Thought for the day
A Few Tasty Crumbs Author:
Roger Dean Kiser
I was very excited because I had just received a FedEx package containing the front cover for my first and only book, which, hopefully, will be coming out soon.
I telephoned my wife and then I drove to the pizza parlor where she was working so we could eat lunch together. When I arrived I sat down in one of the far back booths with my clear, bubbly, fat free, fizzling, no-caffeine Sprite, and waited for her to finish the few tables she had left, before we could eat.
As I sat there I was looking out the large plate glass window and I saw a man about thirty years old walking across the parking lot carrying a pizza box, which he had just purchased from one of the mini markets across the street. He walked into the restaurant, went directly to the counter where he got a large cup of water and then he walked to the back of the restaurant, where I was sitting, and sat down at the table across from me, to my right.
I watched him as he laid his large dirty paper bag of clothing down on the floor and then tried to straighten out the wrinkles so that it did not look so bad. Then he took a napkin from the metal container, unfolded it, and wiped his dirty hands. Then he took another napkin, placed it on the table and neatly laid his silverware onto it. The fork to the right side of the napkin and then the spoon and knife on the other side.
There was no doubt that this man was homeless and in need a bath, in the worst way. He had not shaved for several months. His hair was extremely greasy, as was his skin, and his clothing would have caught fire from the stench if someone had lit a match near him. He reached over and slid the one small slice of pizza out of the box and laid it onto the napkin and very slowly, very carefully, he began to eat the small meal, taking very little bites.
I sat there watching him out of the corner of my eye and was wondering how someone could buy a slice of pizza from one store and then have the nerve to bring it into another restaurant and sit there and eat it. The dingy fellow finally finished his meal and he did something that I will never forget. He picked up the box, turned it on its corner and slid the few remaining pieces into one far corner of the box.
Then he wet his index finger and began to try and pick up the small crumbs that were left in the corner of the box. I could see his eyes roll back into their sockets, as he closed his eyes and bent his head backwards, trying to really enjoy a few tasty crumbs that were left from that one small slice of pizza.
The muscles in my neck and jaw began to tighten and my eyes began to burn and water up. Oh, how much it hurt me to look across that dining room and once again see myself as I was thirty-eight years ago. To be cold, and hungry. To be dirty and have no one to help me, or no one to care about me. No one to love me and no one to care if I lived or died.
No place to go to wash my filthy clothes, which had become hard, coarse and rough against my skin. No soft warm place to sleep and no place on this earth to be safe, when darkness fell. How much it hurt me to see myself again at thirteen years of age.
He tilted that small box to the side just as I had done many many times when I lived on the street. Eating everyday from garbage cans and dumpsters and bathing in the gas station washrooms. I will never forget what that extra special moment felt like. Just making sure that I savored every last little morsel of food, even if it was from a garbage can, so that I could sustain my life for just one more lonely day on the face of this earth.
My wife finally came and sat down across from me. I immediately turned my head to the side, got up from the booth and I walked to the waitress station to put my plate onto the plastic kitchen cart, so that she would not see the tears in my eyes. I did not know what to do and I didn't know what to say. I felt so lost and so helpless. I did not even know how to act.
Most of my past life had always been just like what I was now seeing in front of my very own eyes. Identical to that young man who was now sitting right in front of me, and it all came back to me in a flash.
I grunted and coughed a bit, trying to clear my throat and get myself back together.
Just then my wife was standing behind me and she said, "Roger, go get that gentleman some pizza". I did not say a word but walked directly to the counter and got four large slices of pizza and some dessert. Then I walked back towards the man. I sat the pizza down on the corner of the table in front of him and said, "We will be throwing this away very shortly. I thought you might like to have a few pieces".
He never looked up at all, but looked directly down at the table. I did not stop at all but walked around behind him so I could return to the waitress station.
As I passed him, I reached out and touched him on the back, just one time, very softly with my hand, just as I wished someone would have done for me thirty some years ago.
I hope that man knows that someone, someplace, cares about him as a human being. I don't know for sure what all those beatings did to me in that orphanage and that reform school. But I am so thankful that this "little orphan bastard" never forgot what it feels like to be down, out, dirty and hungry.
Verses
Romans 10:11
'No one who believes in him shall have cause to regret it.'
Isaiah 57:18
I have seen his ways, and will heal him; I will also lead him, and restore comforts to him and to his mourners.
John 15:26
"But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me.
Colossians 4:2
Let your prayers be characterized by intense earnestness -- no drowsy listlessness -- with thanksgiving.
Proverbs 28:25
He who is of a greedy spirit stirs up strife, but he who puts his trust in the Lord shall be enriched and blessed.
Prayer
Father, You laid in Zion a sure foundation, a Stone. That tried but proven Stone is Jesus, one whom the builders rejected, yet a precious Cornerstone to those of us who are building our lives upon this Rock. It is only in Him, our solid Rock, that we can anchor our soul so that it does not drift aimlessly by the strong winds, the fierce storms or rising waters. Nor the mirages that counterfeit the reality of Your timeless truths as revealed to us in Scripture. Help us to be on guard against false prophets and keep us in maintenance mode, no matter how much we may feel like giving up. For it’s not the one who runs the swiftest, nor the one who runs for just a day, but the one who endures to the end who shall be saved. Amen.
Monday, August 03, 2009
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Monday prayer & verses (03 08 2009)
Thought for the day
The following incident is reported to have been published by Associated Press a while back:
In Arkansas, a lady named Linda went to visit her in-laws, and while there, went to a store. She parked next to a car with a woman sitting in it, her eyes closed and hands behind her head, apparently sleeping.
When Linda came out a while later, she again saw the woman, her hands still behind her head but with her eyes open. The woman looked very strange, so Linda tapped on the window and said "Are you okay?"
The woman answered "I've been shot in the head, and I am holding my brain in.
"Linda did not know what to do, so she ran into the store, where store officials called the paramedics. They had to break into the car because the door was locked. When they got in, they found that the woman had bread dough on the back of her head and in her hands. A Pillsbury biscuit canister had exploded, apparently from the heat in the car, making a loud explosion like that of a gunshot, and hit her in the head.
When she reached back to find what it was, she felt the dough and thought it was her brain. She passed out from fright at first, then attempted to hold her brains in. They took her to a local hospital, where they treated her, shampooed her hair, and released her.Sometimes things aren't nearly as bad as they may seem at the time. Remember back during your dating days, when that special someone broke up with you, it seemed to be the end of the world. Life just wasn't worth living anymore!
But, in time, you came to realize it wasn't the major disaster you initially thought it was. I think we do that a lot as we grow up. I don't mean to trivialize true tragedies we face, but often when things go wrong, our first reaction is to panic and think our world is coming to an end.
When the spies returned from the land of Canaan and told about the "giants" they encountered, the Israelites' reaction was, "If only we had died in the land of Egypt! Or if only we had died in this wilderness!" (Numbers 14:2) Only two spies took the attitude, "Our problem is big, but our God is bigger. Things aren't nearly as bad as they seem." "Do not be terrified, or afraid of them. The Lord your God, who goes before you, He will fight for you...." (Deuteronomy 1:29-30)
Whatever problem you may be facing today, may you do so with the knowledge that however big it may be, our God is even bigger!
Verses
Hebrews 11:6
Now without faith it is not possible to please God, for he who approaches God must have faith in his existence, and that he rewards those who seek him out.
Hebrews 4:14
Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.
John 14:16-17
"And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever -- the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.
Colossians 1:9
For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
2 Corinthians 9:8
God is able to give you all you need and more, so that you may help every good work because you always have a sufficiency of everything.
Prayer
Father, we do extol Your work and praise You with our lips, with our voice and with our devotion to follow You all the days of our lives. We stop and consider Your great wonders and mighty works as we acknowledge You to be the Creator of all things. Your ways are perfect and beyond human understanding. It is all the more reason why we must rely on Your guidance and not lean on our own understanding. Today we acknowledge You in all our ways and ask You to direct our paths and increase our understanding in the name of Jesus. Amen.
The following incident is reported to have been published by Associated Press a while back:
In Arkansas, a lady named Linda went to visit her in-laws, and while there, went to a store. She parked next to a car with a woman sitting in it, her eyes closed and hands behind her head, apparently sleeping.
When Linda came out a while later, she again saw the woman, her hands still behind her head but with her eyes open. The woman looked very strange, so Linda tapped on the window and said "Are you okay?"
The woman answered "I've been shot in the head, and I am holding my brain in.
"Linda did not know what to do, so she ran into the store, where store officials called the paramedics. They had to break into the car because the door was locked. When they got in, they found that the woman had bread dough on the back of her head and in her hands. A Pillsbury biscuit canister had exploded, apparently from the heat in the car, making a loud explosion like that of a gunshot, and hit her in the head.
When she reached back to find what it was, she felt the dough and thought it was her brain. She passed out from fright at first, then attempted to hold her brains in. They took her to a local hospital, where they treated her, shampooed her hair, and released her.Sometimes things aren't nearly as bad as they may seem at the time. Remember back during your dating days, when that special someone broke up with you, it seemed to be the end of the world. Life just wasn't worth living anymore!
But, in time, you came to realize it wasn't the major disaster you initially thought it was. I think we do that a lot as we grow up. I don't mean to trivialize true tragedies we face, but often when things go wrong, our first reaction is to panic and think our world is coming to an end.
When the spies returned from the land of Canaan and told about the "giants" they encountered, the Israelites' reaction was, "If only we had died in the land of Egypt! Or if only we had died in this wilderness!" (Numbers 14:2) Only two spies took the attitude, "Our problem is big, but our God is bigger. Things aren't nearly as bad as they seem." "Do not be terrified, or afraid of them. The Lord your God, who goes before you, He will fight for you...." (Deuteronomy 1:29-30)
Whatever problem you may be facing today, may you do so with the knowledge that however big it may be, our God is even bigger!
Verses
Hebrews 11:6
Now without faith it is not possible to please God, for he who approaches God must have faith in his existence, and that he rewards those who seek him out.
Hebrews 4:14
Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.
John 14:16-17
"And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever -- the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.
Colossians 1:9
For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
2 Corinthians 9:8
God is able to give you all you need and more, so that you may help every good work because you always have a sufficiency of everything.
Prayer
Father, we do extol Your work and praise You with our lips, with our voice and with our devotion to follow You all the days of our lives. We stop and consider Your great wonders and mighty works as we acknowledge You to be the Creator of all things. Your ways are perfect and beyond human understanding. It is all the more reason why we must rely on Your guidance and not lean on our own understanding. Today we acknowledge You in all our ways and ask You to direct our paths and increase our understanding in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (31 07 2009)
Thought for the day
A preacher, a politician and an engineer were led to the guillotine. The preacher was asked if he wanted to be face up or face down when he met his fate. The preacher said that he would like to lie face up so he would be looking toward heaven when he died. The blade of the guillotine was raised and released. It came speeding down and suddenly stopped, just inches from his neck. The authorities took this as divine intervention and released the preacher.
Next, the politician came to the guillotine, and he also decided to die facing up, hoping he would be as fortunate as the preacher. So the blade of the guillotine was raised again and released. It came speeding down and suddenly stopped just inches from his neck, so he was released as well.
The engineer was next, and he too decided to die facing up. The executioner slowly raised the blade of the guillotine, when suddenly the engineer said, "Hey, I see what the problem is..."
Another reminder that we need to learn when to keep our mouths shut. As much as we may be anxious to share with people just how much we know, sometimes things are better left unsaid! Rarely will keeping quiet get us into trouble (though it can happen), but often do we find ourselves getting into trouble by saying something that should have gone unsaid.
One of my favorite proverbs is found in Proverbs 17:28: "Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive."
Very similar to the more recent saying: "Better to be thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt. "Lest you open your mouth today and say something you may later regret, stop for a moment before you speak and make sure it's the wise thing to do.
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
And what is faith? Faith gives substance to our hopes, and makes us certain of realities we do not see.
Luke 9:6
So they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
John 14:23
Jesus replied: 'If anyone loves me he will cherish my word; my Father will love him and we will come to him and make him our abode.
Job 42:10
And the Lord restored Job's losses when he prayed for his friends. Indeed the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.
2 Corinthians 9:10
And the One who provides seed for the planter and bread for eating will provide you with adequate resources, and multiply them and increase the harvest of your righteousness.
Prayer
I humbly ask you the simple question, do you know Jesus? Do you know if you were to die today where you will spend eternity (heaven or hell?). Do you want to be in heaven for sure?
Then why not pray this simple prayer, “Lord Jesus, come into my heart, I repent of all my sins, forgive me and cleanse me from all sins. Make me your dear child and give me the assurance of salvation. I choose to follow and live for you and to live according to your Word. Thank you for listening my prayer. I pray this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen!
A preacher, a politician and an engineer were led to the guillotine. The preacher was asked if he wanted to be face up or face down when he met his fate. The preacher said that he would like to lie face up so he would be looking toward heaven when he died. The blade of the guillotine was raised and released. It came speeding down and suddenly stopped, just inches from his neck. The authorities took this as divine intervention and released the preacher.
Next, the politician came to the guillotine, and he also decided to die facing up, hoping he would be as fortunate as the preacher. So the blade of the guillotine was raised again and released. It came speeding down and suddenly stopped just inches from his neck, so he was released as well.
The engineer was next, and he too decided to die facing up. The executioner slowly raised the blade of the guillotine, when suddenly the engineer said, "Hey, I see what the problem is..."
Another reminder that we need to learn when to keep our mouths shut. As much as we may be anxious to share with people just how much we know, sometimes things are better left unsaid! Rarely will keeping quiet get us into trouble (though it can happen), but often do we find ourselves getting into trouble by saying something that should have gone unsaid.
One of my favorite proverbs is found in Proverbs 17:28: "Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive."
Very similar to the more recent saying: "Better to be thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt. "Lest you open your mouth today and say something you may later regret, stop for a moment before you speak and make sure it's the wise thing to do.
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
And what is faith? Faith gives substance to our hopes, and makes us certain of realities we do not see.
Luke 9:6
So they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
John 14:23
Jesus replied: 'If anyone loves me he will cherish my word; my Father will love him and we will come to him and make him our abode.
Job 42:10
And the Lord restored Job's losses when he prayed for his friends. Indeed the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.
2 Corinthians 9:10
And the One who provides seed for the planter and bread for eating will provide you with adequate resources, and multiply them and increase the harvest of your righteousness.
Prayer
I humbly ask you the simple question, do you know Jesus? Do you know if you were to die today where you will spend eternity (heaven or hell?). Do you want to be in heaven for sure?
Then why not pray this simple prayer, “Lord Jesus, come into my heart, I repent of all my sins, forgive me and cleanse me from all sins. Make me your dear child and give me the assurance of salvation. I choose to follow and live for you and to live according to your Word. Thank you for listening my prayer. I pray this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen!
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Thursday prayer & verses (30 07 2009)
Thought for the day
Richard Fairchild tells about a story that appeared years ago in the Christian Reader. It was called "Priceless Scribbles." It concerns a father who touched his child's life in an unexpected way.
A young boy watched as his father walked into the living room. The boy noticed that his younger brother, John, began to cower slightly as his father entered. The older boy sensed that John had done something wrong. Then he saw from a distance what his brother had done. The younger boy had opened his father's brand new hymnal and scribbled all over the first page with a pen.
Staring at their father fearfully, both brothers waited for John's punishment. Their father picked up his prized hymnal, looked at it carefully and then sat down, without saying a word. Books were precious to him; he was a minister with several academic degrees. For him, books were knowledge. What he did next was remarkable.
Instead of punishing his son, instead of scolding, or yelling, his father took the pen from the little boy's hand, and then wrote in the book himself, alongside the scribbles that John had made. Here is what that father wrote: "John's work, 1959, age 2. How many times have I looked into your beautiful face and into your warm, alert eyes looking up at me and thanked God for the one who has now scribbled in my new hymnal. You have made the book sacred, as have your brother and sister to so much of my life."
The author of the story, now an adult, goes on to say how that hymnal became a treasured family possession, how it was tangible proof that their parents loved them, how it taught the lesson that what really matters is people, not objects; patience, not judgment; love, not anger.
"And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord." (Eph. 6:4)
Verses
Habakkuk 2:3
For the vision still has its time, presses on to fulfillment, and will not disappoint; If it delays, wait for it, it will surely come, it will not be late.
Romans 4:19
And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah's womb.
Romans 8:31
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
1 Thessalonians 5:17
pray unweariedly:
Proverbs 10:22
The blessing of Yahweh is what brings riches, to this hard toil has nothing to add.
Prayer
Father, thank You for Jesus who came that we might have life and have it in abundance. We’re grateful for Your grace that teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. We’re thankful that Jesus gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own. We realize that the one who sows to please the sinful nature from that nature reaps destruction, therefore we choose to sow to please the spiritual nature and from that nature reap eternal life. Keep us faithful in doing so. Amen.
Richard Fairchild tells about a story that appeared years ago in the Christian Reader. It was called "Priceless Scribbles." It concerns a father who touched his child's life in an unexpected way.
A young boy watched as his father walked into the living room. The boy noticed that his younger brother, John, began to cower slightly as his father entered. The older boy sensed that John had done something wrong. Then he saw from a distance what his brother had done. The younger boy had opened his father's brand new hymnal and scribbled all over the first page with a pen.
Staring at their father fearfully, both brothers waited for John's punishment. Their father picked up his prized hymnal, looked at it carefully and then sat down, without saying a word. Books were precious to him; he was a minister with several academic degrees. For him, books were knowledge. What he did next was remarkable.
Instead of punishing his son, instead of scolding, or yelling, his father took the pen from the little boy's hand, and then wrote in the book himself, alongside the scribbles that John had made. Here is what that father wrote: "John's work, 1959, age 2. How many times have I looked into your beautiful face and into your warm, alert eyes looking up at me and thanked God for the one who has now scribbled in my new hymnal. You have made the book sacred, as have your brother and sister to so much of my life."
The author of the story, now an adult, goes on to say how that hymnal became a treasured family possession, how it was tangible proof that their parents loved them, how it taught the lesson that what really matters is people, not objects; patience, not judgment; love, not anger.
"And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord." (Eph. 6:4)
Verses
Habakkuk 2:3
For the vision still has its time, presses on to fulfillment, and will not disappoint; If it delays, wait for it, it will surely come, it will not be late.
Romans 4:19
And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah's womb.
Romans 8:31
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
1 Thessalonians 5:17
pray unweariedly:
Proverbs 10:22
The blessing of Yahweh is what brings riches, to this hard toil has nothing to add.
Prayer
Father, thank You for Jesus who came that we might have life and have it in abundance. We’re grateful for Your grace that teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. We’re thankful that Jesus gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own. We realize that the one who sows to please the sinful nature from that nature reaps destruction, therefore we choose to sow to please the spiritual nature and from that nature reap eternal life. Keep us faithful in doing so. Amen.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Wednesday rayer & verses (29 07 2009)
Thought for the day
A young private sought permission from his Commanding Officer to leave camp the following weekend.
"You see," he explained, "my wife's expecting." "Oh..." said the Officer, "I understand. Go ahead and tell your wife that I wish her luck."
The following week the same soldier was back again with the same explanation:
"My wife's expecting."The Officer looked surprised. "Still expecting?" he said, "Well, well, my boy, you must be pretty bothered. Of course you can have the week-end off."
When the same soldier appeared again the third week, however, the Officer lost his temper. "Don't tell me your wife is still expecting!" he bellowed."Yes sir!" said the soldier resolutely, "She's still expecting."
"What in the world is she expecting?" cried the Officer. "Me," said the soldier simply.
Christians are a people who live in expectation. We're expecting that someday all the wrongs of this world will be brought to justice. We're expecting that the sufferings of this life will someday be replaced by joys beyond our imagination. But, most of all, we're expecting our Lord to return for us and we are anxious for that day to come. Paul seems to indicate that all of creation is earnestly awaiting the same thing (Rom. 8:19).
"Now when [Jesus] had spoken these things, while [the apostles] watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, 'Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.' " (Acts 1:9-11)
Are you expecting?
Verses
Romans 8:37
But we are able to overcome all these things and more through his love.
Exodus 15:26
He said, "If you will listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God, and do what is right in his sight, and give heed to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will not bring upon you any of the diseases that I brought upon the Egyptians; for I am the LORD who heals you."
Ephesians 4:29
Watch your talk! No bad words should be coming from your mouth. Say what is good. Your words should help others grow as Christians.
Matthew 21:22
If you believe, then you will receive everything you ask for in prayer."
Philippians 4:19
My God is very rich with the glory of Christ Jesus. God will use his riches in Christ Jesus to give you everything you need.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for the way You bless Your people. You richly provide for our needs and supply us with hope that is not diminished by the circumstances of this world. We want to share from our spiritual and material abundance so that we lay up treasure for ourselves in the eternal life that is promised to all believers. Make us aware of opportunities to enrich others with the blessings we receive from You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
A young private sought permission from his Commanding Officer to leave camp the following weekend.
"You see," he explained, "my wife's expecting." "Oh..." said the Officer, "I understand. Go ahead and tell your wife that I wish her luck."
The following week the same soldier was back again with the same explanation:
"My wife's expecting."The Officer looked surprised. "Still expecting?" he said, "Well, well, my boy, you must be pretty bothered. Of course you can have the week-end off."
When the same soldier appeared again the third week, however, the Officer lost his temper. "Don't tell me your wife is still expecting!" he bellowed."Yes sir!" said the soldier resolutely, "She's still expecting."
"What in the world is she expecting?" cried the Officer. "Me," said the soldier simply.
Christians are a people who live in expectation. We're expecting that someday all the wrongs of this world will be brought to justice. We're expecting that the sufferings of this life will someday be replaced by joys beyond our imagination. But, most of all, we're expecting our Lord to return for us and we are anxious for that day to come. Paul seems to indicate that all of creation is earnestly awaiting the same thing (Rom. 8:19).
"Now when [Jesus] had spoken these things, while [the apostles] watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, 'Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.' " (Acts 1:9-11)
Are you expecting?
Verses
Romans 8:37
But we are able to overcome all these things and more through his love.
Exodus 15:26
He said, "If you will listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God, and do what is right in his sight, and give heed to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will not bring upon you any of the diseases that I brought upon the Egyptians; for I am the LORD who heals you."
Ephesians 4:29
Watch your talk! No bad words should be coming from your mouth. Say what is good. Your words should help others grow as Christians.
Matthew 21:22
If you believe, then you will receive everything you ask for in prayer."
Philippians 4:19
My God is very rich with the glory of Christ Jesus. God will use his riches in Christ Jesus to give you everything you need.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for the way You bless Your people. You richly provide for our needs and supply us with hope that is not diminished by the circumstances of this world. We want to share from our spiritual and material abundance so that we lay up treasure for ourselves in the eternal life that is promised to all believers. Make us aware of opportunities to enrich others with the blessings we receive from You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Tuesday prayer & verses (28 07 2009)
Thought for the day
Someone has composed the following list of "Cards You'll Never See at Hallmark":
"Looking back over the years that we've been together, I can't help but wonder....What was I thinking?!"
"I've always wanted to have someone to hold, someone to love....After having met you, I've changed my mind."
"As the days go by, I think of how lucky I am....that you're not here to ruin it for me."
"As you grow older, Mom, I think of all the gifts you've given me.....Like the need for therapy."
"You look great for your age....Almost life-like!"
"When we were together, you always said you'd die for me....Now that we've broken up, I think it's time you kept your promise."
"We have been friends for a very long time....What do you say we call it quits?"
"I'm so miserable without you....It's almost like you're here."
"You are such a good friend that if we were on a sinking ship and there was only one life jacket....I'd miss you heaps and think of you often."
Somehow those cards truly don't seem very appropriate for a card company that advertises with the slogan, "When you care enough to send the very best." Greeting card companies certainly have made it easy for us to let our friends and relatives know that we care about them.
The apostle Paul didn't have the benefit of going into a card store, but many of the words he wrote to congregations and individuals are filled with sentiment and worded in such a way that perhaps they should be used in greeting cards. Listen to these words written to the Christians in Philippi:
"I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always with every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy....it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart....For God is my witness, how greatly I long for you all with the affection of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:3-4,7,8).
Warren Wiersbe outlines this section with these phrases: "I have you in my mind", "I have you in my heart" and "I have you in my prayers." That sums up well the affection that Paul had for those brethren.Is there someone that you care greatly about? Send them a card. Better yet, drop them a line of your own creation and let them know that they are on your mind, in your heart and in your prayers today. Only do it, though, if you care enough to send the "very best."
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
So do not throw away your confidence. It brings a great reward. You need to be steadfast if you are to do God's will and receive what he has promised.
Matthew 14:14
And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick.
Ephesians 3:14-15
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name.
Romans 12:12
Let hope keep you joyful; in trouble stand firm; persist in prayer.
2 Corinthians 9:6
Remember this -- meager sowing means meager reaping; generous sowing means generous reaping.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for making us joint heirs together with the family of believers in this wonderful eternal inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade kept in heaven for us. We gratefully claim this inheritance and await the appointed date when we will experience in full the blessings it provides. Troubles in this life diminish our hope, but rejoicing in the life yet to be revealed gives us a living hope! Help us to fix our present hope on the future return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in whose name we pray. Amen.
Someone has composed the following list of "Cards You'll Never See at Hallmark":
"Looking back over the years that we've been together, I can't help but wonder....What was I thinking?!"
"I've always wanted to have someone to hold, someone to love....After having met you, I've changed my mind."
"As the days go by, I think of how lucky I am....that you're not here to ruin it for me."
"As you grow older, Mom, I think of all the gifts you've given me.....Like the need for therapy."
"You look great for your age....Almost life-like!"
"When we were together, you always said you'd die for me....Now that we've broken up, I think it's time you kept your promise."
"We have been friends for a very long time....What do you say we call it quits?"
"I'm so miserable without you....It's almost like you're here."
"You are such a good friend that if we were on a sinking ship and there was only one life jacket....I'd miss you heaps and think of you often."
Somehow those cards truly don't seem very appropriate for a card company that advertises with the slogan, "When you care enough to send the very best." Greeting card companies certainly have made it easy for us to let our friends and relatives know that we care about them.
The apostle Paul didn't have the benefit of going into a card store, but many of the words he wrote to congregations and individuals are filled with sentiment and worded in such a way that perhaps they should be used in greeting cards. Listen to these words written to the Christians in Philippi:
"I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always with every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy....it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart....For God is my witness, how greatly I long for you all with the affection of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:3-4,7,8).
Warren Wiersbe outlines this section with these phrases: "I have you in my mind", "I have you in my heart" and "I have you in my prayers." That sums up well the affection that Paul had for those brethren.Is there someone that you care greatly about? Send them a card. Better yet, drop them a line of your own creation and let them know that they are on your mind, in your heart and in your prayers today. Only do it, though, if you care enough to send the "very best."
Verses
Hebrews 10:35-36
So do not throw away your confidence. It brings a great reward. You need to be steadfast if you are to do God's will and receive what he has promised.
Matthew 14:14
And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick.
Ephesians 3:14-15
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name.
Romans 12:12
Let hope keep you joyful; in trouble stand firm; persist in prayer.
2 Corinthians 9:6
Remember this -- meager sowing means meager reaping; generous sowing means generous reaping.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for making us joint heirs together with the family of believers in this wonderful eternal inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade kept in heaven for us. We gratefully claim this inheritance and await the appointed date when we will experience in full the blessings it provides. Troubles in this life diminish our hope, but rejoicing in the life yet to be revealed gives us a living hope! Help us to fix our present hope on the future return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in whose name we pray. Amen.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Monday prayer & verses (27 07 2009)
Thought for the day
Today's seed for thought is short. It's a motto going around:
ALWAYS GIVE 100% AT WORK:
12% Monday
23% Tuesday
40% Wednesday
20% Thursday
5% Friday
As much as we may hate to be reminded of it, Christians ought to allow their Christianity to affect their performance on the job. I truly believe that Christians should be the best workers an employer has. After all, can you picture anybody coming back to Jesus the carpenter complaining about shoddy workmanship? The words Paul wrote to servants in Colossae have just as much meaning to us no matter where we work:
"Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eye service, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ." (Colossians 3:22-24).
It is finished
While two visitors were visiting Annapolis, they noticed several students on their hands and knees assessing the courtyard with pencils and clipboards in hand.
"What are they doing?" one of them asked their tour guide.
"Each year," he replied with a grin, "The upperclassmen ask the freshmen how many bricks it took to finish paving this courtyard."
"So what's the answer?" one of the visitors asked the tour guide when they were out of earshot of the freshmen.
The guide replied, "One.
"That brings up an interesting theological question. How many sacrifices did it take to finish paying for our sins? The Jews would have needed lots of pencils and clipboards to make the calculation. "Let's see, let's take all the sin offerings, all the guilt offerings, the bulls, the goats, the lambs, the turtle doves......"So what's the answer?
How many sacrifices did it take to finish paying for our sins? Only one."And every priest stands ministering daily and offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God." (Heb. 10:11-12).After thousands and thousands of sacrificial animals had been sacrificed, Jesus Christ gave his own life on the cross. Only then could it be said, "It is finished." (John 19:30).
Verses
Galatians 6:9
So let us not grow tired of doing good. When the time comes, if we do not lose heart, we shall gather a good harvest.
Exodus 23:25
Worship only me, the LORD your God! I will bless you with plenty of food and water and keep you strong.
1 Corinthians 6:19
Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?
Philippians 4:6
Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart.
2 Corinthians 9:6
Remember this principle: He who sows scantily will reap scantily. He who sows generously will reap generously.
Prayer
Father, Your love is somewhat relentless but never forceful since You give to all a free will. You come to us again and again through the working of the Holy Spirit that convicts us of our sins. But that’s only the beginning, for once we respond there is the reassuring work of the Spirit that reminds us that we are no longer condemned but saved through the sacrificial death of Jesus who died in our place. We appropriate Christ’s redemptive work on our behalf and receive forgiveness of sins and eternal life in heaven. Thank You for Your marvelous provision and wondrous love on our behalf. Amen.
Today's seed for thought is short. It's a motto going around:
ALWAYS GIVE 100% AT WORK:
12% Monday
23% Tuesday
40% Wednesday
20% Thursday
5% Friday
As much as we may hate to be reminded of it, Christians ought to allow their Christianity to affect their performance on the job. I truly believe that Christians should be the best workers an employer has. After all, can you picture anybody coming back to Jesus the carpenter complaining about shoddy workmanship? The words Paul wrote to servants in Colossae have just as much meaning to us no matter where we work:
"Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eye service, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ." (Colossians 3:22-24).
It is finished
While two visitors were visiting Annapolis, they noticed several students on their hands and knees assessing the courtyard with pencils and clipboards in hand.
"What are they doing?" one of them asked their tour guide.
"Each year," he replied with a grin, "The upperclassmen ask the freshmen how many bricks it took to finish paving this courtyard."
"So what's the answer?" one of the visitors asked the tour guide when they were out of earshot of the freshmen.
The guide replied, "One.
"That brings up an interesting theological question. How many sacrifices did it take to finish paying for our sins? The Jews would have needed lots of pencils and clipboards to make the calculation. "Let's see, let's take all the sin offerings, all the guilt offerings, the bulls, the goats, the lambs, the turtle doves......"So what's the answer?
How many sacrifices did it take to finish paying for our sins? Only one."And every priest stands ministering daily and offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God." (Heb. 10:11-12).After thousands and thousands of sacrificial animals had been sacrificed, Jesus Christ gave his own life on the cross. Only then could it be said, "It is finished." (John 19:30).
Verses
Galatians 6:9
So let us not grow tired of doing good. When the time comes, if we do not lose heart, we shall gather a good harvest.
Exodus 23:25
Worship only me, the LORD your God! I will bless you with plenty of food and water and keep you strong.
1 Corinthians 6:19
Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?
Philippians 4:6
Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart.
2 Corinthians 9:6
Remember this principle: He who sows scantily will reap scantily. He who sows generously will reap generously.
Prayer
Father, Your love is somewhat relentless but never forceful since You give to all a free will. You come to us again and again through the working of the Holy Spirit that convicts us of our sins. But that’s only the beginning, for once we respond there is the reassuring work of the Spirit that reminds us that we are no longer condemned but saved through the sacrificial death of Jesus who died in our place. We appropriate Christ’s redemptive work on our behalf and receive forgiveness of sins and eternal life in heaven. Thank You for Your marvelous provision and wondrous love on our behalf. Amen.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Friday prayer & verses (24 07 2009)
Thought for the day
The boss of a big company needed to call one of his employees about an urgent problem with one of the main computers. He dialed the employee's home phone number and was greeted with a child whispering, "Hello?"
Feeling put out at the inconvenience of having to talk to a youngster,the boss asked, "Is your Daddy home?" "Yes", whispered the small voice."May I talk with him?", the man asked. To the surprise of the boss,the small voice whispered, "No."Wanting to talk with an adult, the boss asked, "Is your Mommy there?" "Yes", came the answer. "May I talk with her?" Again the small voice whispered, "No."
Knowing that it was not likely that a young child would be left home alone, the boss decided he would just leave a message with the person who should be there watching over the child."Is there anyone there besides you?", the boss asked the child. "Yes", whispered the child, "A policeman."
Wondering what an officer would be doing at his employee's home, the boss asked, "May I speak with the policeman?" "No, he's busy",whispered the child. "Busy doing what?", asked the boss. "Talking to Daddy and Mommy and the fireman", came the whispered answer.
Growing concerned and even worried as he heard a loud noise through the earpiece on the phone, the boss asked, "What is that noise?" "A hello-copper", answered the whispering voice. "What is going on there?", asked the boss, now alarmed.
In an awed voice the child answered, "The search team just landed the hello-copper!"Alarmed, concerned and more than just a little frustrated the boss asked, "Why are they there?"Still whispering, the young voice replied along with a muffled giggle,"They're looking for me!
"Reminds me of how we act toward God at times. When we have done something that we know is wrong, we sometimes, like Adam and Eve inthe Garden, try to hide from God. Not physically, of course. But we try to distance ourselves from God by neglecting worship with God's people, Bible study, prayer. We try to avoid God, hoping He won't notice.
But like the little boy in the story, we know that God is searching for us, doing everything in His power to bring us back. And even at times when I've done something I'm ashamed of, I appreciate that so much."What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them,does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it?....Or what woman, having ten coins,if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it?" (Luke 15:4,8)
Is Somebody looking for you today?
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
Faith is a confident trust in the things we hope for, and a firm belief in things that cannot be seen with our physical eyes.
1 Peter 2:24
Christ carried the burden of our sins. He was nailed to the cross, so that we would stop sinning and start living right. By his cuts and bruises you are healed.
Romans 12:2
Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould, but let God re-make you so that your whole attitude of mind is changed. Thus you will prove in practice that the will of God's good, acceptable to him and perfect.
Psalm 5:2
Give heed to the voice of my cry, My King and my God, For to You I will pray.
Proverbs 10:22
It is the blessing of the LORD that enriches, And no toil can increase it.
Prayer
Father, You bless those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. The sweetness of Your Word is like honey in our mouth that reminds us of Your faithfulness, Your goodness and Your mercy that overflows into our lives as You forgive us of our sins and provide us with an abundant life. Your Words are a sweet savor to our soul as we walk obediently according to Your Word. Amen
The boss of a big company needed to call one of his employees about an urgent problem with one of the main computers. He dialed the employee's home phone number and was greeted with a child whispering, "Hello?"
Feeling put out at the inconvenience of having to talk to a youngster,the boss asked, "Is your Daddy home?" "Yes", whispered the small voice."May I talk with him?", the man asked. To the surprise of the boss,the small voice whispered, "No."Wanting to talk with an adult, the boss asked, "Is your Mommy there?" "Yes", came the answer. "May I talk with her?" Again the small voice whispered, "No."
Knowing that it was not likely that a young child would be left home alone, the boss decided he would just leave a message with the person who should be there watching over the child."Is there anyone there besides you?", the boss asked the child. "Yes", whispered the child, "A policeman."
Wondering what an officer would be doing at his employee's home, the boss asked, "May I speak with the policeman?" "No, he's busy",whispered the child. "Busy doing what?", asked the boss. "Talking to Daddy and Mommy and the fireman", came the whispered answer.
Growing concerned and even worried as he heard a loud noise through the earpiece on the phone, the boss asked, "What is that noise?" "A hello-copper", answered the whispering voice. "What is going on there?", asked the boss, now alarmed.
In an awed voice the child answered, "The search team just landed the hello-copper!"Alarmed, concerned and more than just a little frustrated the boss asked, "Why are they there?"Still whispering, the young voice replied along with a muffled giggle,"They're looking for me!
"Reminds me of how we act toward God at times. When we have done something that we know is wrong, we sometimes, like Adam and Eve inthe Garden, try to hide from God. Not physically, of course. But we try to distance ourselves from God by neglecting worship with God's people, Bible study, prayer. We try to avoid God, hoping He won't notice.
But like the little boy in the story, we know that God is searching for us, doing everything in His power to bring us back. And even at times when I've done something I'm ashamed of, I appreciate that so much."What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them,does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it?....Or what woman, having ten coins,if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it?" (Luke 15:4,8)
Is Somebody looking for you today?
Verses
Hebrews 11:1
Faith is a confident trust in the things we hope for, and a firm belief in things that cannot be seen with our physical eyes.
1 Peter 2:24
Christ carried the burden of our sins. He was nailed to the cross, so that we would stop sinning and start living right. By his cuts and bruises you are healed.
Romans 12:2
Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould, but let God re-make you so that your whole attitude of mind is changed. Thus you will prove in practice that the will of God's good, acceptable to him and perfect.
Psalm 5:2
Give heed to the voice of my cry, My King and my God, For to You I will pray.
Proverbs 10:22
It is the blessing of the LORD that enriches, And no toil can increase it.
Prayer
Father, You bless those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. The sweetness of Your Word is like honey in our mouth that reminds us of Your faithfulness, Your goodness and Your mercy that overflows into our lives as You forgive us of our sins and provide us with an abundant life. Your Words are a sweet savor to our soul as we walk obediently according to Your Word. Amen
Thursday prayer & verses (24 07 2009)
Thought for the day
The following excuses have been suggested if you get caught sleeping on the job:
"They told me at the blood bank this might happen."
"This is just a 15-minute power nap like they raved about in that time-management course you sent me to."
"Whew! I must have left the top off the liquid paper."
"I wasn't sleeping! I was meditating on the mission statement and envisioning a new paradigm!"
"This is in exchange for the six hours last night when I dreamed about work!"
"Just pacing myself for the all-nighter tonight!"
"Someone must have put decaf in the wrong pot."
"Boy, that cold medicine I took last night just won't wear off!"
"Ah, the unique and unpredictable circadian rhythms of the workaholic!"
"I'm sorry, I thought you (the boss) were gone for the day."
"Oh, man! Come in at 6 in the morning and look what happens!"
"...and I especially thank you for my excellent boss, Amen!"
There's nothing wrong with sleeping. It's just that there's a proper time to do it and an improper time. The term "sleep" is sometimes used in the New Testament as a euphemism for death, but it is also used at times to describe our inactivity, our failure to live for the Lord. Listen to this admonition from Paul:"....It is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light." (Romans 13:11-12).
Have a great day (and try to stay awake)!
Verses
Romans 4:21
He was fully convinced God could do what He promised.
Acts 5:16
Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed.
John 14:24
He that does not love me neglects my words. Yet the word you hear is not my own but that of the Father who sent me.
Psalm 5:2
Give heed to the voice of my cry, My King and my God, For to You I will pray.
2 Corinthians 9:10
It is God Who gives seed to the man to plant. He also gives the bread to eat. Then we know He will give you more seed to plant and make it grow so you will have more to give away.
Prayer
Father, we pray for those in positions of power that they would realize where their power comes from and give You the glory and honor due Your name. We pray for leaders whose attitudes and actions may not reflect those of Herod, Pilate or Nebuchadnezzar who became proud and abusive with the authority entrusted to them. May they come to realize that any power we have on this earth is given to us by You and that we will give account for how we use it. Let it be used for good to bless and enrich others, not to endanger or deprive them of the blessings You have in mind from those You have empowered to do good. Above all we want to honor You and give You the glory for anything done through us, for we in ourselves are powerless. Amen.
The following excuses have been suggested if you get caught sleeping on the job:
"They told me at the blood bank this might happen."
"This is just a 15-minute power nap like they raved about in that time-management course you sent me to."
"Whew! I must have left the top off the liquid paper."
"I wasn't sleeping! I was meditating on the mission statement and envisioning a new paradigm!"
"This is in exchange for the six hours last night when I dreamed about work!"
"Just pacing myself for the all-nighter tonight!"
"Someone must have put decaf in the wrong pot."
"Boy, that cold medicine I took last night just won't wear off!"
"Ah, the unique and unpredictable circadian rhythms of the workaholic!"
"I'm sorry, I thought you (the boss) were gone for the day."
"Oh, man! Come in at 6 in the morning and look what happens!"
"...and I especially thank you for my excellent boss, Amen!"
There's nothing wrong with sleeping. It's just that there's a proper time to do it and an improper time. The term "sleep" is sometimes used in the New Testament as a euphemism for death, but it is also used at times to describe our inactivity, our failure to live for the Lord. Listen to this admonition from Paul:"....It is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light." (Romans 13:11-12).
Have a great day (and try to stay awake)!
Verses
Romans 4:21
He was fully convinced God could do what He promised.
Acts 5:16
Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed.
John 14:24
He that does not love me neglects my words. Yet the word you hear is not my own but that of the Father who sent me.
Psalm 5:2
Give heed to the voice of my cry, My King and my God, For to You I will pray.
2 Corinthians 9:10
It is God Who gives seed to the man to plant. He also gives the bread to eat. Then we know He will give you more seed to plant and make it grow so you will have more to give away.
Prayer
Father, we pray for those in positions of power that they would realize where their power comes from and give You the glory and honor due Your name. We pray for leaders whose attitudes and actions may not reflect those of Herod, Pilate or Nebuchadnezzar who became proud and abusive with the authority entrusted to them. May they come to realize that any power we have on this earth is given to us by You and that we will give account for how we use it. Let it be used for good to bless and enrich others, not to endanger or deprive them of the blessings You have in mind from those You have empowered to do good. Above all we want to honor You and give You the glory for anything done through us, for we in ourselves are powerless. Amen.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Father, I invite your Favor
Father, I invite Your Favor! (Pastor Riaan du Toit)
It is of utmost importance that the children of God experience favor and prosperity. Yes I know that a lot has been said about prosperity and the rest. However, it’s impossible for any vision to be fulfilled unless there is PROVISION for such.
I took out a few scriptures on favor that we pray over our church and the people. I thought that this would really bless you the moment you start praying them.
So please make a printout of these and pray them in the morning, lunch time or whenever you have a quiet moment.
NUMBERS 6:25 The Lord make His face to shine upon and enlighten you and be gracious (kind, merciful, and giving favor) to you;
- Father, thank you for giving me favor!
1 CORINTHIANS 2:12 Now we have not received the spirit [that belongs to] the world, but the [Holy] Spirit Who is from God, [given to us] that we might realize and comprehend and appreciate the gifts [of divine favor and blessing so freely and lavishly] bestowed on us by God.
- Father I appreciate the gift of divine favor.
2 CORINTHIANS 5:20 So we are Christ's ambassadors, God making His appeal as it were through us. We [as Christ's personal representatives] beg you for His sake to lay hold of the divine favor [now offered you] and be reconciled to God.
- Father, help me to lay hold of the divine favor offered.
1 SAMUEL 2:26 Now the boy Samuel grew and was in favor both with the Lord and with men.
- Father, thank you that I have favor with God and favor with man!
PSALM 90:17 And let the beauty and delightfulness and favor of the Lord our God be upon us; confirm and establish the work of our hands--yes, the work of our hands, confirm and establish it.
- Father, let Your favor now be upon me!
- Father, now that we have Your favor please confirm and establish the work of our hands!
PSALM 5:12 For You, Lord, will bless the [uncompromisingly] righteous [him who is upright and in right standing with You]; as with a shield You will surround him with goodwill (pleasure and favor).
- Father thank you for surrounding me with favor, goodwill and pleasure!
- Father, I invite them as my shield!
PROVERBS 16:15 In the light of the king's countenance is life, and his favor is as acloud bringing the spring rain.
- Father, I receive the light of my Kings countenance producing life!
- Father, I receive Your favor as a cloud bringing my rain!
- Father, the drought in my life is broken today!
ISAIAH 48:17 Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: I am theLord your God, Who teaches you to profit, Who leads you in the way that you should go.
- Father, teach me to profit!
PROVERBS 13:22 A good man leaves an inheritance [of moral stability andgoodness] to his children's children, and the wealth of the sinner [finds its way eventually] intothe hands of the righteous, for whom it was laid up.
- Father, the wealth that sinners are storing up will find it's way into my hands now!
2 CORINTHIANS 9:6-8 [Remember] this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings.
2 CORINTHIANS 9:7 Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, ``prompt to do it") giver [whose heart is in his giving]. [Prov. 22:9.]
2 CORINTHIANS 9:8 And God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation].
- Father, enable me to reap generously and with blessings!
- Father, touch my heart that I may be a giver without whom You will not do!
- Father, make all grace, every favor and earthly blessing come to me in abundance!
- Father, make me self-sufficient under all circumstances and whatever the need may be!
- Father, cause me to possess enough to require no aid or support!
- Father, cause me to have enough for any offering and donation You may require of me!
PSALM 84:11 For the Lord God is a Sun and Shield; the Lord bestows [present] graceand favor and [future] glory (honor, splendor, and heavenly bliss)! No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
- Father, thank you for giving me present grace, favor and future glory with heavenly bliss!
- Father, no good thing will you withhold from me and I receive every good thing coming to me now!
PSALM 30:5 For His anger is but for a moment, but His favor is for a lifetime or in His favor is life. Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.
- Father, Your favor is for a lifetime so never let it be removed from me!
- Father, in Your favor is life and I take it!
PSALM 145:16 You open Your hand and satisfy every living thing with favor.
- Father, open Your hand and satisfy me with Your favor!
JOHN 1:16 For out of His fullness (abundance) we have all received [all had a share and we were all supplied with] one grace after another and spiritual blessing upon spiritual blessing and even favor upon favor and gift [heaped] upon gift.
- Father, thank You for fullness and abundance!
- Father, thank You for grace heaped upon grace in my life!
- Father, thank You for blessing heaped upon blessing in my life!
- Father, thank You for favor heaped upon favor in my life!
- Father , thank You for gift heaped upon gift in my life!
- It's my time and season to reap these because of favor!
It is of utmost importance that the children of God experience favor and prosperity. Yes I know that a lot has been said about prosperity and the rest. However, it’s impossible for any vision to be fulfilled unless there is PROVISION for such.
I took out a few scriptures on favor that we pray over our church and the people. I thought that this would really bless you the moment you start praying them.
So please make a printout of these and pray them in the morning, lunch time or whenever you have a quiet moment.
NUMBERS 6:25 The Lord make His face to shine upon and enlighten you and be gracious (kind, merciful, and giving favor) to you;
- Father, thank you for giving me favor!
1 CORINTHIANS 2:12 Now we have not received the spirit [that belongs to] the world, but the [Holy] Spirit Who is from God, [given to us] that we might realize and comprehend and appreciate the gifts [of divine favor and blessing so freely and lavishly] bestowed on us by God.
- Father I appreciate the gift of divine favor.
2 CORINTHIANS 5:20 So we are Christ's ambassadors, God making His appeal as it were through us. We [as Christ's personal representatives] beg you for His sake to lay hold of the divine favor [now offered you] and be reconciled to God.
- Father, help me to lay hold of the divine favor offered.
1 SAMUEL 2:26 Now the boy Samuel grew and was in favor both with the Lord and with men.
- Father, thank you that I have favor with God and favor with man!
PSALM 90:17 And let the beauty and delightfulness and favor of the Lord our God be upon us; confirm and establish the work of our hands--yes, the work of our hands, confirm and establish it.
- Father, let Your favor now be upon me!
- Father, now that we have Your favor please confirm and establish the work of our hands!
PSALM 5:12 For You, Lord, will bless the [uncompromisingly] righteous [him who is upright and in right standing with You]; as with a shield You will surround him with goodwill (pleasure and favor).
- Father thank you for surrounding me with favor, goodwill and pleasure!
- Father, I invite them as my shield!
PROVERBS 16:15 In the light of the king's countenance is life, and his favor is as acloud bringing the spring rain.
- Father, I receive the light of my Kings countenance producing life!
- Father, I receive Your favor as a cloud bringing my rain!
- Father, the drought in my life is broken today!
ISAIAH 48:17 Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: I am theLord your God, Who teaches you to profit, Who leads you in the way that you should go.
- Father, teach me to profit!
PROVERBS 13:22 A good man leaves an inheritance [of moral stability andgoodness] to his children's children, and the wealth of the sinner [finds its way eventually] intothe hands of the righteous, for whom it was laid up.
- Father, the wealth that sinners are storing up will find it's way into my hands now!
2 CORINTHIANS 9:6-8 [Remember] this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings.
2 CORINTHIANS 9:7 Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, ``prompt to do it") giver [whose heart is in his giving]. [Prov. 22:9.]
2 CORINTHIANS 9:8 And God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation].
- Father, enable me to reap generously and with blessings!
- Father, touch my heart that I may be a giver without whom You will not do!
- Father, make all grace, every favor and earthly blessing come to me in abundance!
- Father, make me self-sufficient under all circumstances and whatever the need may be!
- Father, cause me to possess enough to require no aid or support!
- Father, cause me to have enough for any offering and donation You may require of me!
PSALM 84:11 For the Lord God is a Sun and Shield; the Lord bestows [present] graceand favor and [future] glory (honor, splendor, and heavenly bliss)! No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
- Father, thank you for giving me present grace, favor and future glory with heavenly bliss!
- Father, no good thing will you withhold from me and I receive every good thing coming to me now!
PSALM 30:5 For His anger is but for a moment, but His favor is for a lifetime or in His favor is life. Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.
- Father, Your favor is for a lifetime so never let it be removed from me!
- Father, in Your favor is life and I take it!
PSALM 145:16 You open Your hand and satisfy every living thing with favor.
- Father, open Your hand and satisfy me with Your favor!
JOHN 1:16 For out of His fullness (abundance) we have all received [all had a share and we were all supplied with] one grace after another and spiritual blessing upon spiritual blessing and even favor upon favor and gift [heaped] upon gift.
- Father, thank You for fullness and abundance!
- Father, thank You for grace heaped upon grace in my life!
- Father, thank You for blessing heaped upon blessing in my life!
- Father, thank You for favor heaped upon favor in my life!
- Father , thank You for gift heaped upon gift in my life!
- It's my time and season to reap these because of favor!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)