admin
10-25-2007, 07:39 PM
If we feel tired or far from God, we could take a spiritual holiday; separate ourselves from our daily routine and concentrate on renewing our commitment to God.
When we put our cares into God's hands, He puts His peace into our hearts.
If we have everything else but God, we don't have much at all.
If we know God, why not introduce Him to others.
If we make ourselves available, God will make us useable.
When praying, don't give God instructions--just report for duty.
Instead of worrying, pray.
God offers us a fresh start every day.
************************************************** *********
ASK
I recently heard John Eldridge (author of Sacred Romance, Wild At Heart, Waking the Dead, and other works) speak to a large group of counselors. His message was simple: Ask. Specifically, ask God. Before you assume you know what to do in a certain situation, ask God. Before you assume you know what that person sitting across from is thinking and feeling, ask God. Before you assume you know what your next step in treatment will be, ask God.
Good advice for counselors. Good advice for normal people too.
For instance, before you tear into your teenager because it appears they have been disobedient, ask God to help you respond to this child you love with all your heart in the way He wants you to respond.
Before you rush into the office ready to express how unhappy you are in the work place, ask God how He wants you to speak to your boss. Ask God what He wants you to say. Ask God to show you what your boss needs from you.
Before you make a rash decision in your anger and frustration. Ask God to help you calm down, ask God to remind you of times when you angered and frustrated other people.
Before you fuss at the lady behind the desk ask God to remind you of times when people have shown you patience. Ask God remind you what patience looks like.
Before you quit ask God what He wants you to do.
Before you change jobs ask God what He wants.
Before you get married ask God who He wants you to marry.
Before you file for divorce ask God what He can do.
Before you lose your temper ask God how He would have you respond.
Before you treat someone with unkindness ask God to give you new words.
Before you tell someone how to run their life ask God to give you the words, or ask Him close your mouth.
Before you assume you know how you should handle the difficult situation ask God to tell you how He wants you to handle the situation.
Before you assume you know all there is to know about all there is to know ask God.
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. "Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." (Matt 7:7-12 NIV)
Before you go too far into the day ask God. --Tom
************************************************** *********
A REMINDER TO BE MINDFUL OF GOD
You never know when or where God will remind you of an important truth. A recent chance encounter at a hotel continental breakfast bar reminded me of God's passion to teach us. It reminded me of the need to be mindful of Him.
Our family was traveling back to Kingsport recently when my son and I met a kind retiree from Oklahoma. Coincidentally, she too who was on her way to Kingsport, to visit a daughter and family.
By the way, it is said that a "coincidence" is when God chooses to work anonymously. Lucky for us - yes, that was a joke- He does this often.
Having noticed that she looked Hispanic or Native American and that she had on a shirt saying "Mexico," I asked if she was Mexican or Cherokee. She was in fact first generation Mexican American and she then relayed an interesting life development.
Our new friend told how she used to think in Spanish as well as she could in English. But, in the past few years, she has noticed that skill slipping. At a recent reception, she was able to speak to someone in Spanish. Yet, much to her chagrin, she got stuck in efforts to communicate.
Having no one to speak Spanish to on a regular basis has made it harder to think in Spanish as easily as she used to. What used to be natural to her now takes effort due to lack of practice, less use.
Hmmm... With a long drive ahead and being a person prone to parabolize, apt to allegorize, this got me to thinking about my thinking. (I will not be offended if you need to re read that sentence.) How fluent do I stay in thinking about God, His word, His truths, His will and ways?
Can I, with Willie Nelson, sing to my sweet Lord, "You were always on my mind?" Being on the road again, I could not outlaw that line of thinking.
How consistently do I meditate on Him, His word, mulling Him over? How well do I think biblically? Have my skills and habits of thinking in God's language - the Bible - stayed strong or have they slipped?
As God's people, we have a dual citizenship, know a second language - His. We are to love God with all our minds, as well as our hearts, soul and strength. A lack of use of our language of re-birth can lead to one dimensional living and thinking - a life that is too earthy (see Psalm 1).
To my new friend, I say "mucho gusto, mucho gracias mi amiga y Dios Te bendaga." "Good to meet you, thank you very much my friend and God bless you!" I hope you are duly impressed, that is half of my Spanish. And, yes, I had it double checked!
To my Lord, who has provided cleaner, clearer thoughts for us to think, I say thank you for the reminder. Feel free to keep me mindful to keep you in mind.
"Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits at God's right hand in the place of honor and power. Let heaven fill your thoughts. Do not think only about things down here on earth. For you died when Christ died, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God." Colossians 3:1-3 (NLT)
"And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise." Philippians 4:8 (NLT)
"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success." Joshua 1:8 (NKJV) --Rev. Kerry S. Doyal
************************************************** *********
WHAT'S IN THE HEART MAKES THE DIFFERENCE!
You see it everyday, death, dishonesty, distrust, thievery, extortion and the list could go on and on. We blame society, we blame the entertainment world, we blame bad parents, and bad politicians and sometimes bad religious leaders. We can put the blame for our world just about anywhere we want, but bottom line is that we can't use that as an excuse for not living right ourselves. It's what's inside our hearts that makes a difference and makes us different from so many in our world. We can look around us and see only the bad and let that pull us down, but that is not all that is in the world. I love the following little TRUE story that illustrates that there is still some good in our world.
"Pulling into my service station 45 minutes late one morning, I shouted to the customers, 'I'll turn the pumps on right away!' What I didn't know was that the night crew had left them on all night. By the time I got to the office, most of the cars had filled up and driven off. Only one customer stayed to pay. My heart sank. Then the customer pulled a wad of cash from his pocket and handed it to me. 'We kept passing the money to the last guy,' he said. 'We figured you'd get here sooner or later.'" (All In a Day's Work, by Jim Novak, Readers Digest).
Why would people act like that, when it wouldn't even occur to a part of our world? It's really fairly simple. Notice what Jesus said about us in Matthew 12:35. He was talking about the words that come out of peoples mouths and gave this reasoning: "The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him".
We need to be working on building up a store house of "good things" in our lives. We need to work doubly hard to store up "good things" in the lives of our children, our spouses, our families and our friends. We need to concentrate on how we influence those around us, because one day it might be us who leaves on the gas pump (figuratively). How will those around us respond to us when that happens?
When our sons were teenagers and wanted to go out with their friends I would remind them before they left, "remember whose son you are". They didn't care much for me doing that, because it put the responsibility for the family name upon their shoulders. That doesn't mean that they never got into any trouble, but at least nothing serious. I was trying to plant the seed of understanding in their hearts, that we ARE responsible for who we are and what we do.
You see in the end of things, it is each of us as individuals that will be held responsible for our words and actions. In Hebrews 4:12 we're told, "For the word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we really are".
Being exposed "for what we really are"; WOW, that's kind of frightening isn't it, none of us wants everyone to know our thoughts, our weaknesses our desires! Yet, that is exactly what happens when we expose our lives to the light of the Word of God. Do you want to clear out the garbage in your life? Do you want to be a better person? Do you want to make better decisions? Do you want to get rid of fear?
Then begin exposing your heart, your mind to the Word of God on a regular basis and it will change who you are! After all, it's what is in your heart that makes the difference! You will no longer have to make hard choices; they will already be made for you, because you will know the right thing to do! You will no longer need to remember what you said (to keep the story straight), because you will always be speaking the truth. Someone once said, "Make sure all of your words are sweet, because, someday you may have to eat them!" Remember, it's what is inside that makes the difference! --Russ Lawson
************************************************** *********
ONE THING TO REMEMBER
My eternally young soul is having problems with my rapidly aging body again. This time it is old Mr. Brain. It seems like this guy can't go a day without forgetting at least one thing. He keeps rechecking the appointment calendar and shopping list over and over. He takes my body into a room and then has to stop and remember why he is there. He remembers my first day of kindergarten, but forgets what someone said 5 minutes ago. Maybe he is just getting a little tired after all these years or maybe he just has too much to remember every single day. Either way my soul laughs when he forgets and tries to help him along. My soul knows that the only thing we really have to remember is to just love.
If we all can remember to just love then we will be living the way we were meant to live. If we all can remember to just love then we will be doing what God wants us to do. If we all can remember to just love then it will not matter how many times we forget to dust or buy a loaf of bread. Jesus gave his disciples this one command to remember: "Love each other." It truly is the only thing we need to do to live a blessed life in this world.
So many of us spend our lives in a flurry of activities better off forgotten. We are constantly working, spending, and doing so many things just trying to fill the hole within our hearts. It doesn't work, though. It is like throwing pebbles in the Grand Canyon. Only love can fill that hole. Only love can make us whole. Only love can bring us back to oneness with God.
Remember to just love then. It is what we are here for. It is what we are made for. Choose love, share love, and grow in love everyday of your life. It is your love that will remind you what is truly important in this life. It is your love that will remind you how to help others and make this world a better place. It is your love that will remind you who you truly are. --Joseph J. Mazzella
************************************************** *********
PRACTICING THE PRESENCE
How do I live in God’s presence? How do I detect his unseen hand on my shoulder and his inaudible voice in my ear? A sheep grows familiar with the voice of the shepherd. How can you and I grow familiar with the voice of God? Here are a few ideas: Give God your waking thoughts. Before you face the day, face the Father. Before you step out of bed, step into his presence. I have a friend who makes it a habit to roll out of his bed onto his knees and begin his day in prayer. Personally, I don’t get that far. With my head still on the pillow and my eyes still closed, I offer God the first seconds of my day. The prayer is not lengthy and far from formal. Depending on how much sleep I got, it may not even be intelligible. Often it’s nothing more than “Thank you for a night’s rest. I belong to you today.”
Give God your waiting thoughts. Spend time with him in silence. The mature married couple has learned the treasure of shared silence; they don’t need to fill the air with constant chatter. Just being together is sufficient. Try being silent with God. “Be still, and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10 niv). Awareness of God is a fruit of stillness before God.
Give God your whispering thoughts. Through the centuries people have learned the value of brief sentence prayers, prayers that can be whispered anywhere, in any setting.
Imagine considering every moment as a potential time of communion with God. By giving God your whispering thoughts, the common becomes uncommon. Simple phrases such as “Thank you, Father,” “Be sovereign in this hour, O Lord,” “You are my resting place, Jesus” can turn a commute into a pilgrimage. You needn’t leave your office or kneel in your kitchen. Just pray where you are. Let the kitchen become a cathedral or the classroom a chapel. Give God your whispering thoughts.
And last, give God your waning thoughts. At the end of the day, let your mind settle on him. Conclude the day as you began it: talking to God. Thank him for the good parts. Question him about the hard parts. Seek his mercy. Seek his strength. And as you close your eyes, take assurance in the promise: “He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep” (Ps. 121:4 niv). If you fall asleep as you pray, don’t worry. What better place to doze off than in the arms of your Father. --Max Lucado
************************************************** *********
COMFORT BEAR
Here is a gift idea that said it would be good for someone in a nursing home, but it would be good for anyone who needs a little comforting.
Stuffed bear
following poem
patch work material or flannel shirt to make a blanket
Glue the poem on the material (blanket) and attach to bear.
I'M YOUR COMFORT BEAR
I'm not a very fancy bear.
I'm plain and rather small.
Even so, someone who likes you
Said that I should come to call.
Hide me underneath your pillow
Or set me on a nearby shelf,
And when you get discouraged
I will do my best to help.
I brought my favorite blanket
That I snuggle when I'm sad.
It's a present from my granny,
Made for days when things seem bad.
My granny always told me,
"Life is like a patchwork quilt,
just give Jesus all the pieces
and he'll make a pretty quilt."
Sometimes I don't see the pattern.
Sometimes He seems far away,
Then I clutch my favorite blanket
And I pray...and pray...and pray.
Though I don't have all the answers
(for I'm just a "Comfort Bear"),
I've been sent on a mission
From someone who really cares.
When you see me, please remember
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
--Author Unknown
************************************************** *********
Small Straws In A Soft Wind by Marsha Burns
Be aware that you may be seduced by numerous distractions that would be unproductive, a waste of time, energy and resources. Be alert and stay focused in order to avoid any level of dissipation. This is a time of restoration, of conservation, of preservation and of gathering. It is not a time to allow distractions to cause you to be scattered or to be spread too thin. Quiet your soul when temptations come and judge the outcome of your decisions. Be strong and resolute, says the Lord.
1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.
Now is the time to take command of the situations that you have fallen victim to. Have you forgotten that I have given you authority over all of the powers of darkness arrayed against you? Rise up and forbid the enemy to undermine your faith or to wreak havoc or bring destruction. Take your position as a warrior and speak to your mountain of trouble. Whatever you prohibit on earth is prohibited in the spirit realm, and whatever you allow on earth is allowed in the spirit. Pull yourself up to the full measure of the faith that I have given you and make your declarations. Proclaim victory by My Spirit, says the Lord.
Matthew 16:19 "And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven."
The enemy is on the rampage and is trying to find open doors by activating your flesh to create contention and division. Refuse to entertain this antichrist spirit. Do not yield to this attack even for a moment. Stand strong in unity and refuse to allow the devil to use you as a pawn in his strategy to bring ruin. Let love reign and be the force that overcomes. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good, says the Lord.
1 Peter 4:8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins."
Beloved, don't take anything for granted. Things are not as they seem. Hide yourself in the safety of My presence, and be alert to My instruction. Listen for My voice to give direction and to guide you through this unsettling time. Guard against becoming afraid, and establish yourself in the faith that I will hide you under the shadow of My wings. I am your refuge and your place of protection from danger and distress. Be at peace, says the Lord.
Psalm 17:8-13 Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me under the shadow of Your wings, from the wicked who oppress me, from my deadly enemies who surround me. They have closed up their fat hearts; with their mouths they speak proudly. They have now surrounded us in our steps; they have set their eyes, crouching down to the earth, as a lion is eager to tear his prey, and like a young lion lurking in secret places. Arise, O LORD, confront him, cast him down; deliver my life from the wicked with Your sword.
Bring the questions on your heart to Me, for I will hear and give you the wisdom that you are longing for. Ask and it will be given; seek and you will find; knock and the door will open. I will not lead you astray. I will speak the truth in love so that even hard answers to difficult questions will be easy for you to receive. Do not be afraid that I will turn you away or cause you any injury. You are My child, and I will never abandon you, says the Lord. Trust Me to bring the light you need in this place of darkness.
James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.
************************************************** *********
God's Compassion
When the storm around me rages and my heart is filled with pain and fear;
I call upon my heavenly Father for I know that He is always near!
He brings me peace and comfort until the storm is past;
He shelters me within His arms and I know that I am safe at last!
He never will forsake me to face these storms alone;
He's my light in all the darkness and on me His light is shone!
Should I begin to stumble and falter from the blast;
I reach out to my Father and to Him I can hold fast!
My friend if you have been caught up in a storm that's raging wild;
Just call upon your Father who has claimed you as His child!
He'll not let you be defeated He's the light that shines for you;
In the darkness of the storms that come He'll be there to bring you through!
Just keep your eyes focused on His loving face; All of your fears and doubts He will erase.
Follow Him closely and you'll receive in abundance His love, His mercy, and His grace!
--Helen Johnson
************************************************** *********
Walking With Jesus
Lord my world is hectic,
Filled with stress everyday,
I would never make it,
Without you leading the way.
You pick me up when I am down,
You lift my spirit to the heights,
You renew me Lord in all ways,
From early morn through the nights.
Your love is my foundation,
Your blessings form a wall,
You are forever close to me,
Answering each time I call.
Each step I take Lord Jesus,
Depends solely upon you,
You are my Lord and Master,
With you Lord, I'll make it thru.
I know you are with me,
I feel your presence always,
I close my eyes and thank you,
You are the anchor that stays.
Oh Lord I am not worthy,
Of all the blessing you send,
Yet you are always beside,
Through life together we wend.
If I could but touch your garment,
Wash the dust from your feet,
I give you praise my sweet Jesus,
One day your face I'll greet.
Until that time dear Father,
I will journey here below,
You have your hand upon me,
Guiding each path I go.
--Gayle Davis October 30, 2004
************************************************** *********
In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. John 14:2
Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground. Psalm 143:10
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:17-18
Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6
Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Matthew 6:26
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24
************************************************** *********
COME HOME
Wandering child.
I am here.
I am near.
I speak.
Do you listen?
Arms open wide,
I wait,
I call,
I woo,
I weep.
No matter how far you run,
How high you climb,
How low you sink,
I do not change,
Nor does My love for you.
Return today.
Heed the Shepherd's voice.
Come home, My child.
Come home.
--Robin Lee Hatcher
************************************************** *********
Dear Lord, Gather and center us in your light so that we can rejoice at the start of each new day. Thank you for each day of life you give us on earth and for the eternal life that will be ours in heaven. We trust that we will rest eternally in the comfort of your embrace. Amen.
************************************************** *********
Read Through The Bible
Exodus 3
Moses and the Burning Bush
1 Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian, and he led the flock to the far side of the desert and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. 2 There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up. 3 So Moses thought, "I will go over and see this strange sight—why the bush does not burn up." 4 When the LORD saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, "Moses! Moses!" And Moses said, "Here I am." 5 "Do not come any closer," God said. "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground." 6 Then he said, "I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob." At this, Moses hid his face, because he was afraid to look at God. 7 The LORD said, "I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. 8 So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey—the home of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites. 9 And now the cry of the Israelites has reached me, and I have seen the way the Egyptians are oppressing them. 10 So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt." 11 But Moses said to God, "Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" 12 And God said, "I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain." 13 Moses said to God, "Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, 'The God of your fathers has sent me to you,' and they ask me, 'What is his name?' Then what shall I tell them?" 14 God said to Moses, "I am who I am . This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.' " 15 God also said to Moses, "Say to the Israelites, 'The LORD, the God of your fathers—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob—has sent me to you.' This is my name forever, the name by which I am to be remembered from generation to generation. 16 "Go, assemble the elders of Israel and say to them, 'The LORD, the God of your fathers—the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob—appeared to me and said: I have watched over you and have seen what has been done to you in Egypt. 17 And I have promised to bring you up out of your misery in Egypt into the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites—a land flowing with milk and honey.' 18 "The elders of Israel will listen to you. Then you and the elders are to go to the king of Egypt and say to him, 'The LORD, the God of the Hebrews, has met with us. Let us take a three-day journey into the desert to offer sacrifices to the LORD our God.' 19 But I know that the king of Egypt will not let you go unless a mighty hand compels him. 20 So I will stretch out my hand and strike the Egyptians with all the wonders that I will perform among them. After that, he will let you go. 21 "And I will make the Egyptians favorably disposed toward this people, so that when you leave you will not go empty-handed. 22 Every woman is to ask her neighbor and any woman living in her house for articles of silver and gold and for clothing, which you will put on your sons and daughters. And so you will plunder the Egyptians."
************************************************** *********
We thank you, God, that you gave the great gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, that through him we might have eternal life. Help us to give the best we have to you and to our neighbors. Amen.
Wherever you are in life, whatever you've done, you can begin again. If you do not have Jesus in your life and wish to ask Jesus into your life please go to this link now to do so: http://www.cyberrecovery.net/forums/showthread.php?t=95 . Jesus is calling you to live a life that matters.
When we put our cares into God's hands, He puts His peace into our hearts.
If we have everything else but God, we don't have much at all.
If we know God, why not introduce Him to others.
If we make ourselves available, God will make us useable.
When praying, don't give God instructions--just report for duty.
Instead of worrying, pray.
God offers us a fresh start every day.
************************************************** *********
ASK
I recently heard John Eldridge (author of Sacred Romance, Wild At Heart, Waking the Dead, and other works) speak to a large group of counselors. His message was simple: Ask. Specifically, ask God. Before you assume you know what to do in a certain situation, ask God. Before you assume you know what that person sitting across from is thinking and feeling, ask God. Before you assume you know what your next step in treatment will be, ask God.
Good advice for counselors. Good advice for normal people too.
For instance, before you tear into your teenager because it appears they have been disobedient, ask God to help you respond to this child you love with all your heart in the way He wants you to respond.
Before you rush into the office ready to express how unhappy you are in the work place, ask God how He wants you to speak to your boss. Ask God what He wants you to say. Ask God to show you what your boss needs from you.
Before you make a rash decision in your anger and frustration. Ask God to help you calm down, ask God to remind you of times when you angered and frustrated other people.
Before you fuss at the lady behind the desk ask God to remind you of times when people have shown you patience. Ask God remind you what patience looks like.
Before you quit ask God what He wants you to do.
Before you change jobs ask God what He wants.
Before you get married ask God who He wants you to marry.
Before you file for divorce ask God what He can do.
Before you lose your temper ask God how He would have you respond.
Before you treat someone with unkindness ask God to give you new words.
Before you tell someone how to run their life ask God to give you the words, or ask Him close your mouth.
Before you assume you know how you should handle the difficult situation ask God to tell you how He wants you to handle the situation.
Before you assume you know all there is to know about all there is to know ask God.
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. "Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." (Matt 7:7-12 NIV)
Before you go too far into the day ask God. --Tom
************************************************** *********
A REMINDER TO BE MINDFUL OF GOD
You never know when or where God will remind you of an important truth. A recent chance encounter at a hotel continental breakfast bar reminded me of God's passion to teach us. It reminded me of the need to be mindful of Him.
Our family was traveling back to Kingsport recently when my son and I met a kind retiree from Oklahoma. Coincidentally, she too who was on her way to Kingsport, to visit a daughter and family.
By the way, it is said that a "coincidence" is when God chooses to work anonymously. Lucky for us - yes, that was a joke- He does this often.
Having noticed that she looked Hispanic or Native American and that she had on a shirt saying "Mexico," I asked if she was Mexican or Cherokee. She was in fact first generation Mexican American and she then relayed an interesting life development.
Our new friend told how she used to think in Spanish as well as she could in English. But, in the past few years, she has noticed that skill slipping. At a recent reception, she was able to speak to someone in Spanish. Yet, much to her chagrin, she got stuck in efforts to communicate.
Having no one to speak Spanish to on a regular basis has made it harder to think in Spanish as easily as she used to. What used to be natural to her now takes effort due to lack of practice, less use.
Hmmm... With a long drive ahead and being a person prone to parabolize, apt to allegorize, this got me to thinking about my thinking. (I will not be offended if you need to re read that sentence.) How fluent do I stay in thinking about God, His word, His truths, His will and ways?
Can I, with Willie Nelson, sing to my sweet Lord, "You were always on my mind?" Being on the road again, I could not outlaw that line of thinking.
How consistently do I meditate on Him, His word, mulling Him over? How well do I think biblically? Have my skills and habits of thinking in God's language - the Bible - stayed strong or have they slipped?
As God's people, we have a dual citizenship, know a second language - His. We are to love God with all our minds, as well as our hearts, soul and strength. A lack of use of our language of re-birth can lead to one dimensional living and thinking - a life that is too earthy (see Psalm 1).
To my new friend, I say "mucho gusto, mucho gracias mi amiga y Dios Te bendaga." "Good to meet you, thank you very much my friend and God bless you!" I hope you are duly impressed, that is half of my Spanish. And, yes, I had it double checked!
To my Lord, who has provided cleaner, clearer thoughts for us to think, I say thank you for the reminder. Feel free to keep me mindful to keep you in mind.
"Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits at God's right hand in the place of honor and power. Let heaven fill your thoughts. Do not think only about things down here on earth. For you died when Christ died, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God." Colossians 3:1-3 (NLT)
"And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise." Philippians 4:8 (NLT)
"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success." Joshua 1:8 (NKJV) --Rev. Kerry S. Doyal
************************************************** *********
WHAT'S IN THE HEART MAKES THE DIFFERENCE!
You see it everyday, death, dishonesty, distrust, thievery, extortion and the list could go on and on. We blame society, we blame the entertainment world, we blame bad parents, and bad politicians and sometimes bad religious leaders. We can put the blame for our world just about anywhere we want, but bottom line is that we can't use that as an excuse for not living right ourselves. It's what's inside our hearts that makes a difference and makes us different from so many in our world. We can look around us and see only the bad and let that pull us down, but that is not all that is in the world. I love the following little TRUE story that illustrates that there is still some good in our world.
"Pulling into my service station 45 minutes late one morning, I shouted to the customers, 'I'll turn the pumps on right away!' What I didn't know was that the night crew had left them on all night. By the time I got to the office, most of the cars had filled up and driven off. Only one customer stayed to pay. My heart sank. Then the customer pulled a wad of cash from his pocket and handed it to me. 'We kept passing the money to the last guy,' he said. 'We figured you'd get here sooner or later.'" (All In a Day's Work, by Jim Novak, Readers Digest).
Why would people act like that, when it wouldn't even occur to a part of our world? It's really fairly simple. Notice what Jesus said about us in Matthew 12:35. He was talking about the words that come out of peoples mouths and gave this reasoning: "The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him".
We need to be working on building up a store house of "good things" in our lives. We need to work doubly hard to store up "good things" in the lives of our children, our spouses, our families and our friends. We need to concentrate on how we influence those around us, because one day it might be us who leaves on the gas pump (figuratively). How will those around us respond to us when that happens?
When our sons were teenagers and wanted to go out with their friends I would remind them before they left, "remember whose son you are". They didn't care much for me doing that, because it put the responsibility for the family name upon their shoulders. That doesn't mean that they never got into any trouble, but at least nothing serious. I was trying to plant the seed of understanding in their hearts, that we ARE responsible for who we are and what we do.
You see in the end of things, it is each of us as individuals that will be held responsible for our words and actions. In Hebrews 4:12 we're told, "For the word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we really are".
Being exposed "for what we really are"; WOW, that's kind of frightening isn't it, none of us wants everyone to know our thoughts, our weaknesses our desires! Yet, that is exactly what happens when we expose our lives to the light of the Word of God. Do you want to clear out the garbage in your life? Do you want to be a better person? Do you want to make better decisions? Do you want to get rid of fear?
Then begin exposing your heart, your mind to the Word of God on a regular basis and it will change who you are! After all, it's what is in your heart that makes the difference! You will no longer have to make hard choices; they will already be made for you, because you will know the right thing to do! You will no longer need to remember what you said (to keep the story straight), because you will always be speaking the truth. Someone once said, "Make sure all of your words are sweet, because, someday you may have to eat them!" Remember, it's what is inside that makes the difference! --Russ Lawson
************************************************** *********
ONE THING TO REMEMBER
My eternally young soul is having problems with my rapidly aging body again. This time it is old Mr. Brain. It seems like this guy can't go a day without forgetting at least one thing. He keeps rechecking the appointment calendar and shopping list over and over. He takes my body into a room and then has to stop and remember why he is there. He remembers my first day of kindergarten, but forgets what someone said 5 minutes ago. Maybe he is just getting a little tired after all these years or maybe he just has too much to remember every single day. Either way my soul laughs when he forgets and tries to help him along. My soul knows that the only thing we really have to remember is to just love.
If we all can remember to just love then we will be living the way we were meant to live. If we all can remember to just love then we will be doing what God wants us to do. If we all can remember to just love then it will not matter how many times we forget to dust or buy a loaf of bread. Jesus gave his disciples this one command to remember: "Love each other." It truly is the only thing we need to do to live a blessed life in this world.
So many of us spend our lives in a flurry of activities better off forgotten. We are constantly working, spending, and doing so many things just trying to fill the hole within our hearts. It doesn't work, though. It is like throwing pebbles in the Grand Canyon. Only love can fill that hole. Only love can make us whole. Only love can bring us back to oneness with God.
Remember to just love then. It is what we are here for. It is what we are made for. Choose love, share love, and grow in love everyday of your life. It is your love that will remind you what is truly important in this life. It is your love that will remind you how to help others and make this world a better place. It is your love that will remind you who you truly are. --Joseph J. Mazzella
************************************************** *********
PRACTICING THE PRESENCE
How do I live in God’s presence? How do I detect his unseen hand on my shoulder and his inaudible voice in my ear? A sheep grows familiar with the voice of the shepherd. How can you and I grow familiar with the voice of God? Here are a few ideas: Give God your waking thoughts. Before you face the day, face the Father. Before you step out of bed, step into his presence. I have a friend who makes it a habit to roll out of his bed onto his knees and begin his day in prayer. Personally, I don’t get that far. With my head still on the pillow and my eyes still closed, I offer God the first seconds of my day. The prayer is not lengthy and far from formal. Depending on how much sleep I got, it may not even be intelligible. Often it’s nothing more than “Thank you for a night’s rest. I belong to you today.”
Give God your waiting thoughts. Spend time with him in silence. The mature married couple has learned the treasure of shared silence; they don’t need to fill the air with constant chatter. Just being together is sufficient. Try being silent with God. “Be still, and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10 niv). Awareness of God is a fruit of stillness before God.
Give God your whispering thoughts. Through the centuries people have learned the value of brief sentence prayers, prayers that can be whispered anywhere, in any setting.
Imagine considering every moment as a potential time of communion with God. By giving God your whispering thoughts, the common becomes uncommon. Simple phrases such as “Thank you, Father,” “Be sovereign in this hour, O Lord,” “You are my resting place, Jesus” can turn a commute into a pilgrimage. You needn’t leave your office or kneel in your kitchen. Just pray where you are. Let the kitchen become a cathedral or the classroom a chapel. Give God your whispering thoughts.
And last, give God your waning thoughts. At the end of the day, let your mind settle on him. Conclude the day as you began it: talking to God. Thank him for the good parts. Question him about the hard parts. Seek his mercy. Seek his strength. And as you close your eyes, take assurance in the promise: “He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep” (Ps. 121:4 niv). If you fall asleep as you pray, don’t worry. What better place to doze off than in the arms of your Father. --Max Lucado
************************************************** *********
COMFORT BEAR
Here is a gift idea that said it would be good for someone in a nursing home, but it would be good for anyone who needs a little comforting.
Stuffed bear
following poem
patch work material or flannel shirt to make a blanket
Glue the poem on the material (blanket) and attach to bear.
I'M YOUR COMFORT BEAR
I'm not a very fancy bear.
I'm plain and rather small.
Even so, someone who likes you
Said that I should come to call.
Hide me underneath your pillow
Or set me on a nearby shelf,
And when you get discouraged
I will do my best to help.
I brought my favorite blanket
That I snuggle when I'm sad.
It's a present from my granny,
Made for days when things seem bad.
My granny always told me,
"Life is like a patchwork quilt,
just give Jesus all the pieces
and he'll make a pretty quilt."
Sometimes I don't see the pattern.
Sometimes He seems far away,
Then I clutch my favorite blanket
And I pray...and pray...and pray.
Though I don't have all the answers
(for I'm just a "Comfort Bear"),
I've been sent on a mission
From someone who really cares.
When you see me, please remember
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
--Author Unknown
************************************************** *********
Small Straws In A Soft Wind by Marsha Burns
Be aware that you may be seduced by numerous distractions that would be unproductive, a waste of time, energy and resources. Be alert and stay focused in order to avoid any level of dissipation. This is a time of restoration, of conservation, of preservation and of gathering. It is not a time to allow distractions to cause you to be scattered or to be spread too thin. Quiet your soul when temptations come and judge the outcome of your decisions. Be strong and resolute, says the Lord.
1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.
Now is the time to take command of the situations that you have fallen victim to. Have you forgotten that I have given you authority over all of the powers of darkness arrayed against you? Rise up and forbid the enemy to undermine your faith or to wreak havoc or bring destruction. Take your position as a warrior and speak to your mountain of trouble. Whatever you prohibit on earth is prohibited in the spirit realm, and whatever you allow on earth is allowed in the spirit. Pull yourself up to the full measure of the faith that I have given you and make your declarations. Proclaim victory by My Spirit, says the Lord.
Matthew 16:19 "And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven."
The enemy is on the rampage and is trying to find open doors by activating your flesh to create contention and division. Refuse to entertain this antichrist spirit. Do not yield to this attack even for a moment. Stand strong in unity and refuse to allow the devil to use you as a pawn in his strategy to bring ruin. Let love reign and be the force that overcomes. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good, says the Lord.
1 Peter 4:8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins."
Beloved, don't take anything for granted. Things are not as they seem. Hide yourself in the safety of My presence, and be alert to My instruction. Listen for My voice to give direction and to guide you through this unsettling time. Guard against becoming afraid, and establish yourself in the faith that I will hide you under the shadow of My wings. I am your refuge and your place of protection from danger and distress. Be at peace, says the Lord.
Psalm 17:8-13 Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me under the shadow of Your wings, from the wicked who oppress me, from my deadly enemies who surround me. They have closed up their fat hearts; with their mouths they speak proudly. They have now surrounded us in our steps; they have set their eyes, crouching down to the earth, as a lion is eager to tear his prey, and like a young lion lurking in secret places. Arise, O LORD, confront him, cast him down; deliver my life from the wicked with Your sword.
Bring the questions on your heart to Me, for I will hear and give you the wisdom that you are longing for. Ask and it will be given; seek and you will find; knock and the door will open. I will not lead you astray. I will speak the truth in love so that even hard answers to difficult questions will be easy for you to receive. Do not be afraid that I will turn you away or cause you any injury. You are My child, and I will never abandon you, says the Lord. Trust Me to bring the light you need in this place of darkness.
James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.
************************************************** *********
God's Compassion
When the storm around me rages and my heart is filled with pain and fear;
I call upon my heavenly Father for I know that He is always near!
He brings me peace and comfort until the storm is past;
He shelters me within His arms and I know that I am safe at last!
He never will forsake me to face these storms alone;
He's my light in all the darkness and on me His light is shone!
Should I begin to stumble and falter from the blast;
I reach out to my Father and to Him I can hold fast!
My friend if you have been caught up in a storm that's raging wild;
Just call upon your Father who has claimed you as His child!
He'll not let you be defeated He's the light that shines for you;
In the darkness of the storms that come He'll be there to bring you through!
Just keep your eyes focused on His loving face; All of your fears and doubts He will erase.
Follow Him closely and you'll receive in abundance His love, His mercy, and His grace!
--Helen Johnson
************************************************** *********
Walking With Jesus
Lord my world is hectic,
Filled with stress everyday,
I would never make it,
Without you leading the way.
You pick me up when I am down,
You lift my spirit to the heights,
You renew me Lord in all ways,
From early morn through the nights.
Your love is my foundation,
Your blessings form a wall,
You are forever close to me,
Answering each time I call.
Each step I take Lord Jesus,
Depends solely upon you,
You are my Lord and Master,
With you Lord, I'll make it thru.
I know you are with me,
I feel your presence always,
I close my eyes and thank you,
You are the anchor that stays.
Oh Lord I am not worthy,
Of all the blessing you send,
Yet you are always beside,
Through life together we wend.
If I could but touch your garment,
Wash the dust from your feet,
I give you praise my sweet Jesus,
One day your face I'll greet.
Until that time dear Father,
I will journey here below,
You have your hand upon me,
Guiding each path I go.
--Gayle Davis October 30, 2004
************************************************** *********
In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. John 14:2
Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground. Psalm 143:10
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:17-18
Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6
Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Matthew 6:26
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24
************************************************** *********
COME HOME
Wandering child.
I am here.
I am near.
I speak.
Do you listen?
Arms open wide,
I wait,
I call,
I woo,
I weep.
No matter how far you run,
How high you climb,
How low you sink,
I do not change,
Nor does My love for you.
Return today.
Heed the Shepherd's voice.
Come home, My child.
Come home.
--Robin Lee Hatcher
************************************************** *********
Dear Lord, Gather and center us in your light so that we can rejoice at the start of each new day. Thank you for each day of life you give us on earth and for the eternal life that will be ours in heaven. We trust that we will rest eternally in the comfort of your embrace. Amen.
************************************************** *********
Read Through The Bible
Exodus 3
Moses and the Burning Bush
1 Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian, and he led the flock to the far side of the desert and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. 2 There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up. 3 So Moses thought, "I will go over and see this strange sight—why the bush does not burn up." 4 When the LORD saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, "Moses! Moses!" And Moses said, "Here I am." 5 "Do not come any closer," God said. "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground." 6 Then he said, "I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob." At this, Moses hid his face, because he was afraid to look at God. 7 The LORD said, "I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. 8 So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey—the home of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites. 9 And now the cry of the Israelites has reached me, and I have seen the way the Egyptians are oppressing them. 10 So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt." 11 But Moses said to God, "Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" 12 And God said, "I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain." 13 Moses said to God, "Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, 'The God of your fathers has sent me to you,' and they ask me, 'What is his name?' Then what shall I tell them?" 14 God said to Moses, "I am who I am . This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.' " 15 God also said to Moses, "Say to the Israelites, 'The LORD, the God of your fathers—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob—has sent me to you.' This is my name forever, the name by which I am to be remembered from generation to generation. 16 "Go, assemble the elders of Israel and say to them, 'The LORD, the God of your fathers—the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob—appeared to me and said: I have watched over you and have seen what has been done to you in Egypt. 17 And I have promised to bring you up out of your misery in Egypt into the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites—a land flowing with milk and honey.' 18 "The elders of Israel will listen to you. Then you and the elders are to go to the king of Egypt and say to him, 'The LORD, the God of the Hebrews, has met with us. Let us take a three-day journey into the desert to offer sacrifices to the LORD our God.' 19 But I know that the king of Egypt will not let you go unless a mighty hand compels him. 20 So I will stretch out my hand and strike the Egyptians with all the wonders that I will perform among them. After that, he will let you go. 21 "And I will make the Egyptians favorably disposed toward this people, so that when you leave you will not go empty-handed. 22 Every woman is to ask her neighbor and any woman living in her house for articles of silver and gold and for clothing, which you will put on your sons and daughters. And so you will plunder the Egyptians."
************************************************** *********
We thank you, God, that you gave the great gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, that through him we might have eternal life. Help us to give the best we have to you and to our neighbors. Amen.
Wherever you are in life, whatever you've done, you can begin again. If you do not have Jesus in your life and wish to ask Jesus into your life please go to this link now to do so: http://www.cyberrecovery.net/forums/showthread.php?t=95 . Jesus is calling you to live a life that matters.