You shall love your neighbor as yourself. - Matthew 22:39
In the movie Fever Pitch, Ben Wrightman is crazy about the Boston Red Sox baseball team. He rarely misses a game during the spring and summer months.
One winter, Ben falls in love with a young woman named Lindsey and wins her heart. Then spring rolls around, and she finds our that he's a different person during baseball season. He has no time for her unless she goes to the games with him.
When Lindsey ends her relationship with Ben because of his fanaticism, he talks with a young firend, who say, "You love the Sox. But tell me, have they ever loved you back?" Those words cause Ben to analyze his priorities and to give more time to the woman he loves, who loves him back.
We pour our lives into hobbies, pleasures, activities, work - many good things. But two things should always thought about when making our choices. Jesus said, "You shall love the Lord you God with all your heart... You shall love you neighbor as yourself" (Matt. 22:37,39).
When it seems our life is getting out of balance, the question, "Has that hobby or activities ever loved me back?" may help to keep us in chech. Loving God and loving people are what really count. - Anne Cetas
Follow with reverent steps the great example
Of Him whose holy work was doing good:
So shall the wide earth seem our Father's temple,
Each loving life a psalm of gratitude. - Whitter
We show our love for God when we share His love with others.
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Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Quiet Time
Be still, and know that I am God. - Psalm 46:10
My friend Mary told me that she had always valued the time she spent fishing with her dad. Not being a fishing aficionado myself, I was curious about what she found so enjoyable. "I just like being with my dad," she said. "So you just fish and talk?" I asked her. "Oh, no, we don't really talk," she said. "We just fish."
It wasn't the conversation - it was the company.
Did you ever think about how much time we spend talking? In what we like to call our "quiet time" with God, we usually fill in any silence with our prayers. But do we ever practice just being "still"?
God said, "Be still, and know that I am God" (Ps. 46:10). When Jesus noticed that the disciples were so busy that they didn't even have time to eat, He told them, "Come aside by yourselves to deserted place and rest a while" (Mark 6:31). When we leave the distractions of life behind, we can more easily rest and refocus on God.
Are you allowing quiet moments alone with God to be a part of your life? Do you desire for Him to restore you soul? (Ps. 23:1-3). Let Him teach you how to "be still." And listen when Jesus invites you: "Come aside with Me and rst a while." - Cindy Hess Kasper
The quiet times we spend with God
In solitude and prayer
Will strengthen and restore our sould
And help us sense His care. - Sper
Quiet times with God store up power for future emergencies.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
My friend Mary told me that she had always valued the time she spent fishing with her dad. Not being a fishing aficionado myself, I was curious about what she found so enjoyable. "I just like being with my dad," she said. "So you just fish and talk?" I asked her. "Oh, no, we don't really talk," she said. "We just fish."
It wasn't the conversation - it was the company.
Did you ever think about how much time we spend talking? In what we like to call our "quiet time" with God, we usually fill in any silence with our prayers. But do we ever practice just being "still"?
God said, "Be still, and know that I am God" (Ps. 46:10). When Jesus noticed that the disciples were so busy that they didn't even have time to eat, He told them, "Come aside by yourselves to deserted place and rest a while" (Mark 6:31). When we leave the distractions of life behind, we can more easily rest and refocus on God.
Are you allowing quiet moments alone with God to be a part of your life? Do you desire for Him to restore you soul? (Ps. 23:1-3). Let Him teach you how to "be still." And listen when Jesus invites you: "Come aside with Me and rst a while." - Cindy Hess Kasper
The quiet times we spend with God
In solitude and prayer
Will strengthen and restore our sould
And help us sense His care. - Sper
Quiet times with God store up power for future emergencies.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Thursday, February 26, 2009
A Sad Spirit
Let none deal treacherously with the wife of his youth. - Malachi 2:15
The drama played out in a nest of bald eagles monitored by a webcam. A beloved eagle family, viewed by many via the internet, was breaking up. After raising several offspring in previous seasons, the mother again laid new eggs in the spring. But then a young female invaded their happy home. When Dad started cavorting with her, Mom disappeared and the life in the abandoned eggs died.
In an internet chat room, questions and accusations flew wildly. Everyone who loved their pair was distraught. Biologist warned the amateur eagle enthusiasts not to attribute hman values to birds. But everyone did. We all wanted the original couple to reunite. Everyone seemed to "know" that the family unit is sacred.
As chat room members expressed their sadness, I wondered if they knew that God feels much the same way about human family breakups. I also wondered about myself. Why did I feel more sadness over the eagles than over the fractured human families in my community? Clearly, I need to revise my priorities.
In Malachi 2, we see God's view of marriage. It symbolozes His convenant with His people (v.11). He takes it very seriously - and so should we. - Julie Ackerman Link
Put Christ first if you want your marriage to last.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
The drama played out in a nest of bald eagles monitored by a webcam. A beloved eagle family, viewed by many via the internet, was breaking up. After raising several offspring in previous seasons, the mother again laid new eggs in the spring. But then a young female invaded their happy home. When Dad started cavorting with her, Mom disappeared and the life in the abandoned eggs died.
In an internet chat room, questions and accusations flew wildly. Everyone who loved their pair was distraught. Biologist warned the amateur eagle enthusiasts not to attribute hman values to birds. But everyone did. We all wanted the original couple to reunite. Everyone seemed to "know" that the family unit is sacred.
As chat room members expressed their sadness, I wondered if they knew that God feels much the same way about human family breakups. I also wondered about myself. Why did I feel more sadness over the eagles than over the fractured human families in my community? Clearly, I need to revise my priorities.
In Malachi 2, we see God's view of marriage. It symbolozes His convenant with His people (v.11). He takes it very seriously - and so should we. - Julie Ackerman Link
Put Christ first if you want your marriage to last.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Okello's Story, Our Story
[Jesus] put out His hand and touched [the leper]. - Luke 5:13
My friend Roxanne has had some impressive jobs in her life. She has covered the Olympics as a reporter. She has worked in Washington, DC, for noted people and companies. For years, she has written articles about top Christian atletes. But none of those jobs can compare with what she is doing now: giving the love of Jesus to children in Uganda.
What are her days like? Consider the rainy Thursday when she walked the muddy pathway to a cancer ward. Once inside, she scooped up little Okello, whose arms bore sores from poor IV care and whose body raged with a high fever. She carried him to the offie of the only cancer doctor in the building and stayed with him until he got help and his condition stabilized.
Jesus, our example, spent His entire ministry among the suffering, healing them and bringing them the good news of God's love (Luke 7:21-22).
How significant are the jobs we do? Sure, it's vital to make a living to support ourselves and our families. But is there something we can do to help relieve the suffering in our world of pain? We may not be able to move to Uganda like Roxanne, but we can all find ways to assist someone. In whose life will you make a difference? - Dave Branon
God uses us to show His love
To people caught in life's depair;
Our deeds of kindness open doors
To talk of God and His great care. _Sper
One measure of our likeness to Christ is our sensitivity to the suffering of others.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
My friend Roxanne has had some impressive jobs in her life. She has covered the Olympics as a reporter. She has worked in Washington, DC, for noted people and companies. For years, she has written articles about top Christian atletes. But none of those jobs can compare with what she is doing now: giving the love of Jesus to children in Uganda.
What are her days like? Consider the rainy Thursday when she walked the muddy pathway to a cancer ward. Once inside, she scooped up little Okello, whose arms bore sores from poor IV care and whose body raged with a high fever. She carried him to the offie of the only cancer doctor in the building and stayed with him until he got help and his condition stabilized.
Jesus, our example, spent His entire ministry among the suffering, healing them and bringing them the good news of God's love (Luke 7:21-22).
How significant are the jobs we do? Sure, it's vital to make a living to support ourselves and our families. But is there something we can do to help relieve the suffering in our world of pain? We may not be able to move to Uganda like Roxanne, but we can all find ways to assist someone. In whose life will you make a difference? - Dave Branon
God uses us to show His love
To people caught in life's depair;
Our deeds of kindness open doors
To talk of God and His great care. _Sper
One measure of our likeness to Christ is our sensitivity to the suffering of others.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Managing The Mess
Why do you call me Naomi, since the Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me? - Ruth 1:21
When we meet Naomi in the Scriptures, her life is a mess. She and her husband had gone to Moab searching for food during a famine. While in that land, their two sons married Moabite women, and life was good - until her husband and sons died and she was stuck, widowd in a foreign land.
Though honest about her pain, Naomi obviosly had a sense of who was in control: "The Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me" (Ruth 1:21).
The Hebrew word for "Almighty" (Shaddai) indicates God's sufficiency for any situation. The word "Lord" (Yahweh) refers to His faithfulness as the loving convenant-keeping God. I love how Naomi put these two names together. In the midst of her complaint, she never lost sight of the fact that her God was a capable and faithful God. And, sure enough, He proved His capability to deliver her and His faithfulness to care for her to the very end.
If there seems to be no way out of your despair, remember that Naomi's God is your God as well. And He specializes in managing our messes to good and glorious outcome. Thankfully, He is both capable and faithful. So, when your life is a mess, remember who your God is! - Joe Stowell
Be still, my soul: thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last. - Von Schlegel
Stand back and watch the Lord manage your mess into a glorious outcome.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
When we meet Naomi in the Scriptures, her life is a mess. She and her husband had gone to Moab searching for food during a famine. While in that land, their two sons married Moabite women, and life was good - until her husband and sons died and she was stuck, widowd in a foreign land.
Though honest about her pain, Naomi obviosly had a sense of who was in control: "The Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me" (Ruth 1:21).
The Hebrew word for "Almighty" (Shaddai) indicates God's sufficiency for any situation. The word "Lord" (Yahweh) refers to His faithfulness as the loving convenant-keeping God. I love how Naomi put these two names together. In the midst of her complaint, she never lost sight of the fact that her God was a capable and faithful God. And, sure enough, He proved His capability to deliver her and His faithfulness to care for her to the very end.
If there seems to be no way out of your despair, remember that Naomi's God is your God as well. And He specializes in managing our messes to good and glorious outcome. Thankfully, He is both capable and faithful. So, when your life is a mess, remember who your God is! - Joe Stowell
Be still, my soul: thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last. - Von Schlegel
Stand back and watch the Lord manage your mess into a glorious outcome.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Monday, February 23, 2009
Waiting For The Harvest
First the blade, then the head, after that the full grain... The harvest has come. - Mark 4:28-29
In the book What's Gone Wrong With the Harvest? James Engel and Wilbert Norton illustrate on a graph how people often go trough a series of preconversion stages before stepping over the line of faith and receiving Jesus as their Savior.
When we hear individuals share their conversion experience, we may conclude that faith happened all at once. But their salvation frequently carries an extended back-story of spiritual pilgrimage before they made that decision. They needed time to reflect on the gospel. For them, coming to the Savior was a process.
This is similar to the process of farming: Months of waiting come to an end and workers stream into the fields to help with the harvest. One of our Lord's parables illustrates how faith - like a crop - needs time to develop. Responding to the gospel is like a seed that grows "first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain," until finally, "the harvest has come" (Mark 4:28-29).
Because people may need time and multiple exposures to the gospel before they are ready to make a decision, we need to be sensitive to where they are in their faith-journey. In the meantime, we can cultivate spiritual interest, pray for them, and wait for the harvest! - Dennis Fisher
Have you thought of where you'regoing
When this earthly life is past?
Will the seed that you are sowing
Bring a harvest that will last? - Jacobson
We sow the seed - God produces the harvest.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
In the book What's Gone Wrong With the Harvest? James Engel and Wilbert Norton illustrate on a graph how people often go trough a series of preconversion stages before stepping over the line of faith and receiving Jesus as their Savior.
When we hear individuals share their conversion experience, we may conclude that faith happened all at once. But their salvation frequently carries an extended back-story of spiritual pilgrimage before they made that decision. They needed time to reflect on the gospel. For them, coming to the Savior was a process.
This is similar to the process of farming: Months of waiting come to an end and workers stream into the fields to help with the harvest. One of our Lord's parables illustrates how faith - like a crop - needs time to develop. Responding to the gospel is like a seed that grows "first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain," until finally, "the harvest has come" (Mark 4:28-29).
Because people may need time and multiple exposures to the gospel before they are ready to make a decision, we need to be sensitive to where they are in their faith-journey. In the meantime, we can cultivate spiritual interest, pray for them, and wait for the harvest! - Dennis Fisher
Have you thought of where you'regoing
When this earthly life is past?
Will the seed that you are sowing
Bring a harvest that will last? - Jacobson
We sow the seed - God produces the harvest.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Choosing The Hard Thing
We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair. - 2 Corinthians 4:8
On September 12, 1962, President John F. Kennedy delivered a speech at Rice University in Houston, Texas, about the difficult challenges facing the nation. He also shared his passion for the United States to place a man on the moon.
In balancing the needs of his people with the desire to conquer space, Kennedy said, "We choose to go to the moon and do the other things, not because they are easy but because they are hard." The nation responded. Seven years later, Neil Armstrong took a "giant leap for mankind" in July of 1969, by walking on the moon.
Today's world is filled with energy-saving devices that made life easier, but there is something to be said for embraing life's challenges. The apostle Paul found serving Christ hard, but he didn't see it as a cause for discouragement. He continued to focus on Christ, and wrote, "We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair" (2 Cor. 4:8). Paul knew that "He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise up with Jesus, and will present us with you" (v.14). The goal was worth the pain.
Be the grace of God, may we commit to serving Jesus - not just when it's easy, but when it's hard. - Bill Crowder
Jesus gave His all to save us - are we giving our all to serve Him?
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On September 12, 1962, President John F. Kennedy delivered a speech at Rice University in Houston, Texas, about the difficult challenges facing the nation. He also shared his passion for the United States to place a man on the moon.
In balancing the needs of his people with the desire to conquer space, Kennedy said, "We choose to go to the moon and do the other things, not because they are easy but because they are hard." The nation responded. Seven years later, Neil Armstrong took a "giant leap for mankind" in July of 1969, by walking on the moon.
Today's world is filled with energy-saving devices that made life easier, but there is something to be said for embraing life's challenges. The apostle Paul found serving Christ hard, but he didn't see it as a cause for discouragement. He continued to focus on Christ, and wrote, "We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair" (2 Cor. 4:8). Paul knew that "He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise up with Jesus, and will present us with you" (v.14). The goal was worth the pain.
Be the grace of God, may we commit to serving Jesus - not just when it's easy, but when it's hard. - Bill Crowder
Jesus gave His all to save us - are we giving our all to serve Him?
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Saturday, February 21, 2009
Is That You, Neighbor?
And who is my neighbor? - Luke 10:29
An English yachtsman sailing in the Caribbean, 4,000 miles from home, lost his mast in a storm. He had been adrift for 2 days, and was taking water in 20-foot waves, when his desperate SOS was picked up. According to Ananova news service, 90 minutes later he was rescued by the captain of a 116,000-ton superliner.
Only when he was pulled out of the water did the rescued sailor discover that the captain who had responded to his call for help was a neighbor from his Hamsphire village of Warsash. The rescued man later asked, "What are the chances of being rescued in the middle of nowhere by your neighbor?"
Jesus saw neighbors in unlikely places. When an expert in Jewish law asked Him to define the neighbor we are to love, Jesus drew a big circle. He told the story of a merciful Samaritan to show that a neighbor is the friend, stranger, or enemy who needs the help we can give (Luke 10).
To distinguish ourselves as Jesus' people, we need to show kindness even to those who wish us harm (Luke 6:32-34). Only then will we reflect the heart of the One who, while we were still His enemies, paid the ultimate price to come to our rescue. - Mart De Haan
How many lives shall I touch today?
How many neighbor will pass my way?
I can bless so many and help so much
If I meet each one with a Christlike touch. - Jones
Our love for Christ s only as real as our love for our neighbor.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
An English yachtsman sailing in the Caribbean, 4,000 miles from home, lost his mast in a storm. He had been adrift for 2 days, and was taking water in 20-foot waves, when his desperate SOS was picked up. According to Ananova news service, 90 minutes later he was rescued by the captain of a 116,000-ton superliner.
Only when he was pulled out of the water did the rescued sailor discover that the captain who had responded to his call for help was a neighbor from his Hamsphire village of Warsash. The rescued man later asked, "What are the chances of being rescued in the middle of nowhere by your neighbor?"
Jesus saw neighbors in unlikely places. When an expert in Jewish law asked Him to define the neighbor we are to love, Jesus drew a big circle. He told the story of a merciful Samaritan to show that a neighbor is the friend, stranger, or enemy who needs the help we can give (Luke 10).
To distinguish ourselves as Jesus' people, we need to show kindness even to those who wish us harm (Luke 6:32-34). Only then will we reflect the heart of the One who, while we were still His enemies, paid the ultimate price to come to our rescue. - Mart De Haan
How many lives shall I touch today?
How many neighbor will pass my way?
I can bless so many and help so much
If I meet each one with a Christlike touch. - Jones
Our love for Christ s only as real as our love for our neighbor.
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Dying For Justice
You shall remember that you were a slave in Egypt, and the Lord your God redeemed you from there. - Deuteronomy 24:18
When Presbyterian clergyman Elijah Lovejoy (1802 - 1837) left the pulpit, he returned to the printing presses in order to reach more people. After witnessing a lynching, Lovejoy committed to fighting the justice of slavery. His life was threatened by hateful mobs, but this did not stop him: "If by compromise is meant that I should cease from my duty, I cannot make it. I fear God more than I fear man. Crush me if you will, but I shall die at my post." Four days after these words, he was killed at the hands of another angry mob.
Concern about justice for the oppressed is evident throughout Scripture. It was especially clear when God established the rules for His convenant people after they were released from Egyptian bondage (Deut. 24:18-22). Moses emphasized concern for the underprivileged (Ex. 22:22-27; 23:6-9; Lev. 19:9-10). Repeatedly, the Israelites were reminded that they had been slaves in Egypt and should deal justly with the underpriviledge in their community. They were to love strangers ("aliens") because God loves them, and the Israelites had themselves been aliens in Egypt (Ex 23:9; Lev. 19:34; Deut. 10:17-19).
God desires that His people affirm the supreme worth of every individual by fighting against injustice. - Marvin Williams
Open my eyes, Lord, to people around me,
Help me to see tham as You do above;
Give me the wisdom and strength to take action
So others may see the depth of Your love. - K. De Haan
Standing for justice means fighting against injustice.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
When Presbyterian clergyman Elijah Lovejoy (1802 - 1837) left the pulpit, he returned to the printing presses in order to reach more people. After witnessing a lynching, Lovejoy committed to fighting the justice of slavery. His life was threatened by hateful mobs, but this did not stop him: "If by compromise is meant that I should cease from my duty, I cannot make it. I fear God more than I fear man. Crush me if you will, but I shall die at my post." Four days after these words, he was killed at the hands of another angry mob.
Concern about justice for the oppressed is evident throughout Scripture. It was especially clear when God established the rules for His convenant people after they were released from Egyptian bondage (Deut. 24:18-22). Moses emphasized concern for the underprivileged (Ex. 22:22-27; 23:6-9; Lev. 19:9-10). Repeatedly, the Israelites were reminded that they had been slaves in Egypt and should deal justly with the underpriviledge in their community. They were to love strangers ("aliens") because God loves them, and the Israelites had themselves been aliens in Egypt (Ex 23:9; Lev. 19:34; Deut. 10:17-19).
God desires that His people affirm the supreme worth of every individual by fighting against injustice. - Marvin Williams
Open my eyes, Lord, to people around me,
Help me to see tham as You do above;
Give me the wisdom and strength to take action
So others may see the depth of Your love. - K. De Haan
Standing for justice means fighting against injustice.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Celebrate Winter
Why are you cast down, O my soul?... Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance... - Psalm 42:5
I love living where there are four seasons. But even though I love setting with a good book by a crackling fire when it's snowing, I must admit that my love for the seasons grows a little dim when the long gray days of winter drone on into February.
Yet regardless of the weather, there is always something special about winter: Christmas! Thankfully, long after the decorations are down, the reality of Christmas still lifts my spirits no matter what's happening.
If it weren't for the reality of Christ's birth, not only would winter be dark and dreary, but our hearts would be bleak and have nothing to hope for. No hope of His reassuring and strengthening presence through dark and difficult times. No hope for a future secured in heaven.
In the winter of a troubled life, the psalmist asked, "Why are you cast down, O my soul?" The remedy was clear: "Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance" (Ps. 42:5).
In C. S. Lewis' tales of Narnia, Mr. Tumnus complains that in Narnia it is "always winter and never Christmas." But for those of us who know the God who made the seasons, it is always Christmas in our hearts! - Joe Stowell
When our lives are heavy laden,
Cold and bleak as winter long,
Stir the embers inour hearts, Lord;
Make Your flame burn bright and strong. - Kieda
Let the reality of Christmas chase away the blahs of winter.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
I love living where there are four seasons. But even though I love setting with a good book by a crackling fire when it's snowing, I must admit that my love for the seasons grows a little dim when the long gray days of winter drone on into February.
Yet regardless of the weather, there is always something special about winter: Christmas! Thankfully, long after the decorations are down, the reality of Christmas still lifts my spirits no matter what's happening.
If it weren't for the reality of Christ's birth, not only would winter be dark and dreary, but our hearts would be bleak and have nothing to hope for. No hope of His reassuring and strengthening presence through dark and difficult times. No hope for a future secured in heaven.
In the winter of a troubled life, the psalmist asked, "Why are you cast down, O my soul?" The remedy was clear: "Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance" (Ps. 42:5).
In C. S. Lewis' tales of Narnia, Mr. Tumnus complains that in Narnia it is "always winter and never Christmas." But for those of us who know the God who made the seasons, it is always Christmas in our hearts! - Joe Stowell
When our lives are heavy laden,
Cold and bleak as winter long,
Stir the embers inour hearts, Lord;
Make Your flame burn bright and strong. - Kieda
Let the reality of Christmas chase away the blahs of winter.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Making Melody
Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs. - Ephesians 5:19
Do you know why bees hum? It's because they can't remember the words!
Ironically, that old joke reminds me of a serious story I read about a man awaiting heart bypass surgery. He was aware that people die during surgery. As he thought about all that could go wrong, he felt very much alone.
Then an olderly walked into his room to take him to surgery. As the young man began to push his gurney along the corridor, the patient heard him humming an ancient lrish hymn, "Be Thou My Vision." It promted his memories of lush green fields and the ancient stone ruins of Ireland, the land of his birth. The hymn flooded his finished with that song, he hummed Haration Spafford's hymn, "It is Well With My Soul."
When they stopped outside the surgical suite, the man thanked him for the hymns. "God has used you this day," he said, "to remove my fears and restore my soul." "How so?" the olderly asked in surprise. "Your 'hums' brought God to me," the man replied.
"The Lord has done great things for us" (Ps. 126:3). He has filled our heart with song. He may even use our "hums" to restore someone's soul. - David H. Roper
Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart -
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art;
Thou my best thought, by day or by night -
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light. - Irish hymn
Praise flows freely form the choir of the redeemed.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Do you know why bees hum? It's because they can't remember the words!
Ironically, that old joke reminds me of a serious story I read about a man awaiting heart bypass surgery. He was aware that people die during surgery. As he thought about all that could go wrong, he felt very much alone.
Then an olderly walked into his room to take him to surgery. As the young man began to push his gurney along the corridor, the patient heard him humming an ancient lrish hymn, "Be Thou My Vision." It promted his memories of lush green fields and the ancient stone ruins of Ireland, the land of his birth. The hymn flooded his finished with that song, he hummed Haration Spafford's hymn, "It is Well With My Soul."
When they stopped outside the surgical suite, the man thanked him for the hymns. "God has used you this day," he said, "to remove my fears and restore my soul." "How so?" the olderly asked in surprise. "Your 'hums' brought God to me," the man replied.
"The Lord has done great things for us" (Ps. 126:3). He has filled our heart with song. He may even use our "hums" to restore someone's soul. - David H. Roper
Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart -
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art;
Thou my best thought, by day or by night -
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light. - Irish hymn
Praise flows freely form the choir of the redeemed.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Perhaps Today
You also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. - Matthew 24:44
A year ago, I read an article saying that millions of TV sets in the United States would stop working today unless they were able to receive digital signals. Notices appeared in electronics stores, and the government even offered a free $40 coupon toward the purchase of a converter box.
I suspect that most people took the necessary steps to make sure their TV set would work when they turned it on today. We usually respond well to warnings tied to specific dates, but often fail to prepare for an event that will come "some day."
When the disciples asked Jesus about the date of His return (Matt. 24:3), He told them that only God the Father knows: "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but my Father only" (v. 36). Then He urged them to be prepared so that they would not be taken by surprise. "Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect" (v.44).
We don't know when Jesus will return; He may come at any time. Dr. M. R. De Haan, founder of RBC Ministries, kept a two-word motto in his office: "Perhaps Today."
When we make our daily plans, are we aware that Christ may return? Are we prepared to meet Him? - David C. McCasland
The darkness deepens! Yes, but dawn is nearer!
The Lord from heaven may soon be on His way;
The "blessed hope" in these dark days grows dearer,
Our Savior Christ will come - perhaps today! - Smith
If Christ comes today, will you be ready to meet Him?
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
A year ago, I read an article saying that millions of TV sets in the United States would stop working today unless they were able to receive digital signals. Notices appeared in electronics stores, and the government even offered a free $40 coupon toward the purchase of a converter box.
I suspect that most people took the necessary steps to make sure their TV set would work when they turned it on today. We usually respond well to warnings tied to specific dates, but often fail to prepare for an event that will come "some day."
When the disciples asked Jesus about the date of His return (Matt. 24:3), He told them that only God the Father knows: "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but my Father only" (v. 36). Then He urged them to be prepared so that they would not be taken by surprise. "Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect" (v.44).
We don't know when Jesus will return; He may come at any time. Dr. M. R. De Haan, founder of RBC Ministries, kept a two-word motto in his office: "Perhaps Today."
When we make our daily plans, are we aware that Christ may return? Are we prepared to meet Him? - David C. McCasland
The darkness deepens! Yes, but dawn is nearer!
The Lord from heaven may soon be on His way;
The "blessed hope" in these dark days grows dearer,
Our Savior Christ will come - perhaps today! - Smith
If Christ comes today, will you be ready to meet Him?
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
The Answers
Beloved, now we are children of God. - 1 John 3:2
The story is told that the philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer (1788 - 1860) was sauntering through Berlin's famous Tiergarden one day, mentally probing the questions of origin and destiny that had been constantlu perplexing him: Who am I? Where am I going?
A park-keeper, closely observing the shabbily dressed philosopher as he walked slowly with head bowed, suspected that Schopenhauer and demanded, "Who are you? Where are you going?" With a pained expression, Schopenhauer replied, "I don't know. I wish somebody could tell me."
Are you ever perplexed by those same questions? Who am I? Where am I going? What a comfort it is to ave God's authoritative answers in the Bible. Who are we? In 1 John 3, John calls his readers "children of God" (v. 2). We become His children by receiving Jesus as our Savior from sin (John 1:12). And where are we going? John 14:1-6 tells us that one day He will receive us into a home He is preparing in heaven.
Our Maker is not only the Author of science and history, but He writes the story od every member of Adam's family - yours and mine. We can trust His answers. - Vernon C. Grounds
Open my ears, that I may hear
Voices of truth Thou sendest clear;
And while the wave-notes fall on my ear,
Everything false will disappear. - Scott
When you know Jesus, you know who you are and where you're going.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
The story is told that the philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer (1788 - 1860) was sauntering through Berlin's famous Tiergarden one day, mentally probing the questions of origin and destiny that had been constantlu perplexing him: Who am I? Where am I going?
A park-keeper, closely observing the shabbily dressed philosopher as he walked slowly with head bowed, suspected that Schopenhauer and demanded, "Who are you? Where are you going?" With a pained expression, Schopenhauer replied, "I don't know. I wish somebody could tell me."
Are you ever perplexed by those same questions? Who am I? Where am I going? What a comfort it is to ave God's authoritative answers in the Bible. Who are we? In 1 John 3, John calls his readers "children of God" (v. 2). We become His children by receiving Jesus as our Savior from sin (John 1:12). And where are we going? John 14:1-6 tells us that one day He will receive us into a home He is preparing in heaven.
Our Maker is not only the Author of science and history, but He writes the story od every member of Adam's family - yours and mine. We can trust His answers. - Vernon C. Grounds
Open my ears, that I may hear
Voices of truth Thou sendest clear;
And while the wave-notes fall on my ear,
Everything false will disappear. - Scott
When you know Jesus, you know who you are and where you're going.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Drift
We must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest w drift away. - Hebrews 2:1
In the 1923 silent movie Our Hospitality, comedian and acrobat Busher Keaton performed a daring stunt near a waterfall. A retaining line, called a "holdback" cable, hidden in the water and attached to him, kept him from being carried over the falls.
During filming, the cable broke, and Keaton was swept toward the falls. He managed to grab an overhanging branch, which he clung to until the crew could rescue him. The dramatic scene appears in the finished film.
Drifting into uninteded hazards can make for exciting film footage. In real life, however, dangers of this kind are usually marked with signs to prevent people from venturing into harm's way.
Similarly, the Bible has provided us with warning signs about drifting from the safety of God's Word. "Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away" (Heb. 2:1).
When we don't cling to God's Word through study and reflection, it's easy to drift. Like a swift stream, the attractions of this fallen world draw us toward sin. But as we meditate on Scripture and seek the Holy Spirit's guidance, we learn the reality of our spiritual anchor and are kept secure - even in the dangers of the world's current. - Dennis Fisher
The Bible stands like a rock undaunted
'Mid the raging storms of time;
Its pages burn with the truth eternal,
And they glow with a light sublime. - Lillenas
The compass of God's Word will keep you form spiritual shipwreck.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
In the 1923 silent movie Our Hospitality, comedian and acrobat Busher Keaton performed a daring stunt near a waterfall. A retaining line, called a "holdback" cable, hidden in the water and attached to him, kept him from being carried over the falls.
During filming, the cable broke, and Keaton was swept toward the falls. He managed to grab an overhanging branch, which he clung to until the crew could rescue him. The dramatic scene appears in the finished film.
Drifting into uninteded hazards can make for exciting film footage. In real life, however, dangers of this kind are usually marked with signs to prevent people from venturing into harm's way.
Similarly, the Bible has provided us with warning signs about drifting from the safety of God's Word. "Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away" (Heb. 2:1).
When we don't cling to God's Word through study and reflection, it's easy to drift. Like a swift stream, the attractions of this fallen world draw us toward sin. But as we meditate on Scripture and seek the Holy Spirit's guidance, we learn the reality of our spiritual anchor and are kept secure - even in the dangers of the world's current. - Dennis Fisher
The Bible stands like a rock undaunted
'Mid the raging storms of time;
Its pages burn with the truth eternal,
And they glow with a light sublime. - Lillenas
The compass of God's Word will keep you form spiritual shipwreck.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Monday, February 16, 2009
Written In Red
God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. - 1 John 4:9
My first Bible was printed mostly in black type, but some of its words were in red. It didn't take me long to discover that the ones in red had been spoken by Jesus.
More than 100 years ago, a man named Louis Klopsch published the first "red-letter" Bible. As he thought about Jesus' words in Luke 22:20, "This cup is the new convenant in My blood, which is shed for you," he purposely used blood-red ink to call specific attention to His words.
The words of the Bible are priceless to us because they tell of the "love letter" God sent 2000 yaers ago in the Person of His Son (1 John 4:10).
Jesus' purpose in coming to earth as a Man was to die, to be sacrificed, to give His life for ours. God's plan was written in red - written with "the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot" (1 Peter 1:19).
Those of us who have accepted God's gift of love are called to be "letters" to those who don't know Him. We are epistles of Christ "written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God" (2 Cor. 3:3).
Long before a day in February was set aside to celebrate love, the world received a love letter - and that changed everything (John 3:16). - Cindy Hess Kasper
If you'd like to know the love of God the Father,
Come to Him through Jesus Christ, His loving Son;
He'll forgive your sins and save your soul forever,
And you'll lave forevermore this faithful One. - Felten
Nothing speaks more clearly of God's love than the cross of Jesus Christ.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
My first Bible was printed mostly in black type, but some of its words were in red. It didn't take me long to discover that the ones in red had been spoken by Jesus.
More than 100 years ago, a man named Louis Klopsch published the first "red-letter" Bible. As he thought about Jesus' words in Luke 22:20, "This cup is the new convenant in My blood, which is shed for you," he purposely used blood-red ink to call specific attention to His words.
The words of the Bible are priceless to us because they tell of the "love letter" God sent 2000 yaers ago in the Person of His Son (1 John 4:10).
Jesus' purpose in coming to earth as a Man was to die, to be sacrificed, to give His life for ours. God's plan was written in red - written with "the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot" (1 Peter 1:19).
Those of us who have accepted God's gift of love are called to be "letters" to those who don't know Him. We are epistles of Christ "written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God" (2 Cor. 3:3).
Long before a day in February was set aside to celebrate love, the world received a love letter - and that changed everything (John 3:16). - Cindy Hess Kasper
If you'd like to know the love of God the Father,
Come to Him through Jesus Christ, His loving Son;
He'll forgive your sins and save your soul forever,
And you'll lave forevermore this faithful One. - Felten
Nothing speaks more clearly of God's love than the cross of Jesus Christ.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Enduring Love
[Love] bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all thing. - 1 Corinthians 13:7
Like many people, I enjoy the Google homepage artwork that appears on special days and holidays. Last Valentine's Day, the artistic logo showed an older couple - a man with a cane and a white haired woman - walking hand in hand as the woman held two heart-shaped balloons. It was a beautiful reminder that while our culture glorifies youthful romance, true love has many stages during our journey through life.
Paul's great essay in 1 Corinthians 13 celebrates the depth and tenacity of the love that carries us beyond self-interest and mere affection. "Love suffers lond and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely;does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails" (w. 4-8).
Brian Wren has captured this reality in his moving hymn, "When Love Is Found":
When love is tried as loved ones changes,
Hold still to hope though all seems strange,
Till ease returns, and love grows wise
Through listening ears and opened eyes. - Hope Publishing Co.
When our commitments are tested in the fires of life,
no matter what difficulties we face, may God grant us
a greater experience of His enduring love and the grace to demonstrate it each day. - David C. McCasland
God's love is a fabric that never fades, no matter how often it is washed in the waters of adversity.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Like many people, I enjoy the Google homepage artwork that appears on special days and holidays. Last Valentine's Day, the artistic logo showed an older couple - a man with a cane and a white haired woman - walking hand in hand as the woman held two heart-shaped balloons. It was a beautiful reminder that while our culture glorifies youthful romance, true love has many stages during our journey through life.
Paul's great essay in 1 Corinthians 13 celebrates the depth and tenacity of the love that carries us beyond self-interest and mere affection. "Love suffers lond and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely;does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails" (w. 4-8).
Brian Wren has captured this reality in his moving hymn, "When Love Is Found":
When love is tried as loved ones changes,
Hold still to hope though all seems strange,
Till ease returns, and love grows wise
Through listening ears and opened eyes. - Hope Publishing Co.
When our commitments are tested in the fires of life,
no matter what difficulties we face, may God grant us
a greater experience of His enduring love and the grace to demonstrate it each day. - David C. McCasland
God's love is a fabric that never fades, no matter how often it is washed in the waters of adversity.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Learning From Lincoln
In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. - Proverbs 3:6
The day before his 52nd birthday, Abraham Lincoln left Springfield, Illinois, to bec0me President of the United States. With the threat of civil war looming, he said goodbye to the friends and neighbors who had come to see his off. "I now leave," he told them, "not knowing when, or whether ever, I may return, with a task before me greater than that which rested upon Washington. Without the assistance of the Divine Being who ever attended him, I cannot succed. With that assistance I cannot fail. Trusting in Him who can go with me, and remain with you, and be everywhere for good, let us confidently hope that all will yet be well. To His care commending you, as I hope in your prayers you will commend me, I bid you an affectionate farewell."
Lincoln's reliance on God for guidance and strength reflects the instruction of Solomoh: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths" (Prov. 3:5-6).
On this 200th anniversary of Lincoln's birth, we celebrate his kindness, integrity, and courage. And we can also learn from him how to face a daunting future with confident hope in the Lord. - David C. McCasland
Into His hands I lay the fears that haunt me,
The dread of future ills that may befall;
Into His hands I lay the doubts that taunt me,
And rest securely, trusting Him for all. - Christiansen
Living without trust in God is like driving in the fog.
^.^ ... ^.^ ...
The day before his 52nd birthday, Abraham Lincoln left Springfield, Illinois, to bec0me President of the United States. With the threat of civil war looming, he said goodbye to the friends and neighbors who had come to see his off. "I now leave," he told them, "not knowing when, or whether ever, I may return, with a task before me greater than that which rested upon Washington. Without the assistance of the Divine Being who ever attended him, I cannot succed. With that assistance I cannot fail. Trusting in Him who can go with me, and remain with you, and be everywhere for good, let us confidently hope that all will yet be well. To His care commending you, as I hope in your prayers you will commend me, I bid you an affectionate farewell."
Lincoln's reliance on God for guidance and strength reflects the instruction of Solomoh: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths" (Prov. 3:5-6).
On this 200th anniversary of Lincoln's birth, we celebrate his kindness, integrity, and courage. And we can also learn from him how to face a daunting future with confident hope in the Lord. - David C. McCasland
Into His hands I lay the fears that haunt me,
The dread of future ills that may befall;
Into His hands I lay the doubts that taunt me,
And rest securely, trusting Him for all. - Christiansen
Living without trust in God is like driving in the fog.
^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Path To Humility
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. - James 4:10
My friend declared, as he tried to keep a straight face, "I'm so proud of my humility!" That reminds me of the joke about a leader who was given an award for his humility. Because he accepted the award, it was taken back the following week!
David seemed to be making the same error when he said, "My heart is not haughty" (Ps. 131:1). When we understand the text, however, we know that he wasn't boasting about his humility. Rather, in response to the accusation of treason made by Saul's men, David stated he didn't consider himself so important nor think of himself so highly as to have "lofty" eyes.
Instead, David learned to be like a "weaned child" in the Lord's arms (v.2). Like a baby who is completely dependent on his parents, he waited on God for His protection while he was a fugitive under King Saul's pursuit. In his darkest hour, David realized his need and then advised his people: "Hope in the Lord from this time forth and forever" (v.3).
The path to humility is twofold. In involves knowing who we are - having a proper self-esteem rather than thinking too highly of self. But most important, it requires knowing who God is - holding Him in highest esteem and trusting Him for His best in His time. - Albert Lee
Humility's a slippery prize
That seldom can be won;
We're only humble in God's eyes
When serving like His Son. - Gustafson
When we think we're humble - we're not.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
My friend declared, as he tried to keep a straight face, "I'm so proud of my humility!" That reminds me of the joke about a leader who was given an award for his humility. Because he accepted the award, it was taken back the following week!
David seemed to be making the same error when he said, "My heart is not haughty" (Ps. 131:1). When we understand the text, however, we know that he wasn't boasting about his humility. Rather, in response to the accusation of treason made by Saul's men, David stated he didn't consider himself so important nor think of himself so highly as to have "lofty" eyes.
Instead, David learned to be like a "weaned child" in the Lord's arms (v.2). Like a baby who is completely dependent on his parents, he waited on God for His protection while he was a fugitive under King Saul's pursuit. In his darkest hour, David realized his need and then advised his people: "Hope in the Lord from this time forth and forever" (v.3).
The path to humility is twofold. In involves knowing who we are - having a proper self-esteem rather than thinking too highly of self. But most important, it requires knowing who God is - holding Him in highest esteem and trusting Him for His best in His time. - Albert Lee
Humility's a slippery prize
That seldom can be won;
We're only humble in God's eyes
When serving like His Son. - Gustafson
When we think we're humble - we're not.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
What's For Dinner?
It came to pass... that God tested Abraham, and said to him, "Abraham!" And he said, "Here I am." - Genesis 22:1
I can hardly imagine inviting special friends over for dinner and then throwing a few leftovers into the microwave to serve up to them. But if I were to do that, it would speak volumes about how I really feel about them.
Giving God the leftovers of our lives speaks volumes about His true worth to us. When God asked Abraham to give Issac back to Him as an act of worship, Genesis 22:1 calls it a test. A test to see if there was anything in his life that he treasured more than God.
It's no different for us. There are times when God requires something really important to get His work done. He'll ask us to give up our natural instincts to seek revenge so that we can communicate His forgiving love by forgiving our enemies. He may call us to sacrifice portions of our time or money or comforts to advance His cause. Or He may require us to allow our sons and daughters to go to a far-off land to tell others about His saving love. The way we respond to what He requires says volumes about how we really feel about Him.
Anyone can offer the leftovers. Only those who love God more than anything else will serve up the very best for Him. - Joe Stowell
"Take up thy cross and follow Me,"
I hear the blessed Savior call;
How can I make a lesser sacrifice
When Jesus gave His all? - Ackley
No sacrifice we make is too great for the One who sacrificed His all.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
I can hardly imagine inviting special friends over for dinner and then throwing a few leftovers into the microwave to serve up to them. But if I were to do that, it would speak volumes about how I really feel about them.
Giving God the leftovers of our lives speaks volumes about His true worth to us. When God asked Abraham to give Issac back to Him as an act of worship, Genesis 22:1 calls it a test. A test to see if there was anything in his life that he treasured more than God.
It's no different for us. There are times when God requires something really important to get His work done. He'll ask us to give up our natural instincts to seek revenge so that we can communicate His forgiving love by forgiving our enemies. He may call us to sacrifice portions of our time or money or comforts to advance His cause. Or He may require us to allow our sons and daughters to go to a far-off land to tell others about His saving love. The way we respond to what He requires says volumes about how we really feel about Him.
Anyone can offer the leftovers. Only those who love God more than anything else will serve up the very best for Him. - Joe Stowell
"Take up thy cross and follow Me,"
I hear the blessed Savior call;
How can I make a lesser sacrifice
When Jesus gave His all? - Ackley
No sacrifice we make is too great for the One who sacrificed His all.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Something's Wrong With Harry
A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance. - Proverbs 15:13
Every morning Harry, a Christian, walked into his office singing a song from the Rodgers & Hammerstein musical Oklahoma: "Oh, what a beautiful morning; oh, what a beautiful day! I got a beautiful feeling, everthing's going my way!"
But one morning, he forgot to sing. Harry soon noticed that something was wrong at the office; everyone around him seemed on edge. When he finally asked a co-worker what was wrong, she replied, "You didn't sing this morning, and we thought you were upset!"
Harry had become known for such a cheerful, positive spirit that his co-workers were sure something was wrong with him that morning. Harry hadn't realized how closely people were watching him, and he resolved from then on always to come to work singing.
First Peter 2 reminds us that people are observing our lives (w. 11-12). To be good representatives of Jesus Christ, Peter teaches that we're to be submissive to authority, to live an honorable life, to do good works, to honor all people, and to fear God (w.12-17).
The testimony of our lives can gives us opportunities to share the good news of Jesus. So we might want to ask ourselves, "What do people see in me?" - Anne Cetas
Help me to sing a joyful song
For those bowed down with care,
A song of hope and freedom
For those in dark despair. - Andrews
Do others see Jesus in you?
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Every morning Harry, a Christian, walked into his office singing a song from the Rodgers & Hammerstein musical Oklahoma: "Oh, what a beautiful morning; oh, what a beautiful day! I got a beautiful feeling, everthing's going my way!"
But one morning, he forgot to sing. Harry soon noticed that something was wrong at the office; everyone around him seemed on edge. When he finally asked a co-worker what was wrong, she replied, "You didn't sing this morning, and we thought you were upset!"
Harry had become known for such a cheerful, positive spirit that his co-workers were sure something was wrong with him that morning. Harry hadn't realized how closely people were watching him, and he resolved from then on always to come to work singing.
First Peter 2 reminds us that people are observing our lives (w. 11-12). To be good representatives of Jesus Christ, Peter teaches that we're to be submissive to authority, to live an honorable life, to do good works, to honor all people, and to fear God (w.12-17).
The testimony of our lives can gives us opportunities to share the good news of Jesus. So we might want to ask ourselves, "What do people see in me?" - Anne Cetas
Help me to sing a joyful song
For those bowed down with care,
A song of hope and freedom
For those in dark despair. - Andrews
Do others see Jesus in you?
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Breathless
Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let Your glory be above all the earth. - Psalm 57:5When was the last time something took your breath away because of its majesty?
I'm not talking about an elctronic gadget or some special effects in a movie. I'm talking about a nighttime sky show such as an eclipse of the moon. Or walking outside on a starry night to Orion Or Pleiades - constellations mentioned thousands of years ago in Scripture (Amos 5:8) that are still glowing today for our enjoyment. I'm speaking of a bursting dawn that radiates with glorious colors to signal another sunrise. Or the sound and light show that accompanies God's way of watering the earth with food-producing rain (Job 36:27-33).
have you stood by a fence and marveled at the power of a horse as it gallps gallantly through the field, mane flowing and hoofs pounding? (39:19-25). Or watched a soaring, swooping eagle drop from the sky because his God-designed vision has sighted supper from his mountain-peak nest? (39:27-30).
At creation, God gave man breath. Then he took man's breath away with the beauty, grandeur, and aloquence of a universe of marvels created by His own hand. Look around. Examine what God has done. Then, breathless, proclaim His majesty. - Dave Branon
The wonder of creation speaks
To everyone in different ways;
But those who know and love the Lord
Can for His handiwork give praise. - Sper
All creation is an outstretched finger pointing toward God.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
We may not having a new thing everyday... but we may have surprise every hour... and even mind-refreshed by God's creation every second...
Let's have our biggest claps for Him... For He is suppose to be glorify and being worship...
Turkish Delight
Your law is my delight. - Psalm 119:174In C. S. Lewis' The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, the White Witch needed to know only one thing about Edmund to get him to betray his siblings. By asking a few simple questions, the witch learned that Edmund's weakness was his love for a candy called Turkish Delight. The piece she gave to Edmund was more delicious than anything he had ever tasted. Soon Edmund could think only about "trying to shovel down as much Turkish Delight as he could, and the more he ate the more he wanted."
Each of us has a vulnerability like Edmund's that Satan is eager to exploit. It may be something addictive like drugs or alcohol, or it may be something seemingly harmless an perhaps even good like food, friendship, or work.
After His resurrection, Jesus asked Peter this personal and probing question: "Do you love Me more than these?" (John 21:15). Many have speculated as to what Jesus meant by the word "these," but it's probably better that we don't know. It allows each of us to personalize the question and ask ourselves, "What do I love more than Jesus?"
When Satan finds out what we love more than God, he knows how to manipulate us. But he loses his power over us when we delight in the Lord. - Julie Ackerman Link
I love Thee, because Thou hast first loved me,
And purchased my pardon on Calvary's tree;
I love Thee for wearing the thorns on Thy brow;
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, 'tis now. - Featherstone
God takes delight in us - how can we help out delight in Him?
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Fun... Joy... Peace... and LOVE will never end in Jesus...
As He is our "Lake of Happiness"...
Let's SMILE...
Rise Up!
You, being dead in your trespasses, ... He has made alive together with Him. - Colossians 2:13On February 6, 1958, a chartered plane carrying most of the members of the English football (soccer) club Manchester United crashed on takeoff from Munich, Germany. With so many of their star players lost, some despaired over prospects for the club's survival. Yet today it is one of the best-known teams in the world. Fittingly, the man who rebuilt the team, Matt Busby, survived the crash himself.
Nearly 2,000 years ago, Jesus' arrest and subsequent crucifixion caused many of His followers to despair. The disciples themselves had lost hope. But their despondency evaporated on that first Easter morning when they found that the stone sealing the tomb had been moved aside (John 20:1). Jesus had risen!
Jesus soon appeared to Mary Magdalene (w. 11-16) and then to His disciples, who had gathered behind locked doors (v.19). His visit brought a remarkable change in them. As one version renders it, they were "overjoyed" (v.20 NIV).
Perhaps your world has crashed around you. It may be a deeply personal loss, a tragedy in your family, or some other great trial . Jesus' resurrection proved that He is greater than the greatest obstacles. He can rebuild your life - as He did with His disciples - starting today. - C. P. Hia
He rose! And with Him hope arose, and life and light. Men said, "Not Christ, but death, died yesternight." And joy and truth and all things virtuous Rose when He rose. - Anon.
God can turn any difficulty into an opportunity.
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Although He is high on the top... but He also very close to each and everyone of us...
All your tiny stuffs He do knows... so don't do any thing that makes Him upset...
And not forget to wish you all have blesses from God... :)
The Search For Peace
The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds. - Philippians 4:7
At the height of their popularity, creativity, and wealth, the Beatles produced a controversial project called "The White Album." It signaled the breakup of the band by featuring pieces that were primarily individual in nature instead of collaborative.
It also revealed a growing disenchantment with all that their fame had produced. In his song "I'm So Tired," John Lennon expressed the emptiness of his "successful" and wealthy life with these profound words: "I'd give you everything I've got for a little peace of mind." All that he had, all that he had accomplished and all that he had become could not meet this simple, yet deep, personal need.
The world we live in cannot offer peace. It offers only poor options. Pleasure, power, and possessions are no substitute for peace of heart and mind.
Paul reminded the believers at Philippi, "The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4:7). This is the peace God brings to those who have been reconciled to God by faith in His Son Jesus (Eph. 2:14-16). It is a peace we are to share with a world that is desperate for it.
Peace - real peace - is found - is found only in a relationship with Jesus. Have you received His peace? - Bill Crowder
Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. -Jesus.
At the height of their popularity, creativity, and wealth, the Beatles produced a controversial project called "The White Album." It signaled the breakup of the band by featuring pieces that were primarily individual in nature instead of collaborative.
It also revealed a growing disenchantment with all that their fame had produced. In his song "I'm So Tired," John Lennon expressed the emptiness of his "successful" and wealthy life with these profound words: "I'd give you everything I've got for a little peace of mind." All that he had, all that he had accomplished and all that he had become could not meet this simple, yet deep, personal need.
The world we live in cannot offer peace. It offers only poor options. Pleasure, power, and possessions are no substitute for peace of heart and mind.
Paul reminded the believers at Philippi, "The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4:7). This is the peace God brings to those who have been reconciled to God by faith in His Son Jesus (Eph. 2:14-16). It is a peace we are to share with a world that is desperate for it.
Peace - real peace - is found - is found only in a relationship with Jesus. Have you received His peace? - Bill Crowder
Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. -Jesus.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
The Great Storyteller
Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables; and without a parable He did not speak to them. - Matthew 13:34
In his book Teacher Man, Pulitzer Prize-winner Frank McCourt reflects on his 30 years as a teacher in New York City high schools. He used a variety of techniques in his English and creative writing classes, but one that seemed to surface again and agian was the power of a compelling story to capture attention and encourage learning.
This method of instruction was used by the greatest Teacher of all - the Lord Jesus Christ. The scholarly religious leader Nicodemus said to Jesus, "We know that You are a teacher come from God" (John 3:2). Yet when Jesus addressed the crowds that followed Him, He didn't recite great truths of the Talmud Rather, He spoke with the hompespun style of a storyteller.
The parables of Jesus endure because they showcase matters of the heart. Through the story of the Pharisee and tax collector (Luke 18), we learn about God's grace and forgiveness. And the story of the prodigal son (Luke 15) showcase God's love for repentant sinners.
The inspired parables of Jesus teach us about Him and the life He wants us to lead. We too can use our faith-stories to point others to the ultimate Storyteller and Teacher whose own life is the greatest story ever told. - Dennis Fisher
Take control of my words today,
May they tell of Your great love;
And may the story of Your grace
Turn some heart to You above. - Sees
A good way to learn God's truth is to teach it to others.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
In his book Teacher Man, Pulitzer Prize-winner Frank McCourt reflects on his 30 years as a teacher in New York City high schools. He used a variety of techniques in his English and creative writing classes, but one that seemed to surface again and agian was the power of a compelling story to capture attention and encourage learning.
This method of instruction was used by the greatest Teacher of all - the Lord Jesus Christ. The scholarly religious leader Nicodemus said to Jesus, "We know that You are a teacher come from God" (John 3:2). Yet when Jesus addressed the crowds that followed Him, He didn't recite great truths of the Talmud Rather, He spoke with the hompespun style of a storyteller.
The parables of Jesus endure because they showcase matters of the heart. Through the story of the Pharisee and tax collector (Luke 18), we learn about God's grace and forgiveness. And the story of the prodigal son (Luke 15) showcase God's love for repentant sinners.
The inspired parables of Jesus teach us about Him and the life He wants us to lead. We too can use our faith-stories to point others to the ultimate Storyteller and Teacher whose own life is the greatest story ever told. - Dennis Fisher
Take control of my words today,
May they tell of Your great love;
And may the story of Your grace
Turn some heart to You above. - Sees
A good way to learn God's truth is to teach it to others.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
A Refresh Course On God's Majesty
You cannot see My face; for no man shall see Me, and live. - Exodus 33:20
My book disappoitment With God explores three questions many Christian ask: Is God hidden? Is God silent? Is God unfair? It struck me that those qeustions did not trouble the Hebrews in the Sinai wilderness. They saw evidence of God every day, heard Him speak, and lived under a contract signed in His own hand. Out of this relationship emerged a great gift from the Jews to the world: monotheism - the belief in one sovereign, holy God.
Today many treat God like a cosmic good buddy. We could use a refresher course from the Old Testament on God's majesty.
Pastor Gordon MacDonald writes, "The most costly sins I have committed came at a time when I briefly suspended my reverence for God... I quietly (and insanely) concluded that God didn't care and most likely wouldn't intervene were I to risk the violation of one of His commandments."
MacDonald says his own love for God has moved away from a sentimental model, which never satisfied him, to something closer to a father/son model. He is learning to reverence, obey, and thank God; to express appropriate sorrow for sin; to pursue a quietness in which be might hear God whisper. He seek a relationship with God appropriate to the profound difference between the two parties.
As God's children, we may "come boldly to the throne of grace" (Heb. 4:16). But let us ever be mindful of our Father's inestimable majesty. - Philip Yancey
To worship is to recognize the supreme worth of God.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
My book disappoitment With God explores three questions many Christian ask: Is God hidden? Is God silent? Is God unfair? It struck me that those qeustions did not trouble the Hebrews in the Sinai wilderness. They saw evidence of God every day, heard Him speak, and lived under a contract signed in His own hand. Out of this relationship emerged a great gift from the Jews to the world: monotheism - the belief in one sovereign, holy God.
Today many treat God like a cosmic good buddy. We could use a refresher course from the Old Testament on God's majesty.
Pastor Gordon MacDonald writes, "The most costly sins I have committed came at a time when I briefly suspended my reverence for God... I quietly (and insanely) concluded that God didn't care and most likely wouldn't intervene were I to risk the violation of one of His commandments."
MacDonald says his own love for God has moved away from a sentimental model, which never satisfied him, to something closer to a father/son model. He is learning to reverence, obey, and thank God; to express appropriate sorrow for sin; to pursue a quietness in which be might hear God whisper. He seek a relationship with God appropriate to the profound difference between the two parties.
As God's children, we may "come boldly to the throne of grace" (Heb. 4:16). But let us ever be mindful of our Father's inestimable majesty. - Philip Yancey
To worship is to recognize the supreme worth of God.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Phuxsutawney Phil
We have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed. - 2 Peter 1:19
Ponxsutawney Phil is a groundhog that comes out of his burrow on Gobbler's Knob, Pennsylvania, each February 2 to predict the weather. According to legend, if Phil sees his shadow, there will be 6 more weeks of cold weather. If he doesn't see his shadow, spring will come early.
This is all humbug and good humor, of course. No one to my knowledge takes Phil's predictions seriously. Furthermore, he's unreliable - more often wrong than right, I'm told.
There is One, however, who is always right and whom we must take seriously. Peter writes of Him, "We have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts" (2 Peter 1:19).
Peter was thinking of that day on the Mount of Transfiguration with James and John when he saw Jesus standing with the two great prophets of the Old Testament, Moses and Elijah. In that august company of true prophets the Father pointed to the Son and said: "This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!" (Luke 9:35). Jesus' word is a "prophetic word" that is certain!
There is One who is never wrong and who will never lead us astray: our Lord Jesus. We must hear Him! - David H. Roper
At the name of Jesus bowing,
Falling prostrate at His feet,
KIng of kings in heaven we'll crown Him
When our journey is complete. - Baxter
In a world full of speculation, only God's Word is certain.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Ponxsutawney Phil is a groundhog that comes out of his burrow on Gobbler's Knob, Pennsylvania, each February 2 to predict the weather. According to legend, if Phil sees his shadow, there will be 6 more weeks of cold weather. If he doesn't see his shadow, spring will come early.
This is all humbug and good humor, of course. No one to my knowledge takes Phil's predictions seriously. Furthermore, he's unreliable - more often wrong than right, I'm told.
There is One, however, who is always right and whom we must take seriously. Peter writes of Him, "We have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts" (2 Peter 1:19).
Peter was thinking of that day on the Mount of Transfiguration with James and John when he saw Jesus standing with the two great prophets of the Old Testament, Moses and Elijah. In that august company of true prophets the Father pointed to the Son and said: "This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!" (Luke 9:35). Jesus' word is a "prophetic word" that is certain!
There is One who is never wrong and who will never lead us astray: our Lord Jesus. We must hear Him! - David H. Roper
At the name of Jesus bowing,
Falling prostrate at His feet,
KIng of kings in heaven we'll crown Him
When our journey is complete. - Baxter
In a world full of speculation, only God's Word is certain.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
Sunday, February 1, 2009
God Is At Work
It is God who works in you both to will and to do His good pleasure. - Philippians 2:13
We always crave change in a new year. This is why on January 1 we start diets, exercise programs, and new hobbies. Of course, a month later we're usually back to our old bad habits. Maybe that's because we crave too big a change and do not have enough power and will to make the changes.
I wonder how many Jesus-followers have made commitments to change and grow spiritually but are experiencing frustration because they don't have the will and power to carry out those steps.
Paul addresses this issue in his latter to the Philippians. As he encouraged them to work out their salvation with fear and trembling (2:12), Paul said they would not be on their own. God Himself would energize them to grow and to carry out His tasks. The first area affected would be their desires. God was at work in them, giving them the desire to change and grow. He was also working to give them the power to make the actual changes (v.13).
God has not left us alone in our struggles to attain spiritual growth. He helps us want to obey Him, and then He gives us the power to do what He wants. Ask Him to help you what to do with His will. - Marvin Williams
Every day more like my Savior,
Every day my will resign,
Until at last Christ reigns supremely
In this grateful heart of mine. - Brandt
The power that compels us comes from the Spirit who indwells us.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
We always crave change in a new year. This is why on January 1 we start diets, exercise programs, and new hobbies. Of course, a month later we're usually back to our old bad habits. Maybe that's because we crave too big a change and do not have enough power and will to make the changes.
I wonder how many Jesus-followers have made commitments to change and grow spiritually but are experiencing frustration because they don't have the will and power to carry out those steps.
Paul addresses this issue in his latter to the Philippians. As he encouraged them to work out their salvation with fear and trembling (2:12), Paul said they would not be on their own. God Himself would energize them to grow and to carry out His tasks. The first area affected would be their desires. God was at work in them, giving them the desire to change and grow. He was also working to give them the power to make the actual changes (v.13).
God has not left us alone in our struggles to attain spiritual growth. He helps us want to obey Him, and then He gives us the power to do what He wants. Ask Him to help you what to do with His will. - Marvin Williams
Every day more like my Savior,
Every day my will resign,
Until at last Christ reigns supremely
In this grateful heart of mine. - Brandt
The power that compels us comes from the Spirit who indwells us.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ...
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