hear. One or two can inflate my ego to a dangerous level.
I am thankful I do not hear all the cries for help that my Father hears. He knows how much I can handle and thankfully limits the number that I hear.
I am thankful I do not hear any more noise than what I do hear. I hear enough to make me appreciate a quiet morning.
I am thankful I do not hear more long periods of silence from the Lord than I do. Short periods of silence are enough to frighten me and cause me to question my relationship with Him.
I am thankful I do not hear the Lord condemn me, reject me, or tell me He no longer loves me. He knows I could not handle those words.
Jesus said, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." He wants us to listen. But, He also knows we cannot bear to hear all the sounds that He hears. He knows that for us, some things are better left unheard. He hears it all.
Thankful I don't hear what I don't need to hear,
Verses
Hebrews 11:6
Without living by the Unseen, it's impossible to get such approval. For anyone who is serious about the God-life, must stake everything on the fact that God is, and that he amply rewards those who make him their quest.
Matthew 8:17
So that the word of Isaiah the prophet might come true: He himself took our pains and our diseases.
Ephesians 4:29
Stop all your dirty talk. Say the right thing at the right time and help others by what you say.
Luke 5:16
So He Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed.
2 Corinthians 9:8
God has the power to supply you abundantly with every kind of blessing, so that, with all your needs well supplied at all times, you may have something to spare for every work of mercy.
Prayer
Father, we contemplate the deep thoughts of the Psalmist who asked why You bother Yourself to care for all humanity. We are so small in comparison to the great works of the universe which You not only created but also sustain with perfect order, viability and replenishment day by day, year after year. You know the millions of stars in the galaxy by name and yet You are moved by the smallest burden that I bear this day. Your power is evident all about me and within me. I praise You for I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You, the Master Designer. Amen.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Monday prayer & verses (20 07 2009)
Thought for the day
I suspect there are some weary people reading these words.
Some are weary because the weekend was filled with activity. The lawn work had to be done. The kids had places to go. It was cold so the house in front of heaters was the best place to be. The meals had to be prepared. The laundry had piled up and had to be done. The house had not been cleaned in a long time. The garage had to be cleaned out. The cars and the dog had to be washed. You have a good life and appreciate all the blessings God has given you, but you are weary.
Some are weary because it's Monday morning and you had to get up and go back to the office. You've had your coffee or your juice or your diet drink or your workout to get you going. But, you're dragging. Your schedule for the week includes meetings, discussions, phone calls, and possibly some unexpected travel. You like your job and the people you work with but you are weary.
Some are weary because you have begun another week wondering will this be another week of frustration, disappointment, and hopelessness. You've dreamed dreams, trusted your heart, listened to the wisest of counsel, but still you are left with more questions than answers. You are weary.
Some are weary because of promises that have not been kept. Some are weary because of lies that have been told. Some are weary from the burden of guilt and shame that you carry with you wherever you go. Some are weary because your heart has been broken and love appears to always be just beyond your reach.
For those who are weary, listen to Isaiah's words of comfort:
"To whom will you compare me? Or who is my equal?" says the Holy One.
Lift your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one, and calls them each by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing.
Why do you say, O Jacob, and complain, O Israel, "My way is hidden from the Lord; my cause is disregarded by my God"?
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:25-31)
For those who are weary, consider the words of Jesus:
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)
Are you weary? Hope in the Lord! There your strength will be renewed. With wings you'll soar like eagles. You'll run and not grow weary. You'll walk and not be faint. Go to Jesus. He will give you rest.
Verses
Romans 10:11
For the Scriptures tell us that no one who believes in Christ will ever be disappointed.
Psalm 91:10
No evil shall befall you, Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;
Psalm 145:8
The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, Slow to anger and great in mercy.
Matthew 21:22
You will receive all that you pray for, provided you have faith."
James 1:4
And let constancy have its finished work, that you may be finished, complete in every part, lacking in nothing.
Prayer
Father, we place our complete trust and confidence in the words recorded in the Scriptures that You inspired Your followers to write. All Scripture is inspired by You and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness so that we who follow You are equipped to do every good work You commission us to do. No matter the ongoing attempts by mortal man to bring into question the authority of Your immortal Word, Your Word is eternal; it stands firmly in the heavens and is established deep in our spirit where Your Holy Spirit resides. We choose to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and those who have carefully navigated their earthly pilgrimage by walking the narrow path that leads to eternal life instead of the broad way that most choose leading to disbelief and destruction.
I suspect there are some weary people reading these words.
Some are weary because the weekend was filled with activity. The lawn work had to be done. The kids had places to go. It was cold so the house in front of heaters was the best place to be. The meals had to be prepared. The laundry had piled up and had to be done. The house had not been cleaned in a long time. The garage had to be cleaned out. The cars and the dog had to be washed. You have a good life and appreciate all the blessings God has given you, but you are weary.
Some are weary because it's Monday morning and you had to get up and go back to the office. You've had your coffee or your juice or your diet drink or your workout to get you going. But, you're dragging. Your schedule for the week includes meetings, discussions, phone calls, and possibly some unexpected travel. You like your job and the people you work with but you are weary.
Some are weary because you have begun another week wondering will this be another week of frustration, disappointment, and hopelessness. You've dreamed dreams, trusted your heart, listened to the wisest of counsel, but still you are left with more questions than answers. You are weary.
Some are weary because of promises that have not been kept. Some are weary because of lies that have been told. Some are weary from the burden of guilt and shame that you carry with you wherever you go. Some are weary because your heart has been broken and love appears to always be just beyond your reach.
For those who are weary, listen to Isaiah's words of comfort:
"To whom will you compare me? Or who is my equal?" says the Holy One.
Lift your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one, and calls them each by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing.
Why do you say, O Jacob, and complain, O Israel, "My way is hidden from the Lord; my cause is disregarded by my God"?
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:25-31)
For those who are weary, consider the words of Jesus:
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)
Are you weary? Hope in the Lord! There your strength will be renewed. With wings you'll soar like eagles. You'll run and not grow weary. You'll walk and not be faint. Go to Jesus. He will give you rest.
Verses
Romans 10:11
For the Scriptures tell us that no one who believes in Christ will ever be disappointed.
Psalm 91:10
No evil shall befall you, Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;
Psalm 145:8
The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, Slow to anger and great in mercy.
Matthew 21:22
You will receive all that you pray for, provided you have faith."
James 1:4
And let constancy have its finished work, that you may be finished, complete in every part, lacking in nothing.
Prayer
Father, we place our complete trust and confidence in the words recorded in the Scriptures that You inspired Your followers to write. All Scripture is inspired by You and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness so that we who follow You are equipped to do every good work You commission us to do. No matter the ongoing attempts by mortal man to bring into question the authority of Your immortal Word, Your Word is eternal; it stands firmly in the heavens and is established deep in our spirit where Your Holy Spirit resides. We choose to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and those who have carefully navigated their earthly pilgrimage by walking the narrow path that leads to eternal life instead of the broad way that most choose leading to disbelief and destruction.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (17 07 2009)
Thought for the day
Everything I Needed to Know About Life I Learned From a Jigsaw Puzzle:
1. Don't force a fit -- if something is meant to be, it will come together naturally.
2. When things aren't going so well, take a break. Everything will look different when you return.
3. Be sure to look at the big picture. Getting hung up on the little pieces only leads to frustration.
4. Perseverance pays off. Every important puzzle went together bit by bit, piece by piece.
5. When one spot stops working, move to another. But be sure to come back later (see #4).
6. The creator of the puzzle gave you the picture as a guidebook. Refer to the Creator's guidebook often.
7. Variety is the spice of life. It's the different colors and patterns that make the puzzle interesting.
8. Working together with friends and family makes any task fun.
9. Establish the border first. Boundaries give a sense of security and order.
10. Don't be afraid to try different combinations. Some matches are surprising.
11. Take time often to celebrate your successes (even little ones).
12. Anything worth doing takes time and effort. A great puzzle can't be rushed.
13. When you finally reach the last piece, don't be sad. Rejoice in the masterpiece you've made and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
There's much good advice in there for Christian living. Take #7, for example. There is much variety in the Lord's church -- not only variety of color, but variety of background, and variety of temperament.
Some Christians would be happy if they were locked in a room filled with books totally isolated from society; other Christians would go crazy if they didn't have contact with people on a regular basis. Some Christians are fascinated by the theological arguments of the writer of Hebrews; other Christians are more moved by the depth of emotion expressed in the Psalms. Some Christians most enjoy expressing their love through doing things to help other people; other Christians get a great deal of satisfaction by writing notes of encouragement or giving hugs.
We sometimes wish that everybody else in the church was "just like me," but the things that make us different are actually a blessing. In I Corinthians 12, Paul compared the church to a human body. He wrote:"If the whole body were an eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling? But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. And if they were all one member, where would the body be?" (1 Cor. 12:17-19)
Though it sometimes gets frustrating, be thankful for the differences between us. We need the things which other Christians have to offer. It is that variety which allows the church to function as a body. Those differences make us stronger. Thank God for the variety!
Verses
Psalm 119:89
LORD, Your word stands forever firm in heaven,
Proverbs 4:20-22
My son, give attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh.
John 3:17
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
1 Corinthians 7:5
Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
Psalm 112:1,3
Hallelujah. Happy the man who reverences the Eternal, who finds rich joy in his commands! Riches and wealth are in his house, good fortune never fails him.
Prayer
Father, too often my heart becomes hard, unpliable, and unmoved because of my stubborn will or due to my ignorance. My pride wells up in me convincing me that I know more than You, my Creator, and I’ve become reckless along the way. Yet deep in my heart I know that I can trust You as my Potter when You break me to remove my imperfections. Though it is a painful and deliberate process I invite You to take charge as You breathe new life into my soul. You show me the better way and You faithfully guide me as You mold me into Your Image. As I go through this purifying process I want to firmly stand during the testing periods of my life. I want to be a vessel of honor that will bring glory to You. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.
Everything I Needed to Know About Life I Learned From a Jigsaw Puzzle:
1. Don't force a fit -- if something is meant to be, it will come together naturally.
2. When things aren't going so well, take a break. Everything will look different when you return.
3. Be sure to look at the big picture. Getting hung up on the little pieces only leads to frustration.
4. Perseverance pays off. Every important puzzle went together bit by bit, piece by piece.
5. When one spot stops working, move to another. But be sure to come back later (see #4).
6. The creator of the puzzle gave you the picture as a guidebook. Refer to the Creator's guidebook often.
7. Variety is the spice of life. It's the different colors and patterns that make the puzzle interesting.
8. Working together with friends and family makes any task fun.
9. Establish the border first. Boundaries give a sense of security and order.
10. Don't be afraid to try different combinations. Some matches are surprising.
11. Take time often to celebrate your successes (even little ones).
12. Anything worth doing takes time and effort. A great puzzle can't be rushed.
13. When you finally reach the last piece, don't be sad. Rejoice in the masterpiece you've made and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
There's much good advice in there for Christian living. Take #7, for example. There is much variety in the Lord's church -- not only variety of color, but variety of background, and variety of temperament.
Some Christians would be happy if they were locked in a room filled with books totally isolated from society; other Christians would go crazy if they didn't have contact with people on a regular basis. Some Christians are fascinated by the theological arguments of the writer of Hebrews; other Christians are more moved by the depth of emotion expressed in the Psalms. Some Christians most enjoy expressing their love through doing things to help other people; other Christians get a great deal of satisfaction by writing notes of encouragement or giving hugs.
We sometimes wish that everybody else in the church was "just like me," but the things that make us different are actually a blessing. In I Corinthians 12, Paul compared the church to a human body. He wrote:"If the whole body were an eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling? But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. And if they were all one member, where would the body be?" (1 Cor. 12:17-19)
Though it sometimes gets frustrating, be thankful for the differences between us. We need the things which other Christians have to offer. It is that variety which allows the church to function as a body. Those differences make us stronger. Thank God for the variety!
Verses
Psalm 119:89
LORD, Your word stands forever firm in heaven,
Proverbs 4:20-22
My son, give attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh.
John 3:17
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
1 Corinthians 7:5
Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
Psalm 112:1,3
Hallelujah. Happy the man who reverences the Eternal, who finds rich joy in his commands! Riches and wealth are in his house, good fortune never fails him.
Prayer
Father, too often my heart becomes hard, unpliable, and unmoved because of my stubborn will or due to my ignorance. My pride wells up in me convincing me that I know more than You, my Creator, and I’ve become reckless along the way. Yet deep in my heart I know that I can trust You as my Potter when You break me to remove my imperfections. Though it is a painful and deliberate process I invite You to take charge as You breathe new life into my soul. You show me the better way and You faithfully guide me as You mold me into Your Image. As I go through this purifying process I want to firmly stand during the testing periods of my life. I want to be a vessel of honor that will bring glory to You. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (16 07 2009)
Thought for the day
I quickly would like to share something that happened to me earlier this week, see I received a call from my father. Let me explain a bit the significance, you see my dad left us when I was about 3 years old and moved away. Well life went on and he was not involved in our life and not even helping to support us. My mom brought us (6 children) up and had to work to make ends meet.
Well when I was about 8 years old and she remarried and to shorten the story, just when I was getting used to having a father around he was involved in a car accident and lost his life due to a drunk driver who only lost the use of his one arm. Again life went on and as before the Lord was good to us and supplied in our needs. Well again when I was about 14 my mom again met someone and married and to this day is still married to my step dad.
Well during this time there was a lot of hate inside me and I could not get myself to forgive my biological dad. The only time I saw him again was when he married again when I was about 20 years old but never spoke a word. Well the Lord took me from the pits and mud and washed me with His precious blood last year March, I once was blind but now can see. During that time (March) I was in a rehabilitation centre for substance abuse and part of the treatment is to get all the old hurt out and to forgive and I did forgave my father.
But I always had this fear of going to meet him because I do not know how to handle the situation and still is unsure how to. Now the significance of the call the other night and I am sure that God is working in his heart as well to sort out the pain and suffering. I know now that I personally need to meet him to tell him in person that I forgive him and work from there.
Life does not always turn out like we thought it would, does it?
As I write this, there are probably some fathers/mothers wondering where things went wrong, how they got off track, and what did they do wrong. There is probably a son out there wondering what went wrong with the relationship with his dad/mom. There may be a daughter out there wishing she knew what to do to heal the broken relationship with her dad/mom. Somewhere along the way words were spoken (or not spoken), barriers were built and never torn-down, and now the relationship that you dreamed about is in desperate need of restoration.
There is a husband and wife struggling to hang on to what is left of their marriage. What happened? How did we drift so far apart? What did we do (or not do) that caused the love we once felt for each other to become so cold and indifferent? It doesn't seem right. It doesn't seem fair.
You've worked hard your entire career. You've been loyal to the company. You've passed up numerous opportunities that would have paid more, had more prestige, and a much nicer list of perks. You let them all pass convincing yourself that the decision to stay will pay off. You remember all that as you were passed over for the promotion one more time. Someone younger, someone with less experience, and someone with fewer years with the company, gets the promotion.
Life is not always fair. Things don't always turn out how we think they should. Sometimes the good guys get hurt. What do you do when that happens? How do you handle the injustices of life? Here's what Peter said:
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened." But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. (1 Peter 3:13-17, NIV)
A few things stand out in Peter's words:
First, even when we live right, we get treated wrong. Be ready for it. Know that it can happen. Don't look for it, but always be aware that you are not promised a easy road.
Second, always "set apart Christ as Lord." Keep Christ in the center of all you do. Put Him first. Keep Him first.
Third, be prepared to witness. Be ready. Someone is watching. Someone is wondering why you live like you do. Someone is waiting for an explanation. Someone is paying attention. Be ready to explain.
Fourth, be gentle in your response to the unfairness. Don't allow the unfairness and mistreatment to make you bitter. Be gentle and respectful and make sure your conscience is clean.
Fifth, make sure the suffering you experience is for doing good. You are going to suffer, so make sure that you are suffering because you doing something good, not because you got caught doing something bad.
If you are dealing with the unfairness of life, stay close to God and hold on to His hand. Let Him hold you. Continue to live the way you know you should live. It's better if you do this.
Verses
2 Corinthians 4:18
I pay no regard to the things that are seen, but to those that are unseen; for the things that are seen are temporary, while those that are unseen are permanent.
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.
Romans 12:2
Do not conform outwardly to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then you will be able to know the will of God -- what is good, and is pleasing to him, and is perfect.
Deuteronomy 8:18
remember it's the LORD your God who gives you the power to get wealth, fulfilling His covenant He made by an oath with your fathers, as it is today.
Prayer
Father, any words we speak or pictures we draw cannot fully describe your infinite love. Your boundless love reaches beyond the heavens and yet it penetrates our individual hearts. It is only in experiencing a personal relationship with you that we begin to sense the inexhaustible and pure love that comes only from You. Even as the waves of the ocean are powerful and wash over the rocks may Your abundant love fill our lives to overflowing so that Christ’s love is seen through us. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen.
I quickly would like to share something that happened to me earlier this week, see I received a call from my father. Let me explain a bit the significance, you see my dad left us when I was about 3 years old and moved away. Well life went on and he was not involved in our life and not even helping to support us. My mom brought us (6 children) up and had to work to make ends meet.
Well when I was about 8 years old and she remarried and to shorten the story, just when I was getting used to having a father around he was involved in a car accident and lost his life due to a drunk driver who only lost the use of his one arm. Again life went on and as before the Lord was good to us and supplied in our needs. Well again when I was about 14 my mom again met someone and married and to this day is still married to my step dad.
Well during this time there was a lot of hate inside me and I could not get myself to forgive my biological dad. The only time I saw him again was when he married again when I was about 20 years old but never spoke a word. Well the Lord took me from the pits and mud and washed me with His precious blood last year March, I once was blind but now can see. During that time (March) I was in a rehabilitation centre for substance abuse and part of the treatment is to get all the old hurt out and to forgive and I did forgave my father.
But I always had this fear of going to meet him because I do not know how to handle the situation and still is unsure how to. Now the significance of the call the other night and I am sure that God is working in his heart as well to sort out the pain and suffering. I know now that I personally need to meet him to tell him in person that I forgive him and work from there.
Life does not always turn out like we thought it would, does it?
As I write this, there are probably some fathers/mothers wondering where things went wrong, how they got off track, and what did they do wrong. There is probably a son out there wondering what went wrong with the relationship with his dad/mom. There may be a daughter out there wishing she knew what to do to heal the broken relationship with her dad/mom. Somewhere along the way words were spoken (or not spoken), barriers were built and never torn-down, and now the relationship that you dreamed about is in desperate need of restoration.
There is a husband and wife struggling to hang on to what is left of their marriage. What happened? How did we drift so far apart? What did we do (or not do) that caused the love we once felt for each other to become so cold and indifferent? It doesn't seem right. It doesn't seem fair.
You've worked hard your entire career. You've been loyal to the company. You've passed up numerous opportunities that would have paid more, had more prestige, and a much nicer list of perks. You let them all pass convincing yourself that the decision to stay will pay off. You remember all that as you were passed over for the promotion one more time. Someone younger, someone with less experience, and someone with fewer years with the company, gets the promotion.
Life is not always fair. Things don't always turn out how we think they should. Sometimes the good guys get hurt. What do you do when that happens? How do you handle the injustices of life? Here's what Peter said:
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened." But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. (1 Peter 3:13-17, NIV)
A few things stand out in Peter's words:
First, even when we live right, we get treated wrong. Be ready for it. Know that it can happen. Don't look for it, but always be aware that you are not promised a easy road.
Second, always "set apart Christ as Lord." Keep Christ in the center of all you do. Put Him first. Keep Him first.
Third, be prepared to witness. Be ready. Someone is watching. Someone is wondering why you live like you do. Someone is waiting for an explanation. Someone is paying attention. Be ready to explain.
Fourth, be gentle in your response to the unfairness. Don't allow the unfairness and mistreatment to make you bitter. Be gentle and respectful and make sure your conscience is clean.
Fifth, make sure the suffering you experience is for doing good. You are going to suffer, so make sure that you are suffering because you doing something good, not because you got caught doing something bad.
If you are dealing with the unfairness of life, stay close to God and hold on to His hand. Let Him hold you. Continue to live the way you know you should live. It's better if you do this.
Verses
2 Corinthians 4:18
I pay no regard to the things that are seen, but to those that are unseen; for the things that are seen are temporary, while those that are unseen are permanent.
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.
Romans 12:2
Do not conform outwardly to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then you will be able to know the will of God -- what is good, and is pleasing to him, and is perfect.
Deuteronomy 8:18
remember it's the LORD your God who gives you the power to get wealth, fulfilling His covenant He made by an oath with your fathers, as it is today.
Prayer
Father, any words we speak or pictures we draw cannot fully describe your infinite love. Your boundless love reaches beyond the heavens and yet it penetrates our individual hearts. It is only in experiencing a personal relationship with you that we begin to sense the inexhaustible and pure love that comes only from You. Even as the waves of the ocean are powerful and wash over the rocks may Your abundant love fill our lives to overflowing so that Christ’s love is seen through us. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Wednesday prayer & verses (15 07 2009)
Thought for the day
You may have read this unusual story that was reported through the AFP news organization :
A 24-year-old man in Shanghai tried to sell his soul on China's most popular auction website and managed to get 58 bids before operators pulled his ad. The man posted his announcement on Taobao (a site similar to eBay) last week asking a starting price of 10 yuan ( 1.23 US dollars).
But the company decided that selling one's soul was inappropriate and deleted the ad on Friday. By then there were 58 bids from people with the highest at 681 yuan (84 dollars). "We pulled down the posting because we think only God can control souls," said Taobao's public relations manager Tao Ran.
Why would a man agree to sell his soul for as little as a dollar and a quarter? The truth is, I'm not all that surprised because I know of others who were willing to sell their souls for a measly amount. Judas was willing to do it for thirty pieces of silver. For Achan (Joshua 7), it was a robe, five pounds of silver and a bar of gold. For Elisha's servant (I Kings 5), it was 150 pounds of silver and two sets of clothing. For Esau, it was a bowl of soup.
If you're willing to be even more honest, you know that there are people all around you who have sold their souls for something of little value. Maybe you've even done it yourself. Maybe you've spent so much time making money to gather "the finer things of life" that you have no time or energy left for God. Maybe you've cheated others (like the IRS or health insurance companies) thinking they'll never miss it and no one will ever be the wiser. Maybe your desire for riches has clouded your judgment and caused you to do something that has damaged your integrity.
Jesus once said, "What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matthew 16:26)
The question was intended to be rhetorical. There's nothing in this world (nor everything in the world combined) that begins to equal the value of your soul. Bill Gates and all of his fellow billionaires don't have enough money to even make an opening offer. So, don't ever put a price tag on your soul. Not on eBay. Not in your workplace. Not in your daily life.
Verses
Luke 17:6
"If you have a faith like a mustard seed," the Lord said, "you could say to this mulberry tree, 'Be pulled up by the roots, and be planted in the lake,' and it would obey you.
Exodus 15:26
He said, "You must obey the Lord, your God. You must do what the Lord said is right. You must obey all his laws and keep his rules. If you do these things, I will not give you any of the sicknesses I gave the Egyptians. I am the Lord. I am the Lord who heals you."
Psalm 103:11
For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him;
Revelation 5:8
Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.
3 John 2
My loved one, it is my prayer that you may do well in all things, and be healthy in body, even as your soul does well.
Prayer
Jesus, would You be at the center of my thoughts, my attitudes, and in my conversations today. Would You keep me spiritually sensitive to opportunities for Christian witness. As You reign in my life You are my Master and I choose to be obedient to You, my Lord. Grant me the strength to trust You in the dark trials I may face this day as I release my worries and fears to You. Help me to remember that I walk by faith and not by sight. I desire to follow You, my King of kings and Lord of lords. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
You may have read this unusual story that was reported through the AFP news organization :
A 24-year-old man in Shanghai tried to sell his soul on China's most popular auction website and managed to get 58 bids before operators pulled his ad. The man posted his announcement on Taobao (a site similar to eBay) last week asking a starting price of 10 yuan ( 1.23 US dollars).
But the company decided that selling one's soul was inappropriate and deleted the ad on Friday. By then there were 58 bids from people with the highest at 681 yuan (84 dollars). "We pulled down the posting because we think only God can control souls," said Taobao's public relations manager Tao Ran.
Why would a man agree to sell his soul for as little as a dollar and a quarter? The truth is, I'm not all that surprised because I know of others who were willing to sell their souls for a measly amount. Judas was willing to do it for thirty pieces of silver. For Achan (Joshua 7), it was a robe, five pounds of silver and a bar of gold. For Elisha's servant (I Kings 5), it was 150 pounds of silver and two sets of clothing. For Esau, it was a bowl of soup.
If you're willing to be even more honest, you know that there are people all around you who have sold their souls for something of little value. Maybe you've even done it yourself. Maybe you've spent so much time making money to gather "the finer things of life" that you have no time or energy left for God. Maybe you've cheated others (like the IRS or health insurance companies) thinking they'll never miss it and no one will ever be the wiser. Maybe your desire for riches has clouded your judgment and caused you to do something that has damaged your integrity.
Jesus once said, "What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matthew 16:26)
The question was intended to be rhetorical. There's nothing in this world (nor everything in the world combined) that begins to equal the value of your soul. Bill Gates and all of his fellow billionaires don't have enough money to even make an opening offer. So, don't ever put a price tag on your soul. Not on eBay. Not in your workplace. Not in your daily life.
Verses
Luke 17:6
"If you have a faith like a mustard seed," the Lord said, "you could say to this mulberry tree, 'Be pulled up by the roots, and be planted in the lake,' and it would obey you.
Exodus 15:26
He said, "You must obey the Lord, your God. You must do what the Lord said is right. You must obey all his laws and keep his rules. If you do these things, I will not give you any of the sicknesses I gave the Egyptians. I am the Lord. I am the Lord who heals you."
Psalm 103:11
For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him;
Revelation 5:8
Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.
3 John 2
My loved one, it is my prayer that you may do well in all things, and be healthy in body, even as your soul does well.
Prayer
Jesus, would You be at the center of my thoughts, my attitudes, and in my conversations today. Would You keep me spiritually sensitive to opportunities for Christian witness. As You reign in my life You are my Master and I choose to be obedient to You, my Lord. Grant me the strength to trust You in the dark trials I may face this day as I release my worries and fears to You. Help me to remember that I walk by faith and not by sight. I desire to follow You, my King of kings and Lord of lords. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verses (14 07 2009)
Thought for the day
Old man Woodruff loved golf, but his age was making it increasingly difficult for him to play. He complained to the clubhouse man about his eyesight. "I can't play with my glasses on because they keep falling off," he said. "And I'm too nearsighted to play without them."
"Why don't you play with Hughes?" the clubhouse man suggested."Him?" Woodruff scoffed. "He's ninety-eight if he's a day, and he can't get around without a wheelchair!" "True," said the clubhouse man, "but he's farsighted." So the next day, Woodruff and Hughes played together.
Woodruff took a tremendous swing and hit the ball well. "Boy, that felt good!" he exclaimed. "Did you see it?" he asked Hughes."Yes," the very old man replied. "Where did it go?"
"I can't remember," Hughes sighed.Which do you suppose is worse -- those in the world who are blind to the fact that God has provided them with so many good things, or those of us who "see" that, but forget to express our appreciation to God?
"Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, who satisfies your mouth with good things..." (Psalm 103:1-5a)
As we are surrounded by so many reminders of God's goodness to us, may we not only have our eyes open to recognize all of his blessings, but also remember to express our appreciation.
Verses
Matthew 9:29
Then he touched their eyes and said, "Because of your faith it will happen."
John 6:63
"It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life”.
Romans 12:20
Therefore "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head."
Jeremiah 33:3
Call to me, and I will answer by revealing what is hard and hidden, what you do not know!
Philippians 4:19
My God will gloriously supply all your needs with his wealth, through your union with Christ Jesus.
Prayer
In the maze of life’s events where we’re often a passenger on the rollercoaster of life’s ups and downs, may we never lose sight of You, Jesus. You are the unseen but ever-present Shepherd who protects, guides and tenderly comforts us in all our trouble. Thank You, Lord, that when change is constantly about us, You remain steadfast, faithful, and dependable. You are the Anchor that keeps us grounded in the unseen but eternal truths we build our lives upon. Keep us faithful and help us to fix our eyes on the unseen as we await that glad day when our faith will be rewarded with the visible blessings You have stored up for those who believe. Amen
Old man Woodruff loved golf, but his age was making it increasingly difficult for him to play. He complained to the clubhouse man about his eyesight. "I can't play with my glasses on because they keep falling off," he said. "And I'm too nearsighted to play without them."
"Why don't you play with Hughes?" the clubhouse man suggested."Him?" Woodruff scoffed. "He's ninety-eight if he's a day, and he can't get around without a wheelchair!" "True," said the clubhouse man, "but he's farsighted." So the next day, Woodruff and Hughes played together.
Woodruff took a tremendous swing and hit the ball well. "Boy, that felt good!" he exclaimed. "Did you see it?" he asked Hughes."Yes," the very old man replied. "Where did it go?"
"I can't remember," Hughes sighed.Which do you suppose is worse -- those in the world who are blind to the fact that God has provided them with so many good things, or those of us who "see" that, but forget to express our appreciation to God?
"Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, who satisfies your mouth with good things..." (Psalm 103:1-5a)
As we are surrounded by so many reminders of God's goodness to us, may we not only have our eyes open to recognize all of his blessings, but also remember to express our appreciation.
Verses
Matthew 9:29
Then he touched their eyes and said, "Because of your faith it will happen."
John 6:63
"It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life”.
Romans 12:20
Therefore "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head."
Jeremiah 33:3
Call to me, and I will answer by revealing what is hard and hidden, what you do not know!
Philippians 4:19
My God will gloriously supply all your needs with his wealth, through your union with Christ Jesus.
Prayer
In the maze of life’s events where we’re often a passenger on the rollercoaster of life’s ups and downs, may we never lose sight of You, Jesus. You are the unseen but ever-present Shepherd who protects, guides and tenderly comforts us in all our trouble. Thank You, Lord, that when change is constantly about us, You remain steadfast, faithful, and dependable. You are the Anchor that keeps us grounded in the unseen but eternal truths we build our lives upon. Keep us faithful and help us to fix our eyes on the unseen as we await that glad day when our faith will be rewarded with the visible blessings You have stored up for those who believe. Amen
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Monday prayer & verses (13 07 2009)
Thought for the day
Ole and Lena lived on a lake in Northern Minnesota. It was near the end of winter and spring was just beginning.
Ole asked Lena if she would walk across the frozen lake to the general store to pick him up some snacks. She asked for some money, but he told her to put it on their tab. So she walked across, got the snacks and walked back.
Then she asked Ole why he didn't send her with any money.
He said, "I vasn't goin' to send a dollar ven I vasn't sure how tick de ice vas."
I think it's safe to say that Ole is a fellow who doesn't highly value his wife! Quite a contrast with the high standard that men have been given in scripture: "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave himself for her..." (Eph. 5:25)
We are to love and value our wives as much as Christ loved the church, which means being willing to make any sacrifice, even to the point of death! Unfortunately, even when we hold our wives in high regard, we sometimes do a poor job of letting them know that, both in the words that we speak and the way that we act toward them. Husbands, I encourage you to take a moment today to let your wives know just how much they mean to you.
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.
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.
John 13:35
"By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
1 Thessalonians 1:2
We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers,
Joshua 1:8
This book of the Law must never depart from your mouth; you must meditate on it day and night, so that you may keep living in accord with all that is written in it; for then you will make your way successful, and then you will prosper.
Prayer
Father, we learn from Paul’s experience that when Your hand is against the evil perpetrator, there are consequences. When you temporarily blinded the sorcerer so that he could not see the light of the sun he came to rely not on his own guidance but was at the mercy of those who would lead him by the hand, perhaps even Paul. You used this harsh experience to bring the government official to faith, for he was amazed at the teaching You brought about. The teaching went beyond just theory but was revealed illustratively. Help us not to fear our enemies, but to boldly speak the truth to them and then commit them to You for judgment. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Ole and Lena lived on a lake in Northern Minnesota. It was near the end of winter and spring was just beginning.
Ole asked Lena if she would walk across the frozen lake to the general store to pick him up some snacks. She asked for some money, but he told her to put it on their tab. So she walked across, got the snacks and walked back.
Then she asked Ole why he didn't send her with any money.
He said, "I vasn't goin' to send a dollar ven I vasn't sure how tick de ice vas."
I think it's safe to say that Ole is a fellow who doesn't highly value his wife! Quite a contrast with the high standard that men have been given in scripture: "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave himself for her..." (Eph. 5:25)
We are to love and value our wives as much as Christ loved the church, which means being willing to make any sacrifice, even to the point of death! Unfortunately, even when we hold our wives in high regard, we sometimes do a poor job of letting them know that, both in the words that we speak and the way that we act toward them. Husbands, I encourage you to take a moment today to let your wives know just how much they mean to you.
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.
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.
John 13:35
"By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
1 Thessalonians 1:2
We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers,
Joshua 1:8
This book of the Law must never depart from your mouth; you must meditate on it day and night, so that you may keep living in accord with all that is written in it; for then you will make your way successful, and then you will prosper.
Prayer
Father, we learn from Paul’s experience that when Your hand is against the evil perpetrator, there are consequences. When you temporarily blinded the sorcerer so that he could not see the light of the sun he came to rely not on his own guidance but was at the mercy of those who would lead him by the hand, perhaps even Paul. You used this harsh experience to bring the government official to faith, for he was amazed at the teaching You brought about. The teaching went beyond just theory but was revealed illustratively. Help us not to fear our enemies, but to boldly speak the truth to them and then commit them to You for judgment. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Get born again.
Dear Friend,
I wanted to be a blessing to you so I sent this letter to you because I care about your eternal
destiny. Please know that God loves you and He has a great plan for your life! I have a
very important question to ask you. If today were your last day here, do you know for sure,
beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you would go to Heaven? Many times when I ask others
this question, their response is that there is no way to know for sure, or that I’ve missed the mark too many times.
But the good news is that there is a way to know for sure and it is not through our good deeds. The Bible reads, “for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” And
“for the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
The Bible reads, For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. And you’re
a whosoever, right? Of course you are.
I’m going to say a quick prayer for you right now. Lord, I pronounce blessings over those
reading this letter. Jesus, do a quick work in their heart and make Yourself real to them. Jesus,
comfort them and their loved ones. Fill them with Your peace that passes all understanding. If
they have never personally called upon the name of the Lord Jesus or if in past times they did,
but have turned from You, I pray that they will call upon Your name and surrender all to You
right now.
If you would like to receive the gift that God has for you by asking Jesus Christ to come into your heart, say this with your heart and lips out loud right now.
Dear Lord Jesus, come into my heart. Take out the stony heart and give me a heart of flesh.
Forgive me of my sin. Wash me and cleanse me. Set me free and change me. Make me the
person that You called me to be. Jesus, thank You that You died for me and shed Your blood
for me. I believe that God raised You from the dead and I thank You that You’re coming back
again for me. Fill me with the Holy Spirit and the joy of the Lord. Give me a passion to reach the
lost, a hunger for the things of God, and a holy boldness to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
I’m saved. I’m born-again. I’m forgiven and I’m on my way to Heaven because I have Jesus in
my heart. Thank You Jesus.
When you asked Jesus to come into your heart and to forgive you, He heard you and did so.
All of your sins are now forgiven. Always remember to run to God and NOT from Him because
He loves you and has a great plan for your life. That’s VERY good news.
With blessings,
I wanted to be a blessing to you so I sent this letter to you because I care about your eternal
destiny. Please know that God loves you and He has a great plan for your life! I have a
very important question to ask you. If today were your last day here, do you know for sure,
beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you would go to Heaven? Many times when I ask others
this question, their response is that there is no way to know for sure, or that I’ve missed the mark too many times.
But the good news is that there is a way to know for sure and it is not through our good deeds. The Bible reads, “for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” And
“for the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
The Bible reads, For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. And you’re
a whosoever, right? Of course you are.
I’m going to say a quick prayer for you right now. Lord, I pronounce blessings over those
reading this letter. Jesus, do a quick work in their heart and make Yourself real to them. Jesus,
comfort them and their loved ones. Fill them with Your peace that passes all understanding. If
they have never personally called upon the name of the Lord Jesus or if in past times they did,
but have turned from You, I pray that they will call upon Your name and surrender all to You
right now.
If you would like to receive the gift that God has for you by asking Jesus Christ to come into your heart, say this with your heart and lips out loud right now.
Dear Lord Jesus, come into my heart. Take out the stony heart and give me a heart of flesh.
Forgive me of my sin. Wash me and cleanse me. Set me free and change me. Make me the
person that You called me to be. Jesus, thank You that You died for me and shed Your blood
for me. I believe that God raised You from the dead and I thank You that You’re coming back
again for me. Fill me with the Holy Spirit and the joy of the Lord. Give me a passion to reach the
lost, a hunger for the things of God, and a holy boldness to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
I’m saved. I’m born-again. I’m forgiven and I’m on my way to Heaven because I have Jesus in
my heart. Thank You Jesus.
When you asked Jesus to come into your heart and to forgive you, He heard you and did so.
All of your sins are now forgiven. Always remember to run to God and NOT from Him because
He loves you and has a great plan for your life. That’s VERY good news.
With blessings,
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (10 07 2009)
Thought for the day
We, the sensible people of South Africa, in an attempt to help everyone get along, restore some semblance of justice, avoid any more riots, keep our nation safe, promote positive behavior and secure the blessings of debt-free liberty to ourselves and our great-great-great grandchildren, hereby try one more time to ordain and establish some common sense guidelines for the terminally whiny, guilt-ridden, delusional and other....idiots. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that a whole lot of people were confused by the "Bill of Rights", and are so dim that they require a:
BILL OF NO RIGHTS
ARTICLE I: You do not have the right to a new car, big screen TV or any other form of wealth. More power to you if you can legally acquire them, but no one is guaranteeing anything.
ARTICLE II: You do not have the right to never be offended. This country is based on freedom, and that means freedom for everyone - not just you! You may leave the room, turn the channel, express a different opinion, etc., but the world is full of idiots, and probably always will be.
ARTICLE III: You do not have the right to be free from harm. If you stick a screwdriver in your eye, learn to be more careful, do not expect the tool manufacturer to make you and all your relatives independently wealthy.
ARTICLE IV: You do not have the right to free food and housing. South Africans are the most charitable people to be found, and will gladly help anyone in need, but we are quickly growing weary of subsidizing generation after generation of professional couch potatoes who achieve nothing more than the creation of another generation of professional couch potatoes.
ARTICLE V: You do not have the right to physically harm other people. If you kidnap, rape, intentionally maim or kill someone, don't be surprised if the rest of us want to see you fry in the electric chair.
ARTICLE VI: You do not have the right to the possessions of others. If you rob, cheat or coerce away the goods or services of other citizens, don't be surprised if the rest of us get together and lock you away in a place where you still won't have the right to a big-screen color TV or a life of leisure.
ARTICLE VII: You do not have the right to happiness. Being an South African means that you have the right to pursue happiness - which by the way, is a lot easier if you are unencumbered by an overabundance of idiotic laws created by those of you who were confused by the "Bill of Rights".
Here in South Africa, we take a great deal of pride in the rights we have been given. We are frequently known to insist on our rights. In fact, numerous times, we have gone to war to make sure that no one takes our rights away from us. Perhaps that is why it is so difficult for us to understand the humility required of us by God to live the Christian life.
Paul says a lot about "rights" in I Corinthians. He is strong in his affirmation that he and the other apostles had many rights: "Do we have no right to eat and drink? Do we have no right to take along a believing wife....[Do we] have no right to refrain from working?" (I Cor. 9:4-6). Paul's rights were many. But he was ready and willing to give up those rights for a greater cause. "Nevertheless we have not used this right, but endure all things lest we hinder the gospel of Christ." (1 Cor. 9:12)
So often, problems are caused in the church when two brothers or sisters insist on getting their way. After all, they have a "right" to act the way they do! We don't like to give up our rights for anyone, but as difficult as it may be, we need to learn to do just that. Perhaps it helps to remember that the One who had a right to remain in heaven served by the angelic host gave it all up for your sake and mine. I'm glad that He didn't insist on his rights; I pray that He helps me not to insist on mine..
Verses
1 John 5:4
Everyone who is born of God overcomes the world. It is our faith which gives us victory over the world.
Exodus 23:26
Your women will give birth to healthy children, and everyone will live a long life.
John 13:34
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.
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.
2 Corinthians 9:7
I want each one of you to give what he has already made up his mind to give. Do not treat it as though it were a painful or compulsory due you had to pay! No! God loves a giver who gives joyfully.
Prayer
Father, we learn from Paul’s experience that when Your hand is against the evil perpetrator, there are consequences. When you temporarily blinded the sorcerer so that he could not see the light of the sun he came to rely not on his own guidance but was at the mercy of those who would lead him by the hand, perhaps even Paul. You used this harsh experience to bring the government official to faith, for he was amazed at the teaching You brought about. The teaching went beyond just theory but was revealed illustratively. Help us not to fear our enemies, but to boldly speak the truth to them and then commit them to You for judgment. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
We, the sensible people of South Africa, in an attempt to help everyone get along, restore some semblance of justice, avoid any more riots, keep our nation safe, promote positive behavior and secure the blessings of debt-free liberty to ourselves and our great-great-great grandchildren, hereby try one more time to ordain and establish some common sense guidelines for the terminally whiny, guilt-ridden, delusional and other....idiots. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that a whole lot of people were confused by the "Bill of Rights", and are so dim that they require a:
BILL OF NO RIGHTS
ARTICLE I: You do not have the right to a new car, big screen TV or any other form of wealth. More power to you if you can legally acquire them, but no one is guaranteeing anything.
ARTICLE II: You do not have the right to never be offended. This country is based on freedom, and that means freedom for everyone - not just you! You may leave the room, turn the channel, express a different opinion, etc., but the world is full of idiots, and probably always will be.
ARTICLE III: You do not have the right to be free from harm. If you stick a screwdriver in your eye, learn to be more careful, do not expect the tool manufacturer to make you and all your relatives independently wealthy.
ARTICLE IV: You do not have the right to free food and housing. South Africans are the most charitable people to be found, and will gladly help anyone in need, but we are quickly growing weary of subsidizing generation after generation of professional couch potatoes who achieve nothing more than the creation of another generation of professional couch potatoes.
ARTICLE V: You do not have the right to physically harm other people. If you kidnap, rape, intentionally maim or kill someone, don't be surprised if the rest of us want to see you fry in the electric chair.
ARTICLE VI: You do not have the right to the possessions of others. If you rob, cheat or coerce away the goods or services of other citizens, don't be surprised if the rest of us get together and lock you away in a place where you still won't have the right to a big-screen color TV or a life of leisure.
ARTICLE VII: You do not have the right to happiness. Being an South African means that you have the right to pursue happiness - which by the way, is a lot easier if you are unencumbered by an overabundance of idiotic laws created by those of you who were confused by the "Bill of Rights".
Here in South Africa, we take a great deal of pride in the rights we have been given. We are frequently known to insist on our rights. In fact, numerous times, we have gone to war to make sure that no one takes our rights away from us. Perhaps that is why it is so difficult for us to understand the humility required of us by God to live the Christian life.
Paul says a lot about "rights" in I Corinthians. He is strong in his affirmation that he and the other apostles had many rights: "Do we have no right to eat and drink? Do we have no right to take along a believing wife....[Do we] have no right to refrain from working?" (I Cor. 9:4-6). Paul's rights were many. But he was ready and willing to give up those rights for a greater cause. "Nevertheless we have not used this right, but endure all things lest we hinder the gospel of Christ." (1 Cor. 9:12)
So often, problems are caused in the church when two brothers or sisters insist on getting their way. After all, they have a "right" to act the way they do! We don't like to give up our rights for anyone, but as difficult as it may be, we need to learn to do just that. Perhaps it helps to remember that the One who had a right to remain in heaven served by the angelic host gave it all up for your sake and mine. I'm glad that He didn't insist on his rights; I pray that He helps me not to insist on mine..
Verses
1 John 5:4
Everyone who is born of God overcomes the world. It is our faith which gives us victory over the world.
Exodus 23:26
Your women will give birth to healthy children, and everyone will live a long life.
John 13:34
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.
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.
2 Corinthians 9:7
I want each one of you to give what he has already made up his mind to give. Do not treat it as though it were a painful or compulsory due you had to pay! No! God loves a giver who gives joyfully.
Prayer
Father, we learn from Paul’s experience that when Your hand is against the evil perpetrator, there are consequences. When you temporarily blinded the sorcerer so that he could not see the light of the sun he came to rely not on his own guidance but was at the mercy of those who would lead him by the hand, perhaps even Paul. You used this harsh experience to bring the government official to faith, for he was amazed at the teaching You brought about. The teaching went beyond just theory but was revealed illustratively. Help us not to fear our enemies, but to boldly speak the truth to them and then commit them to You for judgment. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (09 07 2009)
Thought for the day
Overcoming Worry (part 4)
The following are reported to be actual announcements taken from various church bulletins.
They have been around for a while, but they're still enjoyable:
Thursday night -- potluck supper. Prayer and medication to follow.
For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.
This afternoon there will be a meeting in the south and north ends of the church. Children will be baptized at both ends.
Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First xxx Church. Please use large double door at the side entrance.
Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles, and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children.
During the absence of our preacher, we enjoyed the rare privilege of hearing a good sermon when A. B. Doe supplied our pulpit.
Low Self-Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 to 8:30 p.m. Please use the back door.
Preacher is on vacation. Massages can be given to church secretary.
Church Rummage Sale: A good opportunity to get rid of anything not worth keeping but too good to throw away. Bring your husband.
The outreach committee has enlisted 25 members to make calls on people who are not afflicted with any church.
Don't let worry kill you. Let the church help.
Putting out a church bulletin, I know how easy it is to slip up and misprint a word or word something in a "less than desirable" way. But the church can help (overcome worry, not kill you). More specifically, Jesus Christ can help you deal with worry. We've looked at the reasons that Jesus says we shouldn't worry (it doesn't do any good, it expresses a lack of faith, it is characteristic of heathens). Now, let's look at what he says about how to overcome worry:
(1) Prioritize, Put First Things First"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:33)I wrote earlier that worry means having a divided mind. The way to get rid of worry is to do what Jesus told Martha, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed..." (Luke 10:41-42a)
If you really want to live a worry-free life, Matthew 6:33 is the key. Every morning, as you get up to face the day, tell the Lord, "Today my desire is to seek your will, Lord, to do your righteousness. Whatever happens, whatever I encounter, may I be sensitive to your presence and depend on your strength. May your kingdom be my highest priority, the most significant thought in my mind. This day is yours, Lord."I guarantee that as you care more and more about giving God first place in your life, you will care less and less about the things that once strangled you emotionally and spiritually, stealing your peace.
(2) Live One Day at a Time"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (Matthew 6:34)
So many of us worry about "what's gonna happen". What if this happens, or what that happens? God understands that we have a habit of worrying about tomorrow and next year and 20 years from now, so Christ tells us to concentrate on the problems of today.I'm reminded of when the Israelites were given manna every morning. They were told by God to collect only enough food for one day. But some of them, no doubt, were tempted to worry about tomorrow. What if there's no manna when we wake up? We could starve to death.
So just to be on the safe side, they set aside some manna to get them through the next day. But when they got up the next morning, it was filled with maggots. What God wanted them to understand was this -- you don't worry about tomorrow. I'll be here for you tomorrow just as surely as I'm here with you today. If you really believe that, then you don't need to worry about what's going to happen tomorrow.
Once again, it all comes down to faith. If we're going to get rid of worry, we're going to have to strengthen our faith in God, our trust that God will always be here for us just as he promised he would be.I close out our study about worry with these words from the apostle Paul: "Be anxious for nothing (that is, don't worry about anything), but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7) Don't worry about anything. Instead, pray about everything. That's great advice!
Verses
Mark 9:23
And Jesus answered, "The question is, if you can do anything. Everything is possible for the person who believes."
Matthew 10:1
And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease.
2 Corinthians 3:6
He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant--not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
John 15:7
If you stay with me, and my sayings stay in you, ask whatever you wish and it will be given you.
Romans 5:17
It is true that because of one man's sin death held sway because of that one man; but it is still truer that those who receive the far more effective power of grace with the free gift of a right relationship with God will reign in life because of what the one man Jesus Christ has done.
Prayer
Father, we want to be a shining light to the nations, to bring a word of hope to the peoples of this earth so that the whole world will know there’s salvation in Your name, there’s awe in Your supernatural deeds and there is eternity to be gained in exchange for a temporal world. We don’t want to take for granted Your awesome deeds recorded in Scriptures or things done for us in the past. Would you do it again, Lord! Reveal Your power anew and make it known in our time, we pray. Amen.
Overcoming Worry (part 4)
The following are reported to be actual announcements taken from various church bulletins.
They have been around for a while, but they're still enjoyable:
Thursday night -- potluck supper. Prayer and medication to follow.
For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.
This afternoon there will be a meeting in the south and north ends of the church. Children will be baptized at both ends.
Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First xxx Church. Please use large double door at the side entrance.
Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles, and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children.
During the absence of our preacher, we enjoyed the rare privilege of hearing a good sermon when A. B. Doe supplied our pulpit.
Low Self-Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 to 8:30 p.m. Please use the back door.
Preacher is on vacation. Massages can be given to church secretary.
Church Rummage Sale: A good opportunity to get rid of anything not worth keeping but too good to throw away. Bring your husband.
The outreach committee has enlisted 25 members to make calls on people who are not afflicted with any church.
Don't let worry kill you. Let the church help.
Putting out a church bulletin, I know how easy it is to slip up and misprint a word or word something in a "less than desirable" way. But the church can help (overcome worry, not kill you). More specifically, Jesus Christ can help you deal with worry. We've looked at the reasons that Jesus says we shouldn't worry (it doesn't do any good, it expresses a lack of faith, it is characteristic of heathens). Now, let's look at what he says about how to overcome worry:
(1) Prioritize, Put First Things First"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:33)I wrote earlier that worry means having a divided mind. The way to get rid of worry is to do what Jesus told Martha, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed..." (Luke 10:41-42a)
If you really want to live a worry-free life, Matthew 6:33 is the key. Every morning, as you get up to face the day, tell the Lord, "Today my desire is to seek your will, Lord, to do your righteousness. Whatever happens, whatever I encounter, may I be sensitive to your presence and depend on your strength. May your kingdom be my highest priority, the most significant thought in my mind. This day is yours, Lord."I guarantee that as you care more and more about giving God first place in your life, you will care less and less about the things that once strangled you emotionally and spiritually, stealing your peace.
(2) Live One Day at a Time"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (Matthew 6:34)
So many of us worry about "what's gonna happen". What if this happens, or what that happens? God understands that we have a habit of worrying about tomorrow and next year and 20 years from now, so Christ tells us to concentrate on the problems of today.I'm reminded of when the Israelites were given manna every morning. They were told by God to collect only enough food for one day. But some of them, no doubt, were tempted to worry about tomorrow. What if there's no manna when we wake up? We could starve to death.
So just to be on the safe side, they set aside some manna to get them through the next day. But when they got up the next morning, it was filled with maggots. What God wanted them to understand was this -- you don't worry about tomorrow. I'll be here for you tomorrow just as surely as I'm here with you today. If you really believe that, then you don't need to worry about what's going to happen tomorrow.
Once again, it all comes down to faith. If we're going to get rid of worry, we're going to have to strengthen our faith in God, our trust that God will always be here for us just as he promised he would be.I close out our study about worry with these words from the apostle Paul: "Be anxious for nothing (that is, don't worry about anything), but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7) Don't worry about anything. Instead, pray about everything. That's great advice!
Verses
Mark 9:23
And Jesus answered, "The question is, if you can do anything. Everything is possible for the person who believes."
Matthew 10:1
And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease.
2 Corinthians 3:6
He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant--not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
John 15:7
If you stay with me, and my sayings stay in you, ask whatever you wish and it will be given you.
Romans 5:17
It is true that because of one man's sin death held sway because of that one man; but it is still truer that those who receive the far more effective power of grace with the free gift of a right relationship with God will reign in life because of what the one man Jesus Christ has done.
Prayer
Father, we want to be a shining light to the nations, to bring a word of hope to the peoples of this earth so that the whole world will know there’s salvation in Your name, there’s awe in Your supernatural deeds and there is eternity to be gained in exchange for a temporal world. We don’t want to take for granted Your awesome deeds recorded in Scriptures or things done for us in the past. Would you do it again, Lord! Reveal Your power anew and make it known in our time, we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Wednesday prayer & verses (08 07 2009)
Thought for the day
Overcoming Worry (part 3)
The story is told of a young man who was fresh out of business school. He was looking for a job and saw an ad in the newspaper for a small business needing an accountant. So he answered the ad and ended up going in for an interview with this very nervous man who was running this small business that he had started himself.
The man said, "I need someone with an accounting degree. But mostly I'm looking for someone to do my worrying for me."
The young man said, "Excuse me? I'm afraid I don't understand."
The owner said, "I worry about a lot of things, but I don't want to have to worry about money. Your job will be to take all the money worries off my back."
The young fellow said, "OK, I understand. And how much does the job pay?"
The owner said, "I'll start you at eighty thousand a year."
The young man was blown away. He said, "Eighty thousand dollars! How can such a small business afford a salary like that?"
The owner said "That is your first worry."
If I were to ask, "How many of you would like to learn how to worry more? How many of you feel that your life would be improved if only you could spend more time worrying about stuff?", I doubt if I would get any takers. We don't like to worry and we know that, just as Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount, it doesn't do any good.
But Jesus gives us yet another reason why we shouldn't worry -- because worry demonstrates a lack of faith! "Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?" (Matthew 6:30)
Notice the phrase that Jesus uses here to describe people who worry -- "O you of little faith." It's important for us to understand that worry and faith are opposites. If you have faith, then you won't worry. If you worry, then you don't have sufficient faith. You may tell yourself, "I believe that God is able to take care of me". But something inside you whispers, "Hey, what if? What if it doesn't work out?" The seeds of doubt result in a harvest of worry.
Jesus makes the point in Matthew 6:32 that worry is characteristic of pagans ("after all these things the Gentiles seek"). It's normal for somebody who's not a Christian to sit around wringing his hands, worried about what might happen or what might not happen. You expect that from someone who's not a Christian because they don't have a trust that God will take care of them.
I would like to think that my children have never worried about whether or not they would have a bed to sleep in from week to week. They've never worried about whether or not there would be enough food for them to eat for supper. They've never worried about whether or not they would have clothes to wear. Why didn't they worry about those things? Because they had two parents who loved them and provided for them.
And if my kids got up one morning and said, "Dad, I couldn't sleep last night because I was afraid there wouldn't be anything to eat today," it would bother me. In fact, it might even anger me a little bit. "Suddenly, you think I'm not going to take care of you anymore? What's that all about?"I wonder if God feels the same way when we worry about stuff. The bottom line question when we're tempted to worry is this: "Do we truly believe that God will take care of us?"In the next daily e-mail, we'll look at what Jesus said we can do to overcome worry.
(to be continued)
Verses
Matthew 17:20
"You have so little faith," He told them. "I tell you the truth, if you have faith no bigger than a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Then you can do anything."
Acts 8:7
For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed.
Romans 12:2
Adapt yourselves no longer to the pattern of this present world, but let your minds be remade and your whole nature thus transformed. Then you will be able to discern the will of God, and to know what is good, acceptable, and perfect.
1 Peter 3:7
In the same way, you husbands should live with your wives in an understanding way. You should show respect to them. They are weaker than you. But God gives them the same blessing that he gives you--the grace that gives true life. Do this so that nothing will stop your prayers.
2 Corinthians 9:11
You will get rich in everything so you can give generously in every way; through us this will make people thank God.
Prayer
Father, help us not to resent the storms of life or be fearful of their effects. Much like we prepare for a ravaging storm by anchoring valuables to a firm foundation, help us to anchor our hearts in the firm foundation of Your Word that will help us to withstand the testing’s and trials of life that are certain to come our way. Even as a ship is proven to be seaworthy over its lifetime, may our faith be proven trustworthy as we hold onto You, the Anchor for our soul. Amen.
Overcoming Worry (part 3)
The story is told of a young man who was fresh out of business school. He was looking for a job and saw an ad in the newspaper for a small business needing an accountant. So he answered the ad and ended up going in for an interview with this very nervous man who was running this small business that he had started himself.
The man said, "I need someone with an accounting degree. But mostly I'm looking for someone to do my worrying for me."
The young man said, "Excuse me? I'm afraid I don't understand."
The owner said, "I worry about a lot of things, but I don't want to have to worry about money. Your job will be to take all the money worries off my back."
The young fellow said, "OK, I understand. And how much does the job pay?"
The owner said, "I'll start you at eighty thousand a year."
The young man was blown away. He said, "Eighty thousand dollars! How can such a small business afford a salary like that?"
The owner said "That is your first worry."
If I were to ask, "How many of you would like to learn how to worry more? How many of you feel that your life would be improved if only you could spend more time worrying about stuff?", I doubt if I would get any takers. We don't like to worry and we know that, just as Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount, it doesn't do any good.
But Jesus gives us yet another reason why we shouldn't worry -- because worry demonstrates a lack of faith! "Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?" (Matthew 6:30)
Notice the phrase that Jesus uses here to describe people who worry -- "O you of little faith." It's important for us to understand that worry and faith are opposites. If you have faith, then you won't worry. If you worry, then you don't have sufficient faith. You may tell yourself, "I believe that God is able to take care of me". But something inside you whispers, "Hey, what if? What if it doesn't work out?" The seeds of doubt result in a harvest of worry.
Jesus makes the point in Matthew 6:32 that worry is characteristic of pagans ("after all these things the Gentiles seek"). It's normal for somebody who's not a Christian to sit around wringing his hands, worried about what might happen or what might not happen. You expect that from someone who's not a Christian because they don't have a trust that God will take care of them.
I would like to think that my children have never worried about whether or not they would have a bed to sleep in from week to week. They've never worried about whether or not there would be enough food for them to eat for supper. They've never worried about whether or not they would have clothes to wear. Why didn't they worry about those things? Because they had two parents who loved them and provided for them.
And if my kids got up one morning and said, "Dad, I couldn't sleep last night because I was afraid there wouldn't be anything to eat today," it would bother me. In fact, it might even anger me a little bit. "Suddenly, you think I'm not going to take care of you anymore? What's that all about?"I wonder if God feels the same way when we worry about stuff. The bottom line question when we're tempted to worry is this: "Do we truly believe that God will take care of us?"In the next daily e-mail, we'll look at what Jesus said we can do to overcome worry.
(to be continued)
Verses
Matthew 17:20
"You have so little faith," He told them. "I tell you the truth, if you have faith no bigger than a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Then you can do anything."
Acts 8:7
For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed.
Romans 12:2
Adapt yourselves no longer to the pattern of this present world, but let your minds be remade and your whole nature thus transformed. Then you will be able to discern the will of God, and to know what is good, acceptable, and perfect.
1 Peter 3:7
In the same way, you husbands should live with your wives in an understanding way. You should show respect to them. They are weaker than you. But God gives them the same blessing that he gives you--the grace that gives true life. Do this so that nothing will stop your prayers.
2 Corinthians 9:11
You will get rich in everything so you can give generously in every way; through us this will make people thank God.
Prayer
Father, help us not to resent the storms of life or be fearful of their effects. Much like we prepare for a ravaging storm by anchoring valuables to a firm foundation, help us to anchor our hearts in the firm foundation of Your Word that will help us to withstand the testing’s and trials of life that are certain to come our way. Even as a ship is proven to be seaworthy over its lifetime, may our faith be proven trustworthy as we hold onto You, the Anchor for our soul. Amen.
Monday, July 06, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verses (07 07 2009)
Thought for the day
Overcoming Worry (part 2)
I heard about a patient in a mental hospital who was holding his ear close to the wall, listening intently. The attendant finally approached. "Shh!" whispered the patient, beckoning him over. The attendant pressed his ear to the wall for a long time. "I can't hear a thing," he said. "I know," replied the patient, "it's been like that all day!"
We don't just worry about the things that are happening. We worry about the things that AREN'T happening to us! And if things have been going well, we worry because we're confident that our "luck" will change in the near future.
In the last daily e-mail, we started looking at Matthew 7:25-34 where Jesus talks about worry. He gives several reasons why we shouldn't worry. One of them is that worry doesn't do any good. "Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?" (Matthew 6:27). The NIV translates this verse, "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
"Whether you're talking about your height or the length of your life, there are some things in life that you can't do anything about. Worry, by its very definition, takes place when we assume responsibility for things that are outside our control.
There is a difference between being concerned about the future and being worried about the future. Being concerned is when you have the ability to do something about a problem and you do it. Worry is when you can't do something about the problem, but you fret about it anyway.
There are some things that are within our control. For example, if you were to go away on a trip, you might be concerned about the safety of your home while you are gone, so you would lock the doors of your house, activate the security system (if you have one), maybe ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your place. There are precautions you can take, and you take them. That's not worry it's just being careful.
But if you spend your vacation obsessing about your house the whole time you're gone, thinking it might burn down or be broken into even though you took precautions, that's worry. That's something you don't have control over.And Jesus says that it's foolish to worry because worrying isn't going to change anything. If my house is going to burn down while I'm on vacation, it's going to burn down whether I worry or not. The only difference is that I cause myself a whole lot of stress along the way.
All worry is useless. It is powerless to accomplish anything of value. As the old saying goes, "Worry is like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but it doesn't get you anywhere." It's so true. If we're afraid of what might happen or we're worried about something that has already happened -- neither of which we can control or change -- we lose peace of mind. The truth is that most of the things we worry about will never happen.
It is said of the writer Thomas Carlyle that he built a mostly soundproof chamber in which to do his writing in silence. But one of Carlyle's neighbors owned a rooster that crowed several times in the night as well as the early morning. When Carlyle complained to the owner of the rooster, the neighbor said, "But it only crowed three times last night. It couldn't have been that much of a bother. Carlyle said, "But, if you only knew what I suffer waiting for that rooster to crow!"
We're the same way. We suffer a lot worrying about something that may or may not happen. And, in fact, if we were to keep a record of all of our fears throughout our lifetime, chances are good that 90 percent (or more) of those things we dreaded never came to pass. Worry simply doesn't do any good.
(to be continued)
Verses
1 John 5:4
because every child of God is able to defeat the world. This is how we win the victory over the world: with our faith.
Deuteronomy 7:15
The Lord will take away all disease from you. You will not have the terrible diseases that were in Egypt. But he will give them to your enemies.
Psalm 103:8
The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.
Luke 18:1
Jesus also told His followers a story to teach them that they must always keep on praying and never get discouraged and give up.
2 Corinthians 9:11
You will be enriched in every direction for the exercise of every form of generosity, such as evokes, through us as your agents, thanksgiving to God;
Prayer
Jesus, I want to be vigilant in equipping myself today as I battle the spiritual forces of evil. Though I wage war in this present and evil generation I have a body guard in the presence of the Holy Spirit Who gives me power over the enemy of my soul. Today, I stand against the devil’s schemes because I take on the full armor of God; the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. As I prayerfully take on this spiritual armor I am fully equipped with the necessary provisions to overcome discouragement and defeat. Instead I am a conqueror who stands triumphant by Your grace, Lord Jesus Christ! Amen.
Overcoming Worry (part 2)
I heard about a patient in a mental hospital who was holding his ear close to the wall, listening intently. The attendant finally approached. "Shh!" whispered the patient, beckoning him over. The attendant pressed his ear to the wall for a long time. "I can't hear a thing," he said. "I know," replied the patient, "it's been like that all day!"
We don't just worry about the things that are happening. We worry about the things that AREN'T happening to us! And if things have been going well, we worry because we're confident that our "luck" will change in the near future.
In the last daily e-mail, we started looking at Matthew 7:25-34 where Jesus talks about worry. He gives several reasons why we shouldn't worry. One of them is that worry doesn't do any good. "Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?" (Matthew 6:27). The NIV translates this verse, "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
"Whether you're talking about your height or the length of your life, there are some things in life that you can't do anything about. Worry, by its very definition, takes place when we assume responsibility for things that are outside our control.
There is a difference between being concerned about the future and being worried about the future. Being concerned is when you have the ability to do something about a problem and you do it. Worry is when you can't do something about the problem, but you fret about it anyway.
There are some things that are within our control. For example, if you were to go away on a trip, you might be concerned about the safety of your home while you are gone, so you would lock the doors of your house, activate the security system (if you have one), maybe ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your place. There are precautions you can take, and you take them. That's not worry it's just being careful.
But if you spend your vacation obsessing about your house the whole time you're gone, thinking it might burn down or be broken into even though you took precautions, that's worry. That's something you don't have control over.And Jesus says that it's foolish to worry because worrying isn't going to change anything. If my house is going to burn down while I'm on vacation, it's going to burn down whether I worry or not. The only difference is that I cause myself a whole lot of stress along the way.
All worry is useless. It is powerless to accomplish anything of value. As the old saying goes, "Worry is like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but it doesn't get you anywhere." It's so true. If we're afraid of what might happen or we're worried about something that has already happened -- neither of which we can control or change -- we lose peace of mind. The truth is that most of the things we worry about will never happen.
It is said of the writer Thomas Carlyle that he built a mostly soundproof chamber in which to do his writing in silence. But one of Carlyle's neighbors owned a rooster that crowed several times in the night as well as the early morning. When Carlyle complained to the owner of the rooster, the neighbor said, "But it only crowed three times last night. It couldn't have been that much of a bother. Carlyle said, "But, if you only knew what I suffer waiting for that rooster to crow!"
We're the same way. We suffer a lot worrying about something that may or may not happen. And, in fact, if we were to keep a record of all of our fears throughout our lifetime, chances are good that 90 percent (or more) of those things we dreaded never came to pass. Worry simply doesn't do any good.
(to be continued)
Verses
1 John 5:4
because every child of God is able to defeat the world. This is how we win the victory over the world: with our faith.
Deuteronomy 7:15
The Lord will take away all disease from you. You will not have the terrible diseases that were in Egypt. But he will give them to your enemies.
Psalm 103:8
The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.
Luke 18:1
Jesus also told His followers a story to teach them that they must always keep on praying and never get discouraged and give up.
2 Corinthians 9:11
You will be enriched in every direction for the exercise of every form of generosity, such as evokes, through us as your agents, thanksgiving to God;
Prayer
Jesus, I want to be vigilant in equipping myself today as I battle the spiritual forces of evil. Though I wage war in this present and evil generation I have a body guard in the presence of the Holy Spirit Who gives me power over the enemy of my soul. Today, I stand against the devil’s schemes because I take on the full armor of God; the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. As I prayerfully take on this spiritual armor I am fully equipped with the necessary provisions to overcome discouragement and defeat. Instead I am a conqueror who stands triumphant by Your grace, Lord Jesus Christ! Amen.
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Monday prayer & verses (06 07 2009)1
Thought fo the day
Overcoming Worry (part 1)
I heard about a ninety-five year old woman at the nursing home who received a visit from one of her fellow church members. The visitor asked her, "How are you feeling?"She said, "I'm worried sick!"Her friend said, "What are you worried about? You look like you're in good health. They're taking good care of you, aren't they?"She said, "Yes, they are taking very good care of me.""Well, then, what are you worried about?"
The elderly lady leaned back in her rocking chair and said, "Every close friend I ever had has already died and gone on to heaven. I'm afraid they're all wondering where I went!
"My guess is that most of you haven't started worrying about that yet, but my guess is that there's something in your life that worries you. Maybe some of you are worrying about school. Maybe you're worried about upcoming exams and papers that are due.
Or maybe you worry about financial matters (Is the stock market going to crash? What if I reach retirement age and I don't have enough saved up? Or maybe even, Can I afford to fill up my car with gas this month?). Maybe you worry about your job (What if I get laid off? What if I don't get the promotion I'm counting on?).
Maybe you worry about health issues. Maybe you worry about computer viruses or the possibility of being audited by the taxman or the embarrassment of having a credit card declined in public. Maybe you worry about how your kids are gonna turn out. I think it's safe to say that worry is one of those problems that we all struggle with from time to time, whether we want to admit it or not.
What is worry? The Greek word comes from two root words meaning "divided" and "mind". In other words, a person who worries suffers from a divided mind. In Luke 10, Jesus used this word to describe a good friend of his. When Martha asked Jesus to rebuke her sister for not helping with the dinner dishes, Jesus said, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:41-42)
Jesus is saying, "Martha, you're trying to do too many things at once. Focus on one thing." We do the same thing -- we keep one eye on God and another eye on the problems we're facing, one eye on God and one eye on all the material things we want to collect.
Now, of course, we're not the first people to experience stress and anxiety. Anxiety has been around for a long time. And in Jesus' day, folks worried just as much we do. They had to deal with the problems of paying their bills, feeding their families, pleasing their employers, raising their children, paying their taxes and saving for the future just like we do.
So what did Jesus say to help them deal with the pressures of life? In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus deals honestly with the problem of worrying. "Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?" (Matthew 6:25)
In the next daily mail, we'll look at several reasons Jesus gives as to why his followers shouldn't worry and, perhaps more importantly, how we can stop worrying.(to be continued)
Verses
1 Peter 5:7
Casting the whole of your care -- all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all -- on Him; for He cares for you affectionately, and cares about you watchfully.
Matthew 8:17
that it might be fulfilled that was spoken through Isaiah the prophet, saying, `Himself took our infirmities, and the sicknesses he did bear.'
Matthew 5:44
"But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,
Isaiah 41:17
"When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongues fail for thirst, I, the Lord, will hear them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them.
Philippians 4:19
And God, my God, shall fill up the measure of all your need, with an abundance limited only by His own riches, shall supply it by His glorious presence in the person of Messiah Jesus.
Prayer
Father, we want to live above the fray of this world as a people of righteousness set apart for Your purpose. We forsake the things of this world that bring disgrace to Your holy name and live for the purpose of bringing glory, honor and praise to You, our Father. We pray for our nation, for the turning away from our sins and turning toward the abundant life we find in Christ our Lord. You’ve called us to repentance and to share the good news of salvation to all who are lost. Help us to seek a fresh calling upon our lives to be obedient in this commission from Scripture. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Overcoming Worry (part 1)
I heard about a ninety-five year old woman at the nursing home who received a visit from one of her fellow church members. The visitor asked her, "How are you feeling?"She said, "I'm worried sick!"Her friend said, "What are you worried about? You look like you're in good health. They're taking good care of you, aren't they?"She said, "Yes, they are taking very good care of me.""Well, then, what are you worried about?"
The elderly lady leaned back in her rocking chair and said, "Every close friend I ever had has already died and gone on to heaven. I'm afraid they're all wondering where I went!
"My guess is that most of you haven't started worrying about that yet, but my guess is that there's something in your life that worries you. Maybe some of you are worrying about school. Maybe you're worried about upcoming exams and papers that are due.
Or maybe you worry about financial matters (Is the stock market going to crash? What if I reach retirement age and I don't have enough saved up? Or maybe even, Can I afford to fill up my car with gas this month?). Maybe you worry about your job (What if I get laid off? What if I don't get the promotion I'm counting on?).
Maybe you worry about health issues. Maybe you worry about computer viruses or the possibility of being audited by the taxman or the embarrassment of having a credit card declined in public. Maybe you worry about how your kids are gonna turn out. I think it's safe to say that worry is one of those problems that we all struggle with from time to time, whether we want to admit it or not.
What is worry? The Greek word comes from two root words meaning "divided" and "mind". In other words, a person who worries suffers from a divided mind. In Luke 10, Jesus used this word to describe a good friend of his. When Martha asked Jesus to rebuke her sister for not helping with the dinner dishes, Jesus said, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:41-42)
Jesus is saying, "Martha, you're trying to do too many things at once. Focus on one thing." We do the same thing -- we keep one eye on God and another eye on the problems we're facing, one eye on God and one eye on all the material things we want to collect.
Now, of course, we're not the first people to experience stress and anxiety. Anxiety has been around for a long time. And in Jesus' day, folks worried just as much we do. They had to deal with the problems of paying their bills, feeding their families, pleasing their employers, raising their children, paying their taxes and saving for the future just like we do.
So what did Jesus say to help them deal with the pressures of life? In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus deals honestly with the problem of worrying. "Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?" (Matthew 6:25)
In the next daily mail, we'll look at several reasons Jesus gives as to why his followers shouldn't worry and, perhaps more importantly, how we can stop worrying.(to be continued)
Verses
1 Peter 5:7
Casting the whole of your care -- all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all -- on Him; for He cares for you affectionately, and cares about you watchfully.
Matthew 8:17
that it might be fulfilled that was spoken through Isaiah the prophet, saying, `Himself took our infirmities, and the sicknesses he did bear.'
Matthew 5:44
"But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,
Isaiah 41:17
"When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongues fail for thirst, I, the Lord, will hear them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them.
Philippians 4:19
And God, my God, shall fill up the measure of all your need, with an abundance limited only by His own riches, shall supply it by His glorious presence in the person of Messiah Jesus.
Prayer
Father, we want to live above the fray of this world as a people of righteousness set apart for Your purpose. We forsake the things of this world that bring disgrace to Your holy name and live for the purpose of bringing glory, honor and praise to You, our Father. We pray for our nation, for the turning away from our sins and turning toward the abundant life we find in Christ our Lord. You’ve called us to repentance and to share the good news of salvation to all who are lost. Help us to seek a fresh calling upon our lives to be obedient in this commission from Scripture. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (03 07 2009)
Thought for the day
I heard about a junior high music teacher who had just organized a band in her school. The principal was so proud of the music teacher's efforts that without consulting her he decided that the band should give a concert for the entire school. The music teacher wasn't so sure her young musicians were ready to give a concert, so she tried to talk the principal out of holding the concert, to no avail.
Just before the concert was ready to begin, as the music teacher stood on the podium, she leaned forward and whispered to her nervous musicians, "If you're not sure of your part, just pretend to play."And with that, she stepped back, lifted her baton and with a great flourish brought it down. Lo and behold, nothing happened! The band brought forth a resounding silence.
I can't help but wonder if we have the same problem in the church at times. Christians may have the idea that since they're unsure of the part that they are to play, they'll just sit and pretend. The problem is, when everyone is unsure of what part they're supposed to play, the result is silence -- nothing gets done.
What is the solution? The solution is helping each and every member of the body of Christ to learn their part. In I Corinthians 12 and Romans 12, Paul pictures the church as a body with all of the different parts of that body having different functions."Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them..." (Romans 12:6).
I can't do everything, and I certainly can't do everything well. But that's OK. The saxophonist in an orchestra isn't expected to know how to play the drums. His talent is playing the saxophone. His job is simply to make use of his talent and do the very best that he can.Learn what your gift is, and then use it to the glory of God. Paul offers a list of possibilities. Maybe your gift is speaking, or serving, or encouraging, or giving, or leading, or showing mercy (Rom. 12:6-8).
Perhaps your gift is in that list, perhaps it's something else altogether. But, if you're not sure of your part, please don't sit and pretend to play. Find out what your gift is and then make use of it to the glory of God!
Verses
Matthew 8:13
Jesus then said to the centurion: "You may go. In answer to your faith, your wish shall be granted."The slave was cured that same hour.
1 Peter 3:10
For "He who would love life and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking guile;
2 Corinthians 6:18
"I will be a Father to you, And you shall be My sons and daughters, Says the Lord Almighty."
2 Chronicles 7:1
Now when Solomon had finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the Lord filled the temple.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Let each one give as he has planned in his heart, neither grudgingly nor by compulsion; for God loves a happy giver.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, as I commit myself to You this day, I ask that You make me a glowing ember of Your truth, Your wisdom, and Your compassionate mercy. I want my light to shine for You so that all glory will be directed back to You, my source of light. If I find myself in the midst of a circle of employees engaged in ungodly conversation help me not to blend in. But rather help me to be the light of Your glory in my conversation, full of grace seasoned with salt, so that I will know how to respond to each person. I ask that You would reveal to me any false motivation for carrying out good deeds. Remind me that it is for Your glory that I do these things. It is neither for the praise of others nor for personal advancement, but the advancement of the Gospel. Lord, help me to reach just one today with an unexpected act of kindness that will direct the recipient’s thoughts toward my Father in heaven. In Your name, Jesus, I pray. Amen.
I heard about a junior high music teacher who had just organized a band in her school. The principal was so proud of the music teacher's efforts that without consulting her he decided that the band should give a concert for the entire school. The music teacher wasn't so sure her young musicians were ready to give a concert, so she tried to talk the principal out of holding the concert, to no avail.
Just before the concert was ready to begin, as the music teacher stood on the podium, she leaned forward and whispered to her nervous musicians, "If you're not sure of your part, just pretend to play."And with that, she stepped back, lifted her baton and with a great flourish brought it down. Lo and behold, nothing happened! The band brought forth a resounding silence.
I can't help but wonder if we have the same problem in the church at times. Christians may have the idea that since they're unsure of the part that they are to play, they'll just sit and pretend. The problem is, when everyone is unsure of what part they're supposed to play, the result is silence -- nothing gets done.
What is the solution? The solution is helping each and every member of the body of Christ to learn their part. In I Corinthians 12 and Romans 12, Paul pictures the church as a body with all of the different parts of that body having different functions."Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them..." (Romans 12:6).
I can't do everything, and I certainly can't do everything well. But that's OK. The saxophonist in an orchestra isn't expected to know how to play the drums. His talent is playing the saxophone. His job is simply to make use of his talent and do the very best that he can.Learn what your gift is, and then use it to the glory of God. Paul offers a list of possibilities. Maybe your gift is speaking, or serving, or encouraging, or giving, or leading, or showing mercy (Rom. 12:6-8).
Perhaps your gift is in that list, perhaps it's something else altogether. But, if you're not sure of your part, please don't sit and pretend to play. Find out what your gift is and then make use of it to the glory of God!
Verses
Matthew 8:13
Jesus then said to the centurion: "You may go. In answer to your faith, your wish shall be granted."The slave was cured that same hour.
1 Peter 3:10
For "He who would love life and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking guile;
2 Corinthians 6:18
"I will be a Father to you, And you shall be My sons and daughters, Says the Lord Almighty."
2 Chronicles 7:1
Now when Solomon had finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the Lord filled the temple.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Let each one give as he has planned in his heart, neither grudgingly nor by compulsion; for God loves a happy giver.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, as I commit myself to You this day, I ask that You make me a glowing ember of Your truth, Your wisdom, and Your compassionate mercy. I want my light to shine for You so that all glory will be directed back to You, my source of light. If I find myself in the midst of a circle of employees engaged in ungodly conversation help me not to blend in. But rather help me to be the light of Your glory in my conversation, full of grace seasoned with salt, so that I will know how to respond to each person. I ask that You would reveal to me any false motivation for carrying out good deeds. Remind me that it is for Your glory that I do these things. It is neither for the praise of others nor for personal advancement, but the advancement of the Gospel. Lord, help me to reach just one today with an unexpected act of kindness that will direct the recipient’s thoughts toward my Father in heaven. In Your name, Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (02 07 2009)
Thought for the day
The following "Children's Letters to God" come, I believe, from a book of the same title:
Dear GOD, In school they told us what You do. Who does it when You are on vacation? -Jane
Dear GOD,Are you really invisible or is that just a trick? -Lucy
Dear GOD,Is it true my father won't get in Heaven if he uses his bowling words in the house? -Anita
Dear GOD,Did you mean for the giraffe to look like that or was it an accident? -Norma
Dear GOD,Who draws the lines around the countries? -Nan
Dear GOD,I went to this wedding and they kissed right in church. Is that okay? -Neil
Dear GOD,Thank you for the baby brother, but what I prayed for was a puppy. -Joyce
Dear GOD,Please send me a pony. I never asked for anything before, You can look it up. -Bruce
Dear GOD,If You give me a genie lamp like Aladdin, I will give you anything you want except my money or my chess set. -Raphael
Dear GOD,Maybe Cain and Abel would not kill each other so much if they had their own rooms. It works with my brother. -Larry
Dear GOD,I bet it is very hard for You to love all of everybody in the whole world. There are only 4 people in our family and I can never do it. -Nan
Dear GOD,We read Thomas Edison made light. But in school they said You did it. So I bet he stoled your idea. Sincerely, Donna
Ah, the innocence of children! In the midst of all their misunderstanding, there is such a wonder about God. I would like to think that as we grow in our understanding of God, we never cease to lose the "wonder."Do you find that, after all these years, you still stand in awe of who God is, of His creative power, and of His matchless love? Do the stories of Jesus' miracles still "amaze" you?"
But Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.' "(Matthew 19:14)"Father, may I grow in maturity, but never lose that faith of a child! In Jesus' name, amen."
Verses
Mark 11:23
I tell you solemnly, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Get up and throw yourself into the sea,' with no hesitation in his heart but believing that what he says will happen, it will be done for him.
Hebrews 13:8
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
John 13:35
"By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
Colossians 4:3
meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains,
Philippians 4:19
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Prayer
Jesus, Your name stands out above every name. When we speak Your name the demons flee, the sick are restored, the weak are strengthened, and those held captive to sin are freed. It is only in the name of Jesus that we find salvation, for there is no other name in heaven or on earth whereby we can be saved. We, as Christians, take on the derivative of Your Messianic name, when we receive You as our Savior. We want to honor You as we bear Your name before a cynical unbelieving world. May our actions and attitudes not bring blemish or present opportunity for the unconverted to mock and ridicule those who identify themselves as Christians. Instead may our lives be set apart for Your glory like Daniel, who purposed in his heart, not to defile his God. May we also have a good name like Daniel whose godless Babylonian administration could find no corruption in him because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent. Though the world may not agree with our stand for You may we be seen as people who are honorable and trustworthy. It is in the name of Christ that we pray. Amen.
The following "Children's Letters to God" come, I believe, from a book of the same title:
Dear GOD, In school they told us what You do. Who does it when You are on vacation? -Jane
Dear GOD,Are you really invisible or is that just a trick? -Lucy
Dear GOD,Is it true my father won't get in Heaven if he uses his bowling words in the house? -Anita
Dear GOD,Did you mean for the giraffe to look like that or was it an accident? -Norma
Dear GOD,Who draws the lines around the countries? -Nan
Dear GOD,I went to this wedding and they kissed right in church. Is that okay? -Neil
Dear GOD,Thank you for the baby brother, but what I prayed for was a puppy. -Joyce
Dear GOD,Please send me a pony. I never asked for anything before, You can look it up. -Bruce
Dear GOD,If You give me a genie lamp like Aladdin, I will give you anything you want except my money or my chess set. -Raphael
Dear GOD,Maybe Cain and Abel would not kill each other so much if they had their own rooms. It works with my brother. -Larry
Dear GOD,I bet it is very hard for You to love all of everybody in the whole world. There are only 4 people in our family and I can never do it. -Nan
Dear GOD,We read Thomas Edison made light. But in school they said You did it. So I bet he stoled your idea. Sincerely, Donna
Ah, the innocence of children! In the midst of all their misunderstanding, there is such a wonder about God. I would like to think that as we grow in our understanding of God, we never cease to lose the "wonder."Do you find that, after all these years, you still stand in awe of who God is, of His creative power, and of His matchless love? Do the stories of Jesus' miracles still "amaze" you?"
But Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.' "(Matthew 19:14)"Father, may I grow in maturity, but never lose that faith of a child! In Jesus' name, amen."
Verses
Mark 11:23
I tell you solemnly, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Get up and throw yourself into the sea,' with no hesitation in his heart but believing that what he says will happen, it will be done for him.
Hebrews 13:8
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
John 13:35
"By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
Colossians 4:3
meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains,
Philippians 4:19
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Prayer
Jesus, Your name stands out above every name. When we speak Your name the demons flee, the sick are restored, the weak are strengthened, and those held captive to sin are freed. It is only in the name of Jesus that we find salvation, for there is no other name in heaven or on earth whereby we can be saved. We, as Christians, take on the derivative of Your Messianic name, when we receive You as our Savior. We want to honor You as we bear Your name before a cynical unbelieving world. May our actions and attitudes not bring blemish or present opportunity for the unconverted to mock and ridicule those who identify themselves as Christians. Instead may our lives be set apart for Your glory like Daniel, who purposed in his heart, not to defile his God. May we also have a good name like Daniel whose godless Babylonian administration could find no corruption in him because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent. Though the world may not agree with our stand for You may we be seen as people who are honorable and trustworthy. It is in the name of Christ that we pray. Amen.
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