Reflection Jewels

Metamorphosis

2012-01-23T01:00:00.000-08:00

Metamorphosis (Jan 19, 2012)

For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord -- who is the Spirit -- makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. 2 Cor 3:17-18 nlt

THOUGHT: Caterpillar to butterfly -- the process of metamorphosis. This is the word image painted for us in this message from Scripture. While most people are ordinary humans, with ordinary human powers, and ordinary human lives, we are called extraordinary because of the work of the Spirit. While most people are limited to their natural abilities, we are given the freedom to overcome our natural limitations and failures by the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit to transform us to be more and more like Jesus. And how does this happen? Supernaturally, by the power of the Holy Spirit as we both contemplate and reflect the glory of Jesus.

PRAYER: Father, thank you for giving me the supernatural ability to become more and more like Jesus. O Holy Spirit, please take control and conform me to the character and compassion of Jesus as I commit to know him more fully and display his life to those around me more completely. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.~~~~~~~~~
True Worshipers (Oct 13, 2011)

[Jesus said,] "But the time is coming -- indeed it's here now -- when true worshipers will worship the Father in Spirit and in truth." John 4:23 nlt

THOUGHT:

Genuine worship involves the Holy Spirit. Jesus had promised this kind of worship to the woman at the well in John 4. Jesus poured out his Spirit at Pentecost and the church was born. The early disciples were filled with the Spirit as they prayed and sang. We are encouraged to pray in the Spirit and to be filled with the Spirit as we worship. The time is here! True worshippers are not bound by place and time, but are connected to each other and to God in worship by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit!

PRAYER: O great God and Father of us all, make your presence known in your people in powerful ways as we seek to honor you and bless each other as we are filled with the Holy Spirit as we joyfully assemble together to worship you! In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Pray in the Spirit (Oct 11, 2011)

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people. Eph 6:18 tniv

THOUGHT:The Holy Spirit is our constant assurance of our access to the heart of God. The Spirit intercedes for us and communicates our words and our emotions according to the will of God. Like in all worship, the Holy Spirit fills us, is among us, and participates with us as we seek God. In prayer, the Holy Spirit also empowers and enables us as we pray. Prayer is much more than shouting words at heaven or begging God for help. Prayer happens because of the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. God himself, in the Spirit, is praying with us and through us!

PRAYER: Father, please hear the prayer I share with you using words. Father, please hear the prayer I offer you that is deeper than words and beyond what my words can convey. Thank you for the Holy Spirit who intercedes, empowers, and makes possible this prayer. In Jesus' name I thank you. Amen.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Prayer in the Power of the Spirit (Oct 12, 2011)

But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit. Jude 20 tniv

THOUGHT: So much of our physical world is dependent upon power. Yet the spiritual world is even more about power than the physical world. One of the great avenues of power -- a place where power is available to us and flows through us -- is prayer. We are commanded to rely on this power and not our eloquence, position, or physical might. So as we pray each day, let's consciously invite the Holy Spirit into our prayer life and ask the Spirit to empower our prayers.

PRAYER: O God, you are holy! I thank you, Father, for hearing my prayer. I thank you, Jesus, as I pray in your name. I invite you, Holy Spirit, to enter and to intercede for me as I pray. Please empower my prayers to be effective and a blessing, both to those for whom I pray and also to you, O God, the One to whom I pray. ~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hear what the Spirit Says! (Oct 18, 2011)

Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. Those who are victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death. Rev 2:11 tniv

THOUGHT:

I remember the old Wolfbrand Chili commercials when we would see a steaming bowl of chili and a voice off camera would say something like, "When was the last time you had a big, steaming, bowl of Wolfbrand Chili? Well, that's too long!"

Let's re-phrase that. When was the last time you were part of a church that called all its members to fast, pray, and open Scripture and then ask God to help the church hear the message the Spirit has for them? "Well, that's too long!"

Jesus challenges those who heard his message to really listen -- not just with their ears, but also with their hearts. Let's be God's people who hunger to hear what the Spirit is seeking to say to us through Scripture!

PRAYER: Father, forgive us -- forgive me! We have very seldom sought to hear your voice and your Word and the message the Spirit has for us in that Word. More than forgiveness, O God, give us a yearning to hear the message the Spirit has for our congregation at this time, with our challenges and opportunities. I ask this in Jesus' name.
Amen.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Be Filled with the Spirit (Jan 22, 2012_

Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Eph 5:18-21 nlt

THOUGHT: When someone is drunk, we talk about them being "under the influence." When a person is a follower of Jesus, he or she should be under the influence of the Holy Spirit. Paul lists five ways that we fill ourselves with the Spirit. Four we would normally identify with worship -- speaking to one another in song, singing, making music in our hearts, and giving thanks to God. Paul adds a fifth way to turn loose the Spirit in our lives: submitting to one another as part of our worship of Jesus.

I don't know about you, but there are times when I have not wanted to do each of those things, but in doing it with a genuine desire to honor the Lord, I find myself blessed and empowered in ways I would never have expected. But we shouldn't be surprised: the Bible tells us that when we do these things, God's Spirit fills us!

PRAYER: Loving Father, thank you for entering into me through the Holy Spirit. I am going to try to do all I can to worship you with my words and with my relationships, trusting that you will empower me with your Holy Spirit. Please help me see your presence and power in my life as I do these things. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Fruit of the Spirit (Jan 21, 2012)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.Against such things there is no law. Gal 5:22-23 tniv

THOUGHT: Sometimes we confuse "fruit of the Spirit" by calling them "fruits of the Spirit." This seems like such a small thing; but, unfortunately, this small thing can lead us to a dangerously false conclusion.

The fruit of the Spirit involves all nine of these qualities. We can't excuse a lack of growth in one area or another as simply not having all the fruits of the Spirit.

The Holy Spirit is working to create the character of Jesus in us (2 Cor. 3:18; see Gal. 4:19). He wants to see us growing in each area and not excuse ourselves from one of these qualities of Jesus. I don't know about you, but there are several in which I need to grow -- but I believe the Spirit is making progress in them. Let's keep encouraging each other to let the Spirit lead us to become more like Jesus in every way!

PRAYER: O Precious Father, God Most High, thank you for your patience, grace, and forgiveness. I want the Holy Spirit to lead me and empower me to grow in every way, but especially so that I can be more like Jesus in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Thank you for hearing my prayer offered in Jesus' name. Amen.

Source: Used with permission from "Heartlight" http://www.heartlight.org - Please note 'The SpiritFire daily devotional' written by Phil Ware is part of a new year long devotional walk focused on the blessing of the Holy Spirit in our lives - You can subscribe - It's FREE! Just send a blank email to: join-spiritfire@maillists.heartlight.org

Christmas Prayer

2011-12-18T02:09:00.001-08:00

A Saviour is Born - Luke 2:8-14 KJV

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

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"Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth; Break forth in song, rejoice, and sing Let the rivers clap their hands; Let the hills be joyful together before the LORD." Psalm 98:4, 9-10O

Come, O Come, Emmanuel is probably the oldest Christmas carol we still sing today. The words were thought to have been penned before 800 A.D. While the writer is unknown, he was evidently a scholar with a deep knowledge of both the Old and New Testaments. It seems to present the various prophetic roles Jesus fulfilled when He was on earth.

One of the many tragedies connected with modern music is that our hymns are being neglected and belittled. Deep spiritual meaning is being replaced with words and music that is unclean. This hymn is a prayer for the Lord to come and rescue us from our deplorable condition. How sad that at best, we may only hear this hymn once a year. I pray that the Lord will come into our jaded lives.

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel

O come, O come, Emmanuel,
and ransom captive Israel,
that mourns in lonely exile here
until the Son of God appear.

Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, thou Rod of Jesse,
free thine own from Satan's tyranny;
from depths of hell thy people save,
and give them victory over the grave.

Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, thou Dayspring, come and cheer
our spirits by thine advent here;
disperse the gloomy clouds of night,
and death's dark shadows put to flight.

Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, thou Key of David, come,
and open wide our heavenly home;
make safe the way that leads on high,
and close the path to misery.

Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, O come, Adonai,
Who in thy glorious majesty
From Sinai's mountain, clothed in awe,
Gavest thy folk the elder law.

Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

To access O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, please go to: http://www.gloryscapes.com/ocomeocomeemmanuel/

Source: DAILY-E-VOTIONALBLESSINGS FROM THE HEART Pastor Cecil A. Thompson December 16, 2011 http://www.daily-e-votional.com/

Called to Disciplined Prayer

2011-10-23T00:01:00.000-07:00

Called to Disciplined Prayer

One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer at three in the afternoon. Acts 3:1

Disciplined prayer arises from two things:

First, a good general knowledge of God's Word;

Second, a strong desire to please Him.

In other words, I am talking here about praying as an act of sheer obedience whether we feel like it or not.

And it is the mature Christian who follows this way.

You may decide to spend more time in prayer, but then you find that everything seems to militate against it.

So you think, These things that are stopping me praying are providential. So don't be surprised if, when you commit yourself to prayer, everything seems to be hindering you.

There must be discipline.

One of the forgotten verses in the Book of Acts is the opening verse of chapter 3. The chapter goes on to describe how Peter and John healed the crippled man, but what is interesting is that it happened when they were on their way to the temple to pray. We see that even when the Spirit was present in great power, these early disciples were not afraid to go by a schedule. At this high peak in the history of the church it would seem that the first Christians still observed set times of prayer.

The principle is that if you live by the disciplined impulse, you will get the spontaneous impulse as well .....

Here were Peter and John on their way to the temple, when the lame beggar held out his hand to them, expecting to receive some money. But Peter just turned to him and said, "Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk" (v. 6, KJV). And the man was healed.

You never outgrow the need to pray. It is my job, not only as a Christian minister but also as a child of God, never to excuse myself again for what I haven't done regarding time spent in prayer.

Source: (R T Kendall) Part Message - Excerpted from Worshipping God (Hodder & Stoughton, 2004).

Your Words Have Power!

2011-10-14T23:43:00.000-07:00

Your Words Have Power

If you have ever handled sulfuric acid, you know how dangerous it is. It would eat away at your skin if it spilled on you.

Proverbs 18:21 says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue..."

If death is in the power of the tongue, will touching it hurt you like touching acid?

No, obviously that's not how it works. The death and the life the tongue can produce are not about the tongue itself but about the words it helps to create. The words can produce life and death. They can be like an infusion of vigor or like a slow poison.

Words are containers. They carry in them the power to teach and instruct, lift up and encourage, create humor and laughing, to bring peace and joy, and hope where hope was lost. They are also containers that can mock, belittle, embarrass, tear down, deceive, and destroy.

As we just read, "Death AND life are in the power of the tongue..." This is telling us that these containers we let come from our mouths have powerpower to bring and support life or power to destroy. We probably don't realize how careless we can be with this power source that absolutely lifts up or tears down.

I wouldn't handle electrical wires without turning off the power source. Even though electricity is meant to be a blessing, it has to be channeled properly or it could kill. The same is true with our words.

As a young Christian, the Lord instructed me to listen to the words I'd hear people speak. This wasn't to be judgmental but to learn and pay attention to the good or bad words accomplished.

I did what the Lord said, except that I started with myself. I couldn't believe the words I'd let come out my mouth. They were often negative and too often words of death such as, "I'm going to lose my mind if this happens to me one more time...." or "It seems like everyone is getting the flu. I'll probably get it next." or "With the way the economy is going, I'll probably be lucky if I have a job by next year and if I do, they'll probably ask for a cut in pay." I could tell you a hundred phrases filled with negative, death-filled words that were a part of my regular speaking.

I began to listen to those around me, "Ha ha! The way I eat I'll probably be dead by the time I'm forty!" "Well, with the way my luck is going, if there is a drive-by shooter, he'll probably hit me! Ha ha!"

I was amazed at what I was hearing from myself as well as from those around me.

As I studied God's Word more, I began to understand that Words are a powerful part of God's creation and a creative force in itself. From the beginning of Genesis with everything He created He began by speaking "let there be...."

Everything God spoke, came into existence. He created everything we see from things that did not appear.

This is exactly what Hebrews 11:3 is telling us. "By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible."

As I journeyed through the Word I noticed that God never spoke an idle wordand neither did Jesus.

My point today is that words are containers of power. They do affect us whether we realize it or not
whether we want to believe it or not. We all have experienced times when someone's words brought hurt to you possibly unbeknownst to the person who said them. They just blabbed them and they hurt you.

How could that happen? It could happen because words contain power.

Does that mean every word I speak is a power source? The answer is yes. It's just that it's not always measurable at the moment. Someone's kind words can make you feel good and even cry. Someone's destructive words can make you feel horrible and cry. We don't grasp the power of our words and all the ways they affect our life but they do. All words always have some effect.

I learned long ago to make words work for me. Just as a framer frames a house before he can build the rest of it, I purpose to frame my world with words that encourage others and myself in God's will and plan.

If your tongue has power, you have power. You can frame your world with acceptable words that please God and create life and blessing for others, or you can spill words like sewage that bring hurt. God's will is always to bring life!

Psalms 19:14 says, "Let the WORDS OF MY MOUTH, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my strength, and my Redeemer."

Source: Used with permission: Pastor Tim Burt - Fresh Manna http://www.freshmanna.org/

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"Prayers to pray using Scripture' can be found in September 2009 archive (located on lower right hand side of this page). More articles about using affirmations can also be found in 'Prayer Reflections' May 2007 Archive (link to this can be found at top of page on right side.)

Are You Ready?

2011-10-14T23:41:00.000-07:00

Are You Ready?

"Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning, and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the wedding feast, so that they may open the door to him at once when he comes and knocks." Luke 12:35-36, ESV

Jesus so often challenges us and gives us responsibilities. To those who don't yet know Him as their Lord and Master He says 'repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near' (Matthew 4:17), but for those who belong to Him, love Him and know Him there are further responsibilities as they live in His Kingdom.

I like the simplicity of this instruction 'Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning'. Do you wonder what our lamps could be?

How about our passion for Jesus and the things of the Holy Spirit?

Jesus talks about the light in us. First of all, once we have the light of Jesus burning in our hearts, we must let others know.

'No one after lighting a lamp puts it in a cellar or under a basket, but on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light' (Luke 11:33).

Then we have the responsibility to make sure the light doesn't go out or grow dim. Jesus says we must be 'careful' about that.

'Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light, but when it is bad, your body is full of darkness. Therefore be careful lest the light in you be darkness. If then your whole body is full of light, having no part dark, it will be wholly bright, as when a lamp with its rays gives you light' (Luke 11:34-36).

How can we keep our lamp burning?

We can fix our eyes on the glory of Jesus and focus on praise and worship to Him. Not only can we pray those prayers of intercession, however short or long, and whatever time of day or night, but we can to continually give thanks and tell Him we love Him (rather than grumbling and complaining).

We can also saturate ourselves in the Word of God each day.

Our eye can look upon its light and take in as much as possible. And yet even that isn't enough. We must also put into practice what we read in the Bible. 'But he said, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!' (Luke 11:28). Yes Jesus is coming back and we must be ready to meet Him at His return, or meet Him before then as we step into eternity. 'This night your soul is required of you' (Luke 12:19 21).

In Jesus' illustration the good servant is alert for the return of his master and aims to please him. The master comes back from the wedding banquet is so delighted with this servant that he gives him a huge reward. He actually waits upon him and serves him. What could be more surprising than that?

But the bad servant will be punished, for 'Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more' (Luke 12:48).

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for the light You bring to me. Please help me to keep it burning. I want to be ready when you return so I can open the door for You and welcome You back. Amen.

Source: Devotional from Ellel Ministries International - Seeds of The Kingdom 2011 - Today's Writer : Liz Griffin www.seedsofthekingdom.com

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What the Spirit Says to the Churches

Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To those who are victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God. Revelation 2:7 NIV

THOUGHT: Jesus uses the Holy Spirit to speak to his people, his churches, in the second and third chapter of the book of Revelation.

But don't you believe that if we seek God and are striving to worship God empowered by the Spirit, then the Spirit will also speak to us in fresh and powerful ways through God's word?

When we open the Bible, more happens than mere reading!

The Spirit who inspired that word also convicts us and calls out to us and corrects us and seeks to conform us to the will of God and the character of Jesus. So let's open our Bibles with expectation that the Spirit will use these old words in fresh and new ways and give us new insights for our old battles.

PRAYER: O God, help me hear your Word in the ways you want me to hear it. Shape and make me more like Jesus, your Living Word and Ultimate Word, as the Spirit works on my heart. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Source: Used with permission from "Heartlight" October 15, 2011 The SpiritFire daily devotional email is written by Phil Ware and is a year long devotional walk focused on the blessing of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Visit http://www.heartlight.org/devotionals for other devotionals.

Stand Fast

2011-09-27T12:43:00.000-07:00

Stand Fast

God only knows
God makes His plans
The information's unavailable
To the mortal man
We're working our jobs
Collect our pay
Believe were gliding down the highway
When in fact we're slip slidin' away

Those are the words of Paul Simon. A rather cynical perspective, wouldn't you say? God, powerful as He may be, is removed from the affairs of all of us little people. He doesn't speak to us, hasn't the courtesy to even let us in on His big plan. We simply glide down the highway of life, uninformed, unaware of the profound reality. Life is just slip sliding away. . .so the song goes. Deal with it.

This song could melt some of us into a puddle of melancholy goo. But before we run to the freezer to soothe our inner angst with a pint of Häagan Dazs, we need to hear the words of another Paul.

"Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved" (Philippians 4:1 NKJV).

How can you stand fast when at times your life feels like it is completely out of control?

Let me answer that question with another question.

How do you think Paul the Apostle could have the stability to endure all those beatings, storms at sea, stonings, shipwrecks, cold, hunger, attacks against his authority, attacks against his message, attacks against his integrity, and still be a rock?

He gives us the answer in verse 20 of the previous chapter.

"Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body" (NIV).

Okay. . .if that doesn't blow your mind, you didn't get it. Read it again. . .Our citizenship is in heaven!

And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ!
who by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control,
will transform our lowly bodies so they will be like his glorious body!

God is able with His power to bring everything under His control! That is how you stand firm in shaky places. You, right down to your littlest concerns, are under His control. So you can take your hands off the steering wheel!

In the big and small things we face in life, no matter if it is a crisis or a petty quarrel, when seen in the context of the hugeness of the universeand the God who hangs the stars in space and also loves youthis truth should have a stabilizing effect.

If not, perhaps it is because you haven't really believed it is true.

Can you see your life in the view of God's ultimate big picture?

Until you do, you won't have the inner stability to stand firm.

Maybe you need to step outside your front door and look up at the night sky and the vastness of space. If you can see the Big Dipper or Venus, let it thrill you.

Or simply google the Hubble telescope and gaze at the images of the universe. Think about how great and powerful this God is who has etched you on the palms of His hands!

Remember who you are in Christ.
Remember all Christ has done for you.
Remember where you are headed.

Source: Cathe Laurie Harvest Ministries

THE SKINNY ON THE BIBLE

2011-07-12T01:48:00.001-07:00

I have posted the link below as found this short movie illustrates how many view reading the bible. May it bless you & inspire you to be encouraged to read God's word.
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THE SKINNY ON THE BIBLE

Skit Guys - Mini-Movies

At the center of our faith is a book that tells the story of God and his activity in the lives of men and women throughout history–yet everyone seems to have their own unique perspective on it.

http://www.worshiphousemedia.com/mini-movies/17213/The-Skinny-On-The-Bible

Because He Loved Us!

2011-04-21T01:43:00.001-07:00

"Still He Walked" (By Carrie McCutcheon)

He could hear the crowds screaming "crucify,"

"crucify". . .
He could hear the hatred in their voices,
These were His chosen people. He loved them,
And they were going to crucify Him.
He was beaten, bleeding and weakened . . .

His heart was broken,
But still He walked.

He could see the crowd as He came from the palace.
He knew each of the faces so well. He had created them.
He knew every smile, laugh, and shed tear,
But now they were contorted with rage and anger . . .

His heart broke,
But still He walked.

His disciples had left, denied, and even betrayed Him.
He searched the crowd for a loving face and He saw very few.
Then He turned His eyes to the only One that mattered
And He knew that He would never be alone.
He looked back at the crowd,
At the people who were spitting at Him,
Throwing rocks at Him and mocking Him, and He knew
That because of Him, they could be forgiven and never be alone.
So for them, He walked.

The sounds of the hammer striking the spikes echoed through the crowd.
The sounds of His cries echoed even louder,
The cheers of the crowd, as His hands and feet
Were nailed to the cross, intensified with each blow.
Loudest of all was the still small voice
Inside His heart that whispered "I am with You, My Son",
And God's heart broke.
He had let His Son walk.

Jesus could have asked God to end His suffering,
But instead He asked God to forgive;
Not to forgive Him,
But to forgive the ones who were persecuting Him.
As He hung on that cross, dying an unimaginable death,
He looked out and saw, not only the faces in the crowd,
But also, the face of every person yet to be,
And His heart filled with love.
As His body was dying, His heart was alive.
Alive with the limitless, unconditional love He feels for each of us.
That is why He walked.

When I forget how much my God loves me,
I remember His walk.

When I wonder if I can be forgiven,
I remember His walk.

When I need reminder of how to live like Christ,
I think of His walk.

And to show Him how much I love Him,
I wake up each morning, turn my eyes to Him,
And I walk.

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Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy-meditate on these things."

Malachi 3:3

2010-11-18T09:04:00.000-08:00

Malachi 3:3 "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.

That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining Silver.

As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.

The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: "He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver." She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time.

The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.

The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?"

He smiled at her and answered,

"Oh, that's easy - when I see my image in it."

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has His eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.

A Good Question!

2010-11-18T07:53:00.001-08:00

TWO WOLVES (Author Unknown)

One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people.

He said, "My son, the battle is between two wolves inside us all.

"One is Evil -

It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.

"The other is Good -

It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith."

The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather:

"Which wolf wins?"

The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed."
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Our Caring Shepherd

2010-07-27T01:06:00.001-07:00

Our Caring Shepherd is Always Beside Us In Our Pain

: "As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after My sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness." (Ezekiel 34:12)

Scripture is full of images of Jesus as a Shepherd. Psalm 23 has its calming tones. We read in Luke 15 how a shepherd will seek out one of his lambs gone astray and rejoices when it is found. Though often linked with the principle of salvation, this parable can be applied to any of the Lord's own who have gone to seek other pastures.

With this Ezekiel verse, new thoughts came to my mind. I meditated on the challenges that many of us face when we are dwelling with our caring Shepherd, trusting Him and clinging to Him for our strength.

The Lord has countless followers, sheep who depend on Him to meet their needs. In this way, because there are so many, they are scattered – meaning they cover the whole earth. Not one is missed by His watchful eyes even if some choose to wander off.

Those who remain true and do not roam can be crushed with the cares within. These showed up when the day of clouds and darkness sent these sheep into dwelling places unimaginable. Did the Shepherd make some mistake? No.

What I recognize as I read this verse is that our "rescue" is not from our wandering off, nor that we are in need of salvation. Rather we are in specific need of being released from the feelings that can overcome – despair, false guilt, self-condemnation – the things that can bring shadows that may seem to block out the sun of the Shepherd's care.

He is ever near, looking out for each of us as He understands our deepest needs. He is so pleased when we choose to stay near him as well.

Prayer: I lay down in your pasture of care, dear Lord. Help me to receive the light of your love that is ever present. May it shine through any cloud that tries to invade the space that only You can fill. Amen.

About the Author: Lynn Severance is a retired elementary classroom teacher. She lives in Lynnwood, Washington. She writes to encourage others as God has encouraged her during 27 years of living with daily physical challenges. ~~~~~~~~~~

A New Look At Psalm 23

"The Lord is my Pace-setter, I shall not rush. . ." (Psalm 23:1, Japanese Translation)

Would you like to take a new look at Psalm 23? So often we open up our Bible and the words blur past us. When our heart is hurting or our body is in pain, we can quickly skip over certain passages, such as the words for the 23rd Psalm, because we think we know them already and that we won't get anything fresh out of them today to offer encouragement. It's time like this looking at another translation can help us slow down and look again at certain scriptures.

Below are the words to the 23rd Psalm. It was recently read to us and one of my womens retreats, and this translation from the Japanese Bible gives Psalm 23 meaning. In fact, it describes exactly what we need t do with scripture! "He makes me stop and rest for quiet intervals, He provides me with images of stillness, which restore my serenity."

I hope you are blessed as well and that it gives you a new explanation of the 23rd Psalm.

Words for Psalm 23

The Lord is my Pace-setter, I shall not rush;

He makes me stop and rest for quiet intervals,

He provides me with images of stillness, which restore my serenity,

He leads me in the ways of efficiency through calmness of mind,
And His guidance is peace.
Even though I have a great many things to accomplish each day,

I will not fret, for His presence is here,

His timelessness, His all-importance, will keep me in balance,

He prepares refreshment and renewal in the midst of my activity,

By anointing my mind with His oils of tranquility.

My cup of joyous energy overflows,

Surely harmony and effectiveness shall be the fruits of my hours,

For I shall walk in the pace of my Lord and dwell in His house for ever.

Author: Lisa Copen is the founder of Rest Ministries http://www.restministries.org/

Source: From 'Chronic Illness Pain Daily Devotionals - http://chronicillnesspaindevotionals.wordpress.com/

Drink Plenty of Water!

2010-05-20T01:36:00.001-07:00

Drink Plenty of Water! (Author Unknown)

I've heard it. I've read it. As long as I have been running, it's always been the same message: "drink plenty of water."

All along most race courses are water stations, and most runners slow down to drink a cup of cool water. Keeping your water level up is critical when you run. If you get slightly dehydrated, you will not run well. If you get moderately dehydrated, you will become disoriented. If you get seriously dehydrated, you can die. It's serious business.

The first year I ran was 1991, and I was inexperienced (also younger, slimmer, stupider, etc.) I passed water stop after water stop, occasionally drinking a swallow or two. I felt good, and I wasn't going to waste precious seconds drinking water, even though it was a hot, humid day.

Big mistake. As I neared the final mile, I "hit the wall." My energy level dropped to zero, I began having to walk some, and I realized I would have to work hard just to finish. I did make it across the line, but only with a tremendous headache and hardly enough energy to walk. It was not much fun.

I learned an important lesson that year. Stopping for water doesn't actually slow you down. In fact, you will run a better race if you do drink water. The bottom line is that your body is simply not designed to function without water.

In the same way, your spiritual stamina depends on stopping for regular drinks of "spiritual water." The dilemma for busy believers is finding time to invest in reading the Word and meeting with God in prayer. Like the runner intent on reaching the finish line, we tend to put off those regular drinks of water until we are totally parched.

But in the long run, you will run a better race if you will stop for spiritual water. In fact, finishing the Christian race at all may depend on it. And runners who don't ever slow down to take a drink often stumble off the course far short of the finish line.

In this year's race, I saw a man become dehydrated just a mile from the finish. Strangely, he didn't seem to recognize that anything was wrong. He was swaying from side to side as he walked, mumbling over and over, "I'm fine. I'm fine." He was so disoriented that he didn't even recognize his own sick condition.

If you let yourself become spiritually dehydrated, you may not even be able to recognize it. Stop today to drink some cool "living water." For serious runners, it's a must.
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Promise of Pentecost

2010-05-06T01:35:00.001-07:00

Promise of Pentecost

VERSE: "And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days." -- Joel 2:28

THOUGHT: Throughout the Old Testament, God's Spirit would come upon special leaders or agents of God's will to do his work. Most of the time, the Spirit's presence would be temporary, to help with a pressing issue, need, problem, or battle.

In a few cases, like David, God's Spirit never departed from God's servant. But the presence of the Spirit living permanently inside all of God's people was the promise of the coming of the Messiah and the formation of God's new people. This promise from Joel 2 is the centerpiece Scripture quoted by Peter in his sermon during Pentecost. This day, promised by Joel's prophecy, comes with the dawn of the church and signaled by the coming of the Holy Spirit.

The Spirit first comes to those who proclaim the story of Jesus, but then to all who hear the message, believe, and respond by being baptized, on this day and all the days of conversion to follow (Acts 2:38-39). We live in the age of the Spirit!

PRAYER: Thank you! Thank you O God, for allowing me to live in the time of your church. Forgive me when I discount your power released in and through her through the Holy Spirit. Forgive me for not responding to the promptings of the Holy Spirit to be conformed to the character and compassion of Jesus. Forgive me for the times I've grieved the Spirit by saying unkind things about others in whom the Spirit lives. I ask, dear Father, in the name of Jesus, that your Holy Spirit have more influence on my heart and in shaping my life. Amen.

Source: SpiritFire! from HEARTLIGHT http://www.heartlight.org/spiritfire The SpiritFire daily devotional email is written by Phil Ware and is part of Heartlight.org's online Christian resources. SpiritFire is a year long devotional walk focused on the blessing of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Is the Bible Your Authority?

2010-04-01T20:37:00.001-07:00

Reflective Thought: Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, ... Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate.

Costly grace is the treasure hidden in the field; for the sake of it a man will gladly go and sell all that he has. It is the pearl of great price to buy which the merchant will sell all his goods. It is the kingly rule of Christ, for whose sake a man will pluck out the eye which causes him to stumble, it is the call of Jesus Christ at which the disciple leaves his nets and follows him." -Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship.
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Is the Bible Your Authority?

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

You will never have the power to live a full and fruitful godly life until you choose God's Word as your final authority.

So let me ask you: Have you made the choice to obey God's Word? Sadly, many people treat the Bible as a sorry substitute for their authority.

Some People Treat the Bible as an Hors d'oeuvres Tray

If Kathy and I came over to your house for dinner, I bet we wouldn't be in the door five minutes and you'd offer us a tray of some hot goodies. I'd look at it and say, "That one looks really good. Aw-that probably has too many calories . . . I want this one."

Many people pick and choose Bible passages based on what suits their taste: "I really like the part in Romans 8 about how much God loves me, and I really like that 2 Corinthians 12 about how 'God's grace is sufficient,' but I'll skip the parts about forgiveness, or repentance, or hell."

The Bible is not your authority as long as you're picking and choosing what you accept.

Some People Treat the Bible like Rental Car Insurance

I would guess that most people waive the extra rental car insurance. The costs are plenty already. I haven't had an accident in ten years. What are the chances that I'm going to have an accident today? Slim. No, I don't need the insurance.

A lot of people treat the Bible like that. In an emergency I need the Bible, but I doubt I'll have a crisis today, so I think I'll pass. Technically, you should get up and spend some time in God's Word, but instead you grab a cup of coffee and rush out the door. I'll probably be OK today without it.

Some People Treat the Bible like a Seat Belt

Of course you wear a seatbelt-but only because it's the law. And that crazy bell won't quit ringing until you click it. If you could get behind the dashboard and rip that bell out, I think you'd wear your seat belt less.

Some people treat the Bible like that. Yeah, I read the Bible because it's the law. And also because I can't get the guilt to quit ringing in my ears if I don't. So to silence the alarm, you spend a few minutes perusing it every day.

Instead of an authority to guide your life, people minimize the Bible by treating it like:

An hors d'oeuvres tray - where you can pick or choose.
Rental car insurance - that you're glad to have, but only in an emergency.
A seat belt - a nuisance that cramps your style.

How sad. If this characterizes your thinking in any way, come back to the priority of God's Word in your life and let it be your authority. -

Your law, LORD, is perfect, reviving the soul; Your testimony, LORD, is sure, making wise the simple; Your precepts, LORD, are right, rejoicing the heart; Your commandment, LORD, is pure, enlightening the eyes. Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. Amen. (Psalm 19)

What is the Bible to me? How do I know? Can I think of a time when the Bible changed what I did or what I thought about something?

Source: - James MacDonald - Walk in the WordMarch, 2010 - Crosswalk Faith Update http://www.crosswalkmail.com/
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LET THIS MIND BE IN YOU

"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 2:5).

In this exhortation the apostle Paul is telling the people of God, "Let the mind that is in Christ—the very thinking of Jesus—be your thinking also. His mindset is the one we all are to seek."

What does it mean to have the mind of Christ? Simply put, it means to think and act as Jesus did. It means making Christ-like decisions that determine how we are to live. It means bringing every faculty of our mind to bear on how we actually can have the mind of Christ.

Every time we look into the mirror of God's Word, we're to ask ourselves: "Does what I see about myself reflect the nature and thinking of Christ? Am I changing from image to image, conformed to Jesus' very likeness by every experience that God brings into my life?"

According to Paul, here is the mindset of Christ. "(He) made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men" (Philippians 2:7).

Jesus made a decision while he was still in heaven. He made an agreement with the Father to lay down his heavenly glory and come to earth as a man. He was going to descend to the world as a humble servant. And he would seek to minister rather than be ministered to.

For Christ, this meant saying, "I go to do your will, Father." Indeed, Jesus determined ahead of time, "I am laying down my will in order to do yours, Father. I subjugate my will so that I may embrace yours. Everything I say and do has to come from you. I'm laying down everything to be totally dependent upon you."

In turn, the Father's agreement with the Son was to reveal his will to him. God said to him, in essence, "My will won't ever be hidden from you. You will always know what I am doing. You will have my mind."

When Paul states boldly, "I have the mind of Christ," he is declaring, "I too have made myself of no reputation. Like Jesus, I have taken on the role of a servant." And Paul asserts that the same can hold true for every believer: "We [all can] have the mind of Christ" (1 Corinthians 2:16).

Used with permission:: David Wilkerson Today - THURSDAY, APRIL 1, 2010 To subscribe to this devotional go to http://www.worldchallenge.org/en/wc/mailing_list/subscribe

God's Love & Direction

2010-01-31T02:18:00.000-08:00

Welcome - Last week whilst upgrading my computer I lost my address book - if in the past you have been on my mailing list for updates & not heard recently I apologise - if you would like to continue with updates & encouragements please contact me at email: prayer@swpwarriors.com
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Scripture To Reflect:

"God's Love is very patient and kind, never jealous or envious, never boastful or proud, never haughty or selfish or rude. God's love does not demand its own way. It is not irritable or touchy. It does not hold grudges and will hardly even notice when others do it wrong. It is never glad about injustice, but rejoices whenever truth wins out." 1 Cor 13:4-6 (Living Bible)
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Lead Me On (Author Unknown)

In her book, A Slow and Certain Light, former missionary to South America, Elizabeth Elliot, tells of a time when she was approached by two young, inexperienced adventurers. The two were loaded down with expensive equipment and a zeal for the future. However, rather than ask for advice from Mrs. Elliot, who knew the jungle well, the adventurers simply wanted to know a couple of phrases to converse with the Indians. Mrs. Elliot writes, "Sometimes we come to God as the two adventurers came to me - confident and, we think, well-informed and well-equipped. But has it occurred to us that with all our accumulation of stuff, something is missing?" What we really need on our "adventures" in life is the Guide, Himself. All our "stuff" will not get us very far through the maze of life's jungle.

Take a minute to read and meditate on Psalm 143:8-10 (NIV):

"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. Rescue me from my enemies, O LORD, for I hide myself in you. Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground."

What are two areas in which you are going to need the Lord's leading in the next month? Now ask Him for direction and help in those two areas.
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God's Power

2010-01-07T10:50:00.001-08:00

SpiritFire: Life to Our Bones, by Phil Ware

Thirty years old! I can remember the mixed emotions when I reached that milestone birthday many years ago. (In fact, it was such a milestone that I have decided to re-celebrate my thirtieth birthday 25 more times since then!) My mixed emotions were nothing compared to those of Ezekiel. He had trained all of his life to enter into service as a priest in the Temple in Jerusalem. Yet when Ezekiel turned thirty, he found himself as a forced refugee in a foreign land with the unbelievably hard and unwanted task of prophesying destruction on the city of Jerusalem and the Temple of God in which he longed to serve the Holy One.

For seven years, Ezekiel gave his grave warnings of destruction, and then his words of prophecy came true. All that Ezekiel grew up believing he was born to do and the place in which he was to do it were now destroyed. His fellow Jews shared the shock and sorrow that Ezekiel felt as many of them were dragged away into their forced captivity. Shock and sorrow soon turned to anger, desperation, and despair. Their homeland and all that was precious about it lay in ruins. Hopelessness settled into the hearts of God's people.

Then, in the time of greatest hopelessness and despair, God sent Ezekiel a strange vision about a field full of many dry bones (Ezekiel 37:1-14). God had Ezekiel prophesy to these bleached and lifeless bones, and they came together into skeletons, then connective tissue, and then skin covered them. But, they were lifeless because there was no Breath of God in them. Then Ezekiel spoke and God sent his Breath, his Holy Spirit, into these lifeless forms and they lived.

God explained to Ezekiel just what the vision meant in these words:

Then he said to me: "Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel. They say, 'Our bones are dried up and our hope is gone; we are cut off.' Therefore prophesy and say to them: 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says: My people, I am going to open your graves and bring you up from them; I will bring you back to the land of Israel. Then you, my people, will know that I am the LORD, when I open your graves and bring you up from them. I will put my Spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land. Then you will know that I the LORD have spoken, and I have done it, declares the LORD'" (Ezekiel 37:11-14 TNIV).

The power of God to bring new life to his people comes from the Holy Spirit, the Breath of Heaven that the Father sends to bring new life to his people. This is the power that raised Jesus from the dead and is available to us as his followers (Ephesians 1:15-21).

In the middle of our darkest nights of hopeless despair, God can send the Holy Spirit to bring fresh hope and new life to renew and empower us, his people.

This power took the rag tag bunch of apostles who had let Jesus down so many times in his earthly ministry, and used them to change their world. This power, this heavenly wind, empowered them to be witnesses to Jesus all over their world (Acts 1:1-8). In the face of threats and persecution, as they prayed, the followers of Jesus were filled with the Holy Spirit and boldly proclaimed the message of Jesus (Acts 4:31) trusting in Jesus' promise that God's heavenly Breath would give them strength and words to say in such difficult times (Luke 12:8-12). And this power, the Holy Spirit who lives inside each follower of Jesus and can do in us what is beyond our power to imagine, is available if we are willing to pray for each other to receive him (Ephesians 3:14-21).

So what's the point?

The Holy Spirit is God's presence within us, God's power for us, and God's strength given to us. We must be passionate about praying for our family, our friends in Jesus, our congregation, and brothers and sisters in Christ all over the world to have God send his Breath to enter and empower us. Rather than just seeing the Holy Spirit as a gift for us personally, we must remember that this blessing is one we must pray for each other and the community of Christ. Imagine what would happen if the followers of Jesus, all over the world, began to pray for each other the prayer Paul prayed so long ago!

For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord's people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge -- that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen (Ephesians 3:14-21).

Yes, so many all over the world praying such a prayer could bring much more than renewal to the Church of Jesus; in response to our prayer, God would bring new life and fresh power to our weary hearts and dry lifeless bones and new life to our world lost in darkness!

I encourage you to write out a morning or evening prayer that helps you pray for God's power to be released into the lives of those you love through the Holy Spirit.
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His Power Within Us!

VERSE: Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. -- Ephesians 3:20-21

THOUGHT: While the focus of this passage is on God, "The One Who is Able . to him be glory ..." I want to draw your attention to one other key phrase in this passage -- "his power that is at work within us."

Paul has earlier prayed that God would "strengthen you [the Ephesians and us] with power through his Spirit in your inner being" (Ephesians 3:16). While the Holy Spirit is far more than just God's power, the Spirit clearly does live in us to bring us God's power!

As we journey through this year, each day we will spend a little time reminding ourselves of God's personal presence in our lives through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit's presence is a powerful blessing that empowers us and transforms us. Let's never forget that we are not only saved by grace, but that we are also empowered by this gracious gift of the Holy Spirit within us!

PRAYER: Oh Almighty God, I am humbled that you love me and have chosen to place your powerful presence within me. Please strengthen me with might by your Spirit within me. Mold me and transform me so that the presence of the Holy Spirit shows up in ways that remind people of Jesus, in whose name I pray. Amen.
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Turn Loose God's Power

VERSE: For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being ...Ephesians 3:14-16

THOUGHT: One of the best gifts we can give those we love is to pray for them. One of the most important prayers we can pray for other believers is the one Paul prays here. We can pray for those we love to be strengthened by God's Spirit! Not only can we pray this prayer for them, we can let them know that we are praying this prayer for them. Why not copy the prayer Paul prayed above and send it to a believing friend or family member and let them know that you have prayed this prayer for them today!

PRAYER: Father in heaven, I believe you are all powerful and that I cannot begin to understand your glory and might. I am humbled that you make that power available to me, and within me, through the Holy Spirit. Dear Father, there are those I love that I pray that you will bless with your power. Please strengthen them with your power in their inner being. Please help them be aware of your presence in their lives through the Holy Spirit. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
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Are We Asking?

VERSE: "If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" - Luke 11:13

THOUGHT: James told early followers of Jesus that they lacked many things in their spiritual walk with the Lord because they did not ask for them (James 3:1-3). So often we fail to have the blessing of the Holy Spirit in our lives because we don't ask for the Spirit. God longs for us to request the Spirit's presence and power, but the Father is not going to force the Spirit's influence into our lives. He wants us to request the Spirit and to submit to the Spirit's leading and direction in our lives. So let's ask the Father for the Spirit!

PRAYER: Almighty God, my loving Father, I thank you for the gift of your Holy Spirit given to me when I came to Jesus. Yet, dear Father, as I face the challenges of temptation, deal with grief and loss, face challenges that are overwhelming to me, and seek to bless your children, I confess that I need the power and presence of your Holy Spirit in my life. Please fill me with Your Spirit. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
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Out of Chaos

VERSE: The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Gen 1:2

THOUGHT: In the very first chapter of the Bible, we are taken to the chaos before time began. In the formless and dark void of a universe prior to creation, we find the Spirit of God hovering over the chaos waiting for God to speak His creative word. This creative word set the power of the Spirit into creative work, ordering and making our universe and our world within it. Yet isn't it so sadly ironic that in the chaos of our lives we so seldom cry out to God and ask for His Holy Spirit to come into our lives and bring the Lord's creative order? Let's ask for God's Spirit, hovering above our messes, to enter into our world and lead us to where we need to be and to bring the Father the glory He deserves!

PRAYER: O Sovereign God, I confess that I cannot order and control my life. I surrender to Your grace and ask for Your Holy Spirit to enter my world and bring Your gracious and creative order and form Your holy character and compassion in me. In the name of Your Son and my Savior, I pray. Amen.
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Grace Even in the Asking

VERSE: In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God. Rom 8:26-27

THOUGHT: How do we ask for the Holy Spirit? How do pray when we don't know what to say? Paul tells the followers of Jesus in Rome that the Holy Spirit helps intercede for us, even to the point of articulating to God what we can't put into words! Not only that, but when we point our hearts and requests and thanksgivings to God, the Holy Spirit cleans up our prayers and makes them in line with the will of God! Even in asking for the Spirit to be at work in our lives, the Holy Spirit goes to work for us in and through our prayers!

PRAYER: Precious God, Almighty Father, words cannot express the depth of my appreciation for your gift of the Holy Spirit. Even when I don't know how to pray or what to say, I know the Spirit is there with me, sharing my heart with you in ways that are pleasing to you! Thank you for this grace and the Gift that makes it possible. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
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Source - Used with permission from "Heartlight" http://www.heartlight.org (Jan 1 - Jan 5 2010) - Please note 'The SpiritFire daily devotional' written by Phil Ware is part of a new year long devotional walk focused on the blessing of the Holy Spirit in our lives - You can subscribe - It's FREE! Just send a blank email to: join-spiritfire@maillists.heartlight.org

God's Grace

2010-01-07T10:50:00.000-08:00

"Grace is Enough" (Lorraine Ezell)

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." 2 Corinthians 12:9

For the last couple of days I have had a chorus playing over and over in my thoughts. The words that I keep hearing are- "Your grace is enough; Your grace is enough for me". I am so glad for God's grace; it is enough for whatever we may be going through.

This morning, I don't know what you are facing- tragedy, problems in a relationship, unruly children, a demanding boss, financial stress or any one of a million other situations- but I want to remind you that "God's Grace is Enough"! That means that grace is all you need to make it through.

It has been said that if God brings you to it, He will bring you through it. He brings you through it by His grace.

Grace is the vessel that will carry you through the most difficult trial. It will reach into the lowest valley. It will shine as the noonday sun in the darkest area. It will conqueror the strongest adversary. It will bring down the tallest giant. It is a bridge of hope for the hopeless, the light at the end of the tunnel, a shelter in the time of storm. It brings a peace that passes understanding. It gives strength to run through a troop and leap over a wall. It defeats the power and stronghold the enemy thought he had over you. It causes you to rejoice when you see nothing to rejoice about and gives you the ability to give thanks in all things.

Are you trying to find an answer this morning or a way of escape? Are you trying to find a solution? Are you trying to find a "way out"? Sometimes your answer and what you need is grace. Like the Lord said to Paul, "My grace is sufficient".

Have a great day. His grace is enough-- it's all we need, regardless of the situation.
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God's Grace - Lavished Upon Us!

Because of the sacrifice of the Messiah, his blood poured out on the altar of the Cross, we're a free people - free of penalties and punishments chalked up by all our misdeeds. And not just barely free, either. Abundantly free! He thought of everything, provided for everything we could possibly need, letting us in on the plans he took such delight in making. He set it all out before us in Christ, a long-range plan in which everything would be brought together and summed up in him, everything in deepest heaven, everything on planet earth. Eph 1:7-10 The Message

7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace 8 that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. 9And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, 10 to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment—to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ. Eph 1:7-10 NIV

A Love Letter From God's Word

2009-12-13T09:58:00.001-08:00

The message below was sent to me by many who say they have found it encouraging because it is words straight from the bible. Fact it is based on Scripture; put together by Kathryn Taylor, The King's High Way Ministries, www.kingshighway.org

Please note: The numbers you encounter correspond with the Scripture references which are listed at the end. If you're facing a tough time right now, I pray this will encourage you. This can be viewed as a as a PDF file in your Internet Browser.

Just copy & paste this link into your browser: http://www.laughandlift.com/members/resources/ALoveLetterFromGod.pdf
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A LOVE LETTER FROM GOD

My Dearest, Most Beloved Child,

"I have loved you with an everlasting love. I have drawn you with loving kindness to myself.' 1

Do you not know that I created your inmost being? I knit you together in your mother's womb. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. 2 See, I have even engraved you on the palms of my hands." 3 These nail scars are for you. "Fear not", my beloved, no matter what circumstances trouble you, "for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name, you are mine. Since you are precious and honored in my sight and because I love you, do not be afraid, for I am with you." 4

"You are my servant; I have chosen you and not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I have promised a bruised reed I will not break and a smoldering wick I will not snuff out, so I will strengthen you and help you," my beloved, "I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." 5 & 6

If you are feeling confused, overwhelmed, maybe even hopeless today, and are in need of my wisdom, "Call to me and I will answer youand tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know. 7 And "I will put my law in your mind and write it on your heart." 8 "I will teach you my ways", my love, "so that you may walk in my truth." "I will give you," simply for the asking, "an undivided heart that you may fear my name." 9 "Stand at the crossroads and look, ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is and walk in it, and you will find rest for your soul." 10

I am calling you and saying, "Come to me, you who are weary and heavy-burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for my yoke is easy and my burden is light and you will find rest for your soul." 11 Remember beloved, "I am the Lord who comforts his people and I will have compassion on my afflicted ones." 12

"Those who hope in me will not be disappointed," 13 and "I will repay you," my precious one, "for the years the locust have devoured." 14 Therefore, "be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made know to (ME), and the peace that only I can give, which passes all understanding, will guard your heart and your mind." 15

And remember, "I your God am not a man that I should lie, nor a son of man that I should change my mind. Do I speak and then not act? Do I promise and then not fulfill?" 16 Even though right now my beloved, my precious child, you may see no immediate answers to your prayers and cries to me, again, remember,

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken, and my covenant of peace will not be removed." 17 Trust me in this my dearest one, "For I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future." 18 And you will keep calling to me and praying to me and I will listen to you. "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you." 19 "Lean not unto your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge (ME) and I will direct your path." 20

And yes, my child, I do know the waves may seem awfully high right now, and the fire may feel unbearably hot, but "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you," just as I have always been, and "when you pass through the rivers they will not sweep over you", no matter what your flesh or the enemy of your soul tries to tell you. And "when you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze." 21 But just like the Hebrew children who were in the furnace and the cords that bound them were burned away, so will the cords that bind you be burned away "And if you hold to my teaching you truly are my disciple. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free." 22

If you're in bondage to your past, to your sins and failures, or if you're bound up in un-forgiveness or bitterness to those who have hurt you, hear my word to you my beloved: "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." 23

"I, even I, Jesus, am He who blots out your iniquities, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more." 24 And, as I have forgiven

your sins, even so, you must also forgive those who have sinned against you. Did I not say from the cross to those who pierced me, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do?"

I hung on that cross just for you my beloved. So you too must forgive. I gave my body to be tortured—just for you. I suffered—just

for you. When they beat me and ripped away my flesh from my bones, Iwas thinking of you. When they plucked out my beard and tore my face away with it, I submitted to it for you. I was stripped naked for you. Spit on for you. Insulted and humiliated for you. I let them drive nails into my wrists and when the nail hit the nerve and sent swooning pain clear to my spine, I was thinking of you.

Thinking of you, because I love you. And, when taking on all the sins of the world, including yours my child, the Father in his holiness had to turn away so that I cried out, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" 25, I did it all for you. I was forsaken by the Father, so you wouldn't have to be. And I did it for you, because I love you!

That's why when you think of me loving you, let me remind you that, "man looks at the outward appearance, but (I, your Lord) look at your heart." 26 And though you've gone through sorrows and I have tested you, you will come forth as gold." 27

"Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning." 28 "And I will bestow on you a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. You will be called an oak of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of (MY) splendor." 29

"I will keep you in perfect peace as your mind is steadfast and trusting in me. 30 I am the Lord, your Rock eternal." 31 Nothing isimpossible for me, 32 and I will provide all your needs according to my glorious riches" 33, and especially your need for love.

My child, if you will offer me your body as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable 34, and walk with me bearing your cross of death to self daily, 35 I will fill you with the "fruit of my Spirit, which is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and selfcontrol." 36 Then, you will be able to love me in return and love your neighbor here on earth, just as I have commanded you.

I can't wait to show you the delights of My Kingdom precious one. You have so much to look forward to. In fact, it is true, that "no eyehas seen, nor ear has heard, nor has it even entered into the heart of man, all that I have prepared for those who love me." 37

It won't be much longer now. So "be still and know that I am God." 38 And take comfort in knowing that even at this very moment I ampreparing a place just for you in my holy city. I will come again, and I will take you to be with me where I am for eternity. I will do it just as I promised, my beloved. And I will do it just because I love you.

Your loving God and Savior, JESUS

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SCRIPTURAL REFERENCES

1. Jeremiah 31:3 2. Psalm 139:13-14 3. Isaiah 49:16 4. Isaiah 43:1c, 43:4a, 43:5a 5. Isaiah 41:9b, 41:10 6. Jeremiah 33:3

7. Jeremiah 31:33b 8. Psalm 86:11a 9. Psalm 86:11b 10. Jeremiah 6:16a 11. Matthew 11:28-30 12. Isaiah 49:13b 13. Isaiah 49:23c

14. Joel 2:25 15. Philippians 4:6-7 16. Numbers 23:19 17. Isaiah 54:10 18. Jeremiah 29:11 19. Jeremiah 29:12-13 20. Proverbs 3:5-6

21. Isaiah 43:1b-2 22. John 8:31-3 23. Isaiah 43:18-19 24. Isaiah 43:25 25. Matthew 27:46 26. 1 Samuel 16:7b 27. Job 23:10

28. Psalm 30:5 29. Isaiah 61:3 30. Isaiah 26:3 31. Isaiah 26:4 32. Luke 1:37 33. Philippians 4:19 34. Romans 12:1 35. Luke 9:23

36. Galatians 5:22 37. 1 Corinthians 2:9 38. Psalm 46:10a

Prayers To Pray Using scripture:

2009-09-10T22:05:00.000-07:00

Many ask for prayers to pray when they are having trouble finding words - I recommend finding a scripture related to the situation then speaking it out. Please find below a collection already prepared for you of scriptures & prayers to speak out & pray that can assist in many different areas of need:

If you have trouble printing these out write to me email: prayer@swpwarriors.com & I will send you a copy. More affirmations can be found in 'Prayer Reflections' May 2007 Archive (link to this can be found at top of page on right side. Be blessed today!
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Scripture Verses and Prayers:

ABUSE

Psalms 147:3 - He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds.

Isaiah 40:29-31 - He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength…Those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.

Isaiah 54:14, 15 - In righteousness you shall be established; you shall be far from oppression, for you shall not fear; and from terror, for it shall not come near you. Indeed they shall surely assemble, but not because of Me. Whoever assembles against you shall fall for your sake.

Isaiah 61:3 - … To give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness…

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that Jesus came to heal the broken-hearted and bind their wounds. I ask you to give me strength and hope, beauty for ashes, and joy for mourning. Lord, I ask you to heal me from all past abuse and protect me from
future abuse. Help me to forgive everyone who has hurt me in any way, in Jesus' name.
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ADDICTIONS, SELF

I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

John 8:36 Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.

Romans 5:20 …But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more…

Romans 13:14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfil its lusts.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I confess to you that I am in bondage to ____. Lord, I ask for your forgiveness and that you would cleanse me and make me right with you and renew a right spirit within me. I ask for greater strength to resist every temptation and to live righteously for you. I believe I receive that strength and freedom now, in the name of Jesus.
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ADDICTIONS, LOVED ONES

Jeremiah 32:27 Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?

I John 5:14-15 Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.

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.

I John 3:8-9 … For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that there is nothing too hard for you. Thank you that Jesus was manifested that He might destroy the works of the devil. Heavenly Father, I ask you to set _______free from every bondage and addiction, in the name of Jesus. Lord, put a desire in their heart for righteousness. Thank you for answering my prayer, in Jesus' name.
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BACKSLIDDEN

Jeremiah 3:22 … I will heal your backslidings.

John 14:15-16 If you love Me, keep My commandments.

Hebrews 8:12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.

I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, your Word says that if we confess our sins, you will forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Lord, I ask you to cleanse ______ /or me from all sin in my life. Put right desires in my heart; restore my sensitivity to sin as You see it. Lord, help me/or ________to hunger and thirst after righteousness, in Jesus' name.
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DEATH OF A LOVED ONE

Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

II Corinthians 1:3,4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort , who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

Psalms 147:3 He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that you promise comfort to those who mourn. Heavenly Father, we know that you are the God of all comfort. Lord, we ask you to comfort _________and fill them with your peace. Give them the strength they need in this difficult time. We pray that you would surround them with your love. Heal their brokenness and bind their wounds, in Jesus name.
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DEMONIC ACTIVITY

I John 3:8 … For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.

Luke 10:19 … I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

II Corinthians 2:14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ…

John 8:36 Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.

James 4:7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil. Thank you, Lord, that you always cause us to triumph and overcome. In the name of Jesus, I resist every work of the enemy and command the enemy to leave every situation in my life. I declare that I am free of every evil work by the blood of Jesus. Heavenly Father, I pray that your will and peace would be established in this situation, in Jesus' name.
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DEPRESSION

Isaiah 61:3: …To give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness…

Psalms 145:14 The LORD upholds all who fall, and raises up all who are bowed down.

Psalms 34:18 The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.

John 10:10 … I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you lift up those who are bowed down. Lord, I ask that you would lift me up and heal my brokenness. Give me beauty, joy, and praise instead of depression and heaviness. I resist depression, and I thank you for restoring my spirit and showing me how I can obtain that abundant life you have promised, in Jesus' name.
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FAMILY PROBLEMS

Psalms 127:1 Unless the LORD builds the house, they labour in vain who build it; unless the LORD guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.

Isaiah 32:17-18 … And the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance forever. My people will dwell in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places…

Deuteronomy 26:11 So you shall rejoice in every good thing which the LORD your God has given to you and your house…

Prayer: Heavenly Father, by faith we declare Jesus is Lord of this family and no weapon formed against them shall prosper. We come against all strife, discord, division, unforgiveness, anger or ill will, in the name of Jesus. We invite the power of the Holy Spirit to work in their lives. Thank you for establishing peace, harmony and unity into this family. Thank you for showing them how to love one another, as you have loved them, in Jesus' name.
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FEAR

II Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

Hebrews 13:6 …The LORD is my helper; I will not fear...

I John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.

John 14:27-28 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that you have not given me a spirit of fear, but of love and power and a sound mind. Lord, I know that fear is not from you. You are the author of peace. I ask you to fill me with your peace. I resist all fear in the name of Jesus. Thank you that I have the peace of God that surpasses all understanding, in Jesus' name.
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FINANCES/PROVISION

Matthew 7:7-9 Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.

Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Psalms 23:1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

Luke 12:29-31 … Do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind…your Father knows that you need these things. But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you say we can come boldly before you to ask for grace and mercy in time of need. You say that whoever asks, receives. Lord, I ask for grace and mercy and that you would meet this financial need, in the name of Jesus. Lord, I ask that you would teach me to prosper, help me to seek your kingdom and receive everything I need, in Jesus' name.
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GENERATIONAL CURSES

Galatians 3:13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree") …

John 10:10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

2 Corinthians 5:19 … God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them…

Jeremiah 31:34 … For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that Jesus has redeemed us from the curse. Thank you that you have forgiven my sins and do not count them against me. I accept your forgiveness and acknowledge that Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away my sin and the sin of my family. I thank you that every generational curse is broken in my family, in the name of Jesus.
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BIBLE VERSES FOR HEALING

Jeremiah 32:17 'Ah, Lord GOD! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. There is nothing too hard for You.

Isaiah 53:5 But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.

1 Peter 2:24-25 … Who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.

Psalms 107:20 He sent His word and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that Jesus bore our grief, our sufferings and our sorrows, and that His wounds have healed ours. We know that nothing is too hard for you. Heavenly Father, we are praying and believing now for the complete healing and restoration of ___________. Thank you Lord that you sent your Word and healed them, in Jesus' name.
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JOB PROBLEMS

1 Corinthians 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion but of peace…

Psalms 55:22 Cast your burden on the LORD, And He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.

Psalms 55:18 He has redeemed my soul in peace from the battle that was against me…

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.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, your Word says you are not the author of confusion but of peace. You say we can cast our cares on you and you will sustain us. Lord, I cast this difficult work situation on you and ask that you would create peace and harmony in this matter. Thank you, Heavenly Father, for working all things together for my good, in Jesus' name.
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MARITAL PROBLEMS

Jeremiah 32:27 Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?

Psalms 127:1 Unless the LORD builds the house, They labour in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman stays awake in vain.

Luke 1:37 For with God nothing will be impossible.

Isaiah 32:17-18 The work of righteousness will be peace, And the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance forever. My people will dwell in a peaceful habitation, In secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places…

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you that you there is nothing too hard for you, and all things are possible to those who believe. In the name of Jesus, we are praying and believing for reconciliation and peace in the marriage of ________. We thank you, Lord, for establishing peace, harmony, and unity in this marriage. We declare _______ and ___________are of one mind, one accord, and one flesh. We ask that you would bless this marriage and show them how to love one another, in Jesus' name..
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SEEKING EMPLOYMENT

Mark 11:24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.

Psalms 5:12 For You, O LORD, will bless the righteous; With favour You will surround him as with a shield.

James 1:5-6 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting…

Hebrews 11:1-2 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, your Word says that whatsoever things that we pray for if we believe we shall receive them, we will have them in the name of Jesus. Father, I ask you now to set aside a fulfilling job for me and one that will meet my financial needs. I thank you for directing me to the right place and giving me wisdom and favour. Even though I don't see this job now, by faith I am believing it will come, in Jesus' name.
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SALVATION FOR A SPOUSE

Mark 11:24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.

2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.

Galatians 5:6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you say whatsoever things that we pray for, if we believe we receive, we shall have it, in the name of Jesus. Heavenly Father, We know it is Your desire is for all men to be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth. Lord, I am believing now for the salvation of my spouse. I ask that you bring them to knowledge of the truth. Lord, show me how to love them as I wait. I pray this in Jesus' name.
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WISDOM AND GUIDANCE

James 1:5-6 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
John 10:27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.

Psalms 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD…

Psalms 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.

Prayer: Lord, you say if we lack knowledge, we can ask and you will give it to us freely. I ask for your wisdom and guidance in my life. I ask that you would reveal your will to me and help me to hear your voice and guide me in the right direction. Thank you for ordering my steps and making them sure, in Jesus' name.

Source: Clear Vision Bible Studies (CVBS) Website: http://www.clearvisionbiblestudies.com/index.html The CVBS website is a project of Berith Bible Ministries Inc. founded in 1986, an independent non-profit organization. The CVBS website is a place for Christian resources and many pages of FREE content to use personally and in your ministry.

No Separation from God's Love!

2009-09-06T12:52:00.001-07:00

Reflection Jewel:

For I am certain that nothing can separate us from his love: neither death nor life, neither angels nor other heavenly rulers or powers, neither the present nor the future, neither the world above nor the world below --- there is nothing in all creation that will ever be able to separate us from the love of God which is ours through Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:38-39 TEV)
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Deep Waters

I wasn't much more than a half pint kid, certainly I wasn't a teen yet. To the best of my recollection, it seems to me that there were three of us, my father, his friend and me. We were out fishing from a boat. That was a rare treat because mostly we fished from the shore.

I don't remember the location, other than someplace in British Columbia, Canada. We were likely fishing for trout but I don't remember if we caught anything or not.

What I do remember is that the lake was deep. The water was clear and it dropped off sharply right from the shoreline. As I recall, someone said it was over 400 feet deep. It was either an old flooded mine or a crater lake formed from a dormant volcano.

The idea of water of that depth was both terrifying and fascinating. I couldn't comprehend lakes that deep (here in Alberta 30 feet is deep water).

The lake came to mind the other morning as I was reading Scripture.

The Psalmist cries out - Psalm 139:7-12 (NIV)

Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.

God's love is available no matter where we may hide. Four hundred feet was an incomprehensible to me as a child yet God's love could have found me there. As an adult I know that even the deepest of oceans or the furthest reaches of space are not to far for God.

God's love is larger, more powerful and farther reaching than anything we can imagine. The only way to avoid it is to choose to stay away from it, to reject it.

As a believer when I face time's of struggle I take great comfort in what the Word teaches about the depths of God's love.

Romans 8:37-39 NIV
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

When we belong to Him, nothing can pull us away from His love.

John 10:27-30 NIV
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one."

In the hour of our greatest need when every help seems gone, when hope seems nothing more than an empty promise and we wonder if anyone is hearing our prayers we can take heart.

No matter where we wander, no matter what we have done, if we will simply cry out to Him, He is there. In the darkness of the depths we may not understand His plans but we can take comfort in His love. Grab hold of Him with all you have and know that He will never let you go.

The Meaning of Peace

2009-07-17T11:31:00.001-07:00

Reflection Jewels:

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there by any virtue, and if there by any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you." Philippians 4:8, 9

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you: not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful. (John 14:27)

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. Philippians 4:6-7

You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Isaiah 26:3
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The Waves

One moment you have shortage. . . The next you have excess. . .

One day you have nothing to do. . . The next you don't have time to get it all done. . .

One day the refrigerator is empty and you are hungry. . . The next you have a half eaten meal in front of you and you are stuffed. . .

One month you've got money to spare and you wonder what to buy .. The next you've got a bounced check. . .

One moment you are full of energy and can't go to sleep. . . The next you are drained and can't get up. . .

One day you are the center of attention. . . The next you wonder if anyone knows you are alive. . .

It's the waves of life. They carry us up and down and all around.

Money, friends, your body, your relationships, your job, and the rest of the list, they all vary. They all go in waves.

It took me a while to really understand the statement, "The Kingdom of Heaven is Within."

No commercial can show you that. Commercials make you believe it's in the jazzy new car or the big screen TV.

Yes, those things can thrill you for a moment, but it's only a wave. After a little while, the thrill is gone.
I have always recognized that if money and things brought happiness, then all rich people with things would be happy.

It ain't so. We easily see how poverty can cause unhappiness, but we are deluded into believing that money solves all things.

Life is full of stuff. I wouldn't trade my life with anyone, it's one of the most blessed that I know, but it's still full of stuff. One thing after another, one challenge after another, one situation after another, day by day, never-ending . . .

It's the waves and there is no stopping them from the outside.

You can only calm the inside, so that like a submarine, you ride deep beneath the waves.

Though a storm is raging, you are at peace.

Most are tossed and turned by waves. Some like the sub, ride deep beneath the daily storms in peace.

Some simply surf the waves and have a lot of fun. Some drown.

You can't stop the waves; it's the nature of the ocean of life.

You can only choose which method you will use to handle them.

You can be tossed like most. You can drown like many.

You can surf and have fun while you can, but even a surfer gets tired and there's nowhere to sleep on a surfboard.

To ride comfortably beneath the waves requires a ship containing breath that is not our own.

That ship. . .. . . is not crowded. Peace - Be Still

Source: "from MountainWings.com"
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The Meaning of Peace - (Author Unknown)

There was once a king who offered a prize to the artist who could paint the best picture of peace. Many artists tried.The king looked at all the pictures, but there were only two that he really liked, and he had to choose between them.

One picture was of a calm lake. The lake was a perfect mirror for the peaceful towering mountains all around it. Overhead was a blue sky with fluffy white clouds. All who saw this picture thought that it was a perfect picture of peace.

The second picture had mountains, too. But these were rugged and bare. Above was an angry sky from which rain fell, and in which lightening played. Down the side of the mountain tumbled a foaming waterfall. This did not look peaceful at all.

But when the king looked, he saw behind the waterfall a tiny bush growing in a crack in the rock. In the bush a mother bird had built her nest....
a perfect picture of peace.

Which of the pictures won the prize? The king chose the second picture. Do you know why?

"Because," explained the king, "peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work.

Peace means to be in the midst of all those things and still be calm in your heart. That is the real meaning of peace."
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Reflection Jewels:

* Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know." (Jer 33:3 NKJV)

* For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:16, 17

* But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Phil 2:7, 8 KJV

* For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. 2 Cor 5:21 KJV

* And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Acts 2:21)

Who Is Jesus

2009-07-17T10:39:00.001-07:00

Reflective Thought:

Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened." 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, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. 1 Peter 3:13-16 NIV

Do you know Jesus? -

What would you say if someone asked you "Who is Jesus?" Are you prepared to give an answer?

It is important to know our own testimony of what Jesus has done & be able share the basics of the path to salvation.

How do we do that? We start by reading our Bible & meditating upon God's word - spending time waiting upon Him & listening.

Please note there is a new Christian website set up called http://www.whosjesus.com/

Please when you have time to spare go to this site & browse reflectively - there is a small booklet, videos & many testimonies. May you truly be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have

Promise For Those Who Wait Upon Abba

2009-07-06T08:18:00.001-07:00

Reflection Jewel:

"He gives power to the weak,
And to those who have no might He increases strength.
Even the youths shall faint and be weary,
And the young men shall utterly fall,
But those who wait on the LORD
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint."
Isaiah 40:29-31
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Times & Seasons

2009-06-23T10:40:00.001-07:00

Jewels to Meditate Upon:

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

1 To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven:

2 A time to be born, And a time to die;
A time to plant, And a time to pluck what is planted;

3 A time to kill, And a time to heal;
A time to break down, And a time to build up;

4 A time to weep, And a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, And a time to dance;

5 A time to cast away stones, And a time to gather stones;
A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing;

6 A time to gain, And a time to lose;
A time to keep, And a time to throw away;

7 A time to tear, And a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, And a time to speak;

8 A time to love, And a time to hate;
A time of war, And a time of peace.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I would like to share a beautiful presentation with you on Ecclesiastes 3 recommended by Chris Long. The Canadian Bible Society put the lovely Scripture of the 3rd Chapter to Pachelbel's Canon in the accompanying video...and in so doing really nailed the poetry of The Book. When God's Word is offered in this format, you just can't help but sit back and let it REACH INTO YOUR SOUL. This blessed me and my guess is it will really bless you too.

Just click the below link to watch or copy link & paste in your browser - MAKE SURE you have your sound turned on! Enjoy!

http://www.biblesociety.ca/free_scriptures/escriptures/ecclesiastes3/ecclesiastes3.html

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The Bible - Fiction or Fact?

2009-06-23T10:37:00.001-07:00

The Bible - Fiction or Fact? Selwyn Stevens,

What is the Bible? Is it really the written Word of God? First we will look at what this book is and how it came about. The Bible is a collection of 66 separate books which together make a unique and powerful book. The word Bible comes from the Greek 'biblia' which simply means 'books.' The Bible is usually called "The Holy Bible". Holy means to be 'set apart by God.' So The Holy Bible is the Word of God; it does not merely contain the words of God. It is different from all other religious books because God, through the Bible, enjoys letting people know about Himself. The unique design of the Bible is one of the best proofs of its divine inspiration. Many different men at different times wrote their part of this book, without any contradictions. This can only be explained by the Master Author's guiding hand. .

Divine Inspiration

According to 2 Timothy 3:16, all Scripture is equally inspired. The N.I.V. says "All Scripture is God-breathed...". This refers to the work of the Holy Spirit in His creative capacity. We do not know the actual 'How' of inspiration, but Christians believe that each writer had liberty to use his own personality, education and experience within certain limits. Paul's educated and logical mind is evident in books such as Romans and Galatians. The Holy Spirit watched over every thought, phrase and word to preserve accuracy.

The Test for Approval

Writings which were regarded as divinely inspired were accepted only when the writer was proven to be a True Prophet of God. That means no false prophecies had been spoken by him. This is quite different from unfulfilled prophecies.

The Old Testament

This was completed by 400 BC. The translation into Greek was done by 70 learned Scholars from Alexandria. This was known as the "Version of the Seventy" or the "Septuagint". It was in common use during the time of Christ and the Apostles, and was frequently quoted in the New Testament. The other main version of the Old Testament is called the "Masoretic Text".

How Did The New Testament Come About?

The New Testament completes the true written Word of God for all people and for all time. This means that the Bible is the standard by which we must judge all teaching, doctrine and belief. The Old and New Testaments together are sometimes referred to as the 'Canon,' which means 'standard.' Irenaeus of Lyons, an Elder of the early church, said in 180 AD, "The Scriptures are perfect, in as much as they were uttered by the Word of God, and His Spirit." (note; Jesus was often referred to as 'The Word of God,' see John 1:1).

Along with many others Irenaeus used both Old and New Testaments as 'Scripture' without distinction. The early Church held a number of councils to make decisions on which were divinely inspired writings that could be commended to the growing church. Most New Testament books received official recognition within 100 years of being written. The last few were confirmed at the Council held in Carthage in 393 AD. Each was accepted because of its unmistakeable authority and inspiration. It is both reasonable and fair to suppose that He who inspired the New Testament writers also participated in the formation of it. We may confidently believe that we have in our hands the Word of God, complete and undiluted.

Some of the New Testament books were written to individuals, some to churches or groups of churches. Their self-evident authority and value caused them to be copied and recopied for an ever-widening public. By the year 90 AD many churches had copies of Paul's letters, and by the early second century they had all four Gospels as well.

What Does The Bible Say About Itself?

The writers of the Bible insisted over 3,000 times that their words were the Word of God. The words of Jesus plainly show that many of His arguments and teachings were based on quotations from almost every Old Testament book. As I have studied what the Bible says about itself, a very clear message is evident. It is best summed up in this passage; "Do not add to what I command you, and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the Lord your God that I give you," (Deuteronomy 4:2 NIV). Nowhere does any Scripture even hint at disagreeing or disputing with any other part. This theme goes right through to the end of Revelation, where there is a warning that those who add to the Bible will bring upon themselves all the plagues and curses written in the Bible, and those who subtract from it will find themselves removed from the 'Book of Life' (God's record of those who are saved), and they will miss out on all of the Bible's promised blessings.

Numerous Old Testament writers spoke of the Lord touching their tongue and putting His words in their mouths to speak to the people, for example 2 Samuel 23:2, and Jeremiah 1:9. Many of the Psalms of David and others spoke of the Words of the Lord being pure words which He would preserve for all generations. "The grass withers and the flower fades, but the Word of our God stands forever," (Isaiah 40:8).

What Is The Scripture For?

Jesus, quoting Deuteronomy 8:3, said during the Temptation: "It is written, man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God," (Matthew 4:4).

Later on in Matthew 24:35, Jesus said very specifically that heaven and earth would pass away, but "My words will by no means pass away." That is a statement indicating His Deity, for He is clearly stating that His word is the Word of God.

The writers of the New Testament tended to explain more than the Old Testament writers what Scripture was for. "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction and for instruction in righteousness," (2 Timothy 3:16). "For the Word of God is living and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart," (Hebrews 4:12). "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation (or origin), for prophecy never came by the will of man but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit," (2 Peter 1:20,21).

I was interested to come across one Scripture which I hadn't noticed before, which says that the Scriptures will be the standard of judgement on the last day. "He who rejects me and does not receive my words has that which judges him, the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day," (John 12:48).

What About The Many Versions?

There are many versions or translations available, to suit every level of understanding and education. Since the major revisions of the Bible in the 1880's, over 100 new versions have become available. There have been several good reasons why new versions have been needed. One of the most important has been the changing use of words. Some of the versions available, such as the 'Good News' and the 'Living Bible,' are not actual translations but paraphrases. The intent is not to stay with the original meanings of words, but to use word pictures to get the same message across. This has especially benefited those for whom English is a second language.

God Can't Be Limited to One Version!

In summarising the issues involved in the multitude of versions and translations, I would say this; God can never be limited. Even a mis-translation of a version can still be used by God to touch people and to convict them of their sin and to show them their need of a Saviour. There is no evidence that shows God hid His true word for 1800 years and has only allowed this to be found in the past few decades. God's Word is eternal, and no man or government will thwart God's purposes. There used to be a bumper sticker around in the early 1980's which read "God said it, I believe it, and that settles it." It would be more accurate to read "God said it, and that settles it, whether I believe it or not."

Measuring Revelations by The Bible

God may speak to His believing people through prophetic words, visions, dreams and other revelations: but God speaks to all His people most surely through the Bible. All forms of revelation should be weighed against the Bible. These should be put aside if they don't measure up with the Scripture. Our leading for guidance and direction is best summed up by "Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things: hold fast to what is good," (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21).

So the Scripture - the written Word of God - is the supreme standard by which everything else should be judged and tested.

The Bible Explains "Why!"

Science may have answers to many questions, but that does not make the Bible irrelevant. Scientific explanations answer questions such as 'How?' But the ultimate question is 'Why?' and science cannot answer that. Science has many unproven theories which may differ from Scripture, but the God who created our world also wrote His Word truthfully. Many historical facts recorded in the Bible are now beginning to be proved by new finds in archeology etc.

There are those who teach that the church (or at least their denomination) is the final authority on matters of doctrine and life. All I can say is that the Word of God is infallible and trustworthy, and it is older and more accurate than any denominational church. The Bible is completely reliable and worthy of our reading, believing and obeying.

The Bible is not an idol. The Christian's only desire is to worship and glorify the Lord the Bible reveals. The key to understanding the Bible is Jesus Christ. The unbeliever has difficulty understanding the Bible, and may remain untouched by its message of life and salvation.

The Christian believer accepts the supernatural character of Scripture - it is self-evident. We meet God through its pages, and find pardon, new life and the assurance of eternal salvation. God's Word is true, and "...a lamp to my feet and a light to my path," (Psalm 119:105).

If you have never read the Bible, you may not be aware that God wants to speak to you through its pages. You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain.

Your Life is Jesus to Someone

2009-06-23T10:23:00.001-07:00

Your Life is Jesus to Someone (Author Unknown)

"By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." - John 13:35

YOUR LIFE is Jesus to someone,
though tattered and torn it may be.
Though often times weak and unstable,
you're all of God someone will see.

YOUR TONGUE is Jesus to someone.
That idle, insensitive word
reflects to at least one searching heart
an idle, insensitive Lord.

YOUR GOALS are Jesus to someone.
What you put first, they believe,
are the goals of God for the Christian.
Your life is all they receive.

YOUR FAITHFULNESS... that's Jesus to someone.
Their judgment of how God is true,
rests unquestionably in the faithfulness
they see day by day in you.

YOUR LOVE is Jesus to someone --
that someone who is seeking to know
that Jesus will follow and guide and
befriend wherever in life they might go.

SO BEWARE lest others blaspheme God
by what you say or do,
for the only Jesus that someone may see
is the Jesus they see in you.

Reflective Thought

"A man's life is always more forcible than his speech. When men take stock of him they reckon his deeds as dollars and his words as pennies. If his life and doctrine disagree the mass of onlookers accept his practice and reject his preaching." - C.H. Spurgeon

"I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;" - Ephesians 4:1-2

Soundness of Speech

2009-06-06T00:35:00.000-07:00

Jewels to Meditate Upon:

"A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult." Prov 12:16

"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." (Prov15:1NIV)

"A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare." (Prov15:1NLT)

"A gentle response defuses anger, but a sharp tongue kindles a temper-fire." (The Message)

"Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy; to deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine. Our soul waiteth for the Lord: he is our help and our shield" (Psalm 33:18-20).

"I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. This poor man cried out, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles" (Psalm 34: 4, 6).

"In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us." Titus 2:7-8
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Reflective Thoughts:

If you feel you have no faults......there's another one. ... If you don't learn from your mistakes, there's no sense making them."

"Isn't it staggering when you think that one sermon on the day of Pentecost produced 3000 people? And we had some cities yesterday where 3000 sermons were preached and nobody was saved. And it doesn't even faze us." -Leonard Ravenhill
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A Gentle Answer (by Kerry S. Doyal)

A Fool-Proven Recipe for Caustic Relationships:

Take one cauldron of an angry person, Stir thoroughly with your own harsh responses, Yields scalding spillage, burns and pain.

As Proverbs 15:1 instructs:

"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." (NIV)

When we encounter hotheads: Miss Miffed Molly & Ticked off Tommy, our response can change or charge the tone & interaction. We can add fuel by striking back, showing them who's all that. Or we defuse the ticking timebomb by wise, gentle replies."

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare." (NLT)

How to keep an argument going:-

Don't ignore that comment said in anger - Forget forgiving; fire back - zing 'em good

Such is a scorched earth approach to relationships. You can watch the damaging flames of relational furry set in. Smart - real smart.

Or - Plan B - as in "Best":-

Absorb the cheap shot, the hurtful dig, the rude question - Swallow your pride & tongue as you pray for grace. - Speak peace, answer with gentleness, calmly, if at all

"A gentle response defuses anger, but a sharp tongue kindles a temper-fire." (The Message)

Prayer: "Lord, as you shut the mouths of the lions & protected Daniel, protect others by helping me keep mine shut. And, as you opened the tomb to bring life, may my open mouth bring healing and life to others in Jesus' name."

More Meaningful Mouth Musings from Prov. 15:

2 The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.

4 The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so the hearts of fools.
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Don't Retaliate - Show Underserved Respect!

Prov 12:14 “ From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him”

Most people that work hard realize that hard work not only feels good but also brings reward. Today's Fresh Manna verse says "From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him." It's saying that the work of learning to speak right words with a right heart and attitude is just as important as working hard with your hands or mind. The strenuous labor of speaking right and appropriate words when your emotions don't feel like it or when you just want to spew, promises great reward.

Prov 12:16 says, "A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult."

Did you catch that?

The insult was hurled but the prudent man overlooked it. This person is looking much further than the annoyance. This person is looking through God's eyes of love at the big picture of life. They aren't letting themselves be controlled by the emotional stimulus of the moment. Love, forgiveness, godly perspective, and doing what is right are the core values of someone who keeps themselves in check. This person understands the power of giving respect to the one that doesn't deserve it and consequently, won't retaliate with insults. This person has learned let their words and response be respectful and represent God.

We grow in learning how to speak the truth in love. We learn to hold our emotions in check and keep a respectful attitude. We can't afford to forget that godly communication carries a learning curve. It's a process and takes hard work.

The joy is in knowing that in time, having respect for all people despite what they deserve becomes an instinctive part of your character over time and brings favor and blessing to your life.

Don't be impatience with your lack of success in your efforts to have respect for others. Don't forfeit the process and your efforts. Continue working at it till you get it down. And, don't lose sight of the reward and benefit of learning to speak the truth in love. It is one of the greatest aspects of maturity and will lead you to greater blessing, promotion, and harmony than you could have ever imagined.

Oh yes and one last benefit. You glorify God and influence others with your pattern of good behavior and godly speech!

As Titus 2:7-8 says, "In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us."

Used with permission: Pastor Tim Burt - Fresh Manna for Tuesday, June 2, 2009 http://www.freshmanna.org
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Reflection Garden

2009-05-24T08:29:00.000-07:00

Jewels to Meditate Upon:

Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Philippians 3:12

That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Philippians 3:10-12
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Intimacy with God

Ephesians 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

The word beforehand refers to before the foundation of the world. What the apostle Paul is saying in this verse is that before we were ever born, God prepared good works for us to walk in them. God decided that we would be doing certain things.

Listen to that same verse from the Knox Translation, We are His design. God has created us in Christ Jesus, pledged to such good actions as He has prepared beforehand to be the employment of our lives. I like that.

Paraphrased, "You were designed with a unique purpose, and that is what you should be doing with your life."

In Philippians 3:12, Paul also states, Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.

The phrase "I press on" literally means "I pursue." What is it that Paul states he is pursuing?

He is pursuing his purpose.

On that Damascus road, Jesus laid hold of Saul of Tarsus, and He did it for a reason. There was a purpose involved. From the day that Jesus Christ laid hold of him, Paul's life became a progressive search to lay hold of the answer to the question, "God, why have You laid hold of me? What is my purpose?"

My point? You have a God-designed purpose in life!

Paul, in Philippians 3:10-12, gives us the other principle for discovering your purpose,

That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.

Paul said, "I am pursuing my purpose," but it was a purpose based on knowing God.

Look at what he said in verse 10, That I may know Him.

The understanding of his purpose came out of that primary desire and pursuit of knowing God Himself and living in intimacy with Him.

Perhaps the most important thing you could do in your life right now is to just lock yourself away, grab your Bible, and go sit at the beach. Find that place of communion with God.

As you get to know Him, you will also discover your own heart and the dreams and desires that God put within you.

They are there. They may be covered with debris, they may be covered with dust, but they are there. You can find out what they are if you will develop that intimate relationship with God.
It is in closeness with God that His breath blows the dust off undiscerned and unrecognized purposes and dreams.

Source: By Bayless Conley - From Answers For Each Day - May 2009 http://www.answersbc.org/
~~~~~~~~~~
Reflective Thought: God is speaking today - can you hear what He is saying? Our daily bread is the Word of God - we cannot live off yesterday's manna. ..... The key to hearing the voice of God is learning to saturate and immerse ourselves in the presence of God. When we come into His presence, the rest simply happens. (Ivan Roman)

One of my favourite past times is to go to the local bush, park or beach for a walk with my family - whilst they take off on more strenuous parts of the walk I like to sit on a bench, rock or low wall & meditate on a scripture or quietly pray till they return. These moments are very precious & many a time I have had the company of birds, butterflies & some occasion’s kangaroos.

Below is a link to a beautiful & enjoyable idea 'Prayer Garden' that I came across recently - It would be enjoyed especially by those who are not so fortunate to go outside & for those who would like to spend some time in prayer & reflective thought on God's word. .

I suggest you do not rush as each page has something to click on! Be patient - take each step slowly & spend reflective time in prayer & reading scriptures:

1. Click on the link below (after point 8) when page opens read welcome message & quietly prepare heart for prayer & praise then enter the 'Prayer Garden' & enjoy!

2. Click on sign on gate & read direction & if able start singing & praising!

3. Click on key & drag to lock on gate - Unlock the door with the key - gate will swing open - Click on the little Lighting-bug and follow instructions.

4. When you get to the fountain click on each stone ... pray & reflect!

5. Click on cross read message & pray then follow Lighting-bug pause & reflect & click on each stick

6. Click on the lighting bug to continue to the Table - click on each scroll reflect & pray - then return to table

7. Click on Lighting-bug to continue to 'Journal' click on Key & burning pot reflect & pray!

8. Click on journal on bench before leaving or returning to fountain Enjoy!

Link below for Prayer for the Nations - Prayer Garden:
Click Here: - Prayer Garden

If link above does not work (cut & paste this link in your browser) go direct to http://www.theprayergarden.com/flash.htm

Skipping & Tripping

2009-05-10T05:10:00.000-07:00

Jewels to Meditate Upon:

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NIV

Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NAS

I can do everything through him who gives me strength (Phil. 4:13).
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That Skip-Over Verse - by Laura MacCorkle

Today's verse is one that I like to skip over in my Bible, even though it's highlighted. And underlined. And on a page that's dog-eared.You see, whenever I read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18,

I can't help but think: Really? Be joyful ALWAYS? And how am I supposed to pray CONTINUALLY? And give thanks in ALL circumstances? Who can do all of THAT?

I'm sure you probably have a verse or two that you really don't like to read or mull over either. But, conveniently, God has ordained it so that I've had many opportunities to put my skip-over verse into action just this past week ...

When I said "hello ... how are you doing?" in passing to an acquaintance and was greeted with a cold "hello" and a sharp "I'm fine" in response. Ouch. Where's the joy here? What did I do to deserve that kind of treatment? Why doesn't this person like me?

When funny, but certainly unkind, words flew out of my mouth at the expense of someone else and his feelings. Why, oh WHY, did I do that just so I could make fun of them? And feel better about myself? Obviously, I was not praying while saying.

When a friend's van, in which she had just pumped a couple thousand dollars for repairs a few weeks earlier was pronounced "dead" by mechanics. How could anyone be joyful in this type of circumstance? I want to greet these mechanics with a "holy punch" on her behalf. Argh!

When people are difficult just to be difficult and disagree with every factoid or opinion you might share. You say black. They say white. You say grey. They say plaid. Ugh! Am I supposed to be thankful for this? Isn't there some other way I can learn humility? 'Cause I'd be ever so grateful if it was a different circumstance, Lord.

What also stands out to me about 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, is that each thought gets its own verse. I think that this week is the first time that has registered with me. It's almost as if Paul wanted to give specific emphasis to each way of living:

Be joyful always - Pray continually - Give thanks in all circumstances

These three directives were part of the "Final Instructions" section in Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians. He was reminding the church in Thessalonica of how God's people are to live and how our attitudes should not be affected by (or a result of) our circumstances.

This is a hard pill to swallow, folks. At least for me it is. Sure, it's easy to be joyful, praying continually and giving thanks in all things when life is going great, when everyone is your best friend and when the blessings (usually material) are just raining on down.

But what about when you've had a week like I just did? How are you supposed to live like this?

I can do everything through him who gives me strength (Phil. 4:13).That's the key.

God, through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, is the one who powers me and helps me to live in this way. And this is the kind of living that God wants for his children. It is his will for us, not our own. And it is that which is pleasing to him.

Please don't skip over 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 like I have a habit of doing.

Let it cause you to pause and take some time to assess your current attitude. What is it-or who is it-that's got you not joyful, not praying and not giving thanks?

Ask the Lord to soften your heart and change your attitude. He doesn't want to skip over you. And if you are willing, through YOU he can work wonders!
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God's Will: So Simple it's Hard by Shawn McEvoy

"God's will for my life"... how often have you pondered that notion? Studied it? Read untold books about it? Know people who torture themselves trying to locate it?

Well, here we have an obvious chunk of it, even compact and useful just as we like things to be, tucked away at the close of Paul's first letter to the church at Thessalonica.

"This is God's will for you...," it says.

Well, yes, it says that, and it sure is pretty - almost poetic - but is it deep enough? Shouldn't there be more? Is it practical?

Okay. Then let's go Old Testament. Prophetic. Action-oriented. Micah 6:8 says, "He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"

It's still simple, still bunched in a group of three, still indicating that there's no big mystery way far out there which must be solved before we know how to act or decide, or how God wants us to act or decide. So why do we seek for more?

I think it's because the ridiculously simple, paradoxically enough, is ridiculously hard, and we know it.

G.K. Chesterton famously said, "The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting. It has been found difficult and left untried."

We could spend a lot of time discussing the ins-and-outs of how easy or hard God's will is, and where else in His Word we can find snippets of it. One woman from my Bible fellowship class is fond of asking during our lessons, "What does that look like?"

Let's ponder on that for a minute here.

The situation is this: you've been sent on a missionary journey via a clear calling from God. The resources were there, the people willing. You are leading your group through a city when you encounter a psychic who keeps taunting you. After a while, through calling on the name of Jesus you cast out the evil spirit within her. Hooray! Score one for the Lord, and your group! But alas, there is no praise here, because those who had been making some cash off the now-set-free woman's powers aren't happy with you. They drag your group before local law enforcement, have you beaten, and thrown into prison.

Hey now! At this point, I am saying, "God, this is NOT your will. YOU made it very clear we were to come on this trip, and we even did a miracle for you! Now we're injured, in jail... I don't even know how I'm going to get home much less continue to be effective for you from here! I want a telephone, I want a lawyer, and I want you to reveal your ACTUAL will, right now, and suffer no more discomfort while doing what you sent us to do!"And with that, my missionary journey would come to a close.

But not the Apostle Paul's, not as we have it recorded in Acts 16:16-40, which is one of my all-time favourite passages.

Paul, who knew God's will better than I, and practiced it, knew to "rejoice always."

And so, bloodied and with his feet in stocks, he sings. Seriously, he sings hymns of praise.

He also knew to "pray without ceasing," and so, in verse 25, that's exactly what you find - Paul and Silas praying... at midnight, even.

The missionaries on this journey got out of God's way by doing the simple things that God had willed for them to do, so that God was free to let fly with His own big, complex, miraculous will for everyone else. An earthquake shakes open the prison, snapping chains in the process. Prisoners, however, stay where they are. A jailer, about to kill himself, holds his sword, and moments later accepts Jesus into his heart. Then his family joins the flock, all because those he had persecuted chose to "love kindness."

At every step of the journey, Paul, Silas, and their companions chose to walk humbly, give thanks, and do what was just (speaking of which, once officially released, Paul did have some words of justice regarding their citizenship and treatment for the magistrates).

It's absolutely amazing to me the ways that God plans to accomplish His Will (big "W") on earth.

His will in my life has already been decided. It is my job to walk humbly, get out of the way, always be in prayer, always rejoicing no matter what situation I'm in.

But how often do we come back to the same situation, sitting in my car, simple traffic jam, me needing to be somewhere, telling God, "Did you not ordain that I should do such and such today? Or get this amount of work done so I can spend this amount of time with my family? Then this is on you unless you make such-and-such happen now!"

Sigh... how many miracles have I missed?

No, God's will for my life isn't difficult to know. It's just frustratingly hard to do if self is at the centre. And that's the crux of the very question itself, "What is God's will for MY life?"

Perhaps when we get out of the way, we shall see better.

How long will it take to learn the lesson that even if I know I am doing God's will it doesn't mean everything will appear to go smoothly along the way?

That there are purposes I either don't know or am unwilling to consider could be a part of inconvenience?

If you're like me, start learning today by making note of every story in the Bible that suffers a delay, interruption, inconvenience or other problem before the payoff.

(Hint: start with guys like Joseph, and Abraham...)

Source: Laura MacCorkle & Shawn McEvoy Senior Editors Crosswalk - May 5, 2009 Crosswalk Faith Update http://www.crosswalkmail.com/
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Reflective Thought: Jesus said, "People ought always to pray, and not to faint" (Luke 18: I).
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Weapons Of Warfare

2009-04-09T11:11:00.000-07:00

Jewels to Meditate & Reflect upon:

* 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV) 16

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

* 2 Timothy 3:12-17 ESV

Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and impostors will go onfrom bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.

* Joshua 1:8 (NIV)

8 Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.

* Psalm 86:11, NIV

Teach me Your way, O Lord, and I will walk in Your truth; give me an undivided heart that I may fear Your name.

* Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.* "Man does not live on bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4).

* Psalm 1:1-3

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.

* 1 Peter 1:25, KJV

But The Word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.

* John 14:26

"But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you."
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Weapons Of Warfare - The Word of God

When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness by Satan (see Luke 4:1-13),

He overcame the devil using the one weapon of THE WORD OF GOD.

Rather than arguing directly with Satan's suggestions, as many Christians try to do, Jesus simply quoted the Word of God as it applied to the suggestion.

When Satan tried to suggest a course of action for Jesus to prove his divinity and simultaneously satisfy his hunger, Jesus answered,

"It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.'" (Luke 4:4).

This silenced the enemy and ended the discussion on that point.

Jesus used the Word of God once for each of the three main temptations which every son of man must face.

These are: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life. Once we have overcome these fully, we have overcome Satan.

The apostle John wrote, "I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the Word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the wicked one." (1 John 2:14).

We see then that we are called to grow up to the stage of being "young men", in whom the Word of God abides, and "no longer children, tossed about by every wind and wave of doctrine" (Ephesians 4:14).

It is when, through much study and meditation on the Word of God, that word comes to live in us, and consume our thoughts, that we will be strong in the Lord.

Jesus promised that if we abide in Him, and His Word abides in us, we will ask what we desire, and it will be done for us (John 15:7). This will include victory over Satan. Much more can be written on the power of the Word of God to overcome the devil. Make sure you get into the Word of God for yourself.

Source: Weapons Of Warfare (Part Message - 2004) - spiritual-warfare.net The rest of this message can be found in "Prayer Reflections" Archive 2006 -
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Accordion Christians

I recently heard a preacher (I've forgotten which one) speaking about what he called "accordion Christians".

Accordion Christians are the ones who fold under the least amount of pressure and make a lot of noise as they fold. I had never heard the expression before; I don't know if it is one of his originals, or just a regional expression I hadn't come across before. His remark was said a little tongue in cheek and there is some merit to it, but at the same time it is heart breaking.

You see many people in the church, and many of those who left the church who would fit that very description. Why do people who hear the life giving message of Jesus Christ and accept Him fall away from the truth?

Often times, it is because as other believers and as a church we have failed them. We treat salvation as the goal and not the entry point. As wonderful as being accepted by Father and forgiven of all our sins is, that's just the beginning of a life long journey.

Jesus sent us forth to gain new converts Matthew 28:19 NIV Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

But the commission doesn't stop there. We're called to teach them as well. Matthew 28:20 NIV and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

While the church is called to teach, individual members also we have an ongoing call from God to learn more about Him. The responsibility doesn't just fall to pastors and elders, we can't blame them alone; we must take responsibility for ourselves.

We need to learn what the Bible has to say for ourselves and share that with one another. We're called to go to God for wisdom.

James 1:5-8 NIV If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.

That means more than just a quick prayer. It means reading and studying the Bible for yourself.

.......... Dig out the book and read it. Read it over and over until it makes sense.

Attend a solid Sunday school or Bible study and read some more. There is no reason to fold under pressure. God has equipped us for everything we will face in life. He is there to walk with us. We simply need to get familiar with His Word to understand better who He is and who we are in Him.

Grab the Bible, blow the dust off it and begin to see what God has to say. He has wonderful plans for your life; let Him tell you about them. There is power in the Word. There is wisdom in the Word. There is truth in the Word. There are promises for your life in the Word. I know I've said it before in other issues of Gleanings, but studying the Word is such a vital part of the Christian walk that it can never be over emphasized. Until next time, read the Word, READ the Word, READ THE WORD.

Used With Permission 2001-2009 K.F. "Kevin" Corbin, Gleanings From The Word Ministries International http:/gleaningsfromtheword.com Issue #3267
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The Word of Life - Patricia Lake

But The Word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you. 1 Peter 1:25, KJV

How wonderful and reassuring to know that in an age of shifting sands, crashing financial institutions and a crumbling economic climate, the Word of the Lord, in contrast, is strong, solid, reliable and dependable.

In the book of Samuel the Scriptures tell us that the word of God was precious in those days, because the sins of Eli's sons, and the consequent sins of the people, threatened to extinguish and annihilate all that was God-fearing in the nation. 'And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision' (1 Samuel 3:1). 'And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep; that the LORD called Samuel:' (1 Samuel 3:3-4).

God preserved and protected the essence of His truth in the heart of one who was willing to listen to his Word, even though a child, and speak the Word of His truth and subsequently turn the nation of Israel from their waywardness. God always has a remnant.

To the prophet Zechariah, God said 'But my words and my statutes, which I commanded my servants the prophets, did they not take hold of your fathers?' (Zechariah 1:6).

His Word is for today! - it is arresting and transforming; but it also transcends the generations and endures forever. This is why Jesus encourages us to build our house (our lives) on His Word, because the storms of life - not to mention the ravages of sin - would surely take their toll if we built on the wrong foundation.

This Word which is sharper than any two edged sword, will correct us when we are wrong, it will stop us in our tracks, and will guide our foot steps along the precarious pathway of life with all its pitfalls. And finally, if we heed its instructions and cautions, it will deliver us safely to our destination. It's this Word that still sustains the laws of the universe, so you know you can depend on it!

Today, whatever difficulties, uncertainties or disappointments you are facing, - know this - His Word will be a lamp unto your feet, and a lightunto your path (Psalm 119:105) - because Christ Himself is The Word - the solid rock, reliable and dependable. No sinking sands!

Prayer: Thank you Jesus for your Word. Help me to always remember that living according to your Word is the safest and most dependable way to live. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Devotional from Ellel Ministries International - Seeds of The Kingdom - Today's Writer : Patricia Lake www.seedsofthekingdom.com
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Learning from Trees, by Alan Smith

The following (edited) ideas are entitled "All I Need To Know About Life I Learned From Trees." The author is not known to me.

It's important to have roots. - In today's complex world, it pays to branch out. - If you really believe in something, don't be afraid to go out on a limb.- Be flexible so you don't break when a harsh wind blows. - Sometimes you have to shed your old bark in order to grow. - Grow where you're planted. - It's perfectly okay to be a late bloomer. - Avoid people who would like to cut you down. - You can't hide your true colours! - It's more important to be honest than poplar.

Those are some good lessons. They remind me of some other lessons taught in the very first Psalm:

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper (Psalm 1:1-3 NKJV).

The Psalmist says that a godly person is like a tree in three very important ways.

First, he is planted -- he's got his roots put down deep, he's fortified, stable.

Second, he bears fruit -- he develops godlike qualities in his character and life.

Third, he doesn't wither -- he is able to survive under all circumstances, even days of difficulty.

May your spiritual life take on the qualities of a tree planted by the rivers of water.

(c) 2008 Alan Smith Used by permission. This devotional was reprinted from Thought for the Day http://www.TFTD-online.com
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Reflective Thought: Serving but Starving (A Word With You by Ron Hutchcraft)

One day I was talking with the owner of a local pizza restaurant; a place where I am known all too well. I was there at the tail end of their rush hour, and let me tell you, this place is a zoo for about 90 minutes around noon.
It was slowing down and the owner finally was able to stop to talk with me. When he asked me how I was doing, I said, "Well, I'm doing a lot better now. I had lunch!" The owner said, "I know what you mean. If I wait very late to eat lunch, I start to get shaky." I told him, "Well, I guess you're in a good place then."

Actually, he corrected me. He said, "Sometimes we are so busy serving it that we don't have time to eat it ourselves!"

A lot of us have experienced what my restaurant owner friend was talking about - being so busy serving that we don't have any time to get fed ourselves - spiritually, that is. Hey, it happened to Martha, didn't it? It's happened to me way too often, and probably to you, too.

Martha's experience is described in Luke 10:38, our word for today from the Word of God.

"Jesus came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to Him. She had a sister called Mary who sat at the Lord's feet, listening to what He said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. 'Martha, Martha,' the Lord answered, 'you are worried and upset about many things, but one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.'

"Now, Martha's busy serving Jesus. Mary is sitting at Jesus' feet, listening to Him. Which is better?

Most of us make-it-happen, get-it-done types would instinctively gravitate to the doing stuff rather than the being stuff. But Jesus says, "Mary has chosen what is better."

I think we've all been Martha-ed...maybe you are right now. You get so busy serving Jesus that you have no time to be with Jesus. It's like my pizza friend. We're so busy serving spiritual food to others that we're actually eating less of it ourselves.

Now that's backwards! The more people are looking to you, the more you have to be with the Lord yourself.

But, frankly, it's easy to let your spiritual health become a victim of ministry. In fact, serving God's Word without experiencing God yourself is a prescription for burnout!

There's a danger in studying God's truth only to prepare lessons, Bible studies, sermons and missing the purpose of studying it, which is to have your life changed through applying it to your everyday life. There's a danger of becoming someone who leads others to experience the Lord while you're slowly becoming a spectator yourself. And you can so fill your life with Christian meetings, Christian positions, and Christian activity that it feels like knowing the Lord.

BUT, in fact, those activities have slowly crowded out that precious private time with Jesus. And that time is the fuel for any valid ministry!

So you may be serving others while starving yourself. Soon that's going to lead to a Martha Meltdown.

Ministry is supposed to be the overflow of your own time with the Lord, not a righteous substitute for it.
So if you feel yourself growing weak and tired, frustrated, and negative while you're serving your Lord, don't blame the work and don't blame the customers.

You probably have not taken time to feed yourself spiritually - to really be with Jesus. You don't want to lose your closeness to Jesus in the middle of serving Jesus.
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Revival is not some emotion or worked-up excitement; it is rather an invasion from heaven which brings a man to a consciouis awareness of God." Steven Olford.
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There is a secret place inside us where God dwells. When we abide with Him in the Spirit in that secret place, we will see the evidence of His presence with us.

"He that dwells in the secret place of the Most High God, shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty" (Psalm 91:1).

We have the greatest calling to fulfill in all the universe: to live for and with Christ.

We are not expected to attain Christ's likeness without God's power living and working through us. We can do nothing without living every moment under the shadow of the Almighty. His shadow is the shelter of His presence, and we can abide with Him there if we dwell in the secret place.

The secret place is not a physical place like it was in Samuel's day. Our secret place is in our own hearts.

We can go anywhere and still focus on Him in our spirit and be in the secret place of the Most High. We might be at work, yet we can enter into the presence of the Lord by simply going to the quiet place in our spirit and find Him there waiting for us. It is in this place where the Lord speaks and we listen.

Source: Victoria Boyson (part message) Friendship with God Speaking Life Ministries
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Under His Shadow Pam Smith

I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste. Song of Solomon 2:4, NKJ

Fruit grows in our lives when we sit under the Lord's shadow, in a position to receive. It's fruit from a relationship with Him. It's for others to enjoy but it's the fruit of His love to us. His love brings joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control (Galatians 5:22).

He makes our lives sweet. Taste and see that the Lord is good. Do you delight in being under the Lord's shadow? Or are you sometimes too busy. I know I am.

Yet when I come and sit in that place and I don't rush away, I wonder why on earth I didn't come sooner because the fruit is so sweet.The Lord always gives me something fresh when I sit there. His mercies are new every morning and He makes 'all things new'. He gives me that childlike awe of discovering something beautiful that He's revealing in my life or in His Word.

A fruitful life is like the snowdrops, the blossoms of snow that appear in Spring and cover the ground. Or it's like a tree planted along a riverbank, with its roots reaching deep into the water - a tree not bothered by the heat nor worried by long months of drought. Its leaves stay green and it goes right on producing all its luscious fruit.

We are told we need at least five portions of fruit a day to help keep physically healthy. God's fruit keeps us healthy in spirit and full of life.

Song of Solomon 4:16 says, 'Let my beloved come to his garden and eat its choicest fruits.' Some of the fruit that the Lord grows in our lives is just for Him alone to enjoy and receive the glory. I wonder what the twelve kinds of fruit are on the Tree of Life that we read about in Revelation 22:2. It has a new crop every month, with leaves that will heal the nations. But I do know that 'eye has not seen, nor ear heard what wonderful things the Lord is preparing for those that love Him'.

Prayer: Lord, may I take great delight as I draw close to You. Help me to grow the sort of fruit in my garden that You will enjoy. Amen.
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A Promise to remember: You Look Great - By: Dr. Harvey Schneider

For a number of years I was employed as a salesman. I sold products used for filtration to plants producing edible oils, paper, fertilizers, juices, solids recovered from sewerage and many other industries that work with solid / liquid separation.There were fourteen southeastern states in my territory.

Most Sunday evenings I packed a suitcase with a week's worth of clothes and on most Monday mornings left the house in my car to make sales calls. Friday late afternoon I would return home and spent the weekends with the family.

Each year I spent roughly seventy thousand miles in a car on the road. Having just become a Christian when I took the sales job it was a time of real spiritual growth since I listened to sermons on cassette tapes and Christian radio while driving from plant to plant.

Evenings in motels were filled with Bible reading and Bible study. As I read and had questions about what I had read I found that Jesus' promise that He would send the Comforter to His disciples after He went to be with His Father was still true.

One evening in a motel room I discovered the promise; "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." (John 14:26)

I prayed, "Father, thank you for Jesus/ promise that the Comforter, your Holy Spirit, will teach me, one of His disciples, all things and help me to remember what He has taught me."

.I found after believing that promise that when I had a question that the Holy Spirit would speak to me giving me answers when I asked questions about my Bible reading. If you have never claimed the promise of John 14:26 and John 15:26 I suggest you do it now.

One Friday morning in Florida as I got dressed, I was looking forward to making the day's sales calls and getting home that night and spending the weekend with the family.

As I put on the last shirt from the suitcase I noted that the collar and cuffs were frayed and that it should have been discarded and put in the rag bag. As I looked at the tie in the mirror as I tied it I noticed that there was a food stain on it and thought that it too would need to be cleaned or discarded. As I slipped on my blazer the button came off in my hand as I buttoned it "What a sorry salesman you are today," I thought.

When I got to the motel checkout the young man behind the desk said, "My, don't you look spiffy today."

As he processed the check out I mentally questioned his intelligence believing that I perhaps should go straight home without making any calls.

The voice of the Holy Spirit said, "This is the way you will be greeted in heaven. 'Don't you look good today.'
"It really got my attention. As God's friend, although clothed in the rags of my unrighteousness, He would see me clothed in the righteousness of Jesus and there is nothing better then that.

I left the lobby almost walking on air buoyed up as an overcomer knowing that it was going to be a great day.It is not our worldly clothing that our friends and the Lord see. It is our spiritual clothing provided by the blood of Jesus that brings the comment, "My, you look good today!"

Source: A MOMENT TO CONSIDER Servant Soldiers Ministries Daphne, Alabama MexSchneiders@ServantSoldiers.com
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Believe God's Word in Your Heart and Confess it with Your Mouth The Lord told Joshua: "Be strong and courageous and be careful to do everything that is written in God's word. Don't turn to the left or the right" (Joshua 1:7).

If God's Word says, "Sin shall not have the mastery over you," (Rom.6:14), believe it and confess it. Don't turn to the left or the right. That means: Don't reduce the breadth of that promise. Don't reduce it to include only some sins. At the same time, don't make it to mean more than what it says. Don't say that we can be as perfect as Christ was, on this earth. We cannot be sinlessly perfect on this earth. That is not what that promise says. It is referring only to victory over what we know to be sin (conscious sin). We can be fully like Christ only when He returns. 1 John 3:2 is very clear on that. So let's not go beyond Scripture, and let's not believe less than what Scripture promises. Becoming like Christ can be compared to occupying the whole land of Canaan or to climbing a very high mountain. When we are converted, our sins are forgiven and our past is blotted out. But we are still enslaved by many sins. We could compare it to coming to the foot of this mountain. Then we begin to climb this mountain. The top of the mountain is perfect likeness to Christ. We will reach there only when Christ returns. But we don't have to live at the foot of the mountain defeated by sin - perpetually. No. The Bible says, "Let us press on to perfection" (Heb.6:1).

We are exhorted in 2 Corinthians 7:1 to "perfect holiness in the fear of God."

We should not be afraid of the word, "perfection". We must press on to it. Paul said towards the end of his life, "I have not yet reached the top. But I am pressing on" (Phil.3:12-14).

The Lord is now saying to many of us, "You have stayed at the foot of this mountain long enough. Now climb it. Press on." So let's not turn to the left or to the right.

"This book of God's word shall not depart from your mouth" (Joshua 1:8). We should have God's word in our heart. Here we see that we also need to have it in our mouth. We must confess the promises of God's Word with our mouths.

The trouble with many Christians today is that they are confessing the things they are lusting after. They say, "I confess that I will get a large house. I confess that I will get a better job. I confess that I will get a good car"!!

Instead of confessing all that, let us confess God's Word: "Lord, I confess that I will overcome anger. I confess that I will overcome lusting with my eyes completely. I confess that I will overcome the love of money." These are the things that we should be confessing with our mouths. But the Devil doesn't want us to confess these. And so he makes us confess our lust for material things.

You can't build the church with people who are interested in material things. You can build the church only with people who are interested in heavenly things and a godly life. Don't attract the wrong type of people to your church by offering people earthly prosperity. Does God's word promise you that He will give you a house or a car? No.

God's Word promises that you can overcome sin, that you can come into a life where you rejoice in the Lord always - 24 hours a day - without being depressed, discouraged or defeated - always triumphant, always rejoicing and always giving thanks, in everything and for all people. This is the new covenant life (Canaan's land flowing with milk and honey) that the Bible promises.

Confess it then and say, "Lord, this is the life I want to live all my days."

That's the life I wanted to live, when I was a young Christian and saw what the Bible offered me. But when I looked at the Christian leaders around me, I saw that they were defeated by sin. So I said, "Lord, I don't want to judge them. That's not my business. But I don't want to look at them as my examples either. I want to look at God's Word alone. I want to look only at Your promises. I want to look at Jesus as my only Example."

I was defeated for many years as a believer. But once I saw my inheritance in Christ, I kept on confessing the promises of God in Scripture - that promised me a life of constant joy and constant victory.

God finally gave me the desire of my heart. That is how I want to live now, and that is how I want to live when I am 70, when I am 80 and when I am 90 - until the end of my life.

So don't let God's promises depart from your mouth. If you preach this message, you may find at times that you are a lone voice for God in the midst of popularity-seeking preachers. Don't get discouraged. God will stand by you until the end.

Joshua was commanded to meditate on God's Word day and night.We are not to meditate on the need of the heathen. That looks like a good thing to meditate on. But you can't help those heathen, if you don't meditate on God's Word day and night. God promised Joshua both prosperity and success, if he did that (Joshua 1:8). The real "prosperity gospel" is one where our lives become prosperous and successful in a heavenly and spiritual way. 'Prosperity and success' are the two things that everyone in the world seeks for. But they don't seek for these in the way God says in Joshua1:8.

Source: Zac Poonen WORD FOR THE WEEK 8 February 2009 Christian Fellowship Church, Bangalore, India http://www.cfcindia.com
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An undivided heart

Teach me Your way, O Lord, and I will walk in Your truth; give me an undivided heart that I may fear Your name. Psalm 86:11, NIV

What a prayer! It's a prayer about God's ways, God's truth, and it's about God's desire for my heart and yours.

It's a prayer that God will definitely answer, because it's the way He wants me to live.

To learn God's ways and to walk in God's truth is all about lifestyle. It's ongoing transformation - by having my mind renewed. Then my daily decisions can line up with God's will and purposes more and more. It's the way to freedom.

An undivided heart is a heart fully committed to God and to His will. An undivided heart is set on God and is willing to submit to Him in complete surrender. It's a heart like the heart of Jesus, who loved the Father and only did what the Father commanded Him (John 14:31). Jesus is seated on the throne of the undivided heart and He reigns there as Lord. True love, obedience and service can only come from an undivided heart.

We are told, 'love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength' (Deut 6:5).

Love for God must be exclusive. It can't be shared with other gods. He alone is worthy of the highest devotion and praise. This kind of love is a response from the heart that has experienced the wonder of God's unconditional love. God doesn't simply love in words - His love has been expressed to the fullest extent in the sacrifice of His Son Jesus.

We are told 'Obey the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul' (Deuteronomy 30:2).

In the Bible true obedience is not forced - it's the fruit of love. Real obedience is sometimes costly; it takes risks and leaves the consequences to God. Jesus said, 'If you love me you will obey what I command' (John 14:15).

We are told 'Serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul' (Deuteronomy 10:12).

This is service which is rooted in love for God and obedience to God. Service from an undivided heart has nothing to do with striving, nor does it seek recognition or reward. It springs from a living relationship of love and obedience with the living God. Do you have an undivided heart, or are there areas in you which need to be re-committed to the Lord?

Prayer: Today, Lord, please give to me an undivided heart to love You, obey You and serve You in the way You desire. Amen.

Devotional from Ellel Ministries International - Seeds of The Kingdom - Today's Writer : Margaret Silvester www.seedsofthekingdom.com
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