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10-18-2008, 08:38 PM
Concentrate on seeking from God the special purpose He has for you, instead of wishing you were in someone else's shoes.
Even the strongest people get tired, but God's strength never diminishes.
A super wonderful pray, I want Your will done, not mine.
Man is to busy seeing his own opinion rather then the opinions of others, most of all the opinion of God.
When we're ready, we will find that God is ready, too.
Jesus is our reminder of how much God loves us.
Remembering God's faithfulness in the past gives us hope for the future.
God's plan is better than anything I could think of.
Trust God and be patient; God answers our prayers.
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Living Sacrifices
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." (Romans 12:1-2)
One Sunday in Copenhagen, Corrie ten Boom, 80, spoke from Romans 12:1, urging her audience to present their bodies to Christ as living sacrifices. After church, two nurses invited her to their apartment for lunch, and Corrie went with them—only to discover they lived on the tenth floor, and there was no elevator. The task of mounting those stairs was almost more than she could stand, and she wondered if she might die en route. "Perhaps I am leaving earth to go to heaven," she complained to herself.
Finally arriving in the apartment, Corrie found the parents of one of the girls waiting there, wanting to be saved, and both gloriously received Christ as their Savior.
On her way down the steps, Corrie said, "Thank you, Lord, for making me walk up all these steps. And next time, Lord, help Corrie ten Boom listen to her own sermon about being willing to go anywhere You tell me to go—even up ten flights of stairs."
Lord, make me willing, get me going, and take me higher! --David Jeremiah
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See My Eyes?
My mother was lots of fun and often teased and played with my brothers and me. And there were times when we weren't quite sure whether she was just teasing or really serious.
When she would give us "the look" and say, "See my eyes?" then we would know she was serious!
Mother played the organ at church and the three of us kids sat on the front row. Since Daddy was preaching, he could not discipline us or really pay attention to us during the service. But like most women, my mother could do several things at one time, especially when it came to her children.
She would glance at us there on the front row, and if we were not behaving in church, we would get that "See my eyes?" look and know that this matter would be taken care of when we got home. I immediately straightened up!
No matter what was going on during the service--whether I was listening or singing, shaking hands or passing the offering plate--my eyes often wandered back to my mother to see if everything was okay.
And it so happens that this is all, that God wants from us. To keep our eyes on him.
“But mine eyes are unto thee, O GOD the Lord: in thee is my trust; leave not my soul destitute.” Psalm 141:8
“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:2
Over my lifetime, like most everyone, I've had hard times, frustrating times, times when I had no idea what to do next. What to say, how to act, where to turn. Sometimes I didn't even know what to pray.
My mother taught me that if I kept my eyes on her, I wouldn't get in trouble in church. And she also taught me that if I kept my eyes on Jesus, he would be my refuge so that I wouldn't "grow weary or lose heart."
No matter what else is going on around you... whether you're in the middle of a terrible storm or everything is running smoothly... whether you are sitting or standing, singing or listening, crying or laughing... fix your eyes on Jesus so you will not grow weary or lose heart.
Always be where you can "see His eyes." --Lillian Hinds
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"One String"
The famous violinist Paganini was about to perform one night in Paris. The crowd applauded with great expectation as he walked on the stage. As he began to play, however, a string broke on his violin. Being the consummate professional that he was, he continued to play with the remaining three strings. Unbelievably, though, another string snapped - followed moments later by a third string. The crowd gasped, not sure what to expect, and even began to show signs of anxious disappointment, believing the master violinist could no longer perform.
But the old maestro just raised his hand, calling for silence. As the audience became quiet again, he made a simple announcement - "Ladies and gentlemen - Paganini - and one string." What followed was the most amazing musical performance that crowd had ever seen, or ever would see - as the master played a rich and flawless melody - on one string.
When did the master most powerfully demonstrate his skill? When he had the least to work with - one string. When does the Lord Jesus - our Master - most powerfully demonstrate how much He can do? When He has the least to work with. When our strings are broken and we have almost nothing left - that's when He plays His masterpieces.
That's what the great Apostle Paul learned when virtually all the strings of his life had broken. His testimony is in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. Paul had been given some spiritual revelations that no man had ever experienced before. He says, "To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh... Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.'"
Because Paul experiences God's power the most when he has nothing left, he says, "Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me... For when I am weak, then I am strong." Why? Because the less there is of you, the more there is of God. The more of His power you experience, the more it will make you, just like Paul, really greet your hard times and your hurting times with a sense of expectancy instead of dread or discouragement. Not that you like the pain, but you realize what that pain can produce. And all through it, you have God's unbreakable promise, "My grace is sufficient for you."
Possibly, right now, your strings have broken and you're down to one string. That's the moment when the Maestro is at His very best. He lovingly holds you in His arms and says, "Almighty God - and one string." He's about to play something beautiful, something unforgettable, something amazing through your life. --Ron Hutchcraft.
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Escape from Lonely Island by Ron Hutchcraft
There’s a beautiful spot on the coast of Maine called Bar Harbor, because there’s a bar in the harbor. It’s a sandbar that is totally exposed at low tide and totally submerged at high tide. The bar goes from the mainland to a little island called, yup, Bar Island. The island’s OK, but you wouldn’t want to spend a lot of time there. Although some people do – a lot more time than they planned to spend. When our family walked across the bar at low tide, we made sure to check that tide chart to see when the tide would be coming back. As we were walking back from the island, the bar was already a little narrower than it had been – the tide was coming in. Then there were those intelligent tourists who waited a little too long to start back, and there was no way back! Now no one has to be stranded on that island. There’s a way off, if you take it!
Lonely Island isn’t on any map, but it’s an island we all spend time on. Loneliness is an emotional island we can get stranded on when we have been isolated, or ignored, or left out, or forgotten, maybe misunderstood maybe even abandoned. Maybe even today finds you in the middle of another lonely time.
The good news is that you don’t have to be stuck on Lonely Island. Loneliness is ultimately not a prison sentence, it’s a choice! Feeling lonely is unavoidable, it’s part of being human. But staying lonely is a choice. Just like Bar Island, there are some steps to take to leave the island.
One way to make a lonely time a short time is to find someone who needs you. To reach out from your loneliness, even if you don’t feel like it, to make a difference for someone else. At a time when loneliness leaves you thinking about yourself, it’s important to decide to look beyond yourself. Another antidote to loneliness is to expand your world, especially your circle of friendships. If you take the risks to reach out to more people, you can reduce your trips to Lonely Island.
But even with all our efforts to cope with the lonely times, a lot of us carry this gnawing sense of loneliness with us most of the time. It isn’t necessarily that there aren’t people there for us, it’s just that those people have never been enough to fill us up inside. It’s like there is always someone missing. Well there is – the One you were made by, the One you were made for.
The incurable loneliness in the human heart is cosmic loneliness. We’re lonely for God. No earth relationship has ever been able to fill the God-shaped hole in our heart. In the words of the Bible, in Isaiah 59:2, “Your sins have separated you from your God.” Your sins, all those thousands of choices you’ve made in your lifetime that disregarded God’s way for “my way.” So here we are, away from the one Person who has the love we’re looking for. The only Person who knows why we were created, the Person we will meet the moment we die.
For our word for today from the Word of God, consider this promise from Jesus in light of the loneliness you know all too well. Hebrews 13:5, says of Jesus, “I will never leave you. I will never forsake you.” Think of it – unloseable, unconditional love. Jesus’ love for you took Him all the way to a brutal death on a cross, where He gave His life to pay your sin-bill with God. The One whose love you’ve been looking for all these years is yours the moment you tell Jesus, “I’m Yours.” You are one step of faith away from the world’s only “never leave you” love.
Your anchor relationship could begin this very day and never end. Never, no matter what else changes and no matter who else leaves. And you will have spent your last day alone.
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The type of seed you sow determines the type of harvest you'll reap.
Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously (2 Corinthians 9:6). This verse clearly states that whatever seed you sow determines the harvest you'll reap. In other words, you can't expect to reap good rewards if you sow bad seeds.
Proverbs 11:18 says, The wicked man earns deceptive wages, but he who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward. Likewise, he who sows wickedness reaps trouble (Proverbs 22:8).
Even when things may appear to be going poorly and it doesn't look like you'll ever reap a good harvest, this principle of sowing and reaping remains true. If you Sow for yourselves righteousness, then you will reap the fruit of unfailing love (Hosea 10:12).
You may have to wait a bit to reap that harvest; in fact, you may even need to wait a long time -- maybe many, many years -- for a harvest. As Galatians 6:7-8 says, you will reap what you sow: Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
This Biblical principle of sowing and reaping is nicely summarized by Obadiah 1:15: As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head.
Therefore, sow good seeds; then, after you wait upon the Lord, you will reap a far better harvest. --Weekly Wisdom
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Teach Me How to Live
Teach me, oh Lord, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end. Give me understanding and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Psalm 119: 33-34
You may have all the wisdom and knowledge of the world and your walls be lined with degrees; But until you fill your mind with God's word, the feeling of emptiness will not cease. Only His wisdom and knowledge can bring contentment and peace.
The wisdom and knowledge of God is far greater than the human mind can conceive, but He will give to us all that we need to live our lives in the way He would have us to live when we earnestly seek Him.
His word tells us if we seek we shall find. And the more we seek the more of His wisdom and knowledge will be revealed to us. When we first accept Him as our Lord and Savior, we are
babes are given more as we seek for more.
The more mature we become in Him, the more He expects of us in our showing them the love of Christ by example in the way we live. It is vital that we get into the word and spend time in it and in prayer also.
This is a must if we are to absorb all that He has for us in His wisdom and knowledge. We should seek to have the mind of Christ and be readily available and willing to perform whatever ask He has for us. We will find joy in living our lives for Him.
He will teach us how to laugh, to love and to live! Amen?.. Have a great day in the Lord and remember.....God Loves You and so do I. --Helen Johnson
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Psalms 106:2 (KJV) 2 Who can utter the mighty acts of the LORD? who can shew forth all his praise?
The question here is Who Can? The mighty acts of the Lord are the miracles of God. What is a miracle? Webster defines a miracle;
1. Literally, a wonder or wonderful thing; but appropriately,
2. In theology, an event or effect contrary to the established constitution and course of things, or a deviation from the known laws of nature; a supernatural event. Miracles can be wrought only by Almighty power, as when Christ healed lepers, saying, "I will, be thou clean," or calmed the tempest, "Peace, be still."
What is the purpose of miracles?
One clear purpose of miracles was to authenticate the character of Jesus and his relationship with his heavenly Father. In this regard, miracles demonstrate the following: God is with Jesus (John 3:2); Jesus is from God (John 3:2; 9:342–33); God has sent Jesus (John 5:36); Jesus has authority on earth to forgive sins (Mark 2:10–11; Matt. 9:6–7; Luke 5:24–25); Jesus is approved by God (Acts 2:22); the Father is in Jesus and Jesus is in the Father (John 10:37–38; 14:11); in Jesus the kingdom of God has come (Matt. 12:28; Luke 11:20); and Jesus is the Messiah (Matt. 11:1–6; Luke 7:18–23) and the Son of God (Matt. 14:25–33).
A second purpose of miracles was to authenticate the message about Jesus. This was the major function of the miracles as far as the ministry of the apostles was concerned. Mark says that the Lord “confirmed his word [that the apostles preached] by the signs that accompanied it” (Mark 16:20). When Luke was describing the ministry of Paul and Barnabas at Iconium, he said that the Lord “confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to do miraculous signs and wonders” (Acts 14:3). Notice that in both of these texts the Lord does not confirm the apostles themselves but rather “his word” or “the message” that the apostles were preaching. Signs and wonders do not testify to the apostles but to the message of salvation preached by the apostles. So the two principal things that are authenticated by miracles are the Lord Jesus and the message about the Lord Jesus.
Illustration
Eighty Years as a Second
In a recent number of the “Sunday School Times” a story is told of an Eastern king which illustrates at once our delusion respecting natural processes, and also God’s work and presence in them. The king was seated in a garden, and one of his counselors was speaking of the wonderful works of God. “Show me a sign,” said the king, “and I will believe.” “Here are four acorns,” said the counselor, “will you, Majesty, plant them in the ground, and then stoop down for a moment and look into this clear pool of water?” The king did so, “Now,” said the other, “look up.” The king looked up and saw four oak-trees where he had planted the acorns. “Wonderful!” he exclaimed, “this is indeed the work of God.” “How long were you looking into the water?” asked the counselor? “Only a second,” said the king. “Eighty years have passed as a second,” said the other. The king looked at his garments; they were threadbare. He looked at his reflection in the water; he had become an old man. “There is no miracle here, then,” he said angrily. “Yes,” said the other, “it is God’s work, whether he did it in one second or in eighty years.” --Source unknown
Thought for the Day - God seems to do nothing of Himself which He can possibly delegate to His creatures. He commands us to do slowly and blunderingly what He could do perfectly and in the twinkling of an eye. - C. S. Lewis --Dr. Dave Smeltz Daily Thought Devotional
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Small Straws In A Soft Wind by Marsha Burns
Be spiritually sensitive and listen for My direction. I am positioning you for optimum advantage for the near future that will set you on the path of maximum benefit for the distant future. You must be flexible to take advantage of unexpected opportunities that will ultimately bring your life's circumstances into divine order. Never forget that I am for you and not against you and that I will never leave you nor forsake you, says the Lord. Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
I am going to repost two prophetic words that might be of interest to you considering the national and global events of the past three weeks --
December 6, 1999: In a vision I saw a man on a unicycle carrying a red banner. As I didn't understand the vision, I watched as the man on the unicycle became a part of a three-ring circus under a big tent. There was also a death-defying, high-wire act and the ring master in the center ring announcing the next big event. As I watched, I saw Y2K written on the banner carried by the man on the unicycle. I was made aware that both the man on the unicycle and those on the high wire were doing a balancing act and that the high-wire act had been in process for some time before the cyclist's short performance. The spotlight was now beginning to highlight the middle ring. I asked the Lord the meaning of the vision, and I believe He revealed that the three rings of the circus represent spotlights of international attention. The high-wire act represents the economy and new highs on the stock market. That act will soon be over and the great performers will soon come down. The Y2K cyclist will be a balancing act, but will be short-lived despite all the media attention. As I watched and listened to the ring master, he announced the next event -- a wrestling match between a bear and a lion, which I believe is symbolic of war, perhaps the beginning of the war. I did not see the beginning of the wrestling match, but only heard the announcement of it. I find it interesting that the first known circuses took place in the Circus Maximus in ancient Rome. Perhaps this vision also symbolizes and signals the beginning of the rule of the revised Roman Empire, the New World Order, and the revealing of the anti-christ. I also saw horses waiting in the shadows beyond the reach of the spotlight, ready to take their positions for their event following the wrestling match. Could they be the horses of Revelation chapter 6?
September 25, 2006: The world is about to experience its greatest turmoil in the history of man, and you can expect to see extreme volatility with regard to all natural and human resources. But herein lies a great mystery of My kingdom. There is a division and widening chasm between My kingdom and the kingdoms of the world. Those who put their trust in the political and economic systems will find themselves on a roller-coaster ride with many ups and downs, and many will be ruined beyond recovery on this wild ride. But, even in the midst of wars and rumors of terrorism, you will find more peace than you have ever known as you draw near to Me and abide in Me, says the Lord. You will find your stability and hope in Me and will not be afraid. Many will be tempted to go back to old, familiar and comfortable places and seek worldly comfort instead of moving forward in the Kingdom of God. Isaiah 31:Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, and rely on horses, who trust in chariots because they are many, and in horsemen because they are very strong, but who do not look to the Holy One of Israel, nor seek the LORD!
I have prepared your way of ascent, for certainly you will progress and climb by way of the understanding of My purposes for you. I am stirring the hearts of those who have ears to hear, eyes to see, and hearts to understand. I have purposed to cause you to stir the coals of your spiritual desires into a flame of power in My kingdom. As you deliberately leave behind all things that have been a hindrance to your progression, I will lead you forth in great triumph, says the Lord.
2 Samuel 22:13 From the brightness before Him coals of fire were kindled.
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The Trumpet by Bill Burns
"Set the trumpet to your mouth!" Hosea 8:1
You are entering into a time of change. Listen to the wind, for it is blowing, and it is moving. There is purpose behind the strength of it, for I am bringing you forth into a season of fullness, a season in which the fullness of the Holy Spirit and that which I have for each one will come upon you if you will choose the anointing of the Spirit. The sound of the wind represents change, and so it shall be among you, My people. Changes are coming, and if you embrace them, they will propel you into the fullness of what I have for you in this time. Come with joy of heart, and come with willful expectation, for I am calling you to that higher spiritual place that I have prepared for you. Come and experience the revelation of this present time, says the Lord.
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The Wealth of God's Love
Oh how amazing is the mercy and grace of our
heavenly Father; That He should love us enough
to bother. Yet He sent His only begotten Son down
to earth from above...
to die in our stead because of His great love.
All He asks of us in return is through faith in Him
we believe;
When we repent of our sins which are
freely forgiven, His gift of salvation we will receive.
It is His will that none should perish but that all
should have everlasting life.
And be set free from,
pain, death and sin's guilt and strife!
Oh what a wondrous gift we've been given and oh
what a price Jesus paid that day;
There is not enough gold in this whole earth
that for this gift of love we could pay!
This gift of salvation is free to all who
in humbleness repent of their sins;
With mercy and grace our God will forgive
and a new life in Him will begin!
Helen Johnson
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"THE MESSAGE"
From God's heart, he wants you to know,
He heard you when you prayed,
And even before you called
The answer was on the way.
He said his thoughts and his ways
Are much higher than yours;
But, he completely understands
All your doubts and fears.
He keeps his angels busy
Day and night; they never rest;
Ascending and descending heavens stairway To give you his very best.
Let faith arise in you
And believe with all your heart,
Every word he said is true
As this message to you he imparts.
Given by: Jesus
Penned by: Anita Johnson 2007
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For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? Or what shall a man give in return for his life? Matthew 16:26
Behave Like a Christian
9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. 10 Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; 11 not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; 13 distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. 18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 Therefore “ If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:9-21
With God All Things Are Possible
23 Then Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” 24 And the disciples were astonished at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, “Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”
26 And they were greatly astonished, saying among themselves, “Who then can be saved?”
27 But Jesus looked at them and said, “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.”
28 Then Peter began to say to Him, “See, we have left all and followed You.”
29 So Jesus answered and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My sake and the gospel’s, 30 who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time—houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions—and in the age to come, eternal life. 31 But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” Matthew 19:23-31
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
It is better to trust in the LORD Than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the LORD Than to put confidence in princes. Psalm 118:8-9
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. 1 Timothy 6:17-19
But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. Titus 3:4-7
In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. Isaiah 40:28
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15
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THE PRIZE
There is an old story about the Greek Marathon. Muscular, conditioned runners paced nervously near the starting line for the long-distance race. The time was near. They "shook out" their muscles, inhaled deeply, and put on their "game faces."
In the midst of it all, a young stranger took his place at the starting line. His physique was awesome. Taking no notice of the other contestants, he stared straight ahead. Two prizes would be awarded the winner of the Marathon: a magnificent bouquet of flowers and the honor of standing beside the king until the conclusion of other contests.
There seemed to be no question among the runners about who would win the prize. It is alleged that the stranger was offered money not to run. Someone else attempted to bribe him with property. Refusing the offers, he toed the mark and awaited the signal to run. When the signal was given, he was the first away. At the finish line, he was the first to cross, well ahead of the rest.
When it was all done, someone asked the young man if he thought the flowers were worth as much as the money and property he had refused. He replied, "I did not enter the race for the flowers. I ran so that I could stand beside my king!"
Those of us who have chosen to follow Jesus Christ are "running the race" (1 Cor. 9:24-25). It is a race that has a prize for those who finish (notice, not those who finish first, but all who finish). This prize, according to Paul, is an "imperishable crown." The rewards for those who enter heaven are described in scripture with a lot of terms - "many mansions", "streets of gold", "tree of life" - and the list goes on and on. All of those things are attractive. That's why God tells us about them.
But I would be willing to give up all the streets of gold and settle for a small corner of a shack as long as I can know the reward of being able to stand beside my King. That's what I look forward to more than anything else. It is the one thing that will make heaven the wonderful reward that it will be.
"...The throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him." (Rev. 22:3)
Run the race with diligence. Your King is watching and waits for you at the finish line! --Alan Smith
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Opportunity Lost
"Then [King] Agrippa said to Paul, 'Almost you persuade me to be a Christian.'" - Acts 26:28
Years ago, Walter took his friend Arthur to see some land in open country where cattle were idly grazing. Walter explained about his dream for developing this area. He told his friend that in time the area would be surrounded by many restaurants, hotels and convention centers. He told Arthur that his plan would take all of his money and he needed others to develop the surrounding area. He wanted his friend to have the first opportunity to buy into this project.
But Arthur thought to himself, "Who in the world is going to drive twenty-five miles for this crazy project?"
He said to Walter that he would think about it and decide later on. "Later on will be too late," Walter cautioned Arthur. "You'd better move on it right now."
"And so Art Linkletter turned down the opportunity to buy up all the land that surrounded what was to become Disneyland. His friend Walt Disney tried to talk him into it. But Art thought he was crazy."
Life's like that. King Agrippa had the opportunity to accept Christ and become a Christian. He turned it down. Judas had one of the greatest opportunities in all history to become a follower of Jesus. Instead, he betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Unbelievable! The two thieves who were crucified with Jesus also had the opportunity to receive the gift of eternal life. One accepted. The other didn't.
Life offers all of us many opportunities. We all have the opportunity to become followers of Jesus and to be a part of what God is doing in the world today. That choice is ours. Today. As God's Word says, "Now is the accepted time... now is the day of salvation." (2 Corinthians 6:2)
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, when opportunities from you come knocking on my door, no matter how quiet they are, please give me an ear to hear, a listening heart to hear what you are saying, and the wisdom to say, 'Yes,' to you and your call. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen." --Dick Innes
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Peace Within
May there be peace within you today. May you trust your highest power that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, and to bask in the sun, it is there for each and every one of you. Amen --Author Unknown
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Read Through The Bible
Leviticus 14
Cleansing From Infectious Skin Diseases
1 The LORD said to Moses, 2 "These are the regulations for the diseased person at the time of his ceremonial cleansing, when he is brought to the priest: 3 The priest is to go outside the camp and examine him. If the person has been healed of his infectious skin disease, 4 the priest shall order that two live clean birds and some cedar wood, scarlet yarn and hyssop be brought for the one to be cleansed. 5 Then the priest shall order that one of the birds be killed over fresh water in a clay pot. 6 He is then to take the live bird and dip it, together with the cedar wood, the scarlet yarn and the hyssop, into the blood of the bird that was killed over the fresh water. 7 Seven times he shall sprinkle the one to be cleansed of the infectious disease and pronounce him clean. Then he is to release the live bird in the open fields. 8 "The person to be cleansed must wash his clothes, shave off all his hair and bathe with water; then he will be ceremonially clean. After this he may come into the camp, but he must stay outside his tent for seven days. 9 On the seventh day he must shave off all his hair; he must shave his head, his beard, his eyebrows and the rest of his hair. He must wash his clothes and bathe himself with water, and he will be clean. 10 "On the eighth day he must bring two male lambs and one ewe lamb a year old, each without defect, along with three-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering, and one log of oil. 11 The priest who pronounces him clean shall present both the one to be cleansed and his offerings before the LORD at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. 12 "Then the priest is to take one of the male lambs and offer it as a guilt offering, along with the log of oil; he shall wave them before the LORD as a wave offering. 13 He is to slaughter the lamb in the holy place where the sin offering and the burnt offering are slaughtered. Like the sin offering, the guilt offering belongs to the priest; it is most holy. 14 The priest is to take some of the blood of the guilt offering and put it on the lobe of the right ear of the one to be cleansed, on the thumb of his right hand and on the big toe of his right foot. 15 The priest shall then take some of the log of oil, pour it in the palm of his own left hand, 16 dip his right forefinger into the oil in his palm, and with his finger sprinkle some of it before the LORD seven times. 17 The priest is to put some of the oil remaining in his palm on the lobe of the right ear of the one to be cleansed, on the thumb of his right hand and on the big toe of his right foot, on top of the blood of the guilt offering. 18 The rest of the oil in his palm the priest shall put on the head of the one to be cleansed and make atonement for him before the LORD. 19 "Then the priest is to sacrifice the sin offering and make atonement for the one to be cleansed from his uncleanness. After that, the priest shall slaughter the burnt offering 20 and offer it on the altar, together with the grain offering, and make atonement for him, and he will be clean. 21 "If, however, he is poor and cannot afford these, he must take one male lamb as a guilt offering to be waved to make atonement for him, together with a tenth of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering, a log of oil, 22 and two doves or two young pigeons, which he can afford, one for a sin offering and the other for a burnt offering. 23 "On the eighth day he must bring them for his cleansing to the priest at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, before the LORD. 24 The priest is to take the lamb for the guilt offering, together with the log of oil, and wave them before the LORD as a wave offering. 25 He shall slaughter the lamb for the guilt offering and take some of its blood and put it on the lobe of the right ear of the one to be cleansed, on the thumb of his right hand and on the big toe of his right foot. 26 The priest is to pour some of the oil into the palm of his own left hand, 27 and with his right forefinger sprinkle some of the oil from his palm seven times before the LORD. 28 Some of the oil in his palm he is to put on the same places he put the blood of the guilt offering—on the lobe of the right ear of the one to be cleansed, on the thumb of his right hand and on the big toe of his right foot. 29 The rest of the oil in his palm the priest shall put on the head of the one to be cleansed, to make atonement for him before the LORD. 30 Then he shall sacrifice the doves or the young pigeons, which the person can afford, 31 one as a sin offering and the other as a burnt offering, together with the grain offering. In this way the priest will make atonement before the LORD on behalf of the one to be cleansed." 32 These are the regulations for anyone who has an infectious skin disease and who cannot afford the regular offerings for his cleansing.
Cleansing From Mildew
33 The LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 34 "When you enter the land of Canaan, which I am giving you as your possession, and I put a spreading mildew in a house in that land, 35 the owner of the house must go and tell the priest, 'I have seen something that looks like mildew in my house.' 36 The priest is to order the house to be emptied before he goes in to examine the mildew, so that nothing in the house will be pronounced unclean. After this the priest is to go in and inspect the house. 37 He is to examine the mildew on the walls, and if it has greenish or reddish depressions that appear to be deeper than the surface of the wall, 38 the priest shall go out the doorway of the house and close it up for seven days. 39 On the seventh day the priest shall return to inspect the house. If the mildew has spread on the walls, 40 he is to order that the contaminated stones be torn out and thrown into an unclean place outside the town. 41 He must have all the inside walls of the house scraped and the material that is scraped off dumped into an unclean place outside the town. 42 Then they are to take other stones to replace these and take new clay and plaster the house. 43 "If the mildew reappears in the house after the stones have been torn out and the house scraped and plastered, 44 the priest is to go and examine it and, if the mildew has spread in the house, it is a destructive mildew; the house is unclean. 45 It must be torn down—its stones, timbers and all the plaster—and taken out of the town to an unclean place. 46 "Anyone who goes into the house while it is closed up will be unclean till evening. 47 Anyone who sleeps or eats in the house must wash his clothes. 48 "But if the priest comes to examine it and the mildew has not spread after the house has been plastered, he shall pronounce the house clean, because the mildew is gone. 49 To purify the house he is to take two birds and some cedar wood, scarlet yarn and hyssop. 50 He shall kill one of the birds over fresh water in a clay pot. 51 Then he is to take the cedar wood, the hyssop, the scarlet yarn and the live bird, dip them into the blood of the dead bird and the fresh water, and sprinkle the house seven times. 52 He shall purify the house with the bird's blood, the fresh water, the live bird, the cedar wood, the hyssop and the scarlet yarn. 53 Then he is to release the live bird in the open fields outside the town. In this way he will make atonement for the house, and it will be clean." 54 These are the regulations for any infectious skin disease, for an itch, 55 for mildew in clothing or in a house, 56 and for a swelling, a rash or a bright spot, 57 to determine when something is clean or unclean. These are the regulations for infectious skin diseases and mildew.
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An Interfaith Prayer for Peace
O God, you are the source of life and peace. Praised be your name forever. We know it is you who turn our minds to thoughts of peace. Hear our prayer in this time of crisis. Your power changes hearts. We profoundly affirm, that we are followers of the one God, Children of Abraham, brothers and sisters; enemies begin to speak to one another; those who were estranged join hands in friendship; we seek the way of peace together. Strengthen our resolve to give witness to these truths by the way we live. Give to us: Understanding that puts an end to strife; mercy that quenches hatred, and forgiveness that overcomes vengeance. Empower all people to live in your law of love. Amen. --Pax Christi
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.
Even the strongest people get tired, but God's strength never diminishes.
A super wonderful pray, I want Your will done, not mine.
Man is to busy seeing his own opinion rather then the opinions of others, most of all the opinion of God.
When we're ready, we will find that God is ready, too.
Jesus is our reminder of how much God loves us.
Remembering God's faithfulness in the past gives us hope for the future.
God's plan is better than anything I could think of.
Trust God and be patient; God answers our prayers.
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Living Sacrifices
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." (Romans 12:1-2)
One Sunday in Copenhagen, Corrie ten Boom, 80, spoke from Romans 12:1, urging her audience to present their bodies to Christ as living sacrifices. After church, two nurses invited her to their apartment for lunch, and Corrie went with them—only to discover they lived on the tenth floor, and there was no elevator. The task of mounting those stairs was almost more than she could stand, and she wondered if she might die en route. "Perhaps I am leaving earth to go to heaven," she complained to herself.
Finally arriving in the apartment, Corrie found the parents of one of the girls waiting there, wanting to be saved, and both gloriously received Christ as their Savior.
On her way down the steps, Corrie said, "Thank you, Lord, for making me walk up all these steps. And next time, Lord, help Corrie ten Boom listen to her own sermon about being willing to go anywhere You tell me to go—even up ten flights of stairs."
Lord, make me willing, get me going, and take me higher! --David Jeremiah
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See My Eyes?
My mother was lots of fun and often teased and played with my brothers and me. And there were times when we weren't quite sure whether she was just teasing or really serious.
When she would give us "the look" and say, "See my eyes?" then we would know she was serious!
Mother played the organ at church and the three of us kids sat on the front row. Since Daddy was preaching, he could not discipline us or really pay attention to us during the service. But like most women, my mother could do several things at one time, especially when it came to her children.
She would glance at us there on the front row, and if we were not behaving in church, we would get that "See my eyes?" look and know that this matter would be taken care of when we got home. I immediately straightened up!
No matter what was going on during the service--whether I was listening or singing, shaking hands or passing the offering plate--my eyes often wandered back to my mother to see if everything was okay.
And it so happens that this is all, that God wants from us. To keep our eyes on him.
“But mine eyes are unto thee, O GOD the Lord: in thee is my trust; leave not my soul destitute.” Psalm 141:8
“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:2
Over my lifetime, like most everyone, I've had hard times, frustrating times, times when I had no idea what to do next. What to say, how to act, where to turn. Sometimes I didn't even know what to pray.
My mother taught me that if I kept my eyes on her, I wouldn't get in trouble in church. And she also taught me that if I kept my eyes on Jesus, he would be my refuge so that I wouldn't "grow weary or lose heart."
No matter what else is going on around you... whether you're in the middle of a terrible storm or everything is running smoothly... whether you are sitting or standing, singing or listening, crying or laughing... fix your eyes on Jesus so you will not grow weary or lose heart.
Always be where you can "see His eyes." --Lillian Hinds
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"One String"
The famous violinist Paganini was about to perform one night in Paris. The crowd applauded with great expectation as he walked on the stage. As he began to play, however, a string broke on his violin. Being the consummate professional that he was, he continued to play with the remaining three strings. Unbelievably, though, another string snapped - followed moments later by a third string. The crowd gasped, not sure what to expect, and even began to show signs of anxious disappointment, believing the master violinist could no longer perform.
But the old maestro just raised his hand, calling for silence. As the audience became quiet again, he made a simple announcement - "Ladies and gentlemen - Paganini - and one string." What followed was the most amazing musical performance that crowd had ever seen, or ever would see - as the master played a rich and flawless melody - on one string.
When did the master most powerfully demonstrate his skill? When he had the least to work with - one string. When does the Lord Jesus - our Master - most powerfully demonstrate how much He can do? When He has the least to work with. When our strings are broken and we have almost nothing left - that's when He plays His masterpieces.
That's what the great Apostle Paul learned when virtually all the strings of his life had broken. His testimony is in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. Paul had been given some spiritual revelations that no man had ever experienced before. He says, "To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh... Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.'"
Because Paul experiences God's power the most when he has nothing left, he says, "Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me... For when I am weak, then I am strong." Why? Because the less there is of you, the more there is of God. The more of His power you experience, the more it will make you, just like Paul, really greet your hard times and your hurting times with a sense of expectancy instead of dread or discouragement. Not that you like the pain, but you realize what that pain can produce. And all through it, you have God's unbreakable promise, "My grace is sufficient for you."
Possibly, right now, your strings have broken and you're down to one string. That's the moment when the Maestro is at His very best. He lovingly holds you in His arms and says, "Almighty God - and one string." He's about to play something beautiful, something unforgettable, something amazing through your life. --Ron Hutchcraft.
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Escape from Lonely Island by Ron Hutchcraft
There’s a beautiful spot on the coast of Maine called Bar Harbor, because there’s a bar in the harbor. It’s a sandbar that is totally exposed at low tide and totally submerged at high tide. The bar goes from the mainland to a little island called, yup, Bar Island. The island’s OK, but you wouldn’t want to spend a lot of time there. Although some people do – a lot more time than they planned to spend. When our family walked across the bar at low tide, we made sure to check that tide chart to see when the tide would be coming back. As we were walking back from the island, the bar was already a little narrower than it had been – the tide was coming in. Then there were those intelligent tourists who waited a little too long to start back, and there was no way back! Now no one has to be stranded on that island. There’s a way off, if you take it!
Lonely Island isn’t on any map, but it’s an island we all spend time on. Loneliness is an emotional island we can get stranded on when we have been isolated, or ignored, or left out, or forgotten, maybe misunderstood maybe even abandoned. Maybe even today finds you in the middle of another lonely time.
The good news is that you don’t have to be stuck on Lonely Island. Loneliness is ultimately not a prison sentence, it’s a choice! Feeling lonely is unavoidable, it’s part of being human. But staying lonely is a choice. Just like Bar Island, there are some steps to take to leave the island.
One way to make a lonely time a short time is to find someone who needs you. To reach out from your loneliness, even if you don’t feel like it, to make a difference for someone else. At a time when loneliness leaves you thinking about yourself, it’s important to decide to look beyond yourself. Another antidote to loneliness is to expand your world, especially your circle of friendships. If you take the risks to reach out to more people, you can reduce your trips to Lonely Island.
But even with all our efforts to cope with the lonely times, a lot of us carry this gnawing sense of loneliness with us most of the time. It isn’t necessarily that there aren’t people there for us, it’s just that those people have never been enough to fill us up inside. It’s like there is always someone missing. Well there is – the One you were made by, the One you were made for.
The incurable loneliness in the human heart is cosmic loneliness. We’re lonely for God. No earth relationship has ever been able to fill the God-shaped hole in our heart. In the words of the Bible, in Isaiah 59:2, “Your sins have separated you from your God.” Your sins, all those thousands of choices you’ve made in your lifetime that disregarded God’s way for “my way.” So here we are, away from the one Person who has the love we’re looking for. The only Person who knows why we were created, the Person we will meet the moment we die.
For our word for today from the Word of God, consider this promise from Jesus in light of the loneliness you know all too well. Hebrews 13:5, says of Jesus, “I will never leave you. I will never forsake you.” Think of it – unloseable, unconditional love. Jesus’ love for you took Him all the way to a brutal death on a cross, where He gave His life to pay your sin-bill with God. The One whose love you’ve been looking for all these years is yours the moment you tell Jesus, “I’m Yours.” You are one step of faith away from the world’s only “never leave you” love.
Your anchor relationship could begin this very day and never end. Never, no matter what else changes and no matter who else leaves. And you will have spent your last day alone.
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The type of seed you sow determines the type of harvest you'll reap.
Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously (2 Corinthians 9:6). This verse clearly states that whatever seed you sow determines the harvest you'll reap. In other words, you can't expect to reap good rewards if you sow bad seeds.
Proverbs 11:18 says, The wicked man earns deceptive wages, but he who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward. Likewise, he who sows wickedness reaps trouble (Proverbs 22:8).
Even when things may appear to be going poorly and it doesn't look like you'll ever reap a good harvest, this principle of sowing and reaping remains true. If you Sow for yourselves righteousness, then you will reap the fruit of unfailing love (Hosea 10:12).
You may have to wait a bit to reap that harvest; in fact, you may even need to wait a long time -- maybe many, many years -- for a harvest. As Galatians 6:7-8 says, you will reap what you sow: Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
This Biblical principle of sowing and reaping is nicely summarized by Obadiah 1:15: As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head.
Therefore, sow good seeds; then, after you wait upon the Lord, you will reap a far better harvest. --Weekly Wisdom
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Teach Me How to Live
Teach me, oh Lord, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end. Give me understanding and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Psalm 119: 33-34
You may have all the wisdom and knowledge of the world and your walls be lined with degrees; But until you fill your mind with God's word, the feeling of emptiness will not cease. Only His wisdom and knowledge can bring contentment and peace.
The wisdom and knowledge of God is far greater than the human mind can conceive, but He will give to us all that we need to live our lives in the way He would have us to live when we earnestly seek Him.
His word tells us if we seek we shall find. And the more we seek the more of His wisdom and knowledge will be revealed to us. When we first accept Him as our Lord and Savior, we are
babes are given more as we seek for more.
The more mature we become in Him, the more He expects of us in our showing them the love of Christ by example in the way we live. It is vital that we get into the word and spend time in it and in prayer also.
This is a must if we are to absorb all that He has for us in His wisdom and knowledge. We should seek to have the mind of Christ and be readily available and willing to perform whatever ask He has for us. We will find joy in living our lives for Him.
He will teach us how to laugh, to love and to live! Amen?.. Have a great day in the Lord and remember.....God Loves You and so do I. --Helen Johnson
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Psalms 106:2 (KJV) 2 Who can utter the mighty acts of the LORD? who can shew forth all his praise?
The question here is Who Can? The mighty acts of the Lord are the miracles of God. What is a miracle? Webster defines a miracle;
1. Literally, a wonder or wonderful thing; but appropriately,
2. In theology, an event or effect contrary to the established constitution and course of things, or a deviation from the known laws of nature; a supernatural event. Miracles can be wrought only by Almighty power, as when Christ healed lepers, saying, "I will, be thou clean," or calmed the tempest, "Peace, be still."
What is the purpose of miracles?
One clear purpose of miracles was to authenticate the character of Jesus and his relationship with his heavenly Father. In this regard, miracles demonstrate the following: God is with Jesus (John 3:2); Jesus is from God (John 3:2; 9:342–33); God has sent Jesus (John 5:36); Jesus has authority on earth to forgive sins (Mark 2:10–11; Matt. 9:6–7; Luke 5:24–25); Jesus is approved by God (Acts 2:22); the Father is in Jesus and Jesus is in the Father (John 10:37–38; 14:11); in Jesus the kingdom of God has come (Matt. 12:28; Luke 11:20); and Jesus is the Messiah (Matt. 11:1–6; Luke 7:18–23) and the Son of God (Matt. 14:25–33).
A second purpose of miracles was to authenticate the message about Jesus. This was the major function of the miracles as far as the ministry of the apostles was concerned. Mark says that the Lord “confirmed his word [that the apostles preached] by the signs that accompanied it” (Mark 16:20). When Luke was describing the ministry of Paul and Barnabas at Iconium, he said that the Lord “confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to do miraculous signs and wonders” (Acts 14:3). Notice that in both of these texts the Lord does not confirm the apostles themselves but rather “his word” or “the message” that the apostles were preaching. Signs and wonders do not testify to the apostles but to the message of salvation preached by the apostles. So the two principal things that are authenticated by miracles are the Lord Jesus and the message about the Lord Jesus.
Illustration
Eighty Years as a Second
In a recent number of the “Sunday School Times” a story is told of an Eastern king which illustrates at once our delusion respecting natural processes, and also God’s work and presence in them. The king was seated in a garden, and one of his counselors was speaking of the wonderful works of God. “Show me a sign,” said the king, “and I will believe.” “Here are four acorns,” said the counselor, “will you, Majesty, plant them in the ground, and then stoop down for a moment and look into this clear pool of water?” The king did so, “Now,” said the other, “look up.” The king looked up and saw four oak-trees where he had planted the acorns. “Wonderful!” he exclaimed, “this is indeed the work of God.” “How long were you looking into the water?” asked the counselor? “Only a second,” said the king. “Eighty years have passed as a second,” said the other. The king looked at his garments; they were threadbare. He looked at his reflection in the water; he had become an old man. “There is no miracle here, then,” he said angrily. “Yes,” said the other, “it is God’s work, whether he did it in one second or in eighty years.” --Source unknown
Thought for the Day - God seems to do nothing of Himself which He can possibly delegate to His creatures. He commands us to do slowly and blunderingly what He could do perfectly and in the twinkling of an eye. - C. S. Lewis --Dr. Dave Smeltz Daily Thought Devotional
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Small Straws In A Soft Wind by Marsha Burns
Be spiritually sensitive and listen for My direction. I am positioning you for optimum advantage for the near future that will set you on the path of maximum benefit for the distant future. You must be flexible to take advantage of unexpected opportunities that will ultimately bring your life's circumstances into divine order. Never forget that I am for you and not against you and that I will never leave you nor forsake you, says the Lord. Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
I am going to repost two prophetic words that might be of interest to you considering the national and global events of the past three weeks --
December 6, 1999: In a vision I saw a man on a unicycle carrying a red banner. As I didn't understand the vision, I watched as the man on the unicycle became a part of a three-ring circus under a big tent. There was also a death-defying, high-wire act and the ring master in the center ring announcing the next big event. As I watched, I saw Y2K written on the banner carried by the man on the unicycle. I was made aware that both the man on the unicycle and those on the high wire were doing a balancing act and that the high-wire act had been in process for some time before the cyclist's short performance. The spotlight was now beginning to highlight the middle ring. I asked the Lord the meaning of the vision, and I believe He revealed that the three rings of the circus represent spotlights of international attention. The high-wire act represents the economy and new highs on the stock market. That act will soon be over and the great performers will soon come down. The Y2K cyclist will be a balancing act, but will be short-lived despite all the media attention. As I watched and listened to the ring master, he announced the next event -- a wrestling match between a bear and a lion, which I believe is symbolic of war, perhaps the beginning of the war. I did not see the beginning of the wrestling match, but only heard the announcement of it. I find it interesting that the first known circuses took place in the Circus Maximus in ancient Rome. Perhaps this vision also symbolizes and signals the beginning of the rule of the revised Roman Empire, the New World Order, and the revealing of the anti-christ. I also saw horses waiting in the shadows beyond the reach of the spotlight, ready to take their positions for their event following the wrestling match. Could they be the horses of Revelation chapter 6?
September 25, 2006: The world is about to experience its greatest turmoil in the history of man, and you can expect to see extreme volatility with regard to all natural and human resources. But herein lies a great mystery of My kingdom. There is a division and widening chasm between My kingdom and the kingdoms of the world. Those who put their trust in the political and economic systems will find themselves on a roller-coaster ride with many ups and downs, and many will be ruined beyond recovery on this wild ride. But, even in the midst of wars and rumors of terrorism, you will find more peace than you have ever known as you draw near to Me and abide in Me, says the Lord. You will find your stability and hope in Me and will not be afraid. Many will be tempted to go back to old, familiar and comfortable places and seek worldly comfort instead of moving forward in the Kingdom of God. Isaiah 31:Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, and rely on horses, who trust in chariots because they are many, and in horsemen because they are very strong, but who do not look to the Holy One of Israel, nor seek the LORD!
I have prepared your way of ascent, for certainly you will progress and climb by way of the understanding of My purposes for you. I am stirring the hearts of those who have ears to hear, eyes to see, and hearts to understand. I have purposed to cause you to stir the coals of your spiritual desires into a flame of power in My kingdom. As you deliberately leave behind all things that have been a hindrance to your progression, I will lead you forth in great triumph, says the Lord.
2 Samuel 22:13 From the brightness before Him coals of fire were kindled.
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The Trumpet by Bill Burns
"Set the trumpet to your mouth!" Hosea 8:1
You are entering into a time of change. Listen to the wind, for it is blowing, and it is moving. There is purpose behind the strength of it, for I am bringing you forth into a season of fullness, a season in which the fullness of the Holy Spirit and that which I have for each one will come upon you if you will choose the anointing of the Spirit. The sound of the wind represents change, and so it shall be among you, My people. Changes are coming, and if you embrace them, they will propel you into the fullness of what I have for you in this time. Come with joy of heart, and come with willful expectation, for I am calling you to that higher spiritual place that I have prepared for you. Come and experience the revelation of this present time, says the Lord.
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The Wealth of God's Love
Oh how amazing is the mercy and grace of our
heavenly Father; That He should love us enough
to bother. Yet He sent His only begotten Son down
to earth from above...
to die in our stead because of His great love.
All He asks of us in return is through faith in Him
we believe;
When we repent of our sins which are
freely forgiven, His gift of salvation we will receive.
It is His will that none should perish but that all
should have everlasting life.
And be set free from,
pain, death and sin's guilt and strife!
Oh what a wondrous gift we've been given and oh
what a price Jesus paid that day;
There is not enough gold in this whole earth
that for this gift of love we could pay!
This gift of salvation is free to all who
in humbleness repent of their sins;
With mercy and grace our God will forgive
and a new life in Him will begin!
Helen Johnson
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"THE MESSAGE"
From God's heart, he wants you to know,
He heard you when you prayed,
And even before you called
The answer was on the way.
He said his thoughts and his ways
Are much higher than yours;
But, he completely understands
All your doubts and fears.
He keeps his angels busy
Day and night; they never rest;
Ascending and descending heavens stairway To give you his very best.
Let faith arise in you
And believe with all your heart,
Every word he said is true
As this message to you he imparts.
Given by: Jesus
Penned by: Anita Johnson 2007
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For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? Or what shall a man give in return for his life? Matthew 16:26
Behave Like a Christian
9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. 10 Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; 11 not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; 13 distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. 18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 Therefore “ If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:9-21
With God All Things Are Possible
23 Then Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” 24 And the disciples were astonished at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, “Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”
26 And they were greatly astonished, saying among themselves, “Who then can be saved?”
27 But Jesus looked at them and said, “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.”
28 Then Peter began to say to Him, “See, we have left all and followed You.”
29 So Jesus answered and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My sake and the gospel’s, 30 who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time—houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions—and in the age to come, eternal life. 31 But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” Matthew 19:23-31
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
It is better to trust in the LORD Than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the LORD Than to put confidence in princes. Psalm 118:8-9
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. 1 Timothy 6:17-19
But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. Titus 3:4-7
In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. Isaiah 40:28
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15
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THE PRIZE
There is an old story about the Greek Marathon. Muscular, conditioned runners paced nervously near the starting line for the long-distance race. The time was near. They "shook out" their muscles, inhaled deeply, and put on their "game faces."
In the midst of it all, a young stranger took his place at the starting line. His physique was awesome. Taking no notice of the other contestants, he stared straight ahead. Two prizes would be awarded the winner of the Marathon: a magnificent bouquet of flowers and the honor of standing beside the king until the conclusion of other contests.
There seemed to be no question among the runners about who would win the prize. It is alleged that the stranger was offered money not to run. Someone else attempted to bribe him with property. Refusing the offers, he toed the mark and awaited the signal to run. When the signal was given, he was the first away. At the finish line, he was the first to cross, well ahead of the rest.
When it was all done, someone asked the young man if he thought the flowers were worth as much as the money and property he had refused. He replied, "I did not enter the race for the flowers. I ran so that I could stand beside my king!"
Those of us who have chosen to follow Jesus Christ are "running the race" (1 Cor. 9:24-25). It is a race that has a prize for those who finish (notice, not those who finish first, but all who finish). This prize, according to Paul, is an "imperishable crown." The rewards for those who enter heaven are described in scripture with a lot of terms - "many mansions", "streets of gold", "tree of life" - and the list goes on and on. All of those things are attractive. That's why God tells us about them.
But I would be willing to give up all the streets of gold and settle for a small corner of a shack as long as I can know the reward of being able to stand beside my King. That's what I look forward to more than anything else. It is the one thing that will make heaven the wonderful reward that it will be.
"...The throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him." (Rev. 22:3)
Run the race with diligence. Your King is watching and waits for you at the finish line! --Alan Smith
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Opportunity Lost
"Then [King] Agrippa said to Paul, 'Almost you persuade me to be a Christian.'" - Acts 26:28
Years ago, Walter took his friend Arthur to see some land in open country where cattle were idly grazing. Walter explained about his dream for developing this area. He told his friend that in time the area would be surrounded by many restaurants, hotels and convention centers. He told Arthur that his plan would take all of his money and he needed others to develop the surrounding area. He wanted his friend to have the first opportunity to buy into this project.
But Arthur thought to himself, "Who in the world is going to drive twenty-five miles for this crazy project?"
He said to Walter that he would think about it and decide later on. "Later on will be too late," Walter cautioned Arthur. "You'd better move on it right now."
"And so Art Linkletter turned down the opportunity to buy up all the land that surrounded what was to become Disneyland. His friend Walt Disney tried to talk him into it. But Art thought he was crazy."
Life's like that. King Agrippa had the opportunity to accept Christ and become a Christian. He turned it down. Judas had one of the greatest opportunities in all history to become a follower of Jesus. Instead, he betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Unbelievable! The two thieves who were crucified with Jesus also had the opportunity to receive the gift of eternal life. One accepted. The other didn't.
Life offers all of us many opportunities. We all have the opportunity to become followers of Jesus and to be a part of what God is doing in the world today. That choice is ours. Today. As God's Word says, "Now is the accepted time... now is the day of salvation." (2 Corinthians 6:2)
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, when opportunities from you come knocking on my door, no matter how quiet they are, please give me an ear to hear, a listening heart to hear what you are saying, and the wisdom to say, 'Yes,' to you and your call. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen." --Dick Innes
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Peace Within
May there be peace within you today. May you trust your highest power that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, and to bask in the sun, it is there for each and every one of you. Amen --Author Unknown
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Read Through The Bible
Leviticus 14
Cleansing From Infectious Skin Diseases
1 The LORD said to Moses, 2 "These are the regulations for the diseased person at the time of his ceremonial cleansing, when he is brought to the priest: 3 The priest is to go outside the camp and examine him. If the person has been healed of his infectious skin disease, 4 the priest shall order that two live clean birds and some cedar wood, scarlet yarn and hyssop be brought for the one to be cleansed. 5 Then the priest shall order that one of the birds be killed over fresh water in a clay pot. 6 He is then to take the live bird and dip it, together with the cedar wood, the scarlet yarn and the hyssop, into the blood of the bird that was killed over the fresh water. 7 Seven times he shall sprinkle the one to be cleansed of the infectious disease and pronounce him clean. Then he is to release the live bird in the open fields. 8 "The person to be cleansed must wash his clothes, shave off all his hair and bathe with water; then he will be ceremonially clean. After this he may come into the camp, but he must stay outside his tent for seven days. 9 On the seventh day he must shave off all his hair; he must shave his head, his beard, his eyebrows and the rest of his hair. He must wash his clothes and bathe himself with water, and he will be clean. 10 "On the eighth day he must bring two male lambs and one ewe lamb a year old, each without defect, along with three-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering, and one log of oil. 11 The priest who pronounces him clean shall present both the one to be cleansed and his offerings before the LORD at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. 12 "Then the priest is to take one of the male lambs and offer it as a guilt offering, along with the log of oil; he shall wave them before the LORD as a wave offering. 13 He is to slaughter the lamb in the holy place where the sin offering and the burnt offering are slaughtered. Like the sin offering, the guilt offering belongs to the priest; it is most holy. 14 The priest is to take some of the blood of the guilt offering and put it on the lobe of the right ear of the one to be cleansed, on the thumb of his right hand and on the big toe of his right foot. 15 The priest shall then take some of the log of oil, pour it in the palm of his own left hand, 16 dip his right forefinger into the oil in his palm, and with his finger sprinkle some of it before the LORD seven times. 17 The priest is to put some of the oil remaining in his palm on the lobe of the right ear of the one to be cleansed, on the thumb of his right hand and on the big toe of his right foot, on top of the blood of the guilt offering. 18 The rest of the oil in his palm the priest shall put on the head of the one to be cleansed and make atonement for him before the LORD. 19 "Then the priest is to sacrifice the sin offering and make atonement for the one to be cleansed from his uncleanness. After that, the priest shall slaughter the burnt offering 20 and offer it on the altar, together with the grain offering, and make atonement for him, and he will be clean. 21 "If, however, he is poor and cannot afford these, he must take one male lamb as a guilt offering to be waved to make atonement for him, together with a tenth of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering, a log of oil, 22 and two doves or two young pigeons, which he can afford, one for a sin offering and the other for a burnt offering. 23 "On the eighth day he must bring them for his cleansing to the priest at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, before the LORD. 24 The priest is to take the lamb for the guilt offering, together with the log of oil, and wave them before the LORD as a wave offering. 25 He shall slaughter the lamb for the guilt offering and take some of its blood and put it on the lobe of the right ear of the one to be cleansed, on the thumb of his right hand and on the big toe of his right foot. 26 The priest is to pour some of the oil into the palm of his own left hand, 27 and with his right forefinger sprinkle some of the oil from his palm seven times before the LORD. 28 Some of the oil in his palm he is to put on the same places he put the blood of the guilt offering—on the lobe of the right ear of the one to be cleansed, on the thumb of his right hand and on the big toe of his right foot. 29 The rest of the oil in his palm the priest shall put on the head of the one to be cleansed, to make atonement for him before the LORD. 30 Then he shall sacrifice the doves or the young pigeons, which the person can afford, 31 one as a sin offering and the other as a burnt offering, together with the grain offering. In this way the priest will make atonement before the LORD on behalf of the one to be cleansed." 32 These are the regulations for anyone who has an infectious skin disease and who cannot afford the regular offerings for his cleansing.
Cleansing From Mildew
33 The LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 34 "When you enter the land of Canaan, which I am giving you as your possession, and I put a spreading mildew in a house in that land, 35 the owner of the house must go and tell the priest, 'I have seen something that looks like mildew in my house.' 36 The priest is to order the house to be emptied before he goes in to examine the mildew, so that nothing in the house will be pronounced unclean. After this the priest is to go in and inspect the house. 37 He is to examine the mildew on the walls, and if it has greenish or reddish depressions that appear to be deeper than the surface of the wall, 38 the priest shall go out the doorway of the house and close it up for seven days. 39 On the seventh day the priest shall return to inspect the house. If the mildew has spread on the walls, 40 he is to order that the contaminated stones be torn out and thrown into an unclean place outside the town. 41 He must have all the inside walls of the house scraped and the material that is scraped off dumped into an unclean place outside the town. 42 Then they are to take other stones to replace these and take new clay and plaster the house. 43 "If the mildew reappears in the house after the stones have been torn out and the house scraped and plastered, 44 the priest is to go and examine it and, if the mildew has spread in the house, it is a destructive mildew; the house is unclean. 45 It must be torn down—its stones, timbers and all the plaster—and taken out of the town to an unclean place. 46 "Anyone who goes into the house while it is closed up will be unclean till evening. 47 Anyone who sleeps or eats in the house must wash his clothes. 48 "But if the priest comes to examine it and the mildew has not spread after the house has been plastered, he shall pronounce the house clean, because the mildew is gone. 49 To purify the house he is to take two birds and some cedar wood, scarlet yarn and hyssop. 50 He shall kill one of the birds over fresh water in a clay pot. 51 Then he is to take the cedar wood, the hyssop, the scarlet yarn and the live bird, dip them into the blood of the dead bird and the fresh water, and sprinkle the house seven times. 52 He shall purify the house with the bird's blood, the fresh water, the live bird, the cedar wood, the hyssop and the scarlet yarn. 53 Then he is to release the live bird in the open fields outside the town. In this way he will make atonement for the house, and it will be clean." 54 These are the regulations for any infectious skin disease, for an itch, 55 for mildew in clothing or in a house, 56 and for a swelling, a rash or a bright spot, 57 to determine when something is clean or unclean. These are the regulations for infectious skin diseases and mildew.
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An Interfaith Prayer for Peace
O God, you are the source of life and peace. Praised be your name forever. We know it is you who turn our minds to thoughts of peace. Hear our prayer in this time of crisis. Your power changes hearts. We profoundly affirm, that we are followers of the one God, Children of Abraham, brothers and sisters; enemies begin to speak to one another; those who were estranged join hands in friendship; we seek the way of peace together. Strengthen our resolve to give witness to these truths by the way we live. Give to us: Understanding that puts an end to strife; mercy that quenches hatred, and forgiveness that overcomes vengeance. Empower all people to live in your law of love. Amen. --Pax Christi
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.