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02-01-2007, 06:32 AM
Every breath you breathe will be filled with thankfulness, when you realize Jesus Christ is your blesser, giver, and healer.
--Charlie Jones
To know God puts a song in your heart and a smile on your face.
Let God do the weeding.
Even darkness is not dark to those who walk with God.
God, though all-powerful, invites us to help others through intercessory prayer, bringing healing and hope to those in need.
Christ offers us the chance to begin again, as children.
God is always close to us.
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The Person God Uses
"Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful."1 Corinthians 4:2
In God's order there is work for everyone to do. He doesn't call many to be a "Billy Graham or a Mother Teresa," but he does call all of us to be faithful in using the gifts and abilities he has given to us. In case we don't feel worthy to be of much use to God, it can help to look at the frailties of many of God's servants in the Bible.
Somebody has pointed out that: "Moses stuttered. David's armor didn't fit. John Mark was rejected by Paul. Hosea's wife was a prostitute. Amos's only training was in the school of fig-tree pruning. Jacob was a liar. David had an affair. Solomon was too rich. Abraham was too old. David was too young. Timothy had ulcers. Peter was afraid of death.
"Lazarus was dead. John was self-righteous. Jesus was too poor. Naomi was a widow. Paul was a murderer. So was Moses. Jonah ran from God. Miriam was a gossip. Gideon and Thomas both doubted. Jeremiah was depressed and suicidal. Elijah was burned out. John the Baptist was a loudmouth. Martha was a worry-wart. Samson had long hair. Noah got drunk. Did I mention that Moses had a short fuse? So did Peter as did Paul."
True, we all have areas of weakness and have experienced failure at some level, but God will still use every one who makes him or herself available to God. So let's be sure we are serving God by faithfully using the gifts and talents he has given to each of us. It's a great privilege and a great opportunity—plus it has eternal rewards.
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please give me the want-to-be what you want me to be and the want-to-do what you want me to do using the gifts and abilities you have given to me—and help me to love and serve you faithfully all the days of my life. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen." --Daily Encounter
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Quarreling and Strife
"Then Abram said to Lot, 'Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herders and my herders; for we are kindred.'" Genesis 13:8
There is a legend from Greek mythology that the god Hercules was once walking along a narrow road when a strange-looking creature appeared threateningly in front of him. Hercules struck this creature with his club and passed on, but soon afterwards was surprised to be confronted by this same creature, only now three times as large. Hercules struck it again and again and each time it grew in size until finally it completely blocked the road. Then the goddess Pallas Athena appeared to Hercules and told him to stop. "The monster is called Strife," she said. "Let it alone, and it will soon become as small as it was at first."
All quarreling and strife will certainly return to manageable proportions and ultimately cease if one of the quarrelers lets it alone. One is either a peacemaker or one is a "stirrer"—determined to keep the argument going for the sake of personal gain or satisfaction.
Take Abraham. His herdsmen quarreled, and he and Lot might have quarreled too, had not Abraham taken the wise course and ended it. "Lot," he said, "this won't do. Let there be no strife between you and me or between my herdsmen and yours, for we are all brothers." And then he became the generous mediator and told Lot that he could have the best land in the east, if that was what he wanted. It was wise to separate the two groups and it was generous of Abraham to give Lot first choice. As an elder he could have dictated the terms but he was above meanness and was blessed as a result.
Abraham was above personal gain, he did not seek after flocks and herds, silver and gold, servants or the best land. God was sought first; other things were added. Lot, on the other hand, couldn't keep his eyes off the fertile plain of Sodom. He wanted it; then he wanted more; he got it; then lost it all. --Pastor Ron
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me not to be greedy for personal gain and material possessions but always seek to put you first and be a peacemaker rather than a strife-maker. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen." --Daily Encounter
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Quilt of Holes
As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls.
Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life.
But as my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in every day life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all.
I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune. I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened.
My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air.
Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose; each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been. My angel looked upon me, and nodded for me to rise.
My gaze dropped to the ground in shame. I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But there had also been trials of illness, and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it. I had to start over many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me.
And now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was.
I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light.
An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes.
Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light flooded the many holes, creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes. He said, "Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles.
Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you."
May all our quilts be threadbare and worn, allowing Christ to shine through!
Please share this with someone you love, care about or even someone who needs Jesus in their heart. They may scoff, but at least the seed has been planted, and God will do the rest. May God bless you today and Forever! God determines who walks into your life....it's up to you to decide who you let walk away, who you let stay, and who you refuse to let go. --Bonnie
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Armor for the Body
Put on the full armor of God Ephesians 6:10
I was donning my “armor”, as I often do each morning. That is, I try and remember to do it early, before the day gets underway and takes on a life of its own. When I forget, it’s usually not long before something happens to remind me I haven’t done that.
As I was going through each piece and putting it on, stepping into it, or taking it up, a picture of our church came into my mind’s eye. The thought occurred to me, why not put the armor on the church body, as well as my own body?
The Bible says that the church is us, the body of believers. Not a building, but brothers and sisters in the Lord, adopted children by our Abba Father. (Eph. 1:5) Also says that, together, we are one body, with Christ as the head (Rom. 12:4-5, Eph. 5:23, Col. 1:18).
I began to picture this, as I continued putting on the spiritual armor of God:
Belt of truth, honesty with God, myself, and others. Integrity.
Breastplate of righteousness to guard hearts, emotions and feelings.
Shoes of peace* to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, not wandering on our own paths.
Shield of faith* to deflect and stop the arrows shot at us by the enemy.
Helmet of salvation (Gr.,souzo) meaning saved, as well as delivered, safe, preserved, healed, healthy, sound, and whole.
Sword of the Spirit * the Word of God, our solid bottom-line; “It is written”
That¹s six items. The number representing completeness in the Bible is seven; we add the 7th part of the “armor” which is to stand. Not just stand there and do nothing, but stand praying for one another.
Thank you, Lord, for providing your armor for my body, and for our corporate body, each and every day. --Sally Ireland Kennedy
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Fresh Mercies for the New Year
The possibility for fresh starts has always been important to me. Did your fall semester in middle school, college, or graduate school end on a low note? The spring semester that starts in a few days is a new beginning for you.
Was last year a tough one at work? Did you lose a job? Have to move your family from a place everybody really liked to a new location? One way to cope is to think of what you can gain rather than what you’ve lost. Focus on what to learn from the experience to help you move forward. Make some new friends.
Is an important relationship in trouble? Did someone you love die? Are you worried about the bad-attitude friends your child has made? Maybe you need to look at these things through fresh eyes and with hope.
A sense of brokenness is often the mandatory first step to renewal and healing. So it isn't a bad thing to lament our losses. But it is a terribly bad thing to spend the rest of your life looking over a shoulder to the past instead of lifting your eyes to the future. It can be fatal to the spirit.
As you might expect in light of all this, the turning of the calendar to a new year is a big deal to me. Doesn't the idea of a clean slate appeal to you too? Doesn't the chance to start over sound great? But I'm not necessarily suggesting that you make a long list of New Year's Resolutions. In fact, I'm against it.
Long lists are intimidating and frustrating. Most resolutions are too vague – reduce stress, save more money, be more helpful at home. And the notion of pledging to do something for 365 days is tough on people who are honest about just how often failure visits them. Perhaps there is a better way.
Remember the advice Jesus gave about just taking care of today and not biting off tomorrow's troubles? "Each day has challenges enough of its own!" he said. Think about it, and you will realize that your own experience confirms it.
In the context of that statement, Jesus gave this counsel: "Strive above all else for the reign of God in your life, and the things that have been worrying you will resolve!" God's reign requires conscious surrender. Not of the entire year but of today's trouble, this stress, or a particular loss. Not of the other person but of my attitude toward her. Not of yesterday's failure so much as today's opportunity.
New Year 2007 is God's mercy to you. With his presence a reality and in one-day-at-a-time surrender to him, creative new things will come out of the waste-and-void chaos of the past. And life can be fresh every morning. --The FAX of Life
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PUZZLES and PLANS
My grandson Cobi used to have trouble putting puzzles together. When he decided a certain piece should fit into a specific spot, there was no convincing him that he could be wrong. No matter how difficult it was to squeeze that piece in, he pushed and pounded on it saying, "It WILL fit!"
How often do we adults act that way when things don't "fit" in our lives? I’ve heard people say, "I'm going to do what I want, no matter what God wants." I wonder if they realize what they’re saying.
According to the Bible, plans that go against God's will don't prosper. "Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman keeps awake in vain." (Psalm 127:1)
My husband and I once fell in love with a gorgeous Victorian home. We wanted to buy that house more than we had ever wanted anything, but it wasn’t within our price range. We were determined, so we came up with a plan to get what we wanted. We would get second jobs and take in renters. We would get by with only one car and sell everything else we owned.
We had our plan all figured out, but the house sold to someone else before we could make our offer. We were disappointed at the time, but we later realized it had worked out for the best. We were fortunate that we didn’t get what we wanted. We would have been buried in debt forever if we’d bought that house, and we would have eventually regretted the mess we’d gotten into.
We’re glad now that God worked out His will instead of letting us have our own way. We’ve learned that we need to seek God's guidance before making our plans. His plan is always better than our own. Jeremiah 29:11 says, "I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." --Marsha Jordan
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Small Straws In A Soft Wind by Marsha Burns
Keep pushing through the darkness and chaos; light and peace are well within reach. Refuse to allow the darkness to overwhelm you or swallow you up. Rise up on the wings of the power of My word and truth. Light always prevails over the darkness. Truth overcomes lies. Be strong in the power of My Spirit, says the Lord.
Joshua 1:9 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
Beloved, I am bringing new light to your life, revealing things that are necessary at this time. When the light comes it will be like stepping out of a dark room into the bright light of day, and you will experience a sense of relief at these important revelations. However, the enemy will do his utmost to try to pervert the conviction that comes and make it condemnation. But, I tell you to refuse his attempts to use My word against you to keep you in darkness. Come into the light, says the Lord.
Psalms 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
Roll with the punches, and go with the flow. You must trust that I will direct your steps and bring you through every situation that challenges your comfort zone. Be still and maintain peace so that you can stay sensitive to My leading. For, certainly, I will speak to your heart to show you the way, says the Lord.
Isaiah 30:21 Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, "This is the way, walk in it," Whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left.
Behold, I am with you. I hold you in the hollow of My hand, says the Lord. I make a way where the way is not clear. Your praise will lead you into My presence where you can know My Spirit. Lift your voice in thanksgiving for the great miracle of My presence. Your worship is well pleasing to Me. Draw near, and let us have sweet communion together.
Psalms 100:4 Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
Rejoice in your victories, but watch for the enemy to create chaos that will put you in a tail-spin. The more order you manage to maintain, the greater the force of evil to steal your peace. Take a stand, and refuse to give up any ground. Take the time necessary to rebuke the devil and re-establish your authority by My Spirit, says the Lord. You will easily overcome if you will face one challenge at a time without being forced into confusion through multi-tasking.
Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
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Forgive Me Lord
Forgive me Lord
For the wrongs I have done.
For anger I shouldn't have
Against anyone.
I know I'm weak Lord,
But I love You, I really do,
And in spite of my weakness,
I know You love me too.
Forgive me for not reading Your word,
And for the times that I stray.
Forgive me for just being too tired
When I don't take the time to pray.
Give me the strength, Lord
To do what I should each day.
Let Your love shine through me
So others will follow Your way.
Even though I've failed You Lord,
I know You'll forgive me,
And this I promise Lord,
A better Christian I will be.
For Your presence is in me
Filling my heart with Your love,
And I have Your reassurance
You're guiding from above.
I love You Lord, and thank You
For the blessings You bestow,
I will tell others about You
So Your goodness they too, will know.
--Louise P. Heckman
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Virtues Prayer
~ Virjinja ~
Keep me, Lord, from backward looking
Something I must avoid doing
I know that unholy fault
Could turn me to a stick of salt
Keep me from sitting on the fence
Wishy-washy makes no sense
I might easily fall off
To the wrong side ~ what a loss
That would be... oh my, oh me
I could end up far from Thee!
Help me remain on Your side
The enemy is never far
Don't let me get all caught up
In gossiping and foolish talk
That could deal an awful blow
To folks already feeling low
Show me each and every day
How to serve in different ways
That You will be glorified
By what I do with this, my life
Help me keep my wants in check
Since all my needs you've always met
And then, when times get really tough
Remind me, Lord, that you're enough.
In Jesus’ Name
These words I pray
Amen...
That’s all ~ for today!
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All I Have Is Today!
Dear Lord, help me to realize, That all I have is today!
I can't even "view" tomorrow! I know it's best that way!
My past is now only history. It's a tale that has been told!
Now only some memories remain. The pleasant ones I hold!
My sins are all forgiven! I'm now a "brand new" man!
My debt was paid at Calvary, Through God's redemption plan!
Today is yet another day, That I can serve the Lord,
As I walk the "straight and narrow way," In quest of my reward!
Today I must witness for Jesus, To a "lost and dying" world,
Lift up the "blood stained" banner, And keep it high and unfurled!
I need not worry or fret o'er tomorrow! I'll just trust in the Lord up above!
Who so wisely said, "Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof!"
God who provides for the sparrow, And clothes the grass of the field,
Will take care of each tomorrow, If I'll just to Him yield!
I must put my faith and trust in God, For He is leading the way!
He sees the end from the beginning! I can "barely" see today!
I am the clay! He's the potter! So, I must lie yielded and still!
If I have a flaw in my vessel, He'll put me back on the wheel!
Darkness is falling around me, As skies turn a deep shade of gray!
I hear the Lord of the Harvest say, "Work while it is yet day!"
Today is the "Day of Salvation!" If people will hear God's voice,
He'll cleanse sinner's blackened hearts, And give them cause to rejoice!
Hark! Now the moments are fleeting, And soon today will be past!
Things of the world are just temporal! Only the spiritual will last!
Friend, can you not see, The "curtain of time" drawing to a close?
Will today be our last day on Earth? Only our God knows!
We must be watching and ready, While holding "our hand to the plow!"
If we'll put our trust in Jesus today, He'll help us make it somehow!
Robert F. Dotson 2006
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"Abba, Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will." Mark 14:36
"I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." I John 14:6
"O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth forever." Psalm 136:26
I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom will I trust. Psalm 91:2
I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart." Psalm 40:8
He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
Psalm 91:4
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105
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The Secret One day, one friend asked another, "How is it that you are always so happy? You have so much energy, and you never seem to get down." With her eyes smiling, she said, "I know the Secret!" "What secret is that?" To which she replied, "I'll tell you all about it, but you have to promise to share the Secret with others." "The Secret is this: I have learned there is little I can do in my life that will make me truly happy. I must depend on God to make me happy and to meet my needs. When a need arises in my life, I have to trust God to supply according to HIS riches. I have learned most of the time I don't need half of what I think I do. He has never let me down. Since I learned that 'Secret', I am happy." The questioner's first thought was, "That's too simple!" But upon reflecting over his own life he recalled how he thought a bigger house would make him happy, but it didn't! He thought a better paying job would make him happy, but it hadn't. When did he realize his greatest happiness? Sitting on the floor with his grandchildren, playing games, eating pizza or reading a story, a simple gift from God. Now you know it too! We can't depend on people to make us happy. Only GOD in His infinite wisdom can do that. Trust HIM! And now I pass the Secret on to you! So once you get it, what will you do? YOU have to tell someone the Secret, too! That GOD in His wisdom will take care of YOU! But it's not really a secret... We just have to believe it and do it... Really trust God! --Bonnie
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Dear God, help us come to you with the faith of little children, trusting that you will lead us along paths of righteousness and teach us new truth day by day. Amen.
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Read Through The Bible
Genesis 16
Hagar and Ishmael
Now Sarai, Abram's wife, had borne him no children. But she had an Egyptian maidservant named Hagar; so she said to Abram, "The LORD has kept me from having children. Go, sleep with my maidservant; perhaps I can build a family through her." Abram agreed to what Sarai said. So after Abram had been living in Canaan ten years, Sarai his wife took her Egyptian maidservant Hagar and gave her to her husband to be his wife. 4 He slept with Hagar, and she conceived. When she knew she was pregnant, she began to despise her mistress.5 Then Sarai said to Abram, "You are responsible for the wrong I am suffering. I put my servant in your arms, and now that she knows she is pregnant, she despises me. May the LORD judge between you and me." "Your servant is in your hands," Abram said. "Do with her whatever you think best." Then Sarai mistreated Hagar; so she fled from her. The angel of the LORD found Hagar near a spring in the desert; it was the spring that is beside the road to Shur. And he said, "Hagar, servant of Sarai, where have you come from, and where are you going?" "I'm running away from my mistress Sarai," she answered. Then the angel of the LORD told her, "Go back to your mistress and submit to her." The angel added, "I will so increase your descendants that they will be too numerous to count." The angel of the LORD also said to her: "You are now with child and you will have a son.
You shall name him Ishmael, for the LORD has heard of your misery. He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone's hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers." She gave this name to the LORD who spoke to her: "You are the God who sees me," for she said, "I have now seen the One who sees me." That is why the well was called Beer Lahai Roi; it is still there, between Kadesh and Bered. So Hagar bore Abram a son, and Abram gave the name Ishmael to the son she had borne. Abram was eighty-six years old when Hagar bore him Ishmael.
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Dear Lord, I thank You for this day. I thank You for my being able to see and to hear this morning. I'm blessed because You are a forgiving God and an understanding God. You have done so much for me and You keep blessing me. Forgive me this day for everything that I have done, said, or thought that was not pleasing to you. I ask now for Your forgiveness. Please keep me safe from all danger and harm. Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of each and every day to clear my mind, so that I can hear from You. Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things. Let me not whine and whimper over things I have no control over. And it's best response when I'm pushed beyond my limits. I know that when I can't pray, You listen to me heart. Continue to use me to do Your will. Continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I may help the weak... Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others. I pray for those that are lost and can't find their way. I pray for those that are misjudged and misunderstood. I pray for those that will delete this without sharing it with others. I pray for those that don't believe. But I thank you that I believe. I believe that God changes people and changes things. I pray for all my sisters and brothers. For each and every family member in their households. I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes, that they are out of debt and all their needs are met. I pray that every eye that reads this prayer, knows there is no problem, circumstance, or situation greater than God. Every battle is in Your hands, for You to fight. I pray that these words be received into the hearts of every eye that sees this prayer. You never know when God is going to bless you! Good things happen, when you least expect them to! --Author Unknown
--Charlie Jones
To know God puts a song in your heart and a smile on your face.
Let God do the weeding.
Even darkness is not dark to those who walk with God.
God, though all-powerful, invites us to help others through intercessory prayer, bringing healing and hope to those in need.
Christ offers us the chance to begin again, as children.
God is always close to us.
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The Person God Uses
"Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful."1 Corinthians 4:2
In God's order there is work for everyone to do. He doesn't call many to be a "Billy Graham or a Mother Teresa," but he does call all of us to be faithful in using the gifts and abilities he has given to us. In case we don't feel worthy to be of much use to God, it can help to look at the frailties of many of God's servants in the Bible.
Somebody has pointed out that: "Moses stuttered. David's armor didn't fit. John Mark was rejected by Paul. Hosea's wife was a prostitute. Amos's only training was in the school of fig-tree pruning. Jacob was a liar. David had an affair. Solomon was too rich. Abraham was too old. David was too young. Timothy had ulcers. Peter was afraid of death.
"Lazarus was dead. John was self-righteous. Jesus was too poor. Naomi was a widow. Paul was a murderer. So was Moses. Jonah ran from God. Miriam was a gossip. Gideon and Thomas both doubted. Jeremiah was depressed and suicidal. Elijah was burned out. John the Baptist was a loudmouth. Martha was a worry-wart. Samson had long hair. Noah got drunk. Did I mention that Moses had a short fuse? So did Peter as did Paul."
True, we all have areas of weakness and have experienced failure at some level, but God will still use every one who makes him or herself available to God. So let's be sure we are serving God by faithfully using the gifts and talents he has given to each of us. It's a great privilege and a great opportunity—plus it has eternal rewards.
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please give me the want-to-be what you want me to be and the want-to-do what you want me to do using the gifts and abilities you have given to me—and help me to love and serve you faithfully all the days of my life. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen." --Daily Encounter
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Quarreling and Strife
"Then Abram said to Lot, 'Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herders and my herders; for we are kindred.'" Genesis 13:8
There is a legend from Greek mythology that the god Hercules was once walking along a narrow road when a strange-looking creature appeared threateningly in front of him. Hercules struck this creature with his club and passed on, but soon afterwards was surprised to be confronted by this same creature, only now three times as large. Hercules struck it again and again and each time it grew in size until finally it completely blocked the road. Then the goddess Pallas Athena appeared to Hercules and told him to stop. "The monster is called Strife," she said. "Let it alone, and it will soon become as small as it was at first."
All quarreling and strife will certainly return to manageable proportions and ultimately cease if one of the quarrelers lets it alone. One is either a peacemaker or one is a "stirrer"—determined to keep the argument going for the sake of personal gain or satisfaction.
Take Abraham. His herdsmen quarreled, and he and Lot might have quarreled too, had not Abraham taken the wise course and ended it. "Lot," he said, "this won't do. Let there be no strife between you and me or between my herdsmen and yours, for we are all brothers." And then he became the generous mediator and told Lot that he could have the best land in the east, if that was what he wanted. It was wise to separate the two groups and it was generous of Abraham to give Lot first choice. As an elder he could have dictated the terms but he was above meanness and was blessed as a result.
Abraham was above personal gain, he did not seek after flocks and herds, silver and gold, servants or the best land. God was sought first; other things were added. Lot, on the other hand, couldn't keep his eyes off the fertile plain of Sodom. He wanted it; then he wanted more; he got it; then lost it all. --Pastor Ron
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me not to be greedy for personal gain and material possessions but always seek to put you first and be a peacemaker rather than a strife-maker. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen." --Daily Encounter
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Quilt of Holes
As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls.
Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life.
But as my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in every day life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all.
I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune. I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened.
My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air.
Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose; each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been. My angel looked upon me, and nodded for me to rise.
My gaze dropped to the ground in shame. I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But there had also been trials of illness, and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it. I had to start over many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me.
And now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was.
I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light.
An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes.
Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light flooded the many holes, creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes. He said, "Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles.
Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you."
May all our quilts be threadbare and worn, allowing Christ to shine through!
Please share this with someone you love, care about or even someone who needs Jesus in their heart. They may scoff, but at least the seed has been planted, and God will do the rest. May God bless you today and Forever! God determines who walks into your life....it's up to you to decide who you let walk away, who you let stay, and who you refuse to let go. --Bonnie
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Armor for the Body
Put on the full armor of God Ephesians 6:10
I was donning my “armor”, as I often do each morning. That is, I try and remember to do it early, before the day gets underway and takes on a life of its own. When I forget, it’s usually not long before something happens to remind me I haven’t done that.
As I was going through each piece and putting it on, stepping into it, or taking it up, a picture of our church came into my mind’s eye. The thought occurred to me, why not put the armor on the church body, as well as my own body?
The Bible says that the church is us, the body of believers. Not a building, but brothers and sisters in the Lord, adopted children by our Abba Father. (Eph. 1:5) Also says that, together, we are one body, with Christ as the head (Rom. 12:4-5, Eph. 5:23, Col. 1:18).
I began to picture this, as I continued putting on the spiritual armor of God:
Belt of truth, honesty with God, myself, and others. Integrity.
Breastplate of righteousness to guard hearts, emotions and feelings.
Shoes of peace* to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, not wandering on our own paths.
Shield of faith* to deflect and stop the arrows shot at us by the enemy.
Helmet of salvation (Gr.,souzo) meaning saved, as well as delivered, safe, preserved, healed, healthy, sound, and whole.
Sword of the Spirit * the Word of God, our solid bottom-line; “It is written”
That¹s six items. The number representing completeness in the Bible is seven; we add the 7th part of the “armor” which is to stand. Not just stand there and do nothing, but stand praying for one another.
Thank you, Lord, for providing your armor for my body, and for our corporate body, each and every day. --Sally Ireland Kennedy
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Fresh Mercies for the New Year
The possibility for fresh starts has always been important to me. Did your fall semester in middle school, college, or graduate school end on a low note? The spring semester that starts in a few days is a new beginning for you.
Was last year a tough one at work? Did you lose a job? Have to move your family from a place everybody really liked to a new location? One way to cope is to think of what you can gain rather than what you’ve lost. Focus on what to learn from the experience to help you move forward. Make some new friends.
Is an important relationship in trouble? Did someone you love die? Are you worried about the bad-attitude friends your child has made? Maybe you need to look at these things through fresh eyes and with hope.
A sense of brokenness is often the mandatory first step to renewal and healing. So it isn't a bad thing to lament our losses. But it is a terribly bad thing to spend the rest of your life looking over a shoulder to the past instead of lifting your eyes to the future. It can be fatal to the spirit.
As you might expect in light of all this, the turning of the calendar to a new year is a big deal to me. Doesn't the idea of a clean slate appeal to you too? Doesn't the chance to start over sound great? But I'm not necessarily suggesting that you make a long list of New Year's Resolutions. In fact, I'm against it.
Long lists are intimidating and frustrating. Most resolutions are too vague – reduce stress, save more money, be more helpful at home. And the notion of pledging to do something for 365 days is tough on people who are honest about just how often failure visits them. Perhaps there is a better way.
Remember the advice Jesus gave about just taking care of today and not biting off tomorrow's troubles? "Each day has challenges enough of its own!" he said. Think about it, and you will realize that your own experience confirms it.
In the context of that statement, Jesus gave this counsel: "Strive above all else for the reign of God in your life, and the things that have been worrying you will resolve!" God's reign requires conscious surrender. Not of the entire year but of today's trouble, this stress, or a particular loss. Not of the other person but of my attitude toward her. Not of yesterday's failure so much as today's opportunity.
New Year 2007 is God's mercy to you. With his presence a reality and in one-day-at-a-time surrender to him, creative new things will come out of the waste-and-void chaos of the past. And life can be fresh every morning. --The FAX of Life
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PUZZLES and PLANS
My grandson Cobi used to have trouble putting puzzles together. When he decided a certain piece should fit into a specific spot, there was no convincing him that he could be wrong. No matter how difficult it was to squeeze that piece in, he pushed and pounded on it saying, "It WILL fit!"
How often do we adults act that way when things don't "fit" in our lives? I’ve heard people say, "I'm going to do what I want, no matter what God wants." I wonder if they realize what they’re saying.
According to the Bible, plans that go against God's will don't prosper. "Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman keeps awake in vain." (Psalm 127:1)
My husband and I once fell in love with a gorgeous Victorian home. We wanted to buy that house more than we had ever wanted anything, but it wasn’t within our price range. We were determined, so we came up with a plan to get what we wanted. We would get second jobs and take in renters. We would get by with only one car and sell everything else we owned.
We had our plan all figured out, but the house sold to someone else before we could make our offer. We were disappointed at the time, but we later realized it had worked out for the best. We were fortunate that we didn’t get what we wanted. We would have been buried in debt forever if we’d bought that house, and we would have eventually regretted the mess we’d gotten into.
We’re glad now that God worked out His will instead of letting us have our own way. We’ve learned that we need to seek God's guidance before making our plans. His plan is always better than our own. Jeremiah 29:11 says, "I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." --Marsha Jordan
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Small Straws In A Soft Wind by Marsha Burns
Keep pushing through the darkness and chaos; light and peace are well within reach. Refuse to allow the darkness to overwhelm you or swallow you up. Rise up on the wings of the power of My word and truth. Light always prevails over the darkness. Truth overcomes lies. Be strong in the power of My Spirit, says the Lord.
Joshua 1:9 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
Beloved, I am bringing new light to your life, revealing things that are necessary at this time. When the light comes it will be like stepping out of a dark room into the bright light of day, and you will experience a sense of relief at these important revelations. However, the enemy will do his utmost to try to pervert the conviction that comes and make it condemnation. But, I tell you to refuse his attempts to use My word against you to keep you in darkness. Come into the light, says the Lord.
Psalms 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
Roll with the punches, and go with the flow. You must trust that I will direct your steps and bring you through every situation that challenges your comfort zone. Be still and maintain peace so that you can stay sensitive to My leading. For, certainly, I will speak to your heart to show you the way, says the Lord.
Isaiah 30:21 Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, "This is the way, walk in it," Whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left.
Behold, I am with you. I hold you in the hollow of My hand, says the Lord. I make a way where the way is not clear. Your praise will lead you into My presence where you can know My Spirit. Lift your voice in thanksgiving for the great miracle of My presence. Your worship is well pleasing to Me. Draw near, and let us have sweet communion together.
Psalms 100:4 Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
Rejoice in your victories, but watch for the enemy to create chaos that will put you in a tail-spin. The more order you manage to maintain, the greater the force of evil to steal your peace. Take a stand, and refuse to give up any ground. Take the time necessary to rebuke the devil and re-establish your authority by My Spirit, says the Lord. You will easily overcome if you will face one challenge at a time without being forced into confusion through multi-tasking.
Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
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Forgive Me Lord
Forgive me Lord
For the wrongs I have done.
For anger I shouldn't have
Against anyone.
I know I'm weak Lord,
But I love You, I really do,
And in spite of my weakness,
I know You love me too.
Forgive me for not reading Your word,
And for the times that I stray.
Forgive me for just being too tired
When I don't take the time to pray.
Give me the strength, Lord
To do what I should each day.
Let Your love shine through me
So others will follow Your way.
Even though I've failed You Lord,
I know You'll forgive me,
And this I promise Lord,
A better Christian I will be.
For Your presence is in me
Filling my heart with Your love,
And I have Your reassurance
You're guiding from above.
I love You Lord, and thank You
For the blessings You bestow,
I will tell others about You
So Your goodness they too, will know.
--Louise P. Heckman
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Virtues Prayer
~ Virjinja ~
Keep me, Lord, from backward looking
Something I must avoid doing
I know that unholy fault
Could turn me to a stick of salt
Keep me from sitting on the fence
Wishy-washy makes no sense
I might easily fall off
To the wrong side ~ what a loss
That would be... oh my, oh me
I could end up far from Thee!
Help me remain on Your side
The enemy is never far
Don't let me get all caught up
In gossiping and foolish talk
That could deal an awful blow
To folks already feeling low
Show me each and every day
How to serve in different ways
That You will be glorified
By what I do with this, my life
Help me keep my wants in check
Since all my needs you've always met
And then, when times get really tough
Remind me, Lord, that you're enough.
In Jesus’ Name
These words I pray
Amen...
That’s all ~ for today!
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All I Have Is Today!
Dear Lord, help me to realize, That all I have is today!
I can't even "view" tomorrow! I know it's best that way!
My past is now only history. It's a tale that has been told!
Now only some memories remain. The pleasant ones I hold!
My sins are all forgiven! I'm now a "brand new" man!
My debt was paid at Calvary, Through God's redemption plan!
Today is yet another day, That I can serve the Lord,
As I walk the "straight and narrow way," In quest of my reward!
Today I must witness for Jesus, To a "lost and dying" world,
Lift up the "blood stained" banner, And keep it high and unfurled!
I need not worry or fret o'er tomorrow! I'll just trust in the Lord up above!
Who so wisely said, "Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof!"
God who provides for the sparrow, And clothes the grass of the field,
Will take care of each tomorrow, If I'll just to Him yield!
I must put my faith and trust in God, For He is leading the way!
He sees the end from the beginning! I can "barely" see today!
I am the clay! He's the potter! So, I must lie yielded and still!
If I have a flaw in my vessel, He'll put me back on the wheel!
Darkness is falling around me, As skies turn a deep shade of gray!
I hear the Lord of the Harvest say, "Work while it is yet day!"
Today is the "Day of Salvation!" If people will hear God's voice,
He'll cleanse sinner's blackened hearts, And give them cause to rejoice!
Hark! Now the moments are fleeting, And soon today will be past!
Things of the world are just temporal! Only the spiritual will last!
Friend, can you not see, The "curtain of time" drawing to a close?
Will today be our last day on Earth? Only our God knows!
We must be watching and ready, While holding "our hand to the plow!"
If we'll put our trust in Jesus today, He'll help us make it somehow!
Robert F. Dotson 2006
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"Abba, Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will." Mark 14:36
"I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." I John 14:6
"O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth forever." Psalm 136:26
I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom will I trust. Psalm 91:2
I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart." Psalm 40:8
He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
Psalm 91:4
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105
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The Secret One day, one friend asked another, "How is it that you are always so happy? You have so much energy, and you never seem to get down." With her eyes smiling, she said, "I know the Secret!" "What secret is that?" To which she replied, "I'll tell you all about it, but you have to promise to share the Secret with others." "The Secret is this: I have learned there is little I can do in my life that will make me truly happy. I must depend on God to make me happy and to meet my needs. When a need arises in my life, I have to trust God to supply according to HIS riches. I have learned most of the time I don't need half of what I think I do. He has never let me down. Since I learned that 'Secret', I am happy." The questioner's first thought was, "That's too simple!" But upon reflecting over his own life he recalled how he thought a bigger house would make him happy, but it didn't! He thought a better paying job would make him happy, but it hadn't. When did he realize his greatest happiness? Sitting on the floor with his grandchildren, playing games, eating pizza or reading a story, a simple gift from God. Now you know it too! We can't depend on people to make us happy. Only GOD in His infinite wisdom can do that. Trust HIM! And now I pass the Secret on to you! So once you get it, what will you do? YOU have to tell someone the Secret, too! That GOD in His wisdom will take care of YOU! But it's not really a secret... We just have to believe it and do it... Really trust God! --Bonnie
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Dear God, help us come to you with the faith of little children, trusting that you will lead us along paths of righteousness and teach us new truth day by day. Amen.
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Read Through The Bible
Genesis 16
Hagar and Ishmael
Now Sarai, Abram's wife, had borne him no children. But she had an Egyptian maidservant named Hagar; so she said to Abram, "The LORD has kept me from having children. Go, sleep with my maidservant; perhaps I can build a family through her." Abram agreed to what Sarai said. So after Abram had been living in Canaan ten years, Sarai his wife took her Egyptian maidservant Hagar and gave her to her husband to be his wife. 4 He slept with Hagar, and she conceived. When she knew she was pregnant, she began to despise her mistress.5 Then Sarai said to Abram, "You are responsible for the wrong I am suffering. I put my servant in your arms, and now that she knows she is pregnant, she despises me. May the LORD judge between you and me." "Your servant is in your hands," Abram said. "Do with her whatever you think best." Then Sarai mistreated Hagar; so she fled from her. The angel of the LORD found Hagar near a spring in the desert; it was the spring that is beside the road to Shur. And he said, "Hagar, servant of Sarai, where have you come from, and where are you going?" "I'm running away from my mistress Sarai," she answered. Then the angel of the LORD told her, "Go back to your mistress and submit to her." The angel added, "I will so increase your descendants that they will be too numerous to count." The angel of the LORD also said to her: "You are now with child and you will have a son.
You shall name him Ishmael, for the LORD has heard of your misery. He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone's hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers." She gave this name to the LORD who spoke to her: "You are the God who sees me," for she said, "I have now seen the One who sees me." That is why the well was called Beer Lahai Roi; it is still there, between Kadesh and Bered. So Hagar bore Abram a son, and Abram gave the name Ishmael to the son she had borne. Abram was eighty-six years old when Hagar bore him Ishmael.
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Dear Lord, I thank You for this day. I thank You for my being able to see and to hear this morning. I'm blessed because You are a forgiving God and an understanding God. You have done so much for me and You keep blessing me. Forgive me this day for everything that I have done, said, or thought that was not pleasing to you. I ask now for Your forgiveness. Please keep me safe from all danger and harm. Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of each and every day to clear my mind, so that I can hear from You. Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things. Let me not whine and whimper over things I have no control over. And it's best response when I'm pushed beyond my limits. I know that when I can't pray, You listen to me heart. Continue to use me to do Your will. Continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I may help the weak... Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others. I pray for those that are lost and can't find their way. I pray for those that are misjudged and misunderstood. I pray for those that will delete this without sharing it with others. I pray for those that don't believe. But I thank you that I believe. I believe that God changes people and changes things. I pray for all my sisters and brothers. For each and every family member in their households. I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes, that they are out of debt and all their needs are met. I pray that every eye that reads this prayer, knows there is no problem, circumstance, or situation greater than God. Every battle is in Your hands, for You to fight. I pray that these words be received into the hearts of every eye that sees this prayer. You never know when God is going to bless you! Good things happen, when you least expect them to! --Author Unknown