Thought for the day
A little boy asked his father what was the highest number he had ever counted. Replying that he didn't know, the father asked his son his highest number. It was 973.
"Why did you stop there?" wondered the father.
"Because church was over."
I suspect that you have probably sat through worship services where your mind was focused on something just as trivial rather than on God. It's easy to let the mind wander. "I can't wait to see the ball game this afternoon." "I wonder what we're having for lunch." "I've never noticed before that the carpet down there is starting to unravel a bit."
Is it anywonder that we so often leave the worship assembly with the feeling that it wasn't very meaningful? Worship should be a time when we are confronted with the majesty and glory of God. As we reflect on God's power, we realize how much we need Him in our times of weakness. As we reflect on God's wisdom, we realize how much we need Him in our times of indecision. As we reflect on God's holiness,we are made aware of our own sinfulness and the need for forgiveness.
As we reflect on God's love, we realize the effort God has gone to to make that forgiveness available. It's not a ritual we go through every week. It is an opportunity to express our praise to the One who means more to us than all the earth. As we truly worship and praise God from the heart, we become more aware of how much we want to live close to Him. We leave with the challenge to "be holy as He is holy."
"For the LORD is great and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the peoples are idols, But the LORD made the heavens. Honor and majesty are before Him; Strength and beauty are in His sanctuary. Give to the LORD, O families of the peoples, Give to theLORD glory and strength. Give to the LORD the glory due His name; Bring an offering, and come into His courts. Oh, worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness! Tremble before Him, all the earth." (Psalm 96:4-9)
Verses
2 Corinthians 5:7
for we live our life by faith, and not by sight.
1 Corinthians 12:28
And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues.
Ephesians 4:29
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
John 15:7
'If you dwell in me, and my words dwell in you, ask whatever you want, and you shall have it.
Psalm 34:9-10
Fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing. The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.
Prayer
Father, You have placed Your children in a world where people push and shove to be first. Because of their self-importance they clamor for recognition and will stop at nothing until they get what they want in life, even if it means hurting others in the process. But You’ve called us to view life from a perspective that considers others as important as ourselves. We are to have a humble attitude that puts You first, others second, and ourselves last in everything we do. In our humanity this is impossible, but as we are being transformed into the likeness of Your Son, Jesus, we become more like Him. Our love and consideration for others grows and we apply the golden rule to our lives where we do to others as we would have them do to us. May this relationship rule guide us as we make decisions that affect others and ourselves. Help us to have the mind of Christ in all that we do. Amen.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Monday prayer & verses (14 09 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
Revelation 12:11
They have prevailed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the testimony that they offered on behalf of the truth; their lives were not so dear to them that they were not ready to die for the truth.
1 Corinthians 12:28
And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues.
Matthew 4:4
But He answered and said, "It is written, `Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.'"
John 15:7
'If you dwell in me, and my words dwell in you, ask whatever you want, and you shall have it.
Proverbs 22:7
The man of wealth has rule over the poor, and he who gets into debt is a servant to his creditor.
Prayer
Father, Your infinite mercy is the greatest gift You impart upon Your creation alongside the marvelous truth that Your compassion knows no bounds. Your power and authority far exceed any human role or title established on this earth, yet You love us personally with an inexhaustible and enduring devotion. We are never cast aside as being unimportant or unranked in Your sight, for You refer to us repeatedly as Your “treasured possession.” As we reflect upon the 9/11 disaster eight years ago in America we’re reminded of the scenes of evil played out at its very worst and the response of goodness seen at its very best. People worked together on both sides of the political spectrum, heartfelt prayers resounded throughout our land. Though we may not see it as clearly as we did during that tragic time, we are fully aware that Your loving mercy is never-ending, always extended to us in our time of need. We continue to pray for revival in our land and healing in our nation. In Jesus name. 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
Revelation 12:11
They have prevailed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the testimony that they offered on behalf of the truth; their lives were not so dear to them that they were not ready to die for the truth.
1 Corinthians 12:28
And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues.
Matthew 4:4
But He answered and said, "It is written, `Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.'"
John 15:7
'If you dwell in me, and my words dwell in you, ask whatever you want, and you shall have it.
Proverbs 22:7
The man of wealth has rule over the poor, and he who gets into debt is a servant to his creditor.
Prayer
Father, Your infinite mercy is the greatest gift You impart upon Your creation alongside the marvelous truth that Your compassion knows no bounds. Your power and authority far exceed any human role or title established on this earth, yet You love us personally with an inexhaustible and enduring devotion. We are never cast aside as being unimportant or unranked in Your sight, for You refer to us repeatedly as Your “treasured possession.” As we reflect upon the 9/11 disaster eight years ago in America we’re reminded of the scenes of evil played out at its very worst and the response of goodness seen at its very best. People worked together on both sides of the political spectrum, heartfelt prayers resounded throughout our land. Though we may not see it as clearly as we did during that tragic time, we are fully aware that Your loving mercy is never-ending, always extended to us in our time of need. We continue to pray for revival in our land and healing in our nation. In Jesus name. Amen.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (11 09 2009)
Thought for the day
Several years ago, a magazine ran a "Dilbert Quotes" contest. The writers were looking for people to submit quotes from their real-life Dilbert-type managers. Here are some of the submissions:
1. As of tomorrow, employees will only be able to access the building using individual security cards. Pictures will be taken next Wednesday and employees will receive their cards in two weeks. This was the winning entry; Fred Dales at Microsoft Corporation in Redmond, WA)
2. What I need is a list of specific unknown problems we will encounter. (Lykes Lines Shipping)
3. E-mail is not to be used to pass on information or data. It should be used only for company business. (Accounting Mgr., Electric Boat Company)
4. Quote from the boss: "Teamwork is a lot of people doing what 'I' say." (Mktg. executive, Citrix Corporation)
5. We know that communication is a problem, but the company is not going to discuss it with the employees. (AT&T Long Lines Division)
6. We recently received a memo from senior management saying, "This is to inform you that a memo will be issued today regarding the subject mentioned above." (Microsoft, Legal Affairs Division)
7. One day my boss asked me to submit a status report to him concerning a project I was working on. I asked him if tomorrow would be soon enough. He said, "If I wanted it tomorrow, I would have waited until tomorrow to ask for it!" (New Business Mgr., Hallmark Cards)
8. This project is so important, we can't let things that are more important interfere with it. (Advertising/Mktg. Mgr., UPS)
Even though that last statement doesn't make any sense, it suggests the truth that there are some things so important that nothing else should get in the way. Unfortunately for UPS (and other employers who may not realize it), that level of importance will never be attached to any project at work. It can only be attached to matters of spiritual commitment. "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:33).
There is only one thing that is of "primary importance", and that should be our desire to do God's will. May God bless you in your efforts to put "first things first" today.
Verses
Romans 10:17
So then faith does come from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.
Psalm 91:10
No evil shall befall you, Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;
2 Corinthians 6:16
And what union can there be between God's temple and idols? For you are God's temple, the home of the living God, and God has said of you, "I will live in them and walk among them, and I will be their God and they shall be my people."
John 16:23
"And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Let each person follow the dictates of his conscience, giving neither with complaint nor under compulsion, for God likes to see a man smile when he gives.
Prayer
Jesus, You are the first and the last, the Beginning and the End, the Living One who was dead and is alive forever and ever! You hold the keys of death and Hades and You hold the key to our hearts. You have promised that if we overcome and do Your will to the end we will be saved, not only in this life but in the eternal life to come. Help us to live as pilgrims in a barren land, for there is no Rock like our God on which we can build a firm foundation and overcome the evil one. Keep us faithful and true, living as a holy people among a people estranged, disobedient and hostile toward You. In Your powerful name we pray. Amen.
Several years ago, a magazine ran a "Dilbert Quotes" contest. The writers were looking for people to submit quotes from their real-life Dilbert-type managers. Here are some of the submissions:
1. As of tomorrow, employees will only be able to access the building using individual security cards. Pictures will be taken next Wednesday and employees will receive their cards in two weeks. This was the winning entry; Fred Dales at Microsoft Corporation in Redmond, WA)
2. What I need is a list of specific unknown problems we will encounter. (Lykes Lines Shipping)
3. E-mail is not to be used to pass on information or data. It should be used only for company business. (Accounting Mgr., Electric Boat Company)
4. Quote from the boss: "Teamwork is a lot of people doing what 'I' say." (Mktg. executive, Citrix Corporation)
5. We know that communication is a problem, but the company is not going to discuss it with the employees. (AT&T Long Lines Division)
6. We recently received a memo from senior management saying, "This is to inform you that a memo will be issued today regarding the subject mentioned above." (Microsoft, Legal Affairs Division)
7. One day my boss asked me to submit a status report to him concerning a project I was working on. I asked him if tomorrow would be soon enough. He said, "If I wanted it tomorrow, I would have waited until tomorrow to ask for it!" (New Business Mgr., Hallmark Cards)
8. This project is so important, we can't let things that are more important interfere with it. (Advertising/Mktg. Mgr., UPS)
Even though that last statement doesn't make any sense, it suggests the truth that there are some things so important that nothing else should get in the way. Unfortunately for UPS (and other employers who may not realize it), that level of importance will never be attached to any project at work. It can only be attached to matters of spiritual commitment. "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:33).
There is only one thing that is of "primary importance", and that should be our desire to do God's will. May God bless you in your efforts to put "first things first" today.
Verses
Romans 10:17
So then faith does come from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.
Psalm 91:10
No evil shall befall you, Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;
2 Corinthians 6:16
And what union can there be between God's temple and idols? For you are God's temple, the home of the living God, and God has said of you, "I will live in them and walk among them, and I will be their God and they shall be my people."
John 16:23
"And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Let each person follow the dictates of his conscience, giving neither with complaint nor under compulsion, for God likes to see a man smile when he gives.
Prayer
Jesus, You are the first and the last, the Beginning and the End, the Living One who was dead and is alive forever and ever! You hold the keys of death and Hades and You hold the key to our hearts. You have promised that if we overcome and do Your will to the end we will be saved, not only in this life but in the eternal life to come. Help us to live as pilgrims in a barren land, for there is no Rock like our God on which we can build a firm foundation and overcome the evil one. Keep us faithful and true, living as a holy people among a people estranged, disobedient and hostile toward You. In Your powerful name we pray. Amen.
Thursday prayer & verses (10 09 2009)
I want you to reflect for a few moments about the need for cleansing. There is a need for dirty dishes to be cleansed. And there is a need for babies to be cleansed, although preferably not at the same time and in the same place. Some attempts at cleansing (especially those made by men) are not as successful. My favorite way to pass room check in college was to lift the bed, throw everything under it, and set it back down.
My children will tell you, though, that their mother knows how to clean the way it should be done. More than once, after cleaning the kitchen, I've been told by one of my children, "That's not the way Mom does it!" The kitchen looks clean (at least, it does to me). But it's not really clean. I don't always want to admit it, but I know it.
We also have a need for spiritual cleansing. Because of sin, our lives are blemished. We've managed to create quite a filthy mess. And we sometimes think that if we just do enough good things, it will erase all the sinful things we've done. But our attempts to obtain that cleansing on our own have been about as successful as my attempts to clean the kitchen. Our lives may look clean. But they're not really clean. We may not always want to admit it, but deep down, we know it.
Remember the Pharisees? They were great at cleansing themselves -- on the outside. But on the inside, they looked like the dirty dishes in the picture."Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also." (Matt. 23:25-26)Our cleansing must begin on the inside, and it can only be found through the blood of Jesus Christ. "What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus." Without that blood, all the soap in the world can't remove the stain of even one sin.
Therein lies the power of baptism. It is "not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God" (I Peter 3:21) as it brings us into contact with that saving blood (Rom. 6:3). Feel like the baby above? May you find cleansing through Him who shed His blood to make that cleansing possible!
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
What is faith, you ask? Well, it is an inner assurance that the things we hope for actually exist, and the conviction that they are already ours even though we cannot see them.
Luke 5:17
Now it happened on a certain day, as He was teaching, that there were Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting by, who had come out of every town of Galilee, Judea, and Jerusalem.
And the power of the Lord was present to heal them.
1 Corinthians 15:58
So, my dear friends, do not be shaken in your faith by the threat of death. Hold steady, don't let anything throw you.
Keep doing the Lord's work because you are aware of its worth now and your reward in the future.
Romans 8:27
Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Romans 5:17
For if by the offense of the one death reigned by the one, much more those who are receiving the abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness shall rule in life by the One, Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Father, we pray today that You will fill us with wisdom and understanding. May our outward lives reflect the inner beauty and peace that comes through the abiding presence of Your Holy Spirit in our hearts. May Your Spirit produce in us genuine Christian fruit so that others will see Jesus in us and glorify You, our Father, who is in heaven. It is through Your glorious power that we are strengthened in the inner person enabling us to endure difficult trials that will not strip us of the lasting joy and peace that comes to those who walk by faith and not by sight.
My children will tell you, though, that their mother knows how to clean the way it should be done. More than once, after cleaning the kitchen, I've been told by one of my children, "That's not the way Mom does it!" The kitchen looks clean (at least, it does to me). But it's not really clean. I don't always want to admit it, but I know it.
We also have a need for spiritual cleansing. Because of sin, our lives are blemished. We've managed to create quite a filthy mess. And we sometimes think that if we just do enough good things, it will erase all the sinful things we've done. But our attempts to obtain that cleansing on our own have been about as successful as my attempts to clean the kitchen. Our lives may look clean. But they're not really clean. We may not always want to admit it, but deep down, we know it.
Remember the Pharisees? They were great at cleansing themselves -- on the outside. But on the inside, they looked like the dirty dishes in the picture."Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also." (Matt. 23:25-26)Our cleansing must begin on the inside, and it can only be found through the blood of Jesus Christ. "What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus." Without that blood, all the soap in the world can't remove the stain of even one sin.
Therein lies the power of baptism. It is "not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God" (I Peter 3:21) as it brings us into contact with that saving blood (Rom. 6:3). Feel like the baby above? May you find cleansing through Him who shed His blood to make that cleansing possible!
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
What is faith, you ask? Well, it is an inner assurance that the things we hope for actually exist, and the conviction that they are already ours even though we cannot see them.
Luke 5:17
Now it happened on a certain day, as He was teaching, that there were Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting by, who had come out of every town of Galilee, Judea, and Jerusalem.
And the power of the Lord was present to heal them.
1 Corinthians 15:58
So, my dear friends, do not be shaken in your faith by the threat of death. Hold steady, don't let anything throw you.
Keep doing the Lord's work because you are aware of its worth now and your reward in the future.
Romans 8:27
Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Romans 5:17
For if by the offense of the one death reigned by the one, much more those who are receiving the abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness shall rule in life by the One, Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Father, we pray today that You will fill us with wisdom and understanding. May our outward lives reflect the inner beauty and peace that comes through the abiding presence of Your Holy Spirit in our hearts. May Your Spirit produce in us genuine Christian fruit so that others will see Jesus in us and glorify You, our Father, who is in heaven. It is through Your glorious power that we are strengthened in the inner person enabling us to endure difficult trials that will not strip us of the lasting joy and peace that comes to those who walk by faith and not by sight.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Wednesday prayer & verses (09 09 2009)
Thought for the day
While working on his sermon, a preacher heard a knock at his office door. "Come in," he invited.
A contrite-looking man in threadbare clothes came in, pulling a large pig on a rope. "Can I talk to you for a minute?" asked the man with his hat in his hand. Wordlessly, the preacher indicated the chair and the man sat down in it gingerly. The pig proceeded to sniff around the office. With one eye on the animal and one on the man, the preacher folded his hands on his desk and leaned forward, curious to hear the fellow's story.
"What can I do for you?"
"My family is hungry," started the man.
"So I stole this pig. But I feel that I have sinned. Would you please take it?"
"Certainly not," said the minister.
"Then what should I do with it?" asked the man.
"Give it back to the man you stole it from, of course!" the preacher explained.
"I offered it to him, but he refused to take it. Now what should I do?"
"In that case," the minister said,
"It would be all right for you to keep it and feed your family."
That seemed to settle things as far as the man was concerned.
"Thank you for your help, sir."
With a lighter step, he walked out of the office, leading the pig on the rope behind him. It was only later that afternoon when the minister returned home, that he discovered that somebody had stolen his prize pig!
"While the statements that I made were legally correct....." It seems that deceiving others while "technically" telling the truth has become somewhat of an art form. And there's no need to point fingers, because we've all been guilty of it at one time or another. We have learned over the years what words to use (or not use) to lead people to believe what we want them to believe without actually lying (or so we think).
But Jesus calls his followers to a higher standard than we are used to seeing -- a standard of truth and integrity."...in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you." (Titus 2:7-8).
It's a lofty goal, given to us from the one who was "full of grace and truth" (John 1:14).
Verses
Galatians 6:9
Let us do what is right without tiring of it, for at its proper time we shall reap if we do not weaken.
Acts 14:8-10
And in Lystra a certain man without strength in his feet was sitting, a cripple from his mother's womb, who had never walked. This man heard Paul speaking. Paul, observing him intently and seeing that he had faith to be healed, said with a loud voice, "Stand up straight on your feet!" And he leaped and walked.
John 1:18
No one has ever seen God. The only Son, who is the same as God and is at the Father's side, he has made him known.
John 15:7
If you dwell in me and my words dwell in you, ask whatever you want and it will be done for you.
2 Corinthians 9:11
Thus you will be enriched in all things and in every way, so that you can be generous, [and your generosity as it is] administered by us will bring forth thanksgiving to God.
Prayer
Father, as we think about Moses we greatly appreciate his act of obedience. Not only did his choice to experience mistreatment along with Your people provide an exodus for the Israelites, but it also provided a Biblical foundation for our lives centuries later. We’ve learned so much from the spiritual truths taught through Moses’ applied wisdom, his discipline, and his obedience in recording Your truths and principles. The very core of our Christian faith is realized through the books of Moses. Help us to realize that You have also called us to make a spiritual difference to those we influence in our generation and the generations to follow. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
While working on his sermon, a preacher heard a knock at his office door. "Come in," he invited.
A contrite-looking man in threadbare clothes came in, pulling a large pig on a rope. "Can I talk to you for a minute?" asked the man with his hat in his hand. Wordlessly, the preacher indicated the chair and the man sat down in it gingerly. The pig proceeded to sniff around the office. With one eye on the animal and one on the man, the preacher folded his hands on his desk and leaned forward, curious to hear the fellow's story.
"What can I do for you?"
"My family is hungry," started the man.
"So I stole this pig. But I feel that I have sinned. Would you please take it?"
"Certainly not," said the minister.
"Then what should I do with it?" asked the man.
"Give it back to the man you stole it from, of course!" the preacher explained.
"I offered it to him, but he refused to take it. Now what should I do?"
"In that case," the minister said,
"It would be all right for you to keep it and feed your family."
That seemed to settle things as far as the man was concerned.
"Thank you for your help, sir."
With a lighter step, he walked out of the office, leading the pig on the rope behind him. It was only later that afternoon when the minister returned home, that he discovered that somebody had stolen his prize pig!
"While the statements that I made were legally correct....." It seems that deceiving others while "technically" telling the truth has become somewhat of an art form. And there's no need to point fingers, because we've all been guilty of it at one time or another. We have learned over the years what words to use (or not use) to lead people to believe what we want them to believe without actually lying (or so we think).
But Jesus calls his followers to a higher standard than we are used to seeing -- a standard of truth and integrity."...in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you." (Titus 2:7-8).
It's a lofty goal, given to us from the one who was "full of grace and truth" (John 1:14).
Verses
Galatians 6:9
Let us do what is right without tiring of it, for at its proper time we shall reap if we do not weaken.
Acts 14:8-10
And in Lystra a certain man without strength in his feet was sitting, a cripple from his mother's womb, who had never walked. This man heard Paul speaking. Paul, observing him intently and seeing that he had faith to be healed, said with a loud voice, "Stand up straight on your feet!" And he leaped and walked.
John 1:18
No one has ever seen God. The only Son, who is the same as God and is at the Father's side, he has made him known.
John 15:7
If you dwell in me and my words dwell in you, ask whatever you want and it will be done for you.
2 Corinthians 9:11
Thus you will be enriched in all things and in every way, so that you can be generous, [and your generosity as it is] administered by us will bring forth thanksgiving to God.
Prayer
Father, as we think about Moses we greatly appreciate his act of obedience. Not only did his choice to experience mistreatment along with Your people provide an exodus for the Israelites, but it also provided a Biblical foundation for our lives centuries later. We’ve learned so much from the spiritual truths taught through Moses’ applied wisdom, his discipline, and his obedience in recording Your truths and principles. The very core of our Christian faith is realized through the books of Moses. Help us to realize that You have also called us to make a spiritual difference to those we influence in our generation and the generations to follow. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Monday, September 07, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verses (08 09 2009)
Thought for the day
Seven Fatal Things You Never Want To Say To Your Pregnant Wife:
7: "I finished all the Oreos."
6: "You know, looking at her, you'd never guess that Pamela Lee had ababy!"
5: "Well, couldn't they induce labor? The 31st is the Super Bowl."
4: "Whoa! For a minute there, I thought I woke up next to Willard Scott!"
3: "I'm jealous! Why can't men experience the joy of childbirth?"
2: "Are your ankles supposed to look like that?"
and the Number 1 fatal thing to say to your pregnant wife:
1. "You don't have the guts to pull the trigger."
Pregnancy, and the ensuing labor and childbirth, is not always a pleasant experience (or so I've been told!). Even Jesus made reference to the problems associated with giving birth: "A woman, when she is in labor, has sorrow because her hour has come; but as soon as she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you." (John 16:21-22)
Jesus was right. The joy of a newborn child is great enough to make up for all the pain leading up to that point (or so I've been told!). In like manner, this world is filled with pain and sorrow. Sometimes it feels like the pain will never end. It seems absolutely unbearable at times.
But we are assured that that which awaits God's people will more than make up for it all. The joy that awaits us when Jesus returns will make us forget all the trials we currently face (see 2 Cor. 4:17). The joy will be so great that we will no longer remember the anguish. That gives us hope -- encouragement to "hang in there" when things get tough.
Look to the joy that awaits us!
Verses
Romans 8:28
And we know that all that happens to us is working for our good if we love God and are fitting into his plans.
Exodus 23:26
All your animals will give birth without loss, not one will be without young in all your land; I will give you a full measure of life.
2 Timothy 1:9
who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began,
Mark 11:24
I tell you, then, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours.
Proverbs 13:21
Misfortune follows up the sinful, but prosperity will overtake the pious.
Prayer
Father, You began a good work in me the moment of my conception when You created me in Your own image. Incredibly, You choose to reflect Your divine Being through my thoughts, attitudes, and actions though I am numbered among the “frail children of dust.” I place my trust in You and have found that You never fail. You never give up or abandon the work You started in my life but Your tender mercies and divine plan continue to break me, mold me, and shape me into Your image. The process will not be completed until the day Christ calls us home. Thank You, Father, for being my “Maker, Defender, Redeemer and my Friend”. Amen.
Seven Fatal Things You Never Want To Say To Your Pregnant Wife:
7: "I finished all the Oreos."
6: "You know, looking at her, you'd never guess that Pamela Lee had ababy!"
5: "Well, couldn't they induce labor? The 31st is the Super Bowl."
4: "Whoa! For a minute there, I thought I woke up next to Willard Scott!"
3: "I'm jealous! Why can't men experience the joy of childbirth?"
2: "Are your ankles supposed to look like that?"
and the Number 1 fatal thing to say to your pregnant wife:
1. "You don't have the guts to pull the trigger."
Pregnancy, and the ensuing labor and childbirth, is not always a pleasant experience (or so I've been told!). Even Jesus made reference to the problems associated with giving birth: "A woman, when she is in labor, has sorrow because her hour has come; but as soon as she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you." (John 16:21-22)
Jesus was right. The joy of a newborn child is great enough to make up for all the pain leading up to that point (or so I've been told!). In like manner, this world is filled with pain and sorrow. Sometimes it feels like the pain will never end. It seems absolutely unbearable at times.
But we are assured that that which awaits God's people will more than make up for it all. The joy that awaits us when Jesus returns will make us forget all the trials we currently face (see 2 Cor. 4:17). The joy will be so great that we will no longer remember the anguish. That gives us hope -- encouragement to "hang in there" when things get tough.
Look to the joy that awaits us!
Verses
Romans 8:28
And we know that all that happens to us is working for our good if we love God and are fitting into his plans.
Exodus 23:26
All your animals will give birth without loss, not one will be without young in all your land; I will give you a full measure of life.
2 Timothy 1:9
who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began,
Mark 11:24
I tell you, then, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours.
Proverbs 13:21
Misfortune follows up the sinful, but prosperity will overtake the pious.
Prayer
Father, You began a good work in me the moment of my conception when You created me in Your own image. Incredibly, You choose to reflect Your divine Being through my thoughts, attitudes, and actions though I am numbered among the “frail children of dust.” I place my trust in You and have found that You never fail. You never give up or abandon the work You started in my life but Your tender mercies and divine plan continue to break me, mold me, and shape me into Your image. The process will not be completed until the day Christ calls us home. Thank You, Father, for being my “Maker, Defender, Redeemer and my Friend”. Amen.
Sunday, September 06, 2009
Monday prayer & verses (07 09 2009)
Thought for the day
Joe, the Governor's most trusted assistant, died in his sleep one night. The Governor had depended on Joe for advice on every subject, from pending bills to wardrobe decisions. In addition, Joe had been his closest friend.
So, it was understandable that the Governor didn't take kindly to the droves of ambitious office seekers who wanted Joe's job. "They don't even have the decency to wait until the man is buried," the Governor muttered.
At the funeral, one eager beaver made his way to the Governor's side. "Governor," the man said, "is there a chance that I could take Joe's place?""Certainly," the governor replied. "But you'd better hurry. I think the undertaker is almost finished.
"I'm sure we can all look around us and find a number of people of whom we have said, "I would like to take his/her place." But I dare say that you have never made that statement of someone who had died, or was about to die. Why would anyone want to trade places with someone like that? It is for that reason that God's love for us is so difficult to comprehend, for that is exactly what Jesus did for us.
"He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon him, and by his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way; And the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all." (Isaiah 53:5-6)
May our lives be forever lived in gratitude for the one who "took our place."
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
So this is no time to throw away your confidence. You've come too far and your reward is too close for you to do that. Of course you still need patience and perseverance if you want to win the prize God has promised those who do His will.
Psalm 103:5
Who satisfies your mouth with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Ephesians 4:29
Guard against foul talk; let your words be for the improvement of others, as occasion offers, and do good to your listeners,
Jeremiah 33:3
If you call to me I will answer you, and tell you great and mysterious things which you do not understand.
Philippians 4:19
And my God will gloriously supply every need of yours according to his riches in Christ Jesus.
Prayer
Father, help us to “Ponder anew what the Almighty can do” as we trust You to do the impossible. Help us not to ponder our problems, but instead to pray for Your will to be done in our lives and those we pray for. Your assure us throughout the Scriptures both by teaching and example that “Nothing is impossible with God.” We want to fully trust You to do the impossible. Amen.
Joe, the Governor's most trusted assistant, died in his sleep one night. The Governor had depended on Joe for advice on every subject, from pending bills to wardrobe decisions. In addition, Joe had been his closest friend.
So, it was understandable that the Governor didn't take kindly to the droves of ambitious office seekers who wanted Joe's job. "They don't even have the decency to wait until the man is buried," the Governor muttered.
At the funeral, one eager beaver made his way to the Governor's side. "Governor," the man said, "is there a chance that I could take Joe's place?""Certainly," the governor replied. "But you'd better hurry. I think the undertaker is almost finished.
"I'm sure we can all look around us and find a number of people of whom we have said, "I would like to take his/her place." But I dare say that you have never made that statement of someone who had died, or was about to die. Why would anyone want to trade places with someone like that? It is for that reason that God's love for us is so difficult to comprehend, for that is exactly what Jesus did for us.
"He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon him, and by his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way; And the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all." (Isaiah 53:5-6)
May our lives be forever lived in gratitude for the one who "took our place."
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
So this is no time to throw away your confidence. You've come too far and your reward is too close for you to do that. Of course you still need patience and perseverance if you want to win the prize God has promised those who do His will.
Psalm 103:5
Who satisfies your mouth with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Ephesians 4:29
Guard against foul talk; let your words be for the improvement of others, as occasion offers, and do good to your listeners,
Jeremiah 33:3
If you call to me I will answer you, and tell you great and mysterious things which you do not understand.
Philippians 4:19
And my God will gloriously supply every need of yours according to his riches in Christ Jesus.
Prayer
Father, help us to “Ponder anew what the Almighty can do” as we trust You to do the impossible. Help us not to ponder our problems, but instead to pray for Your will to be done in our lives and those we pray for. Your assure us throughout the Scriptures both by teaching and example that “Nothing is impossible with God.” We want to fully trust You to do the impossible. Amen.
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (04 09 2009)
Thought for the day
A first grade teacher collected some old, well-known proverbs. She gave each child in her class the first half of a proverb, and had him/her come up with the rest. Here are the results:
As You Shall Make Your Bed So Shall You... Mess It Up.
Better Be Safe Than... Punch A 5th Grader.
Strike While The... Bug Is Close.
It's Always Darkest Before... Daylight Savings Time.
You Can Lead A Horse To Water But.. How?
Don't Bite The Hand That... Looks Dirty.
You Can't Teach An Old Dog New... Math.
If You Lie Down With The Dogs, You'll... Stink In The Morning.
Love All, Trust.. Me.
An Idle Mind Is... The Best Way To Relax.
A Penny Saved Is... Not Much.
Two's Company, Three's... The Musketeers.
Don't Put Off Tomorrow What... You Put On To Go To Bed.
Laugh And The Whole World Laughs With You, Cry And... You Have To Blow Your Nose.
Children Should Be Seen And Not... Spanked Or Grounded.
If At First You Don't Succeed... Get New Batteries.
You Get Out Of Something What You... See Pictured On The Box.
When The Blind Leadeth The Blind... Get Out Of The Way.
Ah, the "wisdom" of children! That's exactly what proverbs are intended to be -- an expression of wisdom, the result of years of experience expressed in a few concise words. The Bible talks much about the importance of wisdom -- not the wisdom of the world, but God's wisdom. Wisdom is the ability to make right choices, and of course the only way to make right choices is to guide our lives by God's Word.
"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments." (Psalm 110:10) May God bless you with wisdom as you open your heart today to His will.
Verses
Hebrews 10:23
Let us hold firmly to the hope that we have confessed. We can trust God to do what he promised.
Exodus 23:26
None of your women will have her baby die before it is born. All women will have children. I will allow you to live long lives.
Deuteronomy 8:2
"And you shall remember that the Lord your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not.
Colossians 4:2
Keep praying. Keep thanking God. Keep on the watch.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Let each do according to the free choice of his heart; not grudgingly, or of necessity; for 'God loveth a cheerful giver.'
Prayer
Father God, Your almighty power is balanced with Your tender compassion toward all of creation. It is because of Your abundant mercies that we are not consumed or utterly forsaken. You provide exceedingly more than the bare essentials for our earthly dwelling. Your abiding presence provides faithfulness, stability, and expectant hope for every challenge we face. Thank You for clothing us with dignity, providing us with salvation and for abiding with us day in and day out. Amen.
A first grade teacher collected some old, well-known proverbs. She gave each child in her class the first half of a proverb, and had him/her come up with the rest. Here are the results:
As You Shall Make Your Bed So Shall You... Mess It Up.
Better Be Safe Than... Punch A 5th Grader.
Strike While The... Bug Is Close.
It's Always Darkest Before... Daylight Savings Time.
You Can Lead A Horse To Water But.. How?
Don't Bite The Hand That... Looks Dirty.
You Can't Teach An Old Dog New... Math.
If You Lie Down With The Dogs, You'll... Stink In The Morning.
Love All, Trust.. Me.
An Idle Mind Is... The Best Way To Relax.
A Penny Saved Is... Not Much.
Two's Company, Three's... The Musketeers.
Don't Put Off Tomorrow What... You Put On To Go To Bed.
Laugh And The Whole World Laughs With You, Cry And... You Have To Blow Your Nose.
Children Should Be Seen And Not... Spanked Or Grounded.
If At First You Don't Succeed... Get New Batteries.
You Get Out Of Something What You... See Pictured On The Box.
When The Blind Leadeth The Blind... Get Out Of The Way.
Ah, the "wisdom" of children! That's exactly what proverbs are intended to be -- an expression of wisdom, the result of years of experience expressed in a few concise words. The Bible talks much about the importance of wisdom -- not the wisdom of the world, but God's wisdom. Wisdom is the ability to make right choices, and of course the only way to make right choices is to guide our lives by God's Word.
"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments." (Psalm 110:10) May God bless you with wisdom as you open your heart today to His will.
Verses
Hebrews 10:23
Let us hold firmly to the hope that we have confessed. We can trust God to do what he promised.
Exodus 23:26
None of your women will have her baby die before it is born. All women will have children. I will allow you to live long lives.
Deuteronomy 8:2
"And you shall remember that the Lord your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not.
Colossians 4:2
Keep praying. Keep thanking God. Keep on the watch.
2 Corinthians 9:7
Let each do according to the free choice of his heart; not grudgingly, or of necessity; for 'God loveth a cheerful giver.'
Prayer
Father God, Your almighty power is balanced with Your tender compassion toward all of creation. It is because of Your abundant mercies that we are not consumed or utterly forsaken. You provide exceedingly more than the bare essentials for our earthly dwelling. Your abiding presence provides faithfulness, stability, and expectant hope for every challenge we face. Thank You for clothing us with dignity, providing us with salvation and for abiding with us day in and day out. Amen.
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (03 09 2009
Thought for the day
Below are excerpts reported to be from U.S. and British officer performance reviews:
Actual (?) lines out of U.S. Military OERs (Officer Efficiency Report):
-- Not the sharpest knife in the drawer.
-- Got into the gene pool while the lifeguard wasn't watching.
-- A room temperature IQ.
-- Got a full 6-pack, but lacks the plastic thingy to hold it all together.
-- Bright as Alaska in December.
-- Gates are down, the lights are flashing, but the train isn't coming.
-- So dense, light bends around him.
-- If brains were taxed, he'd get a rebate.
-- If he were any more stupid, he'd have to be watered twice a week.
-- Was left on the Tilt-A-Whirl a bit too long as a baby.
-- Wheel is turning, but the hamster is dead.
Actual (?) excerpts from Royal Navy and Marines officer fitness reports:
-- His men would follow him anywhere, but only out of curiosity.
-- I would not breed from this officer.
-- He has carried out each and every one of his duties to his entiresatisfaction.
-- He would be out of his depth in a car park puddle.
-- This young lady has delusions of adequacy.
-- Since my last report he has reached rock bottom, and has started to dig.
-- She sets low personal standards and then consistently fails to achievethem.
-- He has the wisdom of youth, and the energy of old age.
-- Works well when under constant supervision and cornered like a rat in atrap.
-- This man is depriving a village somewhere of an idiot.
It may be that the comments above are an indication of the intelligence of the men involved. But I suspect rather that they reflect the attitude of those men. You see, whether we want to admit it or not, the attitude that we have in the workplace makes an impression on others. And if we give only a half-hearted effort, or show disrespect for those in authority over us, then it not only leaves a negative impression of us, but of the Christianity we claim to believe and live.
Paul speaks in Colossians 3 to slaves of the first century, but his words apply to all Christians in the workplace: "Slaves, obey your masters in all things. Do not obey just when they are watching you, to gain their favor, but serve them honestly, because you respect the Lord. In all the work you are doing, work the best you can. Work as if you were doing it for the Lord, not for people." (Col. 3:22-24)
In all that you do at work, it should be the very best you have to offer! May that be the motto of every Christian in the workplace.
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
Do not, then, fling away your fearless trust, for it includes a glorious repayment for all. Yes, you have need of steadfast endurance, so that you may perform the will of God, and so receive the fulfilment of His promise.
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.
1 Corinthians 3:9
We are only God's coworkers. You are God's garden, not ours; you are God's building, not ours.
Colossians 4:2
Keep praying. Keep thanking God. Keep on the watch.
Philippians 4:19
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Prayer
Jesus, You are a friend that sticks closer than a brother. It seems that many of our brothers and sisters in the faith are closer than our blood relations because we’ve been joined together as a family of believers and share common spiritual goals. Though we’re created in the image of God and follow Your example we’re still given to human error and do not always apply good judgment which causes division in the body of Christ. Help us to practice forgiveness and exercise forbearance with one another so that we will be united and faithful to one another in times of trouble.
Below are excerpts reported to be from U.S. and British officer performance reviews:
Actual (?) lines out of U.S. Military OERs (Officer Efficiency Report):
-- Not the sharpest knife in the drawer.
-- Got into the gene pool while the lifeguard wasn't watching.
-- A room temperature IQ.
-- Got a full 6-pack, but lacks the plastic thingy to hold it all together.
-- Bright as Alaska in December.
-- Gates are down, the lights are flashing, but the train isn't coming.
-- So dense, light bends around him.
-- If brains were taxed, he'd get a rebate.
-- If he were any more stupid, he'd have to be watered twice a week.
-- Was left on the Tilt-A-Whirl a bit too long as a baby.
-- Wheel is turning, but the hamster is dead.
Actual (?) excerpts from Royal Navy and Marines officer fitness reports:
-- His men would follow him anywhere, but only out of curiosity.
-- I would not breed from this officer.
-- He has carried out each and every one of his duties to his entiresatisfaction.
-- He would be out of his depth in a car park puddle.
-- This young lady has delusions of adequacy.
-- Since my last report he has reached rock bottom, and has started to dig.
-- She sets low personal standards and then consistently fails to achievethem.
-- He has the wisdom of youth, and the energy of old age.
-- Works well when under constant supervision and cornered like a rat in atrap.
-- This man is depriving a village somewhere of an idiot.
It may be that the comments above are an indication of the intelligence of the men involved. But I suspect rather that they reflect the attitude of those men. You see, whether we want to admit it or not, the attitude that we have in the workplace makes an impression on others. And if we give only a half-hearted effort, or show disrespect for those in authority over us, then it not only leaves a negative impression of us, but of the Christianity we claim to believe and live.
Paul speaks in Colossians 3 to slaves of the first century, but his words apply to all Christians in the workplace: "Slaves, obey your masters in all things. Do not obey just when they are watching you, to gain their favor, but serve them honestly, because you respect the Lord. In all the work you are doing, work the best you can. Work as if you were doing it for the Lord, not for people." (Col. 3:22-24)
In all that you do at work, it should be the very best you have to offer! May that be the motto of every Christian in the workplace.
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
Do not, then, fling away your fearless trust, for it includes a glorious repayment for all. Yes, you have need of steadfast endurance, so that you may perform the will of God, and so receive the fulfilment of His promise.
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.
1 Corinthians 3:9
We are only God's coworkers. You are God's garden, not ours; you are God's building, not ours.
Colossians 4:2
Keep praying. Keep thanking God. Keep on the watch.
Philippians 4:19
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Prayer
Jesus, You are a friend that sticks closer than a brother. It seems that many of our brothers and sisters in the faith are closer than our blood relations because we’ve been joined together as a family of believers and share common spiritual goals. Though we’re created in the image of God and follow Your example we’re still given to human error and do not always apply good judgment which causes division in the body of Christ. Help us to practice forgiveness and exercise forbearance with one another so that we will be united and faithful to one another in times of trouble.
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
Wednesday prayer & verses (02 09 2009)
Thought for the day
After a tiring two-week criminal trial in a high profile bank robbery case, the jury finally ended its 14 hours of deliberations and entered the courtroom to deliver its verdict to the judge. The judge turned to the jury foreman and asked, "Has the jury reached a verdict in this case?"
"Yes we have, your honor," the foreman responded.
"Would you please pass it to me?" the judge declared, as he motioned for the bailiff to retrieve the verdict slip from the foreman and deliver it to him. After the judge read the verdict himself, he delivered the verdict slip back to his bailiff to be returned to the foreman and instructed the foreman,
"Please read your verdict to the court."
"We find the defendant NOT GUILTY of all four counts of bank robbery," stated the foreman.
The family and friends of the defendant jumped for joy at the sound of the "not guilty" verdict and hugged each other as they shouted expressions of gratitude. The defendant's attorney turned to his client and asked, "So, what do you think about that?"
The defendant said, "I'm real confused here. Does this mean that I don't have to give all the money back? "I don't believe the story is true, but it certainly could have been.
"If you see the poor oppressed in a district, and justice and rights denied, do not be surprised at such things..." (Eccl. 5:8a). We know, all too well, stories of injustice in our court system. There is a big difference between receiving a "not guilty" verdict in a court case and truly being "innocent." And it angers us when we believe that someone has "beat the system" and avoided punishment they deserve.
For someone who does not believe in God, injustice leads to bitterness and depression. Life is unfair. Innocent people are hurt and guilty people are not held accountable. But, for the Christian, we know that justice will prevail. God is not only a God of absolute love and grace, but He is also a God of absolute justice."[God] will render to each one according to his deeds: eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality; but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness -- indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil..." (Rom. 2:6-9).
We live in an unjust world, but we take comfort that someday all men will stand accountable before a just God.
Verses
Romans 8:28
Moreover we know that to those who love God, who are called according to his plan, everything that happens fits into a pattern for good.
Psalm 103:2-3
Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases,
1 Corinthians 15:58
So, my dear brothers, continue to be firm, incapable of being moved, always letting the cup run over in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the service of the Lord is never thrown away.
Matthew 21:22
And whatever you ask for in your prayers, with faith, you will receive.'
Proverbs 22:4
The reward of humility and the fear of Jehovah Is riches, and honor, and life.
Verses
Father, the story that Jesus shares about the rich man who took no thought for his life after death is a picture of so many who live for the here and now. They store up treasures that don’t transfer to eternity and dismiss the truths that do prepare us for eternity. May this illustration bring comfort and peace of heart to those who suffer in this present life, as Lazarus did. May they be reminded of the joyous life yet to come where there is no pain, sorrow, or alienation? And help us to be faithful to warn others to prepare not just for this temporal life, but for eternal life. In the name of Jesus, we pray, Amen.
After a tiring two-week criminal trial in a high profile bank robbery case, the jury finally ended its 14 hours of deliberations and entered the courtroom to deliver its verdict to the judge. The judge turned to the jury foreman and asked, "Has the jury reached a verdict in this case?"
"Yes we have, your honor," the foreman responded.
"Would you please pass it to me?" the judge declared, as he motioned for the bailiff to retrieve the verdict slip from the foreman and deliver it to him. After the judge read the verdict himself, he delivered the verdict slip back to his bailiff to be returned to the foreman and instructed the foreman,
"Please read your verdict to the court."
"We find the defendant NOT GUILTY of all four counts of bank robbery," stated the foreman.
The family and friends of the defendant jumped for joy at the sound of the "not guilty" verdict and hugged each other as they shouted expressions of gratitude. The defendant's attorney turned to his client and asked, "So, what do you think about that?"
The defendant said, "I'm real confused here. Does this mean that I don't have to give all the money back? "I don't believe the story is true, but it certainly could have been.
"If you see the poor oppressed in a district, and justice and rights denied, do not be surprised at such things..." (Eccl. 5:8a). We know, all too well, stories of injustice in our court system. There is a big difference between receiving a "not guilty" verdict in a court case and truly being "innocent." And it angers us when we believe that someone has "beat the system" and avoided punishment they deserve.
For someone who does not believe in God, injustice leads to bitterness and depression. Life is unfair. Innocent people are hurt and guilty people are not held accountable. But, for the Christian, we know that justice will prevail. God is not only a God of absolute love and grace, but He is also a God of absolute justice."[God] will render to each one according to his deeds: eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality; but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness -- indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil..." (Rom. 2:6-9).
We live in an unjust world, but we take comfort that someday all men will stand accountable before a just God.
Verses
Romans 8:28
Moreover we know that to those who love God, who are called according to his plan, everything that happens fits into a pattern for good.
Psalm 103:2-3
Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases,
1 Corinthians 15:58
So, my dear brothers, continue to be firm, incapable of being moved, always letting the cup run over in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the service of the Lord is never thrown away.
Matthew 21:22
And whatever you ask for in your prayers, with faith, you will receive.'
Proverbs 22:4
The reward of humility and the fear of Jehovah Is riches, and honor, and life.
Verses
Father, the story that Jesus shares about the rich man who took no thought for his life after death is a picture of so many who live for the here and now. They store up treasures that don’t transfer to eternity and dismiss the truths that do prepare us for eternity. May this illustration bring comfort and peace of heart to those who suffer in this present life, as Lazarus did. May they be reminded of the joyous life yet to come where there is no pain, sorrow, or alienation? And help us to be faithful to warn others to prepare not just for this temporal life, but for eternal life. In the name of Jesus, we pray, Amen.
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