Thought for the day
I heard recently about a college professor who had the mysterious habit of walking into the lecture hall each morning, removing a tennis ball from his jacket pocket. He would set it on the corner of the podium. After giving the lecture for the day, he would once again pick up the tennis ball, place it into his jacket pocket, and leave the room. No one ever understood why he did this, until one day. . . .
A student fell asleep during the lecture. The professor never missed a word of his lecture while he walked over to the podium, picked up the tennis ball and threw it, hitting the sleeping student squarely on the top of the head.
The next day, the professor walked into the room, reached into his jacket, removed a baseball. . . No one ever fell asleep in his class the rest of the semester!
I would imagine that many of us have had the experience of falling asleep at a time when we should have stayed awake -- perhaps in a classroom or during a sermon. In the scriptures, poor Eutychus will forever be known for only one thing -- falling asleep during a sermon and falling out the window!
For those of you who aren't familiar with this Bible story (found in Acts 20:7-12), there was a young man by the name of Eutychus (a side note: ironically, his name means “fortunate”) who attended a worship service where the apostle Paul was speaking. No doubt, Eutychus was tired and perhaps his stomach was full. He found a spot near a window where he could get some fresh air because oil lamps lighted the room and the air would have been a bit stuffy. We're told that Paul talked on and on until after midnight. Luke tells us that the young man fought sleep and gradually lost the battle. When he nodded off, he fell out of the third-story window. Fortunately, the story has a happy ending as he was raised back to life by Paul.
Those of us who are preachers are inclined to say that the moral of this story is that you should never fall asleep during a sermon (though I suspect others may say that the moral is that preachers shouldn't preach so long -- it can be dangerous!). But of even greater concern than falling asleep in our worship is the fact that we sometimes fall asleep in our walk with Christ. We grow weary, we lose our concentration, our mind drifts off to other things, and the result can be deadly!
The apostle Paul warns us: "Therefore, let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober." (I Thess. 5:6).
Is your mind focused on God? Are you listening carefully to Him, submitting to His Spirit? If you're growing weary, it's time to wake up!
Verses
Romans 8:28
And we are conscious that all things are working together for good to those who have love for God, and have been marked out by his purpose.
Colossians 2:10
and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.
2 Corinthians 1:20
For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.
Jeremiah 33:3
If you call to me I shall answer, and tell you great and mysterious things of which you are still unaware.
Proverbs 10:22
It is the LORD's blessing that makes you wealthy. Hard work can make you no richer.
Prayer
In thanksgiving we lift our voices of praise from grateful hearts, Father, as we sing songs of praise and adoration to You, our blessed King. Whether in seasons of prosperity or in seasons of want we find Your grace sufficient to meet each one of our needs. You guide us, protect us, and You provide for us as we journey here below. Every good and perfect gift comes from Your hand. Thank You, faithful Father! Amen.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (26 11 2009)
Thought for the day
There's a man trying to cross the street. As he steps off the curb, a car comes screaming around the corner and heads straight for him. The man walks faster, trying to hurry across the street, but the car changes lanes and is still coming at him.
So the guy turns around to go back, but the car changes lanes again and is still coming at him.
By now, the car is so close and the man so scared that he just freezes and stops in the middle of the road.
The car gets real close, then swerves at the last possible moment and screeches to a halt right next him.
The driver rolls down the window.
The driver is a squirrel.The squirrel says to the man says, "See, it's not as easy as it looks, is it?"
There have been times when I've discovered that experiencing something is more difficult than it looks. For example, when I was younger, I was full of ideas on how parents ought to be raising their children. However, after having three of my own, I've discovered that "it’s not as easy as it looks." Maybe there was a time when you thought someone ought to be handling a divorce or a death in the family better than they do. But after experiencing it for yourself, you found out that "it's not as easy as it looks."
Sometimes there's no way to know what it feels like to go through something without actually experiencing it yourself. That's why the incarnation is so important. There's no way we can say to God, "Living here on this earth -- it's not as easy as it looks!" God knows. He's taken on flesh and blood and walked this earth. He's experienced temptation, frustration, persecution, disappointment and a host of human emotions. He knows how tough it is. He understands. And that's why He is in a position to be of help to us.
"For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (Heb. 4:15-16)
It's true. Living life on this earth is "not as easy as it looks." But may you find comfort today in knowing that God understands that more that you can begin to imagine.
Verses
Romans 8:28
And we are conscious that all things are working together for good to those who have love for God, and have been marked out by his purpose.
Luke 10:19
"Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
2 Corinthians 5:15
and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.
1 Thessalonians 5:17
Be praying unceasingly.
2 Corinthians 9:10
He who furnishes the sower with seed and with bread to eat will supply seed for you and multiply it; he will increase the crop of your charities
Prayer
Father, our journey here below is extremely difficult without the friendships, prayers, and assistance of our brothers and sisters who share our precious faith. We thank you for those who sacrificially give of themselves to come alongside us; who walk with us in the ups and downs of this tempest life; who pray for us and help guide us when we can’t see what lies ahead. Their interest in our welfare and their continued presence brings reassurance that Your hand is extended to us through their kind and loving friendship. Help us to carefully nurture our friendships so that we build one another up and bring refreshing to our conversation and in our times of fellowship.
There's a man trying to cross the street. As he steps off the curb, a car comes screaming around the corner and heads straight for him. The man walks faster, trying to hurry across the street, but the car changes lanes and is still coming at him.
So the guy turns around to go back, but the car changes lanes again and is still coming at him.
By now, the car is so close and the man so scared that he just freezes and stops in the middle of the road.
The car gets real close, then swerves at the last possible moment and screeches to a halt right next him.
The driver rolls down the window.
The driver is a squirrel.The squirrel says to the man says, "See, it's not as easy as it looks, is it?"
There have been times when I've discovered that experiencing something is more difficult than it looks. For example, when I was younger, I was full of ideas on how parents ought to be raising their children. However, after having three of my own, I've discovered that "it’s not as easy as it looks." Maybe there was a time when you thought someone ought to be handling a divorce or a death in the family better than they do. But after experiencing it for yourself, you found out that "it's not as easy as it looks."
Sometimes there's no way to know what it feels like to go through something without actually experiencing it yourself. That's why the incarnation is so important. There's no way we can say to God, "Living here on this earth -- it's not as easy as it looks!" God knows. He's taken on flesh and blood and walked this earth. He's experienced temptation, frustration, persecution, disappointment and a host of human emotions. He knows how tough it is. He understands. And that's why He is in a position to be of help to us.
"For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (Heb. 4:15-16)
It's true. Living life on this earth is "not as easy as it looks." But may you find comfort today in knowing that God understands that more that you can begin to imagine.
Verses
Romans 8:28
And we are conscious that all things are working together for good to those who have love for God, and have been marked out by his purpose.
Luke 10:19
"Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
2 Corinthians 5:15
and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.
1 Thessalonians 5:17
Be praying unceasingly.
2 Corinthians 9:10
He who furnishes the sower with seed and with bread to eat will supply seed for you and multiply it; he will increase the crop of your charities
Prayer
Father, our journey here below is extremely difficult without the friendships, prayers, and assistance of our brothers and sisters who share our precious faith. We thank you for those who sacrificially give of themselves to come alongside us; who walk with us in the ups and downs of this tempest life; who pray for us and help guide us when we can’t see what lies ahead. Their interest in our welfare and their continued presence brings reassurance that Your hand is extended to us through their kind and loving friendship. Help us to carefully nurture our friendships so that we build one another up and bring refreshing to our conversation and in our times of fellowship.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Wednesday prayer & verses (25 11 2009)
Thought for the day
Here are some sports quotes reported from England:
"And here's Moses Kiptanui, the 19-year-old Kenyan, who turned 20 a few weeks ago." (David Coleman)
"We now have exactly the same situation as we had at the start of the race, only exactly the opposite." (Murray Walker)
After playing Cameroon in the 1990 world cup finals:
"We didn't underestimate them. They were just a lot better than we thought." (Bobby Robson)
"I was in a no-win situation, so I'm glad that I won rather than lost." (Frank Bruno)
"The lead car is absolutely unique, except for the one behind it which is identical." (Murray Walker)
"There have been injuries and deaths in boxing, but none of them serious." (Alan Minter)
"Just under 10 seconds for Nigel Mansel. Call it 9.5 seconds in round numbers." (Murray Walker)
"I'll fight Lloyd Honeyghan for nothing if the price is right." (Marlon Starling)
"If history repeats itself, I should think we can expect the same thing again." (Terry Venables)
"The Queen's Park Oval, exactly as its name suggests, is absolutely round." (Tony Crozier)
"I owe a lot to my parents, especially my mother and father." (Greg Norman)
Like Greg Norman, we all owe our parents a great deal. We're mindful not only of the physical needs which they met, but such things as the love they have shown, the example they have set, and the chastisement they have administered (yes, even the chastisement). I owe my parents all of these things, and so much more. Perhaps most meaningful were the words of wisdom which guided me in the right direction (though not always appreciated at the time).
The words of Solomon speak to me: "My son, keep your father's commands, and don't forget your mother's teaching. Keep their words in mind forever as though you had them tied around your neck. They will guide you when you walk. They will guard you when you sleep. They will speak to you when you are awake. These commands are like a lamp; this teaching is like a light.
And the correction that comes from them will help you have life." (Prov. 6:20-23, NCV).
Say a special prayer of thanks to God for your parents -- especially your mother and father!
Verses
Numbers 23:19
God is not as man to waver, nor as the son of man to be threatened; shall he say and not perform?
shall he speak and not keep to his word?
Deuteronomy 7:15
The LORD will keep you free from every disease. He will not inflict on you the horrible diseases you knew in Egypt, but he will inflict them on all who hate you.
Malachi 3:10
Bring to the storehouse a tenth of what you gain. Then there will be food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord of heaven's armies. "I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out more blessings than you have room for.
Mark 11:24
Therefore, I exhort you, All things whatever you pray for and ask, have faith that you have taken hold, and it shall be for you.
Romans 10:12
For there is not a distinction between Jew and Greek. For the same Lord is over all, constantly rich toward all those who call upon Him.
Prayer
Father, so many of us live in a state of discontent when we find ourselves loving things and using people. It distorts our priorities and gives us temporary thrills with things, but leaves us with long-term dissatisfaction within ourselves and in our relationships. Help us to enjoy material things but to place a higher value on greater pursuits such as growing friendships, solid marriage relations, developing godly character, giving without receiving in return, and other worthy goals. We will be content as we rejoice in the fact that whether we are in want or whether we have plenty You have promised that You will never leave us nor forsake us. What a treasured promise for the believer in times of need and in times of prosperity. We are content when we realize our all-sufficiency is in You, Lord. You will never leave us nor forsake us and You will meet all our needs according to Your glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Here are some sports quotes reported from England:
"And here's Moses Kiptanui, the 19-year-old Kenyan, who turned 20 a few weeks ago." (David Coleman)
"We now have exactly the same situation as we had at the start of the race, only exactly the opposite." (Murray Walker)
After playing Cameroon in the 1990 world cup finals:
"We didn't underestimate them. They were just a lot better than we thought." (Bobby Robson)
"I was in a no-win situation, so I'm glad that I won rather than lost." (Frank Bruno)
"The lead car is absolutely unique, except for the one behind it which is identical." (Murray Walker)
"There have been injuries and deaths in boxing, but none of them serious." (Alan Minter)
"Just under 10 seconds for Nigel Mansel. Call it 9.5 seconds in round numbers." (Murray Walker)
"I'll fight Lloyd Honeyghan for nothing if the price is right." (Marlon Starling)
"If history repeats itself, I should think we can expect the same thing again." (Terry Venables)
"The Queen's Park Oval, exactly as its name suggests, is absolutely round." (Tony Crozier)
"I owe a lot to my parents, especially my mother and father." (Greg Norman)
Like Greg Norman, we all owe our parents a great deal. We're mindful not only of the physical needs which they met, but such things as the love they have shown, the example they have set, and the chastisement they have administered (yes, even the chastisement). I owe my parents all of these things, and so much more. Perhaps most meaningful were the words of wisdom which guided me in the right direction (though not always appreciated at the time).
The words of Solomon speak to me: "My son, keep your father's commands, and don't forget your mother's teaching. Keep their words in mind forever as though you had them tied around your neck. They will guide you when you walk. They will guard you when you sleep. They will speak to you when you are awake. These commands are like a lamp; this teaching is like a light.
And the correction that comes from them will help you have life." (Prov. 6:20-23, NCV).
Say a special prayer of thanks to God for your parents -- especially your mother and father!
Verses
Numbers 23:19
God is not as man to waver, nor as the son of man to be threatened; shall he say and not perform?
shall he speak and not keep to his word?
Deuteronomy 7:15
The LORD will keep you free from every disease. He will not inflict on you the horrible diseases you knew in Egypt, but he will inflict them on all who hate you.
Malachi 3:10
Bring to the storehouse a tenth of what you gain. Then there will be food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord of heaven's armies. "I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out more blessings than you have room for.
Mark 11:24
Therefore, I exhort you, All things whatever you pray for and ask, have faith that you have taken hold, and it shall be for you.
Romans 10:12
For there is not a distinction between Jew and Greek. For the same Lord is over all, constantly rich toward all those who call upon Him.
Prayer
Father, so many of us live in a state of discontent when we find ourselves loving things and using people. It distorts our priorities and gives us temporary thrills with things, but leaves us with long-term dissatisfaction within ourselves and in our relationships. Help us to enjoy material things but to place a higher value on greater pursuits such as growing friendships, solid marriage relations, developing godly character, giving without receiving in return, and other worthy goals. We will be content as we rejoice in the fact that whether we are in want or whether we have plenty You have promised that You will never leave us nor forsake us. What a treasured promise for the believer in times of need and in times of prosperity. We are content when we realize our all-sufficiency is in You, Lord. You will never leave us nor forsake us and You will meet all our needs according to Your glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verses (24 11 2009)
Thought for the day
Robert Thornton, a professor of economics at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA, was, like many teachers, frustrated about having to write letters of recommendation for people with dubious qualifications, so he put together an arsenal of statements that can be read two ways. He calls his collection the "Lexicon of Inconspicuously Ambiguous Recommendations", or LIAR, for short.
Thornton explains that LIAR may be used to offer a negative opinion of the personal qualities, work habits or motivation of the candidate while allowing the candidate to believe that it is high praise.
Some examples from LIAR:
* To describe a person who is extremely lazy: "In my opinion, you will be very fortunate to get this person to work for you."
* To describe a person who is totally inept: "I most enthusiastically recommend this candidate with no qualifications whatsoever."
* To describe an ex-employee who had problems getting along with fellow workers: "I am pleased to say that this candidate is a former colleague of mine."
* To describe a candidate who is so unproductive that the job would be better left unfilled: "I can assure you that no person would be better for the job."
* To describe a job applicant who is not worth further consideration: "I would urge you to waste no time in making this candidate an offer of employment."
* To describe a person with lackluster credentials: "All in all, I cannot say enough good things about this candidate or recommend him too highly.
"Robert Thornton is right, isn't he? We don't like to hurt people's feelings, but we don't want to be totally dishonest either, so we are excited to find a way to be ambiguous. We call it ambiguity, speaking a half-truth, using mental reservation, twisting the truth a bit, being ambivalent. Perhaps at least Thornton was more honest when he called his collection "LIAR".
It may be that no Christian characteristic has suffered more in the workplace than honesty. It shouldn't be that way. Jesus wants his people to be known as a people of truth. It is important that those around us can trust what we say without wondering whether we really mean it or not. "Therefore, putting away lying, each one speak truth with his neighbor, for we are members of one another." (Ephesians 4:25).
Have a great day (and I say that in all truth)!
Verses
Hebrews 10:23
Let us hold unwaveringly our grip on the hope we confess, for He who promised is faithful.
Matthew 8:17
This fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, "He took our sicknesses and bore our diseases."
Proverbs 6:2
you are snared by the words of your own mouth; you are taken by the words of your mouth.
Ephesians 1:16
do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers:
2 Corinthians 9:8
God can give you more than enough of every good gift, enough for you to have plenty for yourselves always and in any circumstances, and to have enough left over to contribute to every good cause.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, Habakkuk reminds me that my joy is not derived from my abundant provisions. But rather my joy comes from God my Savior as I choose to rejoice in Him whether or not my pantry is overflowing. I rejoice in knowing that You are my strength as You enable me to descend the rigorous, steep terrain toward the victorious mountaintop. At the height of the mountain I can look back at the disappointments and hardships I climbed through as You made my feet sure-footed like those of a deer. I once again affirm my faith in You, my Sovereign Lord, and rejoice in the work You are accomplishing in my life.
Robert Thornton, a professor of economics at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA, was, like many teachers, frustrated about having to write letters of recommendation for people with dubious qualifications, so he put together an arsenal of statements that can be read two ways. He calls his collection the "Lexicon of Inconspicuously Ambiguous Recommendations", or LIAR, for short.
Thornton explains that LIAR may be used to offer a negative opinion of the personal qualities, work habits or motivation of the candidate while allowing the candidate to believe that it is high praise.
Some examples from LIAR:
* To describe a person who is extremely lazy: "In my opinion, you will be very fortunate to get this person to work for you."
* To describe a person who is totally inept: "I most enthusiastically recommend this candidate with no qualifications whatsoever."
* To describe an ex-employee who had problems getting along with fellow workers: "I am pleased to say that this candidate is a former colleague of mine."
* To describe a candidate who is so unproductive that the job would be better left unfilled: "I can assure you that no person would be better for the job."
* To describe a job applicant who is not worth further consideration: "I would urge you to waste no time in making this candidate an offer of employment."
* To describe a person with lackluster credentials: "All in all, I cannot say enough good things about this candidate or recommend him too highly.
"Robert Thornton is right, isn't he? We don't like to hurt people's feelings, but we don't want to be totally dishonest either, so we are excited to find a way to be ambiguous. We call it ambiguity, speaking a half-truth, using mental reservation, twisting the truth a bit, being ambivalent. Perhaps at least Thornton was more honest when he called his collection "LIAR".
It may be that no Christian characteristic has suffered more in the workplace than honesty. It shouldn't be that way. Jesus wants his people to be known as a people of truth. It is important that those around us can trust what we say without wondering whether we really mean it or not. "Therefore, putting away lying, each one speak truth with his neighbor, for we are members of one another." (Ephesians 4:25).
Have a great day (and I say that in all truth)!
Verses
Hebrews 10:23
Let us hold unwaveringly our grip on the hope we confess, for He who promised is faithful.
Matthew 8:17
This fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, "He took our sicknesses and bore our diseases."
Proverbs 6:2
you are snared by the words of your own mouth; you are taken by the words of your mouth.
Ephesians 1:16
do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers:
2 Corinthians 9:8
God can give you more than enough of every good gift, enough for you to have plenty for yourselves always and in any circumstances, and to have enough left over to contribute to every good cause.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, Habakkuk reminds me that my joy is not derived from my abundant provisions. But rather my joy comes from God my Savior as I choose to rejoice in Him whether or not my pantry is overflowing. I rejoice in knowing that You are my strength as You enable me to descend the rigorous, steep terrain toward the victorious mountaintop. At the height of the mountain I can look back at the disappointments and hardships I climbed through as You made my feet sure-footed like those of a deer. I once again affirm my faith in You, my Sovereign Lord, and rejoice in the work You are accomplishing in my life.
Monday prayer & verses (23 11 2009)
Thought for the day
A band director was having a lot of trouble with one of his drummers. He talked and talked and talked with the drummer, but performance didn't improve.
Finally, in front of the whole orchestra, he said, "When a musician just can't handle his instrument and doesn't improve when given help, they take away the instrument, give him two sticks, and make him a drummer."A whisper was heard from the percussion section: "And if he can't handle even that, they take away one of his sticks and make him a conductor."
It is a biblical principle that if we are unable to handle the responsibility that God has given us, it can be taken away. Jesus told a parable in Matthew 25 about three servants who were given money by their master and were told to make use of it while their master was gone. When he returned, two of them had used their "talents" and one had not.
Jesus concluded the parable by saying:"For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away." (Matt. 25:29).
I need a constant reminder that all that I have has been given to me by God to use for His glory. It is an exciting thought to realize that as I use what God has given me, He will bless me with even more opportunities for service. On the other hand, it is a sobering thought to realize that if I fail to make use of what I have been given, I may lose it.
So what are you doing with what God has given you?
Verses
Hebrews 10:23
Let us cling to the confession of our hope and not waver in it. We can trust Him who gave us His promise.
Romans 4:20-21
He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform.
Ephesians 6:17
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;
Matthew 21:22
Yes, if you have faith, you will get everything you ask for in your prayers."
2 Corinthians 9:8
God can give you more than enough of every good gift, enough for you to have plenty for yourselves always and in any circumstances, and to have enough left over to contribute to every good cause.
Prayer
Father, we’re reminded of Your absolute faithfulness as we reflect upon the Israelites journeying in the wilderness. Even when they were unfaithful, You in Your unwavering faithfulness, provided for their daily needs. We read the words of the prophet Jeremiah who wrote in Lamentations, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end. They are new every morning. Great is Thy faithfulness.” And we sing along with the hymn writer, inspired by the words of Jeremiah, who penned these words, “All I have needed thy hand hath provided. Great is Thy faithfulness Lord unto me.”
A band director was having a lot of trouble with one of his drummers. He talked and talked and talked with the drummer, but performance didn't improve.
Finally, in front of the whole orchestra, he said, "When a musician just can't handle his instrument and doesn't improve when given help, they take away the instrument, give him two sticks, and make him a drummer."A whisper was heard from the percussion section: "And if he can't handle even that, they take away one of his sticks and make him a conductor."
It is a biblical principle that if we are unable to handle the responsibility that God has given us, it can be taken away. Jesus told a parable in Matthew 25 about three servants who were given money by their master and were told to make use of it while their master was gone. When he returned, two of them had used their "talents" and one had not.
Jesus concluded the parable by saying:"For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away." (Matt. 25:29).
I need a constant reminder that all that I have has been given to me by God to use for His glory. It is an exciting thought to realize that as I use what God has given me, He will bless me with even more opportunities for service. On the other hand, it is a sobering thought to realize that if I fail to make use of what I have been given, I may lose it.
So what are you doing with what God has given you?
Verses
Hebrews 10:23
Let us cling to the confession of our hope and not waver in it. We can trust Him who gave us His promise.
Romans 4:20-21
He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform.
Ephesians 6:17
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;
Matthew 21:22
Yes, if you have faith, you will get everything you ask for in your prayers."
2 Corinthians 9:8
God can give you more than enough of every good gift, enough for you to have plenty for yourselves always and in any circumstances, and to have enough left over to contribute to every good cause.
Prayer
Father, we’re reminded of Your absolute faithfulness as we reflect upon the Israelites journeying in the wilderness. Even when they were unfaithful, You in Your unwavering faithfulness, provided for their daily needs. We read the words of the prophet Jeremiah who wrote in Lamentations, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end. They are new every morning. Great is Thy faithfulness.” And we sing along with the hymn writer, inspired by the words of Jeremiah, who penned these words, “All I have needed thy hand hath provided. Great is Thy faithfulness Lord unto me.”
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (20 11 2009)
Thought for the day
WIFE: "There's trouble with the car. It has water in the carburetor."
HUSBAND: "Water in the carburetor? That's ridiculous."
WIFE: "I tell you the car has water in the carburetor."
HUSBAND: "You don't even know what a carburetor is. I'll check it out. Where's the car?"
WIFE: "In the pool."
That gives a whole new meaning to the term "flooding the engine"! There are some things that are so obvious you don't have to be an auto mechanic to be certain of them! And there are some things in the Bible that are so obvious that you don't have to be a brain surgeon to be certain of them!
Five times in the "Pastoral Epistles", Paul uses the phrase "faithful saying". It indicates something you can be absolutely certain of, without question, beyond a shadow of a doubt. Here's one of them:"
This is a faithful saying:For if we died with Him, we shall also live with Him.If we endure, we shall also reign with Him. If we deny Him, He also will deny us.If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot denyHimself."(2 Timothy 2:11-13)
Praise be to our God who not only gives us "faithful sayings", but who himself is "faithful", one who can be trusted to keep his word, and in whom we have the ability to place all our confidence!
Verses
Romans 8:28
We know that in everything God works with those who love him, whom he has called in accordance with his purpose, to bring about what is good.
Proverbs 17:22
A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.
Romans 5:9
much more, then, having been declared righteous now in his blood, we shall be saved through him from the wrath;
Luke 18:1
And he told them a parable of which the point was that they must always pray and never give up:
Psalm 112:1,3
Halliluyah. He who fears the LORD will succeed And whoever delights in His Laws, Ease and plenty will be in his house, And his happiness always will last;
Prayer
Jesus, You’ve called us to be light in a world full of darkness. You’ve also called us to be peacemakers in as much as it is possible. Sometimes when we take a stand for righteousness it does not bring peaceful resolution, but instead further conflict arises. Then we go through a surge of emotions and doubts begin to arise regarding our stand. Would You help us to be diligent in our study, prayerful about our stand, and immersed in Your Holy Word. Lord, as we take a position against the evil tide of our land help us to unapologetic in our stand and very consistent in our Christian walk. May we, by example and word, say to the fallen world that we serve not the god of this age, but we serve a King who is ageless and eternal. We lift up our persecuted brothers and sisters and their families who are paying a heavy price for their stand both physically and emotionally. May their spirits be strengthened as they continue to lift up their soul to You for infilling from Your Holy Spirit. Amen.
WIFE: "There's trouble with the car. It has water in the carburetor."
HUSBAND: "Water in the carburetor? That's ridiculous."
WIFE: "I tell you the car has water in the carburetor."
HUSBAND: "You don't even know what a carburetor is. I'll check it out. Where's the car?"
WIFE: "In the pool."
That gives a whole new meaning to the term "flooding the engine"! There are some things that are so obvious you don't have to be an auto mechanic to be certain of them! And there are some things in the Bible that are so obvious that you don't have to be a brain surgeon to be certain of them!
Five times in the "Pastoral Epistles", Paul uses the phrase "faithful saying". It indicates something you can be absolutely certain of, without question, beyond a shadow of a doubt. Here's one of them:"
This is a faithful saying:For if we died with Him, we shall also live with Him.If we endure, we shall also reign with Him. If we deny Him, He also will deny us.If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot denyHimself."(2 Timothy 2:11-13)
Praise be to our God who not only gives us "faithful sayings", but who himself is "faithful", one who can be trusted to keep his word, and in whom we have the ability to place all our confidence!
Verses
Romans 8:28
We know that in everything God works with those who love him, whom he has called in accordance with his purpose, to bring about what is good.
Proverbs 17:22
A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.
Romans 5:9
much more, then, having been declared righteous now in his blood, we shall be saved through him from the wrath;
Luke 18:1
And he told them a parable of which the point was that they must always pray and never give up:
Psalm 112:1,3
Halliluyah. He who fears the LORD will succeed And whoever delights in His Laws, Ease and plenty will be in his house, And his happiness always will last;
Prayer
Jesus, You’ve called us to be light in a world full of darkness. You’ve also called us to be peacemakers in as much as it is possible. Sometimes when we take a stand for righteousness it does not bring peaceful resolution, but instead further conflict arises. Then we go through a surge of emotions and doubts begin to arise regarding our stand. Would You help us to be diligent in our study, prayerful about our stand, and immersed in Your Holy Word. Lord, as we take a position against the evil tide of our land help us to unapologetic in our stand and very consistent in our Christian walk. May we, by example and word, say to the fallen world that we serve not the god of this age, but we serve a King who is ageless and eternal. We lift up our persecuted brothers and sisters and their families who are paying a heavy price for their stand both physically and emotionally. May their spirits be strengthened as they continue to lift up their soul to You for infilling from Your Holy Spirit. Amen.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (19 11 2009)
Thought for the day
These are the results of a "Creative Scientific Theories Contest" sponsored several years ago by Omni magazine:
GRAND PRIZE WINNER:
When a cat is dropped, it always lands on its feet. And when toast is dropped, it always lands with the buttered side facing down. I propose to strap buttered toast to the back of a cat; the two will hover, spinning inches above the ground. With a giant buttered cat array, a high-speed monorail could easily link New York with Chicago.
RUNNERS-UP:
#1If an infinite number of rednecks riding in an infinite number of pickup trucks fire an infinite number of shotgun rounds at an infinite number of highway signs, they will eventually produce all the world's great literary works in Braille.
#2Why yawning is contagious: You yawn to equalize the pressure on your eardrums. This pressure change outside your eardrums unbalances other people's ear pressures, so they must yawn to even it out.
#3Communist China is technologically underdeveloped because they have no alphabet and therefore cannot use acronyms to communicate ideas at a faster rate.
#4The earth may spin faster on its axis due to deforestation. Just as a figure skater's rate of spin increases when the arms are brought in close to the body, the cutting of tall trees may cause our planet to spin dangerously fast.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
The quantity of consonants in the English language is constant. If omitted in one place, they turn up in another. When a Bostonian "pahks" his "cah," the lost r's migrate southwest, causing a Texan to "warsh" his car and invest in "erl wells."
Birds take off at sunrise. On the opposite side of the world, they are landing at sunset. This causes the earth to spin on its axis.
Those are certainly some creative theories. I am reminded that over the years there have been some creative theories proposed to explain the empty tomb. The first theory came the same day the tomb was found empty: "When [the chief priests] had assembled with the elders and consulted together, they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers, saying, 'Tell them, "His disciples came at night and stole Him away while we slept." ' " (Matthew 28:12-13).
Other theories proposed include the suggestion that the women who reported the body missing went to the wrong tomb and just thought Jesus' tomb was empty, and that the appearances of Jesus after the resurrection were either illusions or mass hallucinations. Still others say that Jesus never really died; he merely fainted and later woke up in the tomb and walked out.
All fanciful theories. But none of them adequate the explain the event which showed the power of God more forcefully than anything else that has ever happened. Jesus Christ was raised from the dead!"If Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty......But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep." (I Cor. 15:14,20).
Verses
Galatians 6:9
Let us not get tired of doing good. At the right time we'll reap if we don't give up.
Isaiah 53:5
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that made us whole, and with his stripes we are healed.
1 John 4:8
He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.
Jeremiah 33:3
If you call to me I shall answer, and tell you great and mysterious things of which you are still unaware.
Deuteronomy 8:18
You must remember the Eternal your God, for it is he who gives you the power of gaining wealth, that he may ratify the compact which he swore to your fathers, as it is today.
Prayer
Your purpose in my life, Lord, is seen in a multitude of ways; whether it is in my vocational training; in the way I raise my children; in the relationships I engender or in the way I use my gifts to touch other lives. But Your purpose in my life is most visible to others in my response to heartache, betrayal, disappointment, suffering, and loss. Your purpose can be seen when I choose not to repay evil for evil, but rather good for evil. Lord, as I keep Your purpose for my life always before me I will remember that much good spiritual fruit can be developed in me in the ups and downs I encounter today. May I be faithful in making choices today that reflect Your purpose in my life. Amen.
These are the results of a "Creative Scientific Theories Contest" sponsored several years ago by Omni magazine:
GRAND PRIZE WINNER:
When a cat is dropped, it always lands on its feet. And when toast is dropped, it always lands with the buttered side facing down. I propose to strap buttered toast to the back of a cat; the two will hover, spinning inches above the ground. With a giant buttered cat array, a high-speed monorail could easily link New York with Chicago.
RUNNERS-UP:
#1If an infinite number of rednecks riding in an infinite number of pickup trucks fire an infinite number of shotgun rounds at an infinite number of highway signs, they will eventually produce all the world's great literary works in Braille.
#2Why yawning is contagious: You yawn to equalize the pressure on your eardrums. This pressure change outside your eardrums unbalances other people's ear pressures, so they must yawn to even it out.
#3Communist China is technologically underdeveloped because they have no alphabet and therefore cannot use acronyms to communicate ideas at a faster rate.
#4The earth may spin faster on its axis due to deforestation. Just as a figure skater's rate of spin increases when the arms are brought in close to the body, the cutting of tall trees may cause our planet to spin dangerously fast.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
The quantity of consonants in the English language is constant. If omitted in one place, they turn up in another. When a Bostonian "pahks" his "cah," the lost r's migrate southwest, causing a Texan to "warsh" his car and invest in "erl wells."
Birds take off at sunrise. On the opposite side of the world, they are landing at sunset. This causes the earth to spin on its axis.
Those are certainly some creative theories. I am reminded that over the years there have been some creative theories proposed to explain the empty tomb. The first theory came the same day the tomb was found empty: "When [the chief priests] had assembled with the elders and consulted together, they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers, saying, 'Tell them, "His disciples came at night and stole Him away while we slept." ' " (Matthew 28:12-13).
Other theories proposed include the suggestion that the women who reported the body missing went to the wrong tomb and just thought Jesus' tomb was empty, and that the appearances of Jesus after the resurrection were either illusions or mass hallucinations. Still others say that Jesus never really died; he merely fainted and later woke up in the tomb and walked out.
All fanciful theories. But none of them adequate the explain the event which showed the power of God more forcefully than anything else that has ever happened. Jesus Christ was raised from the dead!"If Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty......But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep." (I Cor. 15:14,20).
Verses
Galatians 6:9
Let us not get tired of doing good. At the right time we'll reap if we don't give up.
Isaiah 53:5
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that made us whole, and with his stripes we are healed.
1 John 4:8
He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.
Jeremiah 33:3
If you call to me I shall answer, and tell you great and mysterious things of which you are still unaware.
Deuteronomy 8:18
You must remember the Eternal your God, for it is he who gives you the power of gaining wealth, that he may ratify the compact which he swore to your fathers, as it is today.
Prayer
Your purpose in my life, Lord, is seen in a multitude of ways; whether it is in my vocational training; in the way I raise my children; in the relationships I engender or in the way I use my gifts to touch other lives. But Your purpose in my life is most visible to others in my response to heartache, betrayal, disappointment, suffering, and loss. Your purpose can be seen when I choose not to repay evil for evil, but rather good for evil. Lord, as I keep Your purpose for my life always before me I will remember that much good spiritual fruit can be developed in me in the ups and downs I encounter today. May I be faithful in making choices today that reflect Your purpose in my life. Amen.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Wednesday prayer & verses (18 11 2009)
Thought for the day
Someone (unknown to me) relates this story:
When my grandmother was in her eighties, she decided to move to Israel. As part of the preparations, she went to see her doctor and get all her charts. The doctor asked her how she was doing, so she gave him the litany of complaints -- this hurts, that's stiff, I'm tireder and slower, etc., etc., etc.
He responded with, "Mrs. Weiss, you have to expect things to start deteriorating. After all, who wants to live to 100?"
My grandmother looked him straight in the eye and replied, "Anyone who's 99."
It's so true. No matter how old we are, there is the desire to live at least one more year. Even Christians who look forward to being with their heavenly Father sometimes have a hard time letting go of life in this world. But Jesus' death (and resurrection) truly makes all the difference in the world. "Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death -- that is, the devil -- and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death." (Heb. 2:14-15, NIV)
Satan holds the "power of death", but praise be to the One who gives us hope because He holds the "power of life"!
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is a well-grounded assurance of that for which we hope, and a conviction of the reality of things which we do not see.
Exodus 15:26
saying, "If you will diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD your God, and do that which is right in his eyes, and give heed to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases upon you which I put upon the Egyptians; for I am the LORD, your healer."
2 Corinthians 5:15
He died for all, so that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but only for him who died and was raised to life for their sake.
Luke 18:1
Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart,
3 John 2
Beloved, I hope you are in good health -- may you thrive in all other ways as you do in the spirit.
Prayer
Lord, I am an ordinary person who has submitted my heart to You. But it is in the ordinary people that the infusion of Your resurrection power makes us extraordinary. Your Holy Spirit gives me boldness that does not come naturally to my personality. Thank You for giving me the strength to stand against the basic principles of this world when they conflict with Your principles. Lord, help me to be a watchman for my family, my co-workers and my friends as I intercede for their salvation or continued fruitfulness. I thank You that I do not stand in the gap alone but You, my Father, are with me and I stand in Your strength! Amen.
Someone (unknown to me) relates this story:
When my grandmother was in her eighties, she decided to move to Israel. As part of the preparations, she went to see her doctor and get all her charts. The doctor asked her how she was doing, so she gave him the litany of complaints -- this hurts, that's stiff, I'm tireder and slower, etc., etc., etc.
He responded with, "Mrs. Weiss, you have to expect things to start deteriorating. After all, who wants to live to 100?"
My grandmother looked him straight in the eye and replied, "Anyone who's 99."
It's so true. No matter how old we are, there is the desire to live at least one more year. Even Christians who look forward to being with their heavenly Father sometimes have a hard time letting go of life in this world. But Jesus' death (and resurrection) truly makes all the difference in the world. "Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death -- that is, the devil -- and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death." (Heb. 2:14-15, NIV)
Satan holds the "power of death", but praise be to the One who gives us hope because He holds the "power of life"!
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is a well-grounded assurance of that for which we hope, and a conviction of the reality of things which we do not see.
Exodus 15:26
saying, "If you will diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD your God, and do that which is right in his eyes, and give heed to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases upon you which I put upon the Egyptians; for I am the LORD, your healer."
2 Corinthians 5:15
He died for all, so that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but only for him who died and was raised to life for their sake.
Luke 18:1
Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart,
3 John 2
Beloved, I hope you are in good health -- may you thrive in all other ways as you do in the spirit.
Prayer
Lord, I am an ordinary person who has submitted my heart to You. But it is in the ordinary people that the infusion of Your resurrection power makes us extraordinary. Your Holy Spirit gives me boldness that does not come naturally to my personality. Thank You for giving me the strength to stand against the basic principles of this world when they conflict with Your principles. Lord, help me to be a watchman for my family, my co-workers and my friends as I intercede for their salvation or continued fruitfulness. I thank You that I do not stand in the gap alone but You, my Father, are with me and I stand in Your strength! Amen.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verses (17 11 2009)
Thought for the day
There is a beautiful legend about a king who decided to set aside a special day to honor his greatest subject. When the big day arrived, there was a large gathering in the palace courtyard. Four finalists were brought forward, and from these four, the king would select the winner.
The first person presented was a wealthy philanthropist. The king was told that this man was highly deserving of the honor because of his humanitarian efforts. He had given much of his wealth to the poor.
The second person was a celebrated physician. The king was told that this doctor was highly deserving of the honor because he had rendered faithful and dedicated service to the sick for many years.
The third person was a distinguished judge. The king was told that the judge was worthy because he was noted for his wisdom, his fairness, and his brilliant decisions.
The fourth person presented was an elderly woman. Everyone was quite surprised to see her there, because her manner was quite humble, as was her dress. She hardly looked the part of someone who would be honored as the greatest subject in the kingdom. What chance could she possibly have, when compared to the other three, who had accomplished so much?
Even so, there was something about her the look of love in her face, the understanding in her eyes, her quiet confidence.The king was intrigued, to say the least, and somewhat puzzled by her presence. He asked who she was. The answer came:
"You see the philanthropist, the doctor, and the judge? Well, she was their teacher!"
It was James who wrote, "Brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers." (James 3:1, GOD'S WORD). He points out that teachers will be judged more severely. He could just as easily have said that teachers have a greater responsibility, a greater challenge, a greater opportunity to affect the lives of people in a negative way. It is impossible to teach without using words, and with greater use of words comes a greater danger that the words will do harm.
But thanks be to God that there are those who face that challenge and assume that responsibility and make a diligent effort to use their words as an opportunity to affect the lives of people in a positive way. Those of you who are teachers -- who can begin to measure the tremendous effect that you are having in the lives of the children (and adults) in your classrooms? You may not see the results of your efforts for years. In fact, you may never get to see the results. But you do make a difference.
Those of you who are schoolteachers are teaching not only the basics of education, but you are teaching values and character. Those of you who are Bible class teachers are filling the minds and hearts of our children with stories of faith that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. Those of you who are preachers are strengthening the family of God and bringing salvation to the lost.So, my hat is off to all of you who are teachers because you make a difference!
"We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach." (Romans 12:6-7)
Verses
Romans 10:17
Yet faith comes from listening to this Good News -- the Good News about Christ.
Mark 11:23
"For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will come to pass, he will have whatever he says.
1 Peter 3:10-11
For the Scriptures say, "If you want a happy life and good days, keep your tongue from speaking evil, and keep your lips from telling lies. Turn away from evil and do good. Work hard at living in peace with others.
John 16:23
In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
Psalm 34:9-10
Revere the LORD, ye His saints, for there is no lack to those who revere Him. The young lions do need and suffer hunger; but those who seek the LORD shall lack in nothing good.
Prayer
Father, Romans 1:21 indicates that those who knew You neither glorified nor gave thanks to You which led to their futile and foolish thinking. It eventually caused the light of Your Word to be veiled and ineffective in their lives as darkness crept in and covered the radiant light of Your truth. They sought honor for themselves and lived for self-glory. Anything good in us is but a reflection of the Spirit of Christ who lives within, so we will glory only in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ though it is mocked and ridiculed by the world. We are unashamedly children of God whose depth of wisdom comes not from the understanding from the world but the understanding from Your Word. May its truth always be our source of light in the darkened age in which we live. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
There is a beautiful legend about a king who decided to set aside a special day to honor his greatest subject. When the big day arrived, there was a large gathering in the palace courtyard. Four finalists were brought forward, and from these four, the king would select the winner.
The first person presented was a wealthy philanthropist. The king was told that this man was highly deserving of the honor because of his humanitarian efforts. He had given much of his wealth to the poor.
The second person was a celebrated physician. The king was told that this doctor was highly deserving of the honor because he had rendered faithful and dedicated service to the sick for many years.
The third person was a distinguished judge. The king was told that the judge was worthy because he was noted for his wisdom, his fairness, and his brilliant decisions.
The fourth person presented was an elderly woman. Everyone was quite surprised to see her there, because her manner was quite humble, as was her dress. She hardly looked the part of someone who would be honored as the greatest subject in the kingdom. What chance could she possibly have, when compared to the other three, who had accomplished so much?
Even so, there was something about her the look of love in her face, the understanding in her eyes, her quiet confidence.The king was intrigued, to say the least, and somewhat puzzled by her presence. He asked who she was. The answer came:
"You see the philanthropist, the doctor, and the judge? Well, she was their teacher!"
It was James who wrote, "Brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers." (James 3:1, GOD'S WORD). He points out that teachers will be judged more severely. He could just as easily have said that teachers have a greater responsibility, a greater challenge, a greater opportunity to affect the lives of people in a negative way. It is impossible to teach without using words, and with greater use of words comes a greater danger that the words will do harm.
But thanks be to God that there are those who face that challenge and assume that responsibility and make a diligent effort to use their words as an opportunity to affect the lives of people in a positive way. Those of you who are teachers -- who can begin to measure the tremendous effect that you are having in the lives of the children (and adults) in your classrooms? You may not see the results of your efforts for years. In fact, you may never get to see the results. But you do make a difference.
Those of you who are schoolteachers are teaching not only the basics of education, but you are teaching values and character. Those of you who are Bible class teachers are filling the minds and hearts of our children with stories of faith that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. Those of you who are preachers are strengthening the family of God and bringing salvation to the lost.So, my hat is off to all of you who are teachers because you make a difference!
"We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach." (Romans 12:6-7)
Verses
Romans 10:17
Yet faith comes from listening to this Good News -- the Good News about Christ.
Mark 11:23
"For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will come to pass, he will have whatever he says.
1 Peter 3:10-11
For the Scriptures say, "If you want a happy life and good days, keep your tongue from speaking evil, and keep your lips from telling lies. Turn away from evil and do good. Work hard at living in peace with others.
John 16:23
In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
Psalm 34:9-10
Revere the LORD, ye His saints, for there is no lack to those who revere Him. The young lions do need and suffer hunger; but those who seek the LORD shall lack in nothing good.
Prayer
Father, Romans 1:21 indicates that those who knew You neither glorified nor gave thanks to You which led to their futile and foolish thinking. It eventually caused the light of Your Word to be veiled and ineffective in their lives as darkness crept in and covered the radiant light of Your truth. They sought honor for themselves and lived for self-glory. Anything good in us is but a reflection of the Spirit of Christ who lives within, so we will glory only in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ though it is mocked and ridiculed by the world. We are unashamedly children of God whose depth of wisdom comes not from the understanding from the world but the understanding from Your Word. May its truth always be our source of light in the darkened age in which we live. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Monday prayer & verses (16 11 2009)
Thought for the day
There is a story about a bride and groom long ago who were leaving on their honeymoon in a buggy pulled by a horse. As they traveled, a piece of paper fluttered across the road and the horse bolted. When the man regained control of the horse he said, "That's one!"
Later in the day, a rabbit jumped from the side of the road and ran in front of the horse. Again the horse bolted. When the man regained control of the horse this time he said, "That's two!"
Something similar happened later in the day and the groom said, "That's three!" He then pulled out his gun and killed the horse.
His startled and bewildered wife said, "Why John, that's terrible; you can't do that!" Her new husband looked at her with expressionless eyes and said, "That's one!"
We have limits on how much we're willing to tolerate from others. Peter thought a generous limit was "seven times" of being sinned against (Matt. 18:21). Jesus said, though, that we are to forgive up to "seventy times seven" (Matt. 18:22), without limit.
I think one of the most difficult Christian traits for us to develop is forbearance, which is the ability to "put up with others". We expect others to tolerate and overlook our shortcomings, but we are often slow to do the same for others. Let us be reminded of these words from Paul:
"Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do." (Col. 3:12-13).
Verses
Ephesians 6:11
Clothe yourselves with the full armor of God to the end that you will be able to hold your ground against the stratagems of the devil,
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;
1 Corinthians 1:30
But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God -- and righteousness and sanctification and redemption
John 16:24
"Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.
Joshua 1:8
Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
Prayer
Father, strange teachings lead me far away from Your truths that I learn as I walk on the straight and narrow path laid out for me. It is on this path that Your grace is revealed to me. It is evident as far as the eye can see and reaches way beyond our limited imagination. Your abundant grace brings me assurance when the world speaks of trouble. Your abiding grace brings me consolation when others forsake me. Your sustaining grace is manifested more in the trials of life than in the mountain top experiences. Thank You for supplying me with Your sufficient grace in the height and depth of my existence. Your amazing grace is supernatural; it never ceases to be amazing and it is good for my heart to be strengthened by Your grace! Amen.
There is a story about a bride and groom long ago who were leaving on their honeymoon in a buggy pulled by a horse. As they traveled, a piece of paper fluttered across the road and the horse bolted. When the man regained control of the horse he said, "That's one!"
Later in the day, a rabbit jumped from the side of the road and ran in front of the horse. Again the horse bolted. When the man regained control of the horse this time he said, "That's two!"
Something similar happened later in the day and the groom said, "That's three!" He then pulled out his gun and killed the horse.
His startled and bewildered wife said, "Why John, that's terrible; you can't do that!" Her new husband looked at her with expressionless eyes and said, "That's one!"
We have limits on how much we're willing to tolerate from others. Peter thought a generous limit was "seven times" of being sinned against (Matt. 18:21). Jesus said, though, that we are to forgive up to "seventy times seven" (Matt. 18:22), without limit.
I think one of the most difficult Christian traits for us to develop is forbearance, which is the ability to "put up with others". We expect others to tolerate and overlook our shortcomings, but we are often slow to do the same for others. Let us be reminded of these words from Paul:
"Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do." (Col. 3:12-13).
Verses
Ephesians 6:11
Clothe yourselves with the full armor of God to the end that you will be able to hold your ground against the stratagems of the devil,
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;
1 Corinthians 1:30
But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God -- and righteousness and sanctification and redemption
John 16:24
"Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.
Joshua 1:8
Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
Prayer
Father, strange teachings lead me far away from Your truths that I learn as I walk on the straight and narrow path laid out for me. It is on this path that Your grace is revealed to me. It is evident as far as the eye can see and reaches way beyond our limited imagination. Your abundant grace brings me assurance when the world speaks of trouble. Your abiding grace brings me consolation when others forsake me. Your sustaining grace is manifested more in the trials of life than in the mountain top experiences. Thank You for supplying me with Your sufficient grace in the height and depth of my existence. Your amazing grace is supernatural; it never ceases to be amazing and it is good for my heart to be strengthened by Your grace! Amen.
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