THE WORD OF GOD - #2

[Eleanor]

And the apostles gathered themselves
together unto Jesus, and told him all
things, both what they had done, and
what they had taught.
And he said unto them, Come ye
yourselves apart into a desert place,
and rest a while.
Mark 6:30-31 *** KJV

TAKE HEED! :(
Hobbies, vacations, and wholesome recreation
are vital to a well-balanced, godly life.
We lose our effectiveness by keeping our
lives so tightly strung that we're always
on edge.
If it seems we can't relax, Jesus may be
inviting us to take a break, to "come aside"
and "rest a while."

If our body, soul, and spirit
Are to function at their best,
Time is needed for renewal.
Time for leisure, time for rest.

If Christians do not come apart and rest
awhile, they may just plain come apart! :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 20

[Eleanor]

In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge;
let me never be put to shame;
deliver me in your righteousness.
Turn your ear to me, come quickly
to my rescue; be my rock of refuge,
a strong fortress to save me.
Psalm 31:1-2 *** NIV

PONDER THIS! :(
If we face opposition when we're trying
to do what's right, we too must cry out
to the Lord. He alone is our:
"rock of refuge, a fortress of defense."
He is our reliable source of strength
and protection.

Lord, help me stand upon Your rock of Truth
And never trust myself to sinking sand;
Whenever I am faced with evil powers,
I'll call upon Your strong and mighty hand.

When we trust the power of God,
we experience peace, not panic. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 21

[Eleanor]

Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD;
and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
Psalm 127:3 *** KJV

THE CALL:
1. God's Word calls us to point children
to Jesus.
2. We are to instruct them in God's way.
3. We are to discipline them toward godliness.
4. We are to love them unconditionally.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT!
Are you a godly parent? If so, do this:
1. Teach your children godliness, faith,
and uncommon love.
2. Then, when they influence their world,
they will reveal God to a new generation.

To guide your children on the right way,
you must go that way yourself. :mrgreen:

Today's reading: Proverbs 22

[Eleanor]

Giving thanks unto the Father, who hath made
us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of
the saints in light;
Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness,
and hath translated us into the kingdom of his
dear Son;
In whom we have redemption through his blood,
even the forgiveness of sins;
Colossians 1:12-14 *** KJV

RESCUED!
Those of us who have been rescued from the
domain of darkness can bring a little bit of
heaven to earth when we are willing to
demonstrate the power of God's unique approach
to life.
Even in our moments of weakness and vulnerability
we are given opportunities to demonstrate the
power and strength of God's forgiveness by showing
His love for our enemies.

Help us, Lord; to be a lifeline
To a dying world today,
Bringing hope to hopeless people,
Telling them that Christ's the way.

A world in darkness needs the light of
the gospel. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading: Proverbs 23

[Eleanor]

I can do everything through him
who gives me strength.
And my God will meet all your needs
according to his glorious riches in
Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:13, 19 *** NIV

THINK ABOUT IT!
1. Have we been ignoring the words of Jesus?
"Man shall not live by bread alone"
2. Have we been failing to nourish our souls
while pursuing our wants?
"Seek first the kingdom of God and His
righteousness, and all these things shall
be added to you."

I need Thee every hour, most gracious Lord,
No tender voice like Thine can peace afford;
I need Thee, O I need Thee, every hour I need Thee!
O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee.

Just as our body needs daily food,
so does our spirit. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 24

[Eleanor]

During the fourth watch of the night Jesus
went out to them, walking on the lake.
When the disciples saw him walking on the
lake, they were terrified.
"It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear.
But Jesus immediately said to them:
"Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
Matthew 14:25-27 *** NIV

LISTEN UP-TAKE HEED!
If the circumstances of your life seem to
be going from bad to worse, sending you
into depression and despair, remember
that God always hears and answers our
cries -- but it's in His time, not ours.

Our strength and hope are in the Lord,
We rest secure in His sure Word;
And though we're tempted to despair,
We know we're kept within His care.

When you feel hopeless, look to the God of hope. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 25

[Eleanor]

Behold, I stand at the door, and knock:
if any man hear my voice, and open the
door, I will come in to him, and will sup
with him, and he with me.
Revelation 3:20 *** KJV

GIVE THOUGHT!
If we have answered the door [the heart]
let's rejoice that we are His. If that door
stays shut, however, we must
realize that time is running out.
Don't remain forever self-alienated
from the Lover of your soul.
Trust Him today, invite Him into your heart.

Why trade the hope of heaven's light
For things that please the prince of night?
Eternal glories wait for all
Who turn and trust God's loving call.

God always knocks loud enough for
a willing soul to hear. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 26

[Eleanor]

Trust in the LORD and do good;
so shalt thou dwell in the land,
and verily thou shalt be fed.
Delight thyself also in the LORD,
and he shall give thee the desires
of thine heart.
Commit thy way unto the LORD;
trust also in him, and he shall
bring it to pass.
Psalm 37:3-5 *** KJV

FOOD TO CONSIDER: :shock:
David encouraged us to delight ourselves
in the Lord and not to envy others.
Although he was talking about envying
people who get away with evil, we can
apply it to other types of envy.
Instead of comparing ourselves with
others, we need to delight ourselves
in God.

THE GOOD NEWS IS..... :D
In His time, He'll fulfill the desires of
our heart and affirm that we are in His will.
We're all in "God's service" as believers.
And serving Him is a sheer delight.

Let the joy of the Lord be your strength,
May His peace fill your heart day and night;
As you walk with the Lord in the light of His Word,
You will find that He'll lead you aright.

Contentment comes when God's will is more
important than our wants. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 27

[Eleanor]

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood,
but against principalities, against powers,
against the rulers of the darkness of this
world, against spiritual wickedness in
high places.
Stand therefore, having your loins girt
about with truth, and having on the
breastplate of righteousness;
And your feet shod with the preparation
of the gospel of peace;
Above all, taking the shield of faith,
wherewith ye shall be able to quench all
the fiery darts of the wicked.
And take the helmet of salvation and
the sword of the Spirit, which is the
word of God:
Ephesians 6:12, 14-17 *** KJV

SAINTS, PAY ATTENTION! :shock:
Each day we must put on the armor of God:
1. The breastplate of righteousness
2. The shield of faith
3. The sword of the Spirit (the Word of God)
4. The helmet of salvation
5. Feet shod with the gospel.
6. Most of all, our loins girt about with the truth.
Preparation and protection are the keys to
winning spiritual battles.

Though fierce the hatred of our foe
Whose legions seek to work us woe,
He can't destroy the Living word
Nor those who own Him as their Lord.

Spiritual victory comes only to those who
are prepared for battle. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 28

[Eleanor]

Verily I say unto you, Among them that
are born of women there hath not risen
a greater than John the Baptist:
notwithstanding he that is least in the
kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
Matthew 11:11 *** KJV

A GOOD WORD! :P
Jesus' tribute captured the essence of the
desert-dwelling, straight-preaching John,
who was maligned and misunderstood as
he prepared the way for the Son of God.
He wrote his own eulogy by his actions.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT. :(
As we ponder what we might say about
others at their passing, it's also good
to ask, "What will people say about
me when it's time to say goodbye?"

The way we live our lives each day
Makes up our eulogy;
So ask yourself, "When I pass on,
What will be said of me?"

Living for the Lord today leaves a
lasting legacy when we're gone. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 29

[Eleanor]

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying,
Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will
live with them.
They will be his people, and God himself will be
with them and be their God.
He will wipe every tear from their eyes.
There will be no more death or mourning
or crying or pain, for the old order of things
has passed away
Revelation 21:3-4 *** NIV

WISDOM IS THE PRINCIPAL THING :shock:
Even though friends can be a help in the time
of trouble, only Christ can reach beyond our
tears and touch the deep hurts of our hearts.
His comfort can carry us through the struggles
of our lives until that day when God Himself
wipes away every tear from our eyes.

He knows where the hurt is the deepest,
The tears of the night and the day,
And whispering softly, I love you
He brushes the teardrops away.

The God who washed away our sins will also wipe away our tears. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 30

[Eleanor]

Moses listened to his father-in-law
and did everything he said.
Exodus 18:24 *** NIV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
1. What are your weakest character traits?
2. Do you know a fellow believer who is
strong in the Lord?
3. Could that person become your spiritual mentor?

Those who are mature in the faith can
help others to mature in their faith. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 31

[Eleanor]

We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though
God were making his appeal through us.
We implore you on Christ's behalf; be reconciled
to God.
God made him [Christ] who had no sin to be
sin for us, so that in Him we might become
the righteousness of God.
2 Corinthians 5:20-21 *** NIV

CONSIDER THIS! :o
In retrospect, I can see how my antics
as a PK [Pastor's kid] reflected poorly
on my dad.
It's motivating to remember that our
non-Jesus attitudes and actions also
reflect poorly on our King.
Let's make a difference by daring to
be different!

Show me the way, Lord, let my light shine
As an example of good to mankind;
Help them to see the patterns of Thee,
Shining in beauty, lived out in me.

Dare to be different, for the Father's sake. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 1

[Eleanor]

But the LORD said to Samuel:
"The LORD does not look at the things man
looks at. Man looks at the outside appearance,
but the LORD looks at the heart."
1 Samuel 16:7 *** NIV

TAKE HEED!
We're not in a competition with other Christians.
God will never ask us to compete for "best in show."
He measures us by the perfect standard of His Son.
And in love, He provides the righteousness we
need so that we can be blameless before Him.

:( Just live your life before your Lord,
It matters not what others do,
Your actions will be weighed by Him
Who metes out judgment just and true.

Living for God's approval is better than
living for man's applaude. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 2

[Eleanor]

I have become a laughingstock to my friends,
though I called upon God and he answered,
a mere laughingstock, though righteous and
blameless!
Men at ease have contempt for misfortune
as the fate of those whose feet are slipping.
Job 12:4-5 *** NIV

CONSIDER THIS!
When you are discouraged by all the
bad news, cry out for God's help.
Then bask in the confidence of His
assurance that things will work for
your good.
Remember - "God is still and will
always be in control of this Universe."

When through life's darkened maze I go
And troubles overwhelm my soul,
Oh, grant me, Lord, the faith to know
That You are always in control.

We have nothing to fear, because God is in control. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 3

[Eleanor]

The LORD said to Moses, "Say to the
Israelites: When a man or woman wrongs
another in any way and so is unfaithful
to the LORD, that person is guilty and
must confess the sin he has committed."
Numbers 5:5-6 *** NIV

GET IT RIGHT! :o
Admitting our sin unlocks the gate
so that we can have forgiveness,
joy, and peace.
If we confess our sins, God is faithful
to forgive. [1 John 1:9]

If we would know God's power to heal
And cleanse us from within,
We must acknowledge when we're wrong,
Confessing it as sin.

Confession is agreeing with God about our sin. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 4

[Eleanor]

Then the lord of that servant was moved
with compassion and loosed him, and
forgave him the debt.
Matthew 18:27 *** KJV

WHAT I DESERVE: :o
1. If I care to listen, I hear a loud whisper
from the gospel that I did not get what I deserved.
2. I deserved punishment and got forgiveness.
3. I deserved wrath and got love.
4. I deserved debtor's prison and got instead a
clean credit history.
5. I deserved stern lectures and crawl-on-your
knees repentance. Instead, I got a banquet spread
for me.

His love has no limit, His grace has no measure,
His power has no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus.
He giveth and giveth and giveth again.

Our sin is great - God's grace is greater. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 5

[Eleanor]

As the time approached for him to be taken to
heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.
Luke 9:51 *** NIV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
Neither cries of "Hosanna" nor shouts of
hatred could deter Jesus from His goal
"to give His life a ransom for many"
and to pay the price to set us free.

Some people follow Jesus Christ,
Then obstacles get in their way;
But if they"ll focus on the Lord
They won't be lead astray.

You don't need to know where you're going
if you know the One who does. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 6

[Eleanor]

Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have led a blameless life;
I have trusted in the LORD without wavering.
Test me, O LORD, and try me, examine my heart and
my mind; for your love is ever before me, and I walk
continually in your truth.
Psalm 26:1-3 *** NIV

UNDERSTAND THIS: :(
1. Vindication does not come from
self-defensive arguments.
2. It requires that I allow God to
examine my mind and heart.
3. I must walk in His truth.
4. It requires patient waiting.
5. When we call on God, He will help
us but in His perfect time and in
His perfect way.

I prayed: the answer long deferred
Brought not the thing I sought;
He answered better than my plea.
Yes, better than my thought.

The purpose of prayer is not to get what
we want, but to become what God wants. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 7

[Eleanor]

Keep thy heart with all diligence;
for out of it are the issues of life.
Put away from thee a froward mouth,
and perverse lips put far from thee.
Let thine eyes look right on, and let
thine eyelids look straight before thee.
Ponder the path of thy feet, and let
all thy ways be established.
Turn not to the right hand nor to
the left: remove thy foot from evil.
Proverbs 4:23-27 *** KJV

CHECK IT OUT! :o
All of us have a secret garden of the
heart. How we tend the garden will
determine what speech and behavior
it will produce.

TENDING THE GARDEN OF THE HEART ;)
As we remove the thorns of resentment,
weeds of lust, and roots of bitterness,
we can replace them with the fruit of
the Spirit:
"love, joy, peace, longsuffering,
kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness, and self-control."

Think not alone of outward form;
Its beauty will depart;
But cultivate the Spirit's fruits
That grow within the heart.

God wants you to water the seed
He's planted in your heart. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 8

[Eleanor]

Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee,
he saw Simon and Andrew his brother
casting a net into the sea: for they
were fishers.
And Jesus said unto them. "Come ye
after me, and I will make you to become
fishers of men."
And straightway they forsook their nets
and followed him.
Mark 1:16-18 *** NIV

LIFE BEYOND THE RITUALS:
If you are weary of a religion that is
about rules and regulations, then welcome
to life beyond the rituals.
Welcome to a relationship in which you
can find companionship, comfort, wisdom
and reality.
Welcome to the wonderful privilege of
getting to know Jesus and the joy of
following Him.
Get to know Him - and you'll grow to
love Him more and more each day.

(Give Christ Jesus a chance, you have
nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Go ahead, get to know Him.)

(By the way, He's been waiting especially for you.) ;)

Which of all our friends, to save us,
Could or would have shed their blood?
But our Jesus died to have us
Reconciled in Him to God.

To know Jesus is to love Jesus. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 9

[Eleanor]

You have heard that it was said,
"Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.
But I tell you, Do not resist an evil
person.
If someone strikes you on the right
cheek, turn to him the other also.
Matthew 5:38-39 *** NIV

HERE IS WISDOM - IF YOU CAN HANDLE IT! :?
The cycle of escalation can be broken
when a courageous, faith-filled person
refuses to strike back.

Lord, help me not retaliate
When someone wants to pick a fight;
Instead, give me the strength and faith
To show Your love and do what's right.

To return good for good is natural;
to return good for evil is supernatural. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 10

[Eleanor]

Faithful are the wounds of a friend,
but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.
Proverbs 27:5-6 *** KJV

UNDERSTAND..... :o
Growth in grace sometimes comes
through the kind but unpleasant
correction of a loyal friend.
Do not refuse it, for "he who receives
correction is prudent"

When others give us compliments,
They are so easy to believe;
And though it's wise to take rebukes,
We find them harder to receive.

Correction from a loyal friend can
help us change for the better. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 11

[Eleanor]

Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one
of the two who heard what John had
said and who had followed Jesus.
The first thing Andrew did was to find
his brother Simon and tell him, "We have
found the Messiah." (that is, the Christ)
And they brought him to Jesus.
John 1:40-42 *** NIV

THE BEST ADVERTISING!
When we witness to unsaved people
and tell them what God says about their
lost condition and need of a Savior,
we should personally recommend the
Lord Jesus to them.
We have the opportunity to tell them
what He has done for us and how He
has satisfied our deepest spiritual need.
That's the best advertising of all!

When witnessing, if people ask,
"How do you know it's true?"
Remember that they can't deny
What Christ has done for you.

We are Christ's "letters of recommendation"
to a lost world. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 12

[Eleanor]

Create in me a clean heart, O God:
and renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from thy presence;
and take not thy Holy Spirit from me.
Restore unto me the joy of thy
salvation; and uphold me with thy
free spirit.
Then will I teach transgressors thy
ways; and sinners shall be converted
unto thee.
Psalm 51:10-13 *** KJV

A FRESH START. ;)
What better time than today to ask
God to give you a newness of spirit,
a freshness of faith and a renewed
appreciation of Him!

:? MAKE YOUR REQUEST KNOWN.
1. Lord, we want the fruit of our
lives to always be "fresh and flourishing."
2. Help us to experience Your love,
compassion and faithfulness that are
"new every morning."

The Master is seeking a harvest
In lives He's redeemed by His blood;
He seeks for the fruit of the Spirit,
And works that will glorify God.

To bear good fruit, clear out the weeds of sin. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 13

[Eleanor]

How great is the love the Father
has lavished on us, that we should
be called children of God! And that
is what we are!
The reason the world does not know
us is that it did not know him.
1 John 3:1 *** NIV

WHO LOVES YA BABY? :roll:
The best place to find love is not in
another person, but in a book, The Bible.
The Bible tells of God's great love for us.

For God so loVed the world,
That He gAve
His onLy
BegottEn
SoN
That whoever
Believes In Him
Should Not perish,
But have Everlasting life.

What's the hidden word? :o

:? HOW MUCH DOES HE LOVE YOU?
God loves us like no one else ever could. - (Believe that!)
He showed that love when He sent His Son, Jesus,
to be our Savior.
He's also the best companion we'll ever, ever have.
Open your Bible and learn more about Him and
His great, great love for you.

The more you read the Bible, the more
you'll love its Author. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 14

[Eleanor]

Now we exhort you, brethren,
warn them that are unruly,
comfort the feeble minded,
support the weak, be patient
toward all men.
Pray without ceasing.
1 Thessalonians 5:14, 17 *** KJV

A BAD TIME FOR PRAYER? :o
It is encouraging to see so many
Christians serious about prayer.
Let us follow the example of many
believers who would fill a stadium
to pray, and obey the guidelines
of Scripture to be continually ready
to pray, let's make sure that we
are serious about prayer.

There is no inconvenient time
To talk to God in prayer;
The instant that we turn to Him
We can be sure He's there.

Praying should be as natural as breathing. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 15

[Eleanor]

I have glorified thee on the earth;
I have finished the work which thou
gavest me to do.
That they all may be one, as thou, Father,
art in me, and I in thee, that they also
may be one in us; that the world may
believe that thou hast sent me.
John 17:4, 21 *** KJV

IT'S A FACT!
Reading Scripture, praying, and partaking
of the Lord's Supper can help us gain at
least some awareness of our identification
with our Lord and Savior.
But regardless of how we feel, our unity
with Him is a fact that we must grasp in faith.

With longing all my heart is filled
That like Him I may be,
As on the wondrous thought I dwell,
That Christ liveth in me.

The just shall live by faith, not by feeling. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 16

[Eleanor]

I will sing of the LORD'S great love forever;
with my mouth I will make your faithfulness
known through all generations.
I will declare that your love stands firm
forever, that you established your
faithfulness in heaven itself.
Psalm 89:1-2 *** NIV

JOIN THE CHOIR :D
Anyone who receives Jesus as Savior
is welcome to join the choir of praise:
"I will sing of the mercies of the LORD
forever."

He's been faithful, faithful to me;
Looking back, His love and mercy I see.
Though in my heart I've questioned,
even failed to believe,
He's been faithful, faithful to me.

Praise flows freely from the choir of the redeemed. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 17

[Eleanor]

Then he said unto them:
O fools, and slow of heart to believe
all that the prophets have spoken:
Ought not Christ to have suffered
these things, and to enter into his
glory?
And beginning at Moses and all the
prophets, he expounded unto them
in all the scriptures the things
concerning himself.
Luke 24:25-27 *** KJV

WHAT IS YOUR TESTIMONY?
Sometimes, people are dumbfounded
because of the senseless murders of
others.
However, the heartache has a way of
pointing us to the Lord Jesus, who has
shared in our sufferings and bring meaning
to seemingly senseless pain.

Remember, Christ is a Comforter!

Though tragedy, heartache, and sorrow abound
And many a hardship in life will be found,
Just put all your trust in the Savior of light,
For He can bring hope in the darkest of night.

Suffering can teach us what we can't learn
in any other way. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 18

[Eleanor]

For God hath not given us the
spirit of fear; but of power, and
of love, and of a sound mind.
2 Timothy 1:7 *** KJV

COURAGE: LIVE IT
Perhaps you need someone to
tell you:
1. Volunteer for that job at church,
they need you.
2. Have lunch with your co-worker
to discuss matters of faith.
3. Or join that small group.
Be courageous for Jesus. Sometimes
it takes just that first step of courage
to serve our majestic God.

Lord, give me the courage to rise above fear,
Even of danger, because You are near;
I would be faithful to face any foe,
While I am walking with You here below.

Courage will follow when faith takes the lead. :mrgreen:

Todays' Reading: Proverbs 19

[Eleanor]

Keep his decrees and commands, which I am
giving you today, so that it may go well
with you and your children after you and
that you may live long in the land the
LORD your God gives you for all time.
Deuteronomy 4:40 *** NIV

THINK ON THIS!
As we interact with others, it's good
to consider the nature of our counsel
and commands.
Do we use ultimatums to perserve our
well-being?
Or do we lovingly warn others to keep them
from harm? :roll:

Warnings are an expression of love;
threats are an expression of control. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 20

[Eleanor]

BETWEEN THE ETERNITIES-PEOPLE OF FAITH:
These all died in faith, not having received
the promises, but having seen them afar off,
and were persuaded of them, and embraced
them, and confessed that they were strangers
and pilgrims on the earth.
Hebrews 11:13 *** KJV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT!
In times of struggle and despair we must
remember that we are locked into the
moments and hours and days of life,
but we look ahead by faith in Christ.
One day, we will experience the promise
of eternity when faith will become sight
as we see Him.

Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah,
Pilgrim through this barren land;
I am weak, but Thou art mighty,
Hold me with Thy powerful hand.

For time and eternity, Jesus is all we need. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 21/Hebrews 11

[Eleanor]

Listen to me, O house of Jacob,
all you who remain of the house
of Israel.
Even to your old age and gray
hairs I am He, I am He who will
sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry
you; I will sustain you and I will
rescue you.
Isaiah 46:3-4 *** NIV

CARRIED IN HIS STRONG ARMS!
What an encouraging picture of divine grace!
It calls to mind the Good Shepherd bearing
a helpless lamb.
Whether young or old, we can learn to let
God carry us.
Weak and burdened, we can lean on His
everlasting arms and remind ourselves:
"For this I have Jesus."

The King of love my Shepherd is,
Whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am His,
And He is mine forever.

You can rest in the arms of Jesus,
He'll never let you down. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 22/Isaiah 46

[Eleanor]

02-23-08: :cry:
Now thanks be unto God, who always causeth
us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the
savor of his knowledge by us in every place.
For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ,
in them that are saved, and in them that perish;
To the one we are the savor of death unto death,
and to the other, the savor of life unto life.
2 Corinthians 2:14-15 *** KJV

Farewell dear flowers, sweetly your time ye spent,
Fit, while ye lived, for smell or ornament,
And after death for cures,
I follow straight without complaints or grief,
Since if my scent be good, I care not, if
It be as short as yours.

A godly life is a fragrance that draws others to Christ. :mrgreen:


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
02-24-08 ;)
Remember not the sins of my youth,
nor my transgressions; according
to thy mercy remember thou me for
thy goodness' sake, O LORD.
Good and upright is the LORD: therefore
will he teach sinners in the way.
Psalms 25:7-8 *** KJV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
Do you feel as though God isn't answering
your prayers?
Are you tempted to doubt His goodness?
We cannot rely on our feeling, but day by day
as we choose to trust Him more, we learn to
believe with confidence that God is good, all the time.

When you are temptd to deny
God's goodness, love, and grace,
Look to the cross of Calvary,
Where Jesus took your place.

Circumstances aren't the barometer of God's
love and goodness - the cross is. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 23-24

[Eleanor]

Be not forgetful to entertain strangers;
for thereby some have entertained
angels unawares.
Hebrews 13:2 *** KJV

HOW WOULD YOU RESPOND?
In a self-centered world where we are
conditioned to look out for our own
interests above and beyond all else.
However, as followers of Christ, we
are called to model a similar counter-cultural
attitude to toward life.
And what better way to represent Christ
than with kindness, even to strangers.

Try to bring God's love and kindness
Into someone's life today;
Even just the gift of caring
Will the Savior's love display.

Kindness is one gift anyone can give. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 25

[Eleanor]

And as Jesus passed by, he saw a
man which was blind from his birth.
And his disciples asked him, saying,
Master, who did sin, this man, or his
parents, that he was born blind?
Jesus answered, Neither hath this man
sinned, nor his parents, but that the
works of God should be made manifest
in him.
John 9:1-3 *** KJV

WHY AM I SICK?
God can be glorified in sickness just
as He can in a miracle of healing.
When we suffer, it's always wise to
take spiritual inventory.
But when God gives us no answers,
we can still trust Him because we
know that He is good.

My prayer is a simple one, Lord:
Whatever is best for me, do;
In sickness and health I desire
What brings the most glory to You.

God's love for us cannot be measured,
by the degree of our health. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 26

[Eleanor]

Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters;
and you who have no money, come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk without money and without
cost.
Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor
on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me and eat
what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest
of fare.
Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul
may live.
Isaiah 55:1-3 *** NIV

BUY WITHOUT MONEY!
When we acknowledge our thirst for God,
ask forgiveness for our sins, and accept
the finished work of Christ on the cross,
we will find spiritual food that satisfies and
our soul will live forever!
He's calling, "Come to Me"

I came to Jesus, and I drank
Of that life-giving stream;
My thirst was quenched, my soul revived,
And now I live in Him.

Only Jesus, the Living Water, satisfies the thirsty soul. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 27

[Eleanor]

You have heard that it was said to
the people long ago, "Do not murder,
and anyone who murders will be subject
to judgment."
But I tell you that anyone who is "angry"
with his brother will be subject to
judgment.
Matthew 5:21-22 *** NIV

IDENTITY THEFT :o
What makes name-calling so damaging
is that it insults the God who created
that person in His image!
Jesus taught His followers that the
weight of our neighbor's glory is a
burden we carry daily.
If we follow His teaching, we won't
be guilty of identity theft.

Teach me to love, this is my prayer,
May the compassion of Thy heart I share;
Ready a cup of water to give,
May I unselfishly for others live.

To insult the creature is to insult the Creator. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 28

[lyndon]

Tanty how things??

[Eleanor]

This is my commandment, That ye love
one another, as I have loved you.
Greater love hath no man than this,
that a man lay down his life for his
friends.
John 15:12-13 *** KJV

THE BEST FRIEND ;)
Abraham was called "the friend of God,"
and that friendship was related to his
faith. Are you looking for the best
friend ever?
You can't do better than the Lord
Himself.

I've found a Friend, O such a Friend!
He loved me ere I knew Him;
He drew me with the cords of love,
And thus He bound me to Him.

Jesus is the only faultless Friend you'll ever find. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 28/John 15

[Eleanor]

Because of the tender mercy of our God,
by which the rising sun will come to us from
heaven to shine on those living in darkness
and in the shadow of death, to guide our
feet into the path of peace.
Luke 1:78-79 *** NIV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT :o
Do you feel surrounded by dark and
confusing circumstanes?
You can still lift your praise to God for
the bright future you will share with
Jesus Christ, the matchless Son of God.
Nonetheless, the old gospel hymn "Blessed
Assurance" encourages us as we anticipate
the glorious reunion with Christ.

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
O what a foretaste of glorly divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood.

For the Christian, the dark sorrows of earth will one
day be changed into the bright songs of heaven. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 1/Luke 1

[Eleanor]

03-02-08:

Wherefore, putting away lying, speak every
man truth with his neighbor; for we are
members one of another.
Ephesians 4:25 *** KJV

EXTREMES!
Between the extremes of hazardous flattery
and destructive criticism, we should aim
for beneficial reality in what we say to each
other.
It's a great privilege and responsibility to help
each other discover who we are in Christ.

Together, Lord, we seek Thy will:
We bow before Thee - yielded still;
We come today, as oft before,
And with each coming love Thee more.

True community is not organized but exercised. :mrgreen:

Today's reading - Proverbs 2


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
03-03-08:

Do all things without murmurings and disputings,
that ye may be blameless and harmless, sons of
God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked
and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as
lights in the world.
Philippians 2:14-15 *** KJV

AN IMPOSSIBLE CHALLELNGE?
How can we learn to develop a noncomplaining,
positive attitude that will please the Lord?
1. By disciplining our thoughts. We need to
meditate on Scripture and remember our blessings.
(Rom. 12:2)
2. By confessing our critical spirit and committing
ourselves to obedience each time we fail.
(1 John 1:9)
3. By enlisting God's help and the help of others.
The Spirit will empower us as we depend on Him.
(John 14:26)

Because God helps us, doing all things without
complaining is not an impossible challenge.

Lord help me stop complaining
When things don't go my way;
Instead, give me a thankful heart
For all You do each day.

A complaining Christian is a contradiction in terms. :mrgreen:


Today's Reading - Proverbs 3

[Eleanor]

There is no fear in love. But perfect love
drives out fear, because fear has to do
with punishment.
The one who fears is not made perfect
in love. We love because he first loved us.
1 John 4:18-19 *** NIV

THE MIRACLE OF RESTRAINT
Why does God content Himself with the
slow, mysterious way of making righteousness
grow rather than avenging it?
That's how love is. Love has its own power,
the only power capable of conquering the
human heart.

That leaden night on which He was betrayed,
The One by whom the universe was made
Reclined with friends, took bread and stretched a hand
Of love to him who His demise had planned.

Revenge restrained is a victory gained. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 4

[Eleanor]

If you hear it said about one of the towns
the LORD your God is giving you to live in
that wicked men have arisen among you
and have led the people of their town astray,
saying, "Let us go and worship other gods"
(gods you have not known), then you must
inquire, probe and investigate it thoroughly.
Deuteronomy 13:12-14 *** NIV

CONSIDER THESE WORDS:
There were many catastrophies averted
because someone took time to investigate
facts and listen to both sides of the issue.

WISDOM DICTATES:
Our loving Lord taught His people that the cost
of listening is not nearly as great as the cost
of jumping to wrong conclusions.
By this method, the wisdom of God is honored!

Lest judgment should be based on wrong conclusion,
Distinguish right from vain and carnal pleading;
The world is rife with error and confusion;
Rely alone on God the Spirit's leading.

Jumping to wrong conclusions is one of the
greatest of all dangers. :mrgreen:


Today's Reading - Proverbs 5

[Eleanor]

In the beginning God created
the heaven and the earth.
Genesis 1:1 *** KJV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT! :roll:
In awe we wonder what went on before
"the beginning."
However, with breathless praise we marvel
at the words "God created the heavens
and the earth." We read and we stand in
adoration.
"Nothing" has never been so fascinating!

I sing the mighty power of God
That made the mountains rise,
That spread the flowing seas abroad
And built the lofty skies.

Nature is but a name for an effect whose
cause is God. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 6-Genesis 1

[Eleanor]

As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee
he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and
his brother Andrew.
They were casting a net into the lake, for they
were fisherman.
"Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make
you fishers of men."
At once they left their nets and followed him.
Going from there, he saw two other brothers,
James son of Zebedee and his brother John.
They were in a boat with their father Zebedee,
preparing their nets.
Jesus called them, and immediately they left
the boat and their father and followed him.
Matthew 4:18-21 *** NIV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT! :shock:
Our careers often demand much of our time
and attention.
But Jesus has an interesting way of interrupting
our business-as-usual agenda.
In fact, He invites us to join His business.

QUESTION AND ACTION: :roll:
What are you waiting for?
Drop your nets, follow Him, and let Him
make something of your life.

"Take up your cross," the Savior said,
"If you would My disciple be;
Take up your cross with willing heart
And humbly follow after Me."

Drop your nets and follow Jesus. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 7 - Matthew 4

[Eleanor]

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.
Galatians 5:22-23 *** NIV

A TO-DO LIST: :o
As you look at those character traits,
which are you needing most in your life?
1. More patience with a co-worker?
2. To be more tolerant with a child?
3. A little more gentleness towards a
relative?
4. More kindness towards a neighbor?

YOUR TO-DO LIST: :roll:
1. Spend time praying
2. Reading God's Word
The above would be a good start in
helping with your "to be" list.

The hidden person of the heart
Must take priority
Because our inner character
Determines who we'll be.

It's not what you do but who you are that's most important. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 8 - Galatians 5

[Eleanor]

Wait on the LORD; be of good courage,
and he shall strengthen thine heart.
Wait, I say, on the LORD.
Psalm 27:14 *** KJV

TAKE COURAGE!
In the Bible, the word "wait" is more an
attitude than an activity.
To "wait on the LORD" is to trust Him.

QUESTION?
1. Can you wait?
2. How well are you waiting?

Though no one knows how life will unfold,
we can decide to trust God and to focus our
mind on Him.
For those who wait on the Lord, the promise
is given: Our heart will be strengthened.

I know not what the future holds,
What in one hour may be;
But I can wait while it unfolds,
And trust implicitly.

Those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 9 - Psalm 27

[Eleanor]

Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy
in the God of my salvation.
The LORD God is my strength, and he will
make my feet like hinds feet, and he will
make me walk upon mine high places.
Habakkuk 3:18-19 *** KJV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
In all of life, we need the strength and
supply of our God.
1. He alone can give us "feet" that are
strong.
2. He alone can equip us for all of the
uncertainties of life.
3. He alone is our strength.

In You, O Lord, I take delight.
My every need You will supply;
I long to do what's true and right.
So, Lord, on You I will rely.

We always have enough when God is our supply. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 10 - Philippians 4

[Eleanor]

As it is written, There is none
righteous, no, not one:
There is none that understandeth,
there is none that seeketh after God.
Romans 3:10-11 *** KJV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT!
If you have put your faith in Christ
you can say with Paul "Blessed are
those whose lawless deeds are forgiven,
and whose sins are covered; blessed is
the man to whom the LORD shall not
impute sin."

And can it be that I should gain
An interest in the Savior's blood?
Died He for me who caused His pain?
For me, who Him to death pursued?

God's law shows us a need that only God's grace can supply. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 11 - Romans 3

[Eleanor]

And Ruth said, Entreat me not to leave
thee, or to turn away from following after
thee; for where thou goest, I will go;
and where thou lodgest, I will lodge:
thy people shall be my people, and thy
God, my God.
Ruth 1:16 *** KJV

GOOD ADVISE:
The Bible tells us that when Naomi despaired
over the loss of her husband and sons, her
daughter-in-law Ruth refused to leave her.
Instead, Ruth focused on God, her relationships,
and the future.
After a tragic loss, we should look at the
resources and relationships that remain and
trust God to use them.
This can inspire the hope of rebuilding a new
life.

Beyond the losses of this life
That cause us to despair
New hope is born within our heart
Because our God is there.

No one is hopeless whose hope is in God. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 11 - Ruth 1

[Eleanor]

But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira,
his wife, sold a possession, and kept back part
of the price, his wife also knowing of it, and
brought a certain part, and laid it at the Apostles
feet.
But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine
heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back
part of the price of the land?
While it remained, was it not thine own? And after
it was sold, was it not in thine own power?
Why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart?
Thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.
And Ananias, hearing these words fell down, and
gave up the ghost; and great fear came on all
them that heard these things.
Acts 5:1-5 *** KJV

GIVE THIS CONSIDERATION!
In the book of Acts God gave us a sobering
example of how He views dishonesty.
Some believers had sold their land and shared
all the proceeds with the church.
Ananias and Sapphira decided to do likewise.
But the couple kept some money back and
despite declaring that they had given the whole
amount.
Expecting commendation, they were struck
dead instead.[Acts 5:1-11]

HOW WOULD YOU RESPOND?
If we are completely honest with ourselves,
can we say that we are completely honest before God?

Lord, by Your Spirit grant that we
In word and deed may honest be;
All falsehood we would cast aside,
From You, O Lord, we cannot hide.

There are no degrees of honesty. :mrgreen:

Reading for today - Proverbs 11 - Acts 5

[Agustine]

Thanks, my Sister in the Lord. The last word about rest, was directed to me, as I'm losing focus, because of work related stuff. I praise Jesus for you!

In his grip, Andre.

[Eleanor]

Andre;
:( Don't allow the enemy to cause you to loss focus! That is his plan, and after you have missed the mark, he will present a "much better program" to you so he thinks you must find your place quickly otherwise he will surely distract you the more with discouragement and all sorts of "things."
His goal is to take you in and on the wrong path...... :o that's his game.
Even in the job area, don't foget, he is tricky and any time he can get your "focus" on something else, he got ya!
Surely, I will pray for you, be encouraged, don't let the green grass fool you. :roll:

Get back in focus........ ;)

[Eleanor]

In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust;
let me never be put to confusion.
Deliver me in thy righteousness, and
cause me to escape; incline thine ear
unto me, and save me.
Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto
I may continually resort. Thou has given
commandment to save me; for thou
art my rock and my fortress.
Psalm 71:1-3 *** KJV

GIVE THOUGHT!
All of us know the feeling of being overwhelmed.
When the present is daunting and the past is
haunting, where can we turn for release?
Read what David said in Psalm 71:2-3
"God is our hope, our trust and our hiding place
in the storms of life." - vv. 5-8

A little sancturay art Thou to me;
O Jesus Christ, beloved, I live with Thee;
My heart has found its everlasting home,
Its sure abiding place where ever I roam.

ATT: Few people can affort a mansion, but everyone
who knows the Lord can find refuge and peace in
His abiding presence.

When we put our problems in God's hands, He puts His peace in our hearts. :mrgreen:

Today's reading - Proverbs 14 - Psalm 71

[Eleanor]

And they said, The Lord hath need of him.
Luke 19:34 *** KJV

WHAT ARE YOU DOING?
1. Perhaps your work will be one brief task,
like the donkey's single act of service.
2. Or it may be some activity that will fully
occupy your years until your Master calls
you home.
3. It maybe an opportunity to share your faith
with someone, to intercede for him, or to
love him through quiet acts of mercy, friendly
visits, or to extend some small courtesy.
"There will always be something for you to do"

THE QUESTION IS.....
Will you be ready when He needs you?

I'm available for God to use me,
Available, if God should choose me;
Should it be now or then it doesn't matter when;
I want to see lost souls be born again.

God has work for all of His children, regardless of age or ability. :mrgreen:


Today's Reading - Proverbs 15 - Luke 19

[Eleanor]

Tell ye the daughter of Zion, Behold, thy King
cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an
ass, and a colt, the foal of an ass.
Matthew 21:5 *** KJV

WHAT CHANGED?
Jesus, the righteous One.
Think about Jesus' up-and-down week in Jerusalem.
Then praise Him for his perfection and His love,
love that took Him all the way to the Cross.

Jesus, Thou art my righteousness,
For all my sins were Thine;
Thy death hath bought of God my peace,
Thy life hath made Him mine.

The nail-pierced hands of Jesus reveal the love-filled heart of God. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 16 - Matthew 21

[Eleanor]

And when he was entered into the house
from the people his disciples asked him
concerning the parable.
And he said, That which cometh out of the man,
that defileth the man.
For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed
evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,
thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit,
lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride,
foolisshness.
All these evil things come from within,and defile
the man.
Mark 7:17, 20-23 *** KJV

HEART CHECK! :o
If we're not careful, we can become absorbed
with looking good on the outside and forget
what really counts.
In fact, when we get to the place where we
are keeping all the "right" rules, we may become
proud of ourselves and judgmental toward others.
So, don't miss the point! Remember, it's the
things on the inside, your heart, your thoughts,
your attitude that really matters.

What matters to Jesus is what's on the inside. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 17 - Mark 7

[Eleanor]

For I could wish that I myself were
accursed from Christ for my brethren,
my kinsmen according to the flesh.
Romans 9:3 *** KJV

A LOVE FOR SOULS
May we likewish embrace this passion
for the eternal souls of men and women.

Rescue the perishing, duty demands it,
Strength for thy labor the Lord will provide;
Back to the narrow way patiently win them,
Tell the poor wanderer a Savior has died.

The cross reveals God's heart for the lost. :mrgreen:

Todays' Reading - Proverbs 18 - Romans 9

[Eleanor]

Surely he hath borne our griefs, and
carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem
him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
But he was wounded for our transgressions,
he was bruised for our iniquities:
the chastisement of our peace was upon him;
and with his stripes we are healed.
Isaiah 53:4-5 *** KJV

A FRAGILE LAMB
While we adults tried to make sacred
memories out of Easter traditions, a 3-year
old made a sacred moment for us.
She reminded us that Easter is about the
perfect Lamb of God, broken so that we
can be whole.
Her youthful wisdom reminds me of the
words we recall at communion: "This is My body
which is broken for you......"

See, from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down;
Did ever such love and sorrow meet
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

Nothing speaks more clearly of God's love than the cross. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 19 - Isaiah 53

[Eleanor]

Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it,
and smote the high priest's servant, and cut
off his right ear.
The servant's name was Malchus.
Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy
sword into the sheath; the cup which my
Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?
John 18:10-11 *** KJV

WHO HOLDS THE CUP?
Are you being called to taste some bitter
cup of pain or loss?
Are you tempted to push it away?
You may be wondering, "is God in this
situation? If so, recall the dark and
distressing experience of Jesus and
His example on the night of His betrayal.

THINK ON THIS....
Are you baffled by the mystery of such love,
we take our stand on Calvary and believe that
any cup we drink is held to our lips by the
Father of fathomless love and wisdom.
Our prayer is that of trustful submission because
we believe that even life's most bitter cup is held
in the Father's hand.

Death and the curse were in our cup
O Christ, "it was full for Thee!"
But Thou hast drained the last dark drop,
Now blessings there for me.

We learn the lesson of trust in the school of trial. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 20 - John 18

[Eleanor]

And one of the malefactors who were hanged
railed at him, saying, If thou be the Christ,
save thyself and us.
But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying,
Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the
same condemnation?
And we, indeed, justly; for we receive the due
reward of our deeds. But this man hath done
nothing amiss.
And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me
when thou comest into thy kingdom.
And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto
thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise
Luke 23:39-43 *** KJV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT! :roll:
At Golgotha, an unnamed thief believed that
message just in time. He understood that eternal
life had nothing to do with what he had done,
good or bad.
It had to do with what Jesus was doing - giving
His own life so that even the undeserving could
be welcomed into heaven by God.

WHAT COUNTS? :o
The important thing is being remembered not by
others, but by God.

Bearing shame and scoffing rude,
In my place condemned He stood,
Sealed my pardon with His blood:
Hallelujah, what a Savior!

Our lives matter because God loves us! :mrgreen:

Today's reading - Proverbs 21 - Luke 23:42

[Eleanor]

For the invisible things of him from
the creation of the world are clearly
seen, being understood by the things
that are made, even his eternal power
and Godhead, so that they are without
excuse;
Romans 1:19-20 *** KJV

A VIRTUOSO IGNORED
God knows what it feels like to be ignored.
He has sovereignly planted evidence of His
existence in the very nature of man.
And creation delivers an unmistakable message
about His creativity, beauty, power, and
character.
Although God has reveled His majesty, many
refuse to acknowledge and thank Him.
But God will hold everyone responsible for
ignoring who He is and what He has revealed:
Let us acknowledge and thank the Virtuoso
of heaven, who has wonderfully revealed Himself
to us.

The treasures of the crystal snows,
And all the wonders nature shows,
Speak of a mighty Maker's hand
That all in love and wisdom planned.

All cretion is an outstretched finger pointing toward God. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 22 - Romans 1

[Eleanor]

Blessed be the God and Father of our
Lord Jesus Christ, who, according to his
abundant mercy, hath begotten us again
unto a lively hope by the resurrection of
Jesus Christ from the dead.
1 Peter 1:3 *** KJV

WE BELIEVE! ;)
In an infinitely more important way, this is
what we have in Jesus' bodily resurrection
from the dead.
Christ defeated death on mortality's own turf,
declaring the power of God to give us new life
and hope.
No other event in human history is more
significant. No othere event is so full of
immediate hope and ultimate victory for
the saints in Christ Jesus.

Jesus Christ today is risen,
And over death triumphant reigns;
He has burst the grave's strong prison,
Leading sin herself in chains.

Christ's resurrection is the bud of promise,
our resurrection is the flower of fulfillment! :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 23/1 Peter 1

[Eleanor]

May I never boast except in the cross
of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which
the world has been crucified to me, and
I to the world.
Galatians 6:14-15 *** NIV

JUST JEWELRY!
While wearing the cross may be a challenging
mark of discipleship, far more challenging is our
Lord's command that we "take up our cross daily"
and learn what it means to follow in His footsteps.
This also includes a willingness to practice
costly discipleship.

"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?

Because Jesus bore the cross for us,
we should be willing to take it up for Him. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 24-Galatians 6

[Eleanor]

Why seek ye the living among the dead?
Luke 24:5b *** KJV

LISTEN UP!
Assault on our faith and on the Scriptures
come and go. Don't be shaken by these
baseless attacks.
Just stand in that sort of non-sense and
grow thereby...... :(

Up from the grave He arose,
With a mighty triumph over His foes;
He arose a Victor from the dark domain,
And He lives forever with His saints to reign.

The resurrection is a fact of history
that demands a response of faith. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 25 - Luke 24

[Eleanor]

Then the eleven disciples went away
into Galilee, into a mountain where
Jesus had appointed them, and when
they saw him they worshiped him,
but some doubted.
Matthew 28:16-17 *** KJV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT!
What do we doubt about Jesus today?
Does our experience tell us that our
past mistakes, present struggles, or
future prospects can't be changed?
With fresh memories of Easter, let's
trust that He can do all things.

Where Jesus reigns there is no fear,
No restless doubt, no hopeless tear,
No raging sea nor tempest dread,
But quietness and calm instead.

One look to Calvary can dispel your doubts. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 26 - Matthew 28

[Eleanor]

Father the hour is come, glorify thy
Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee.
As thou hast given him power over all
flesh, that he should give eternal life to
as many as thou hast given him.
And this is life eternal, that they might know
thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ,
whom thou hast sent.
John 17:1-3 *** KJV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT!
1. Do we decide who God is by taking a poll?
2. Is He a being we can make up as we go along?

This create-your-own deity idea is increasingly
popular today.
However, there is one historical confession of
faith that says: "God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal,
and unchangeable in His being, wisdom, power,
holiness, justice, and truth."
Find out who God really is and establish a relationship
through Jesus.
Then trust and obey the one true God.

The gods of this world are empty and vain,
They cannot give peace to one's heart;
The living and true One deserves all our love,
From Him may we never depart.

The infinite God cannot be measured by finite man. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 27 - John 17

[Eleanor]

I have come into the world as a light,
so that no one who believes in me
should stay in darkness.
John 12:46 *** NIV

ARE YOU LISTENING? :(
Jesus calls us "out of darkness"
and He promises that whoever
believes in Him will not stay in
the dark.

Our search for truth is hindered by
The darkness of the night,
Until the Bright and Morning Star
Reveals His brilliant light.

Faith in Christ is not a leap into
the dark; it's a step into the Light. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 28 - John 12

[Eleanor]

For you were once darkness, but now
you are light in the Lord.
For it is shameful even to mention what
the disobedient do in secret.
Ephesians 5:8, 12 *** NIV

THE ASSIGNMENT:
Our responsibility is to expose evil by
living a life of "goodness, righteousness
and truth." and by not taking part in
"the unfruitful works of darkness."

Lord, keep us from entanglements
That choke Your Spirit's work within,
So we can then reflect Your light
Into a world that's dark with sin.

Children of the light will not be comfortable
in the dark. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 29 - Ephesians 5

[Eleanor]

I have planted, Apollos watered,
but God gave the increase.
Now he that planteth and he that
watereth are one; and every man
shall receive his own reward according
to his own labor.
1 Corinthians 3:6, 8 *** KJV

:roll: GIVE THIS THOUGHT!
"It is amazing what can be accomplished
when we don't care who gets the credit."

This is a lesson in humility and one that
reminds us of the richness of serving God.

God often uses lowly things
His purpose to fulfill,
Because it takes a humble heart
To carry out His will."

Pride and grace cannot dwell in the same place. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 30 - 1 Corinthians 3

[Eleanor]

Behold, I stand at the door, and knock:
If any man hear my voice, and open
the door, I will come in to him, and
will sup with him, and he with me.
To him that overcometh will I grant
to sit with me in my throne, even as
I also overcame, and am set down
with my Father in His throne.
He that hath an ear, let him hear
what the Spirit saith unto the
Churches.
Revelation 3:20-22 *** KJV

LISTEN UP!
As wonderful as this is, I need to warn
you that it may be a little unsettling.
Your heart is no doubt harboring a few
things that Christ will want to deal with.
But there is nothing that is more
valuable than intimacy with the Lord.
Therefore, welcome Jesus into your
heart and He will clear out the clutter
until the air is fragrant and fresh
with the purity, power, and pleasure
of His presence.

KNOCK-KNOCK
Who's knocking at your heart's door?
If it's Jesus, how wonderful that is!

Sweetest of all of life's blessings,
Communion with Christ above,
Assured of His constant presence,
His matchless, eternal love.

Jesus is standing at the door of your heart
welcome Him in! :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 31 - Revelation 3

[Eleanor]

Let your light so shine before men,
that they may see your good works,
and glorify your Father, who is in
heaven.
Matthew 5:16*** KJV

DO THIS......
Jesus calls believers to be "salt"
and to "Let your light so shine..."[Matt.16]
With Jesus in the driver's seat of our
lives, we can show off the love and
glory of God.

Called to be salt and light in this world,
Called to preserve and to shine,
Called to reflect the glory of God,
Oh, what a calling is mine!

Don't let Satan manage the details of your life. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Matthew 5

[Eleanor]

Therefore, I say unto you, take no thought,
for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye
shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye
shall put on.
Is not the life more than meat and the body
than raiment?
Behold, the fowls of the air; for they sow not,
neither do they reap nor gather into barns,
yet your heavenly Father feedeth them.
Are ye not much better than they?
Matthew 6:25-26 *** KJV

SEARCH YOURSELF....
When concern for our own well-being leads
to anxious thoughts, we can look at the birds
and be assured of our value to God and of
His care for us.

I sing because I'm happy,
I sing because I'm free,
For His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know He watches me.

We need not fear the perils around us because
the eye of the Lord is always upon us. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading---Matthew 6

[Eleanor]

In his heart a man plans his course,
but the LORD determines his steps.
Proverbs 16:9 *** NIV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT!
Do we seek ministry in life's unplanned
schedule changes?
Do we turn detours into guided tours
of what the Lord wants to do through us?

WELL.......
If we're doing God's will, we'll be in
the right place. Then, wherever we
are, we can point people to Him.

Sometimes our plan does not unfold
The way we thought it would;
But God is always in control
To use it for our good.

Unexpected changes are opportunities in disguise. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Proverbs 16

[Eleanor]

For the LORD gives wisdom,
and from his mouth come
knowledge and understanding.
He holds victory in store for
the upright, he is a shield to
those whose walk is blameless,
for he guards the course of the
just and protects the way of his
faithful ones.
Proverbs 2:6-8 *** NIV

CHECK-UP TIME! :oops:
1. Do you check to be sure you're
following God's priorities?
2. Are you giving to the Lord and
to others?
3. Do you take good care of your
family needs?

Obedience to God is important, it
will give Him the opportunity to
draw closer to us and bless us.

When you're facing a decision
And it seems a daunting task,
Trust the Lord for true discernment,
He'll give wisdom if you ask.

The closer we walk with God,
the clearer we see His guidance. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Proverbs 2

[Eleanor]

Then Simon Peter answered him,
LORD, to whom shall we go? thou
hast the words of eternal life.
And we believe and are sure that
thou art that Christ, the Son of
the living God.
John 6:68-69 *** KJV

LOOKING FOR SMARTS? :shock:
In a world swamped with confusing
and contradictory information, we can,
like Peter, turn to Christ for wisdom.
He cuts through the words of confusion
with words of life.

There's so much wisdom to be learned,
So many ways for me to grow,
Lord, I would listen like a child,
And learn what You would have me know.

If you want to be wise, listen to Jesus. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: John 6

[Eleanor]

And the LORD God formed man of the dust
of the ground, and breathed into his
nostrils the breath of life, and man became
a living soul.
And the LORD God took the man, and put
him into the garden of Eden to dress it
and to keep it.
Genesis 2:7, 15 *** KJV

WE HAVE A TASK TO DO :o
We are to care for and guard God's creation
as responsible stewards.
The words "tend" and "keep" mean "to cultivate
as servants." - That's us!

The natural world that God has made
Must not be used at whim;
We serve as stewards of His earth,
Responsible to Him.

To mistreat God's creation is to offend the Creator. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Genesis 2

[Eleanor]

Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating
you as sons. For what son is not disciplined
by his father?
If you are not disciplined and (everyone undergoes
discipline), then you are illegitimate children and
not true sons.
Hebrews 12:7-8 *** NIV

WHY? WHY? OH, WHY?
Much fear and questioning is due to
our misunderstanding of God's dealings
with His own children.
God's discipline goes deep, but it is only
that in the end we may forget the plowing
and rejoice in the blessing of bearing much
fruit for Him.

When blades of distress cut deep in the soul,
Breaking up ground that was untouched before,
The Lord is preparing soil to bear fruit
Fit for the harvest to feed many more.

All sunshine and no rain make a desert. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Hebrews 12

[Eleanor]

I am thy servant; give me understanding,
that I may know thy testimonies.
Pssalms 119:125 *** KJV

INTEGRITY - IS IT POSSIBLE?
In our world of shifting standards, can integrity
be acquired by those who don't have it?
The answer is found in our unchanging
standard - God's Word, the Bible.

KNOW THIS!
No one is born with godly character.
But by studying God's Word and listening
to His Holy Spirit, we can learn to hate
falsehood and love integrity.

The measure of a man's character is what he
would do if he knew he never would be found out. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Psalm 119

[Eleanor]

For God, who said, "Let light shine
out of darkness," made his light shine
in our hearts to give us the light of
the knowledge of the glory of God in
the face of Christ.
But we have this treasure in jars of
clay to show that this all-surpassing
power is from God and not from us.
2 Corinthians 4:6-7 *** NIV

KNOW THIS!
Our best may not always measure up
to the standards of others. But God
takes our inadequaries and humble
efforts and uses them for His glory.

The Master can use what you have to offer,
Though you may consider it small;
His work here on earth is done through His children,
So give Him your best, give your all.

Do what you can where you are with what you have. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - 2 Corinthins 4

[Eleanor]

For it is by grace you have been saved,
through faith, and this not from yourselves,
it is the gift of God, not by works, so that
no one can boast.
For we are God's workmanship, created in
Christ Jesus to do good works, which God
prepared in advance for us to do.
Ephesians 2:8-10 *** NIV

FROM HERE TO HEAVEN! :o
In Ephesians 2:8-9, the Apostle Paul clearly
says that we do not have to "do" anything
and that salvation is a "gift of God".
As believrs, we are "created in Christ Jesus
for good works." God has tasks planned for
us to do while we are on this earth, not to
pay our debt but to honor our Savior.
Life from here to heaven is not a vacation
cruise, it's a wonderful privilege and calling
to serve God.

Must I be carried to the skies
On flowery beds of ease,
While others fought to win the prize
And sailed through bloody seas?

We are not saved by good works but for good works. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Ephesians 2

[Eleanor]

Now when they had gone throughout
Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and
were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to
preach the word in Asia.
Acts 16:7 *** KJV

LISTEN TO HIS PROMPTINGS.
As believers is Christ who are indwelt
by the Holy Spirit, our desire should be
to please Him.
May we not grieve the Holy Spirit by
ignoring His gentle promptings.
When we obey Him, we might be used
by God to lead someone to Christ,
to disciple new believers or even to help
save somebody's life.

Holy Spirit, we would hear
Your inner promptings, soft and clear;
And help us know Your still, small voice
So we may make God's will our choice.

Make the right choice: Obey the Spirit's voice. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading -- Acts 16

[Eleanor]

Thy words were found, and I did
eat them; and thy word was unto
me the joy and rejoicing of mine
heart: for I am called by thy name,
O LORD God of hosts.
Jeremiah 15:16 *** KJV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT!
1. Are we like Jeremiah with the Word of God?
2. Are we eager to communicate with Him?
3. Do we look carefully into His Word to ask,
"What did He say?"
4. Do we have that longing to hear
God speak to us through His Word?

Thy Word is a lamp to my feet,
A light to my path always
To guide and to save me from sin
And show me the heavenly way.

:mrgreen: We cannot know the heart of God
unless we have a heart for God.

Today's Reading - Jeremiah 15

[Eleanor]

Let us hold fast the profession of our
faith without wavering (for he is
faithful that promised).
And let us consider one another to
provoke unto love and to good works,
not forsaking the assembling of ourselves
together, as the manner of some is, but
exhorting one another, and so much the
more as ye see the day approaching.
Hebrews 10:23-25 *** KJV

CHEERING EACH OTHER ON.....
As we "see the Day approaching," let's keep
cheering each other on in the faith.
"Keep going! Your're almost there!
The finish line is in sight."

Help me, Lord, to reassure and stengthen
Others by the words I speak today;
I would always try to be affirming,
As our pathways cross along life's way.

Even if you have nothing else to give, you can give encourgement. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading -- Hebrews 10

[Eleanor]

When John heard in prison what Christ
was doing, he sent his disciples to
ask him, "Are you the one who was
to come, or should we expect someone
else?"
Matthew 11:2-3 *** NIV

WHEN IN DOUBT....
These questionings are not failures
of faith but tests of faith and can be
answered in John the Baptist's way:
1. We must take our doubts to Jesus.
2. In His time and in His own wise way
He will restore the confidence our hearts
desire.

Jesus didn't abandon John to his doubt.
He sent word of the miracles He performed
and the hope He preached.

But in the dark my heart is strangely blest;
Yea, in the gloom my soul obtains its rest;
For, spite of night, I find that God on high
Is near the anguished soul, wherever it lie.

Never doubt in the dark
what God has shown you in the light. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Matthew 11

[Eleanor]

But godliness with contentment is
great gain.
For we brought nothing into this world,
and it is certain we can carry nothing
out.
And having food and raiment let us be
therewith content.
1 Timothy 6:6-8 *** KJV

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST VALUE?
Jesus placed more importance on wholeheartd
love for God than on wholesale concern over
material needs.
His tranquil attitude toward money and possessions
was based on trusting His Father to supply each
day's needs.
"Your Father knows the things you have need of.

He clothes the lilies, feeds the birds;
Would He to you, then, pay less heed?
Look up to Him with prayerful heart,
He will supply your every need.

Contentment is not getting what we want,
but being satisfied with what we have. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- 1 Timothy 6

[Eleanor]

And when Joseph's brethren saw that their
father was dead, they said, Joseph will
peradventure hate us,
And Joseph said unto them, Fear not; for am I
in the place of God?
But as for you, ye thought evil against me;
but God meant it unto good, to bring to
pass, as it is this day, to save much people
alive.
Genesis 50:15, 19-20 *** KJV

DEFINING MOMENTS...
The defining moments of our lives are
not determined by the evil done to us,
but by our response through the grace
and power of God.

When rough the path from day to day,
When sorrows fill our eyes with tears,
Our choice to find our hope in Christ
Can lift our soul and calm our fears.

Let danger drive you to Jesus. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Genesis 50

[Eleanor]

Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak;
and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth.
I will publish the name of the LORD ascribe
ye greatness unto our God.
He is the Rock, his work is perfect; for all
his ways are judgment: a God of truth
and without iniquity, just and right is he.
Deuteronomy 32:1, 3 *** KJV

NOT FAIR!
I must now go back to a basic truth.
We are not the arbiters of fairness.
God is, and He knows far more than
we do about His plans and purposes.

WHAT'S NOT FAIR?
The question isn't about fairness.
In the end, it's about trust in a
faithful God who knows what He is doing.
He is the Rock, His work is perfect;
for all His ways are justice.

If you feel that blessings pass you by,
And for you life seems a bit unfair,
Just remember, Christ was born to die,
And in His great salvation you can share.

Life is not always fair, but God is always faithful. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: Deuteronomy 32

[Eleanor]

Blessed is he whose transgression
is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Psalms 32:1 *** KJV

FORGIVEN!
We should never get the idea that
our sins are taken lightly by the Lord.
But when we acknowledge our guilt
with true repentance, God is ready
to forgive because of what Jesus did
on the cross.
It's up to us to accept it.

Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small'
Love so amazing, so divine
Demands my soul, my life, my all.

When God forgives a sin, He never brings it up again. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading -- Psalm 32

[Eleanor]

When I was a child, I spake as a child,
I understood as a child, I thought as
a child; but when I became a man,
I put away childish things.
1 Corinthians 13:11 *** KJV

PRETEND!
Pretending is normal for a young
child. But some carry the habit
of pretending into adulthood.
God has placed us here to make
a difference in our world.
Some of us need to grow up and
put childish games and actions away.

Consistency! How much we need
To walk a measured pace,
To live the life of which we speak,
Until we see His face.

Some people have heaven on their tongues,
but the world in their hearts. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading ---- 1 Corinthians 13

[Aloha]

Relying on God for all our needs, is a spiritual obligation we should have, in order
to live as according to the scriptures, so well quoted in your question.

Man cannot live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth from his
mouth. Amen to that. To live! is to be dead in the flesh, but alive in the Spirit. :roll: :lol:

[Eleanor]

Aloha,
Well said.... :mrgreen:

[Eleanor]

Heaven and earth shall pass away,
but my words shall not pass away.
Mark 13:31 *** KJV

THE ENDURING WORD!
God's Word, enduring through the ages,
is still the most trusted guide for living.

The Bible stands, and it will forever
When the world has passed away;
By inspiration it has been given,
All its precepts I will obey.

Like a compass, the Bible always points
you in the right direction. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading: Mark 13

[Eleanor]

Do you not know that your body is
a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is
in you, whom you have received
from God?
You are not your own; you were
bought at a price.
Therefore honor God with your
body.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 *** NIV

RETURN ON INVESTMENT!
Getting a grip on God's great and
loving investment in us should motivate
us to gladly consider making His sacrifice
rich in dividends.
Our eyes, hands, feet, thoughts, dreams,
and desires have been purchased to reflect
the wondrous glory of God's will and wisdom.

Redemption's price our Savior paid
When all our sins on Him were laid;
He took our guilt, He bore our shame
That we may glorify His name.

Our choice to bring glory to God yields
a great return on Christ's investment. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading: 1 Corinthians 6

[Eleanor]

Both young men, and maidens;
old men, and children:
Let them praise the name of
the LORD: for his name alone
is excellent; his glory is above
the earth and heaven.
Psalm 148:12-13 *** KJV

HAPPY EARTH DAY
Consider this question.
What does it mean to "have dominion"
over the earth?

How foolish to worship the creation
when the Creator is so much greater. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Psalm 148

[Eleanor]

Therefore, my beloved brethren,
be ye steadfast unmovable,
always abounding in the work of
the Lord, forasmuch as ye know
that your labor is not in vain in
the Lord.
1 Corinthians 15:58 *** KJV

DRIVEN BY GRATITUDE
Dedicated zeal has characterized many
of our Lord's followers throughout the
years.
May a spark of that fire burn in our
own hearts.

Fill Thou my life, O Lord my God,
In every part with praise,
That my whole being may proclaim
Thy being and Thy ways.

The good news is too good to keep to yourself. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - 1 Corinthians 15

[Eleanor]

For we know that if our earthly house
of this tabernacle were dissolved, we
have a building of God, an house not
made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
Therefore we are always confident,
knowing that, whilst we are at home
in the body, we are absent from the
LORD.
2 Corinthians 5:1, 6 *** KJV

MOVING TO A NEW HOUSE.
Comfort for the loved ones of a believer
who moves away are the above words
from the Word of God.
And even more comforting is to be able
to rejoice in our sorrow knowing our
departed loved ones are now present
with the Lord.

The departure of people whom we love
Brings sorrow and deep pain;
But if our loved ones know the Lord,
Our loss becomes their gain.

:mrgreen: Because Christ lives, departing is not tragedy
but triumph.


Today's Reading --- 2 Corinthians 5

[Eleanor]

Whosoever will come after me, let him
deny himself, and take up his cross, and
follow me.
For whosoever will save his life shall lose
it; but whosoever shall lose his life for
my sake and the Gospel's, the same shall
save it.
For what shall it profit a man if he shall
gain the whole world, and lose his own
soul?
Mark 8:34-36 *** KJV

IT'S NOT A GAME!
To approach life as one big game that you
always have to win is to live in hopeless
delusion and fantasy.
While material possessions, professional
success, and personal victories are
enjoyable, they last only for this life.
Then they're all left behind....

If I have but Jesus, only Jesus,
Nothing else in all the world beside,
O then everything is mine in Jesus;
For my needs and more He will provide.

Those who live for God are the real winners in life. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading ---- Mark 8

[Eleanor]

When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers,
the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;
What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the
son of man, that thou visitest him?
For thou hast made him a little lower than the
angels, and hast crowned him with glory and
honor.
Psalm 8:3-5 *** KJV

RESPECT!
God created us in His image and crowed us
with glory and honor, having made us
"a little lower than the angels."
Out of love and reverence for Him, let us
treat ourselves and others with honor,
dignity, and respect.

Man's crowning glory lies in this:
God stamped on him His image rare;
No other creatures have that gift
Nor living things with man compare.

Even the most difficult people we know
bear the image of God. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading ---- Psalm 8

[Eleanor]

Sunday - 04-27-08:
For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways, saith
the LORD.
Isaiah 55:8 *** KJV

GOD'S REFRESHING WORD.
Scripture carried spiritual vitality.
That's why it doesn't return void.
Wherever it encounters an open heart,
it brings refreshment, nourishment,
and new life.

God's Word is like refreshing rain
That waters crops and seed;
It brings new life to open hearts,
And meets us in our need.

The Bible is to a thirsty soul what water
is to a barren land. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Isaiah 55

__________________________________________________ ___________
Monday - 04-28-08:
When Job's three friends, Eliphaz the Temanite,
Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite,
heard about all the troubles that had come
upon him, they set out from their homes and
met together to go and sympathize with him
and comfort him.
Then they sat on the ground with him for
seven days and seven night.
No one said a word to him, because they saw
how great his suffering was.
Job 2:11, 13 *** NIV

THE GREATEST GIFT!
Most often those who suffer remember the
quiet, unassuming person. Someone who
was there when needed, who listened,
who cried.
in short, someone who was available and
came on the sufferer's terms, not their own.

In our shattered times, anguish relents
Not at mere idle words spoken in vain,
But rather from the silent eloquence
Bestowed by those rare souls who share our pain.

Often, the best comfort is just being there. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Job 2

[Eleanor]

Then one of the elders asked me,
"These in white robes, who are they,
and where did they come from?"
These are they who have come out of
the great tribulation; they have washed
their robes and made them white in the
blood of the Lamb.
For the Lamb at the center of the throne
will be their shepherd; he will wipe away
every tear from their eyes.
Revelation 7:13-14, 17 *** NIV

THE LAMB IS MY SHEPHERD
It's reassuring to know that our Shepherd
will guide us safely through this life, and
that He will continue to feed and lead us
throughout eternity.

The Lord of hosts my Shepherd is,
O sweet these words to me;
And Thou, dear Lamb, will be my Guide
Throughout eternity.

The Lamb who died to save us is
the Shepherd who lives to lead us. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Revelation 7

[Eleanor]

And he said unto them, Go ye into
all the world, and preach the gospel
to every creature.
Mark 16:15 *** KJV

A PERSONAL GOSPEL
Unfortunately, we often think of the
Great Commission in terms of "foreign
missions" only.
"World missions" is perhaps a better
term, for that includes our nearest
neighbors, who are part of the world
to which God has called us.
And we are already there!

Jesus died to bring salvation
For the rich and for the poor;
Those of every tribe and nation,
He includes the ones next door.

The light that shines farthest, shines brightest at home. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading ---- Mark 16

[Eleanor]

I will bless the LORD at all times:
his praise shall continually be in
my mouth.
My soul shall make her boast in
the LORD;
the humble shall hear thereof,
and be glad.
O magnify the LORD with me, and let us
exalt his name together.
I sought the LORD, and he heard me,
and delivered me from all my fears.
Psalm 34:1-4 *** KJV

HE'S WAITING!
The Lord welcomes our worship, our prayer,
our praise. He has told us in His Word to
pray all the time.
He listens attentively for our call, our cry,
our prayer.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT.
How often does He wait in vain for
your call?

We can know that God is watching,
Always present, everywhere,
And with hope, joy and patience
He is waiting for our prayer.

Talk with God, He longs to hear from you. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Psalm 34

[Eleanor]

And when David heard that Nabal was dead,
he said, Blessed be the LORD, that hath
pleaded the cause of my reproach from the
hand of Nabal, and hath kept his servant
from evil: the LORD hath returned the
wickedness of Nabal upon his own head.
1 Samuel 25:39 *** KJV

NO GOOD DEED! :(
Perhaps you've had an experience when
kindness was repaid with ingratitude,
a generous gift was treated as an entitlement,
kind actions were interpreted as an attemp
to control, or well-intended advice was
received with scorn?
Listen, even when it seems as if we're being
repaid with evil for doing good, we don't
have to take matters into our own hands;
we can trust God with the outcome........

This is my Father's world,
O let me never forget
That though the wrong seems often so strong
God is the Ruler yet.

One day God will right every wrong. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- 1 Samuel 25

[Eleanor]

But what things were gain to me, those I
counted loss for Christ.
Yea doubtless, and I count all things but
loss for the excellency of the knowledge
of Christ Jesus my LORD: for whom I have
suffered the loss of of all things, and do
count them but dung, that I may win Christ.
Philippians 3:7-8 *** KJV

GUESS WHAT? :shock:
There are people within your sphere
of influence whose lives you can impact
for God.
He has placed them within your reach
to be a witness to point them to Jesus.

Let my hands perform His bidding,
Let my feet run in His ways,
Let my eyes see Jesus only,
Let my lips speak forth His praise.

Only one life, that will soon be past;
only what's done for Christ will last. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Philippians 3

[Eleanor]

Let not your heart be troubled;
ye believe in God, believe also in me.
In my Father's house are many mansions;
if it were not so, I would have told you.
I go to prepare a plce for you.
John 14:1-2 *** KJV

THE ASCENSION
The Bible says: Jesus ascended bodily into
heaven "our entrance to secure, and our
abode to prepare."
That is true. But it's also true that as God,
He is always spiritually present with us and
will be "to the end of the age."
What a wonderful Savior we have!

AN EXTRA GOODIE
In His glorified human body, the Lord Jesus
ascended, entered heaven, sat down at the
right hand of God, sent the Holy Spirit and
now intercedes for us.
He permeates the whole Universe with
His spiritual presence and power.
Now, that's sure 'nough good news also!

Jesus went away so the Holy Spirit could come to stay. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- John 14

[Eleanor]

Monday - 05-05-08:
Bow down thine ear, O LORD, hear me;
for I am poor and needy.
Preserve my soul; for I am holy.
O thou my God, save thy servant who
trusteth in thee.
Psalm 86:1-2 *** KJV

THE DEBT OF LEADERSHIP.
All of us who are in a leadership position,
whether leading a family, a church, a classroom
or a business - need the humble words of
Psalm 86 as our guide.
The "poor and needy" servant-leader who
trusts God is the one who, in the end,
can say as David did: "You, LORD, have
helped me and comforted me."

Controlling other people's lives
Is not a godly leader's trait;
But serving other people's needs
Is what the Lord considers great.

The only leaders qualified to lead are those
who have learned to serve. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Psalm 86


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday - 05-06-08:
But they that wait upon the LORD shall
renew their strength; they shall mount up
with wings like eagles; they shall run, and
not be weary; and they shall walk, and not
faint.
Isaiah 40:31 *** KJV

ANTI-AGING POWER!
Isaiah used the eagle as a symbol of freedom
and endurance, held aloft by a source of
power outside itself.
Are we taking advantage of God's anti-aging
power?
It's promised to all who put their trust in Him
for strength of heart, vigor of spirit, and
energy of soul.

The ravages of time cannot be stopped;
Yes, outwardly we perish every day;
But inner strength of heart can be renewed,
By trusting in the Lord to light our way.

Growing old is a blessing when you're growing closer to God. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Isaiah 40

[Eleanor]

So in everything, do to others
what you would have them do
to you, for this sums up the Law
and the Prophets
Matthew 7:12 *** NIV

DO UNTO OTHERS!
Jesus gave His disciples the
secret to fulfilling the entire
Old Testamet relational regulations:
love others and live for their benefit.
If we are Jesus-followers, let's walk
in His steps, loving others!

Love is an attitude, love is a prayer,
For someone in sorrow, a heart in despair;
Love is good will for the gain of another,
Love suffers long with the fault of a brother.

Love is the debt we owe one another. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading ---- Matthew 7

[Eleanor]

Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another;
be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionte
and humble.
Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult,
but with blessing, because to this you were
called so that you may inherit a blessing.
1 Peter 3:8-10 *** NIV

MOODY ARTWORK!
Following God's instructions may be difficult for
us on a day when we feel cranky.
By depending on the Holy Spirit, we can have a
positive impact on everyone we meet, even if
all we do is smile or listen.

My life will touch a dozen lives
Before this day is done,
Leave countless marks for good or ill
Before the setting sun.

A heart touched by grace brings joy to the face. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading **** 1 Peter 3

[Eleanor]

This is what the LORD says:
Stand at the crossroads and look;
ask for the ancient paths, ask
where the good way is, and walk
in it.
Jeremiah 6:16 *** NIV

THE OLE' WAY!
Most of us wouldn't want to return
to the old-fashioned ways. And most
likely we wouldn't.
But the good news is, today we can still
find rest and peace in Jesus, our eternal
source of truth.

Upon Thy Word I rest, so strong, so sure;
So full of comfort blest, so sweet, so pure,
Thy Word that change not, that faileth never!
My King, I rest upon Thy Word forever.

The old truth of God's Word is ever new. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Jseremiah 6

[Eleanor]

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit
comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in
Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to
the ends of the earth.
Acts 1:8 *** NIV

THE POWER OF PENTECOST.
The Holy Spirit's presence and power can
be evidenced in a willing heart.
The power of Pentecost is not especially
reserved for the highly gifted.
Rather, He is available to all believers
in Christ who want to serve Him.

God's guidance and help that we need day to day,
Are given to all who believe;
The Spirit has come and He is the source
Of power that we can receive.

The power of God's Spirit gives power to our witness. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Acts 1

[Eleanor]

A wife of noble character, who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
Her children arise and call her blessed:
her husband also, and he praises her.
Many women do noble things, but you
surpass them all.
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be
praised.
Proverbs 31:10-11, 28-30 *** NIV

BEST MUM...
On this special day, may we thank God for the
mothers who have molded our hearts. As we
honor them, we fulfill the truth of Prov. 31:28:
"Her children rise up and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her."

A Christian mother's love contains
A gospel all its own,
Because the King of love has found
Her heart and ample throne.

Nothing touches a child like a mother's love. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Proverbs 31

[Eleanor]

Give ear, O my people, to my law:
incline your ears to the words of
my mouth.
That the generation to come might
know them: even the children which
should be born; also should arise and
declare them to their children.
That they might know the works of God,
and not forget the works of God, but keep
his commandments.
Psalm 78:1, 6-7 *** KJV

A CHILD'S WONDER!
The community of faith has always had
the responsibility to nurture the talent
of the younger generation and to orient
their lives to the Lord.
Finding ways to encourage children's love
for learning while establishing them in the
faith is an important investment in the
furture.

Our children are a gift from God
On loan from heaven above,
To train and nourish in the Lord,
And show to them His love.

We shape tomorrow's world by what we teach our children today. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Psalm 78

[Eleanor]

As an eagle stirreth up her nest,
fluttereth over her young, spreadeth
abroad her wings, taketh them,
beareth them on her wings:
So the LORD alone did lead him,
and there was no strange god with
him.
Deuteronomy 32:11-12 *** KJV

REFRAMING THE PICTURE
Moses used eagle imagery to describe God.
As eagles carry their young, God carries
His people. Despite how it may seem
"God is not far from each one of us."
This is true even when we feel abandoned.

Under His wings I am safely abiding:
Though the night deepens and tempests are wild,
Still I can trust Him - I know He will keep me;
He has redeemed me and I am His child.

Because the Lord is watching over us,
we don't have to fear the dangers around us. :mrgreen:

Todasy's Reading ---- Deuteronomy 32

[Eleanor]

In the beginning God created
the heaven and the earth. :mrgreen:
Genesis 1:1 *** KJV

NOW WHERE DO YOU GO?

:o :( :roll: :? :(

Today's Reading *** Genesis 1

[Eleanor]

For as the heavens are higher than the
earth, so are my ways higher than your
ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Isaiah 55:9 *** KJV

SURPRISE ME!
What kind of God do we serve?
1. He who is not confined by our
finite imagination.
2. God's thoughts and ways are
not like ours.
3. He wants to bless us with far
more than a special flavor of ice cream.
4. He delights in His children who
trust Him and are willing to say,
"Surprise m, Lord!"

O Lord, give me the grace to be
Content with what You give to me.
No! More than that, let me rejoice
In all You send me.

Those who let God provide will always be satisfied. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Isaiah 55

[Eleanor]

Therefore each of you must put
off falsehood and speak truthfully
to his neighbor, for we are all
members of one body.
Ephesians 5:25 *** NIV

DRAGON SKIN! :o
Receiving God's gift of salvation
through Christ is a one-time event,
but to become like hIm often requires
suffering and struggle.
It involves putting off old sinful habits
and replacing them with new godly ones.
The process is painful, but it's always
worth it.

To be like Jesus is our goal,
Though it doesn't happen fast;
We trust the Spirit as our Guide
Till we're glorified at last.

The conversion of a soul is the miracle of a moment;
the growth of a saint is the work of a lifetime. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading **** Ephesians 4

[Eleanor]

But I trust in you, O LORD:
I say, "You are my God."
My times are in your hands:
Psalm 31:14-15 *** NIV

SEIZE THE DAY!
Life changes when you least expect it to.
The future is uncertain. So, seize this day
seize this moment, and make the most of it.
It may be that "today" this very day, could
be the last one in our time here on earth.
Today may be your last opportunity to
accept God's gift of salvation.
Dont delaly any longer, seize the opportunity
that God gives you today.
The signs of His coming are everywhere, LOOK AROUND YOU!

Redeem the time - God only knows
How soon our little life may close;
As every passing moment flows,
Redeem the time!

Plan as though you'll be living for a century;
live as though you'll be leaving today. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Psalm 31

[Eleanor]

For the Word of God is quick, and powerful,
and sharper than any two-edged sword,
piercing even to the dividing asunder of
soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow,
and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents
of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12 *** KJV

A QUESTION OF MOTIVE! :(
When we find ourselves ready to judge
another person's motives, let's pause
and remember - only God can see the
heart, and only His Word can expose
its motives.
Our responsibility is to let the Lord and
His Word convict us about our own hearts.

The Bible is a lamp from God,
A sword of truth and light;
It searches heart and soul and mind,
And helps us know what's right.

People will be judged by the way God sees them
not by the way we see them. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Hebrews 4

[Eleanor]

And we know that all things work
together for good to them that
love God, to them who are the called
according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28 *** KJV

PRODUCTIVE PAIN! :cry:
1. Are we self-sufficient?
God may need to strip away our security
to conform us to the God-sufficiency that
Christ displayed.
2. Are we faithless?
It may require a tragedy to teach us to
trust the Father as Jesus did.

PRODUCTIVE GAIN! :D
1. The good news is...
The next time you feel broken, don't panic,
praise Him! God is at work!

Life's fractures can be mended
By faith in Christ the Lord
At first the pain but then the gain
And usefulness restored.

God's purpose in pain is to brand His image in our hearts. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading - Romans 8

[Eleanor]

And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled
man with him until the breaking of the day.
And when he saw that he prevailed not against
him, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and
the hollow of Jacob's thigh was out of joint,
as he wrestled with him.
Genesis 32:24-25 *** KJV

GOD'S STRONG HANDS.
When we have turned away from God,
He alone can turn us around.
What we have destroyed, God can rebuild.
Christ in the strong hands of God can conquer
the defections of sin. This is the gospel.
We must learn to wait on God! See what His
strong hands will fashion out of our defection.

Though weak and helpless in life's fray
God's mighty power shall be our stay;
Without, within, He'll set us free,
His strength will give us victory.

There is victory in surrender when we
are conquered by Christ. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Genesis 32

[Eleanor]

Thy word have I hid in mine heart,
that I might not sin against thee.
Psalm 119:11 *** KJV

SPELLING BEE. :D
As believers in Jesus Christ, it's vital
for us to know God's Word, the Bible:
1. It keeps our spiritual walk from slipping.
2. It satisfies the hunger of our souls.
3. It is a key weapon in facing temptations
and trials.
Therefore, let's make it our aim to know
the Word.

My hunger for the truth He satisfies;
Upon the Word, the Living Bread, I feed;
No parching thirst I know, because His grace,
A pool of endless depth, supplies my need.

To the wise, God's Word is sufficient. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Psalm 119:9-16

[Eleanor]

You then, my son be strong in the grace
that is in Christ Jesus.
And the things you have heard me say
in the presence of many witnesses entrust
to reliable men who will aslo be qualified to
teach others.
2 Timothy 2:1-2 *** NIV

THE NEXT GENERATION. :shock:
This is really food for thought!
Are we living only for today and the short term,
or are we giving ourselves to others who will
continue the faith after our race is run?
Living for Christ and making disciples are all
about "The Next Generation."

Day by day perform your mission,
With Christ's help keep at your tasks;
Be encourated by His presence,
Faithfulness is all He asks.

We influence future generations by living for Christ today. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading *** 2 Timothy 2

[Eleanor]

O come, let us worship and bow down:
let us kneel before the LORD our
maker.
For he is our God: and we are the
people of his pasture, and the sheep
of his hand. To day if ye will hear
his voice,
Harden not your heart, as in the
provocation, and as in the day
of temptation in the wilderness:
Psalm 95:6-8 *** KJV

HEART DISEASE. :o
It's crucial to follow our doctor's orders
to keep our arteries from hardening.
But it's even more crucial to obey God
to keep our hearts from becoming hardened
to the needs of others.

MAKE A REQUEST. :(
Ask the Lord to bring to mind a person
who needs the help of someone with a
soft heart.

If I can right a human wrong,
If I can help to make one strong,
If I can cheer with smile or song,
Lord, show me how.

To love Christ is to have a heart for others. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Psalm 95

[Eleanor]

And he said unto them, Take heed,
and beware of covetourness, for a
man's life consisteth not in the abundance
of the things which he possesseth.
Luke 12:15 *** KJV

GETTING WHAT YOU WANT!
Jesus said:
"Take heed and beware of covetousness"
because one day, like the rich fool in the parable in
Luke 12: we will leave it all behind.
That's when we'll have more than we ever dreamed of.
In the meantime, God promises to care for our needs
no matter what the circumstances.
And that's no secret!

I know not by what methods rare
The Lord provides for me;
I only know that all my needs
He meets so graciously.

God has promised to supply all our needs, not all our wants. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Luke 12

[Eleanor]

But Barnabas took him, and brought
him to the apostles, and declared unto
them how he had seen the Lord in the
way, and that he had spoken to him,
and how he had preached boldly at
Damascus in the name of Jesus.
Acts 9:27 --- KJV

BUILDING BRIDGES
Saul (Paul) needed someone to come alongside
him to encourage and teach him, and to introduce
him to other believers. Barnabas was that bridge.
New believers need a "Barnabas" in their lives.

DO YOU WANT TO BE A BRIDGE?
Ask the Lord to help you find ways that
you can be a bridge in the lives of others.

Oh, I would be to others
A cheering ray of light,
Inspiring them with courage
To climb some new found height!

Be a bridge of encourgement to someone today. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading *** Acts 9

[Eleanor]

Your sun will never set again;
and your moon will wane no more;
the LORD will be your everlasting light,
and your days of sorrow will end.
Isaiah 60:20 *** NIV

GONE THE SUN.
For those who follow Jesus, the strain
of "Taps" are not a funeral dirge but
a song of hope.
"The days of your mourning shall
be ended."
All is well. God is nigh....... :D

Sunset in one land is sunrise in another. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading *** Isaiah 60

[Eleanor]

Be still and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the heathen,
I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 48:10 *** KJV

CAN WE REALLY HEAR FROM GOD? :(
I'm more convinced than ever that God finds
ways to communicate to those who truly
seek Him, especially when we lower the
volume of the surrounding static.

Speak, Lord, in the stillness,
while I wait on Thee;
Hushed my heart to listen,
in expectancy.

God speaks to those who are quiet before Him. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading --- Psalm 46:10

[Eleanor]

Do not merely listen to the word,
and so deceive yourselves. Do what
it says.
But the man who looks intently into
the perfect law that gives freedom,
and continues to do this, not forgetting
what he has heard, but doing it, he will
be blessed in what he does.
James 1:22, 25 *** NIV

ARE WE LISTENING? :(
How woiuld you respond if God began
to speak to you on your radio?
We can be thankful that God does speak
to us, not on the radio but in the Scriptures.
May we be wise enough to listen and obey.

Instill within my heart, dear Lord,
A deep desire to know Your Word;
I want to learn to hear Your voice
So that Your will becomes my choice.

In God's works we see His hand; in His Word we hear His heart. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading *** James 1

[Eleanor]

Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God,
believe also in me.
In my Father's house are many mansioins, if it
were not so, I would have told you. I go to
prepare a place for you.
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will
come again, and receive you unto myself, that
where I am, there ye may be also.
John 14:1-3 *** KJV

FINALLY HOME.
Someday, those of us who have trusted
Jesus Christ as our personal Savior will
leave this life and go to the place He has
prepared for us.
The journey may be difficult or uncomfortable,
but we certainly look forward to the final destination.

Of touching a hand, and finding it God's!
Of breathing new air, and finding it celestial!
Of waking up in glory, and finding it home!
When we see Jesus face to face for the first time,
we will be "finally home."

Those who love and serve God on earth
will be right at home in heaven. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading *** John 14

[Eleanor]

For by grace are ye saved through faith;
and that not of yourselves: it is the gift
of God:
Not of works, lest any man should boast.
For we are his workmanship, created in
Christ Jesus unto good works, which God
hath before ordained that we should walk
in them.
Ephesians 2:8-10 *** KJV

FROM HERE TO HEAVEN! :shock:
We as Christians have to be careful
how we view our saving faith.
We must never think, "Hey, I'm saved.
I've got eternal riches coming my way.
I don't have to do any thing for God."

FLASH, FLASH- I'VE GOT NEWS FOR YOU! :o
Life from here to heaven is not a
vacation cruise, it's a wonderful privilege
and calling to serve God...that means
soul saving work and living right!

Must I be carried to the skies
On flower beds of ease,
While others fought to win the prize
And sailed through bloody seas?

We are not saved by good works but for good works. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading *** Ephesians 2

[Eleanor]

As it is written, there is none righteous,
no, not one;
There is none that understandeth,
there is none that seeketh after God.
They are all gone out of the way,
they are together become unprofitable,
there is none that doeth good,
no, not one.
Romans 3:10-12 *** KJV

SPEEDING TICKET!
If you have put your faith in Christ,
you can say, "Blessed are those
whose lawless deeds are forgiven,
and whose sins are covered; blessed
is the man to whom the LORD shall not
impute sin."

And can it be that I should gain
As interest in the Savior's blood?
Died He for me, who caused His pain?
For me, who Him to death pursued?

God's law shows us a need that only God's grace can supply. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading *** Romans 3

[Eleanor]

We always thank God, the Father
of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we
pray for you, because we have
heard of your faith in Christ Jesus
and of the love you have for all
the saints.
Colossians 1:3-4 *** NIV

CHUMS! :)
When believers live under the lordship
of Christ, they can see their lives
intertwined in service.
By serving Christ, a spiritual camaraderie
results that transcends being "chums."
And that special relationship will continue
on into eternity!

Working together with others,
Serving the Lord day or night,
Telling the story of Jesus
Promises endless delight.

Christians stand strong when they stand together. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Colossians 1

[Eleanor]

And he saith unto them, Why are
ye fearful O ye of little faith?
Then he arose, and rebuked the
winds and the sea; and there was
a great calm.
But the men marveled, saying,
What manner of man is this,
that even the winds and the sea
obey him.?
Matthew 8:26-27 *** KJV

RISKY BUSINESS. :o
Like the disciples, the more we learn
about Jesus, the more we trust Him.
Our greatest risk is failing to depend
on Him when life seems out of control.

But we see Jesus! Oh, what peace!
What balm for troubled heart!
His very name brings rest and calm
And bids the fears depart!

Keep your eyes on Jesus and you'll soon lose
sight of your fears. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading *** Matthew 8

[Eleanor]

Whatever is has already been, and what
wil be has been before; and God will call
the past to account.
And I saw something else under the sun:
In the place of judgment, wickedness was there,
in the place of justice, wickedness was there.
I thought in my heart, God will bring to judgment
both the righteous and the wicked, for there will
be a time for every activity, a time for every deed.
Ecclesiastes 3:15-17 *** NIV

THE SEARCH FOR JUSTICE! :?
The search for justice can be satisfied
only by trusting the God who is always just.

Though sin seems to triumph and wrong conquers right
Though lies can put justice to flight,
God's truth is eternal, His Word shows His might,
And He will bring justice to light.

Someday the scales of justice will be perfectly balanced. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading *** Ecclesiastes 3

[Eleanor]

And this is love: that we walk
in obedience to his commands.
As you have heard from the
beginning, his command is that
you walk in love.
2 John 1:6 *** NIV

DON'T GO DOWN THERE! :o
Our rebellious or willful streaks
often lead to unhappy outcomes.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT! :roll:
1. What does it take for us to obey Him?
2. Will we obey simply because we love Him?

Nothing between, like worldly pleasure;
Habits of life, though harmless they seem,
Must not my heart from Him ever sever,
He is my all! There's nothing between.

Obedience is another word for love and loyalty. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** 2nd John 1:1-13

[Eleanor]

Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God, for I will yet
praise Him, my Savior and my God.
Psalm 42:5 *** NIV

A GRADUATION WISH. :o
A recurring story of the Bible is that mountains
of faith rise from the valleys of failure.
Before discovering the high ground we are
looking for, we may need to see the failure of
the dreams we hold in our hearts and trust
instead in the love, wisdom, and guidance of our God.

The lessons we learn from our failures
Are lessons that help us succeed,
And if we are wise and we heed them,
Then failure is just what we need.

Learn from your failures, or you will fail to learn. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Psalm 42

[Eleanor]

This is love: not that we loved God,
but that he loved us and sent his
Son as an atoning sacrifice for our
sins.
Dear friends, since God so loved us,
we also ought to love one another.
1 John 4:10-11 *** NIV

LINKED HEARTS.
I find my heart joined to the hearts
of those who truly love the Lord.
And hearts linked by Jesus create
a chain of love that can encourage
even the most grieving heart.

Bearing people's heavy burdens,
Shouldering their pain and grief,
Shows the love of Christ to others,
Bringing them His sure relief.

Our hearts are linked through the love of Christ. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** 1 John 4

[Eleanor]

You, my brother, were called to be free.
But do not use your freedom to indulge
the sinful nature; rather, serve one
another in love.
The entire law is summed up in a single
command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."
Galatians 5:13-14 *** NIV

SERVING TOGETHER.
The Apostle Paul wrote that salvation is by grace
through faith. It is by faith we live out our new
life in Christ. He also reminds us that the law
was fulfilled in this:
"You shall love your neighbor as yourself."
As followers of Jesus, we're here to serve Him
out of love - to "bless God for blessing us."

O that my life may useful be
As I serve Jesus faithfully;
And may His love be seen in me,
This is my earnest prayer.

God blesses us so that we can be a blessing to others. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Galatians 5

[Eleanor]

A man of knowledge uses words
with restraint, and a man of
understanding is even-tempered.
Even a fool is thought wise if he
keeps silent, and discerning if he
holds his tongue.
Proverbs 17:27-28 *** NIV

FOOD FOR THOUGHT!
Quarrels among believers in Jesus Christ
bring dishonor to Him. They create wounds
in our brothers and sisters.
How much better it is when we speak gentle
words of peace, not angry words of strife!

Like bullets flying throgh the air,
Our words can shatter peace;
The Spirit helps control the tongue,
And then the quarrels cease.

Two cannot quarrel when one will not. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Proverbs 17

[Eleanor]

Blessed be the God and Father of our
Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed
us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly
places in Christ.
Having predestinated us unto the adoption
of children by Jesus Christ to himself,
according to the good pleasure of his will;
To the praise of the glory of his grace,
through which he hath made us accepted
in the Beloved;
In whom we have redemption through
his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according
to the riches of his grace.
Ephesians 1:3, 5-6 *** KJV

LIBERATING TRUTH: :shock:
1. Do you condemn yourself because you aren't
as spiritual as you think you ought to be?
2. Do you see yourself as a second-rate disciple?
3. Are you lacking the gifts and graces possessed
by fellow believers?

GOOD NEWS! :lol:
We can rise above the mood of self-rejection
and enjoy grateful self-acceptance when we
put our lives into the nail-pierced hands of Jesus.

GREAT NEWS! ;)
If the Lord has accepted us, surely we can
accept ourselves!
Beloved, that's the liberating truth.

All praise to the Lamb, accepted I am,
Through faith in the Savior's adorable name;
In Him I confide, His blood is applied;
For me He hath suffered, for me He hath died.

Accepting Jesus' free gift of salvation frees us to accept ourslves. :mrgreen:

Today's Reading *** Ephesians 1

[Eleanor]

And now abideth faith, hope, charity,
these three; but the greatest of these
is charity.
1 Corinthians 13:13 *** KJV

LOVING OUR GROWN-UP CHILDREN.
When our children no longer seek our advice,
they will still value our love.
In every stage of parenting and life, it's not
only what we say but what we do that counts.

May God in mercy grant to us,
A home where Christ holds sway,
Where peace and joy from heaven above
Abide from day to day.

A parent's love as well as a true friend never ends. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading **** 1 Corinthians 13

[Eleanor]

He has showed you, O man, what is good.
And what does the LORD require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to
walk humbly with your God.
Micah 6:8 *** NIV

A CURE FOR FUTILITY. :o
Great victories are won when ordinary people
execute their assigned tasks.
Perhaps you may sense you're in a spiritual
rut. Stay at your assigned task! Obedience
to God and only obedience offers the way
out of our futility.

When comforts are declining,
He grants the soul again
A season of clear shining.
To cheer it after rain.

If you sense your faith is unraveling, go back to where
you dropped the thread of obedience. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Micah 6

[punjabtrini]

Eleanor,

Thank you for the beautiful words of wisdom and grace!
As usual, they are heartfelt and necessary for some of us heathens to sit down and smell the pewah and the roti!

God Bless!

[Eleanor]

O LORD, you have searched me and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive
my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue you know it
completely, O LORD.
You hem me in, behind and before; you have
laid your hand upon me.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
Psalm 139:1-6 *** NIV

IT'S ELEMENTARY! :o
Despite our finiteness, our lives rest in
the hands of the One who knows all the
whats, whys, and whens we'll ever face.

TAKE HEED..... :shock:
As we trust in Him, He'll guide us in the
path He desires us to take, and His way
is never wrong.

God is the one who sees the whole,
His knowledge is complete;
We see but portions of the truth
As lines that never meet.

In a world of mystery, it's a comfort to know the
God who knows all things. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading **** Psalm 139

[Eleanor]

Eleanor,
Thank you for the beautiful words of wisdom and grace!
As usual, they are heartfelt and necessary for some of us heathens to sit down and smell the pewah and the roti!God Bless!

Punjabtrini.
The Word of God declares: "Whosoever will, let him come....."
Enjoy the Words of Life and that is eternal. You have blessed
my day and I am please to know that wisdom abides at your home.
Aa, ya eattin' reel good boi. :mrgreen:

[Eleanor]

I will go in unto the king,
which is not according to
the law: and if I perish,
I perish.
Esther 4:16b *** KJV

FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS! :o
In Queen Esther's time, approaching
the king uninvited was punishable by
death. But Esther seized the moment
to save her people!
When we are able to resuce others,
we should do so at all cost.
Ask God for His direction and act!
He may have placed you here:
"for such a time as this."

O for a faith that will not shrink
Though pressed by many a foe,
That will not tremble on the brink
Of Any earthly woe.

Courage is not the absence of fear, it is the mastery of it. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Esther 4

[Eleanor]

Let the elders that rule well be
counted worthy of double honour,
especially they who labour in the
Word and doctrine.
For the scripture saith, Thou shalt
not muzzle the ox that treadeth
out the corn. And, the labourer
is worthy of his reward.
1 Timothy 5::17-18 *** KJV

FOR THOSE WHO SERVE:
Scripture tells us to give honor to
whom honor is due. It tells us that
double honor goes to those who
direct the affairs of the church through
teaching and preaching.

FOR THOSE WHO ARE WISE:
Instead of criticizing your pastor,
teacher or spiritual leader, let others
hear your words of gratitude and praise
for their service. Hold them up in prayer.
God's servants deserve our respect and honor.

(Besides, if you are unhappy with a particular official
take the complaint to the Lord, only God can correct
the problem, not you.
Your job is to PRAY!) :D

PUTTING WISDOM INTO PRACTICE:
1. Send a card or note of appreciation to your pastor.
2. Thank your teacher for a lesson that helped you.
3. Ask your leaders how you can pray for them.
(Now that will fix it for you...) ;)

We honor God when we honor our leaders. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** 1 Timothy 5

[Eleanor]

The just man walketh in his integrity,
his children are blessed after him.
Proverbs 20:7 *** KJV

A PERFECT FATHER. :D
At times earthly fathers disappoint or
hurt their children.
But our Father in heaven is "merciful
and gracious, slow to anger, and
abounding in mercy."
When a dad who loves the Lord corrects,
comforts, instructs, and provides for the
needs of his children, he models for them
our perfect Father in heaven.

How blessed are the children
Who in their fathers see
The tender Father-love of God,
And find their way to Thee.

A life lived for Christ is the best inheritance
we can leave our children. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Proverbs 20

[Eleanor]

Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord,
and he shall lift you up.
James 4:10 *** KJV

STRINGS, RINGS, TROUBLESOME THINGS! :o
The above words calls me to reconsider
some "strings" that make me feel constrained:
vows, promises, commitments, responsibilities.
Although such things make me feel tied
down, God uses them to hold me up.
The Bible teaches, it is our willingness to
be humbled (or held down) that God uses
to lift us up.

TAKE HEED... :(
Before cutting any strings, make sure
it's not one that's holding you up!

Though I am His sheep, I'm still prone to stray;
So Jesus in love sends afflictions my way;
The lessons that come in this school of deep pain,
Will teach me to follow my Lord once again!

A Christian rises against the winds of adversity. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** James 4

[Eleanor]

No marvel, for Satan himself is transformed
into an angel of light.
Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers
also be transformed as the ministers of
righteousness: whose end shall be according
to their works.
2 Corinthians 11:14-15 *** KJV

THE TRICK IS.... :o
Ever since Apostle Paul's day, false
teachers have taught that good deeds
can earn you salvation and a place
in heaven.

THE TRUTH IS.... :D
By grace you have been saved
through faith...it is the gift of God,
not of works."

DON'T BE FOOLED!!! :shock:

The powers of darkness have blinded the race,
Closing our eyes to the glories of grace;
But faith in the Savior brings healing and sight,
He floods our soul with His truth and His light.

Satan has many tools, but deception
is the handle that fits them all. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** 1 Corinthians 11

[Eleanor]

I no longer call you servants, because a servant
does not know his master's business.
Instead, I have called you friends, for everything
that I learned from my Father I have made known
to you.
John 15:15 *** NIV

AN INVITATION TO FRIENDSHIP. :P
What does friendship with Jesus look like:
1. It starts with Commitment.
2. He adds communication.
3. Then we share commonality.
Jesus welcomes you to the privilege of friendship
with Him!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT... :shock:
Are you His friend?
That's not a problem, its' easy! Just invite Him
into your heart and He will come in and be your
friends forever.
1. He will commit to you and you to Him.
2. You will have great communication and
He will show and tell you of things to come.
3. And most of all, you will have that common
bond of love for one another.
4. Go on, ask Him in..... :D

What a Friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer!

Welcome to the privilege of friendship with God. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** John 15

[Eleanor]

Know ye not that to whom ye yield yourselves
servants to obey, his servant ye are whom ye
obey, whether of sin unto death, or of obedience
unto righteousness?
But God be thanked, that whereas ye were the
servants of sin, ye have obeyed from the heart
that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
Being, then, made free from sin, ye became
the servants of righteousness.
Romans 6:16-18 *** KJV

ARE YOU FREE? :roll:
Salvation actually means a change of bondge.
As we once served sin, we are now committed
to lives of righteousness because of the freedom
Jesus provides.
My brothers and sister, let us become in practice
what we already are in status - FREE!

The Savior can break sin's dominion,
The victory He won long ago;
In Him there is freedom from bondage,
He's able to conquer the foe.

True freedom is found in bondage to Christ. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Romans 6

[Eleanor]

And now , O Israel, what does the LORD your God
ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk
in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your
God with all your heart and with all soul, and to
observe the LORD'S commands and decrees that
I am giving you today for your own good?
Deuteronomy 10:12-13 *** NIV

GHOST TOWN! :o
God loves His people too much to let them
continue harming themselves and others.
Therefore, by letting them "do time" in
Babylon, (the world) He helps them see
what can happen when a blessed people
get caught up in a life that leaves God
out of the picture.
He'll do whatever it takes...... :?

The dearest idol I have known,
Whatever that idol be,
Help me to tear it from Thy throne
And worship only Thee.

God gives blessing to us so we can give glory to Him. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Deuteronomy 10

[Eleanor]

Make a joyful noise unto the LORD,
all the earth: make a loud noise, and
rejoice, and sing praise.
Sing unto the LORD with the harp;
with the harp, and the voice of a
psalm.
With trumpets and sound of
cornets make a joyful noise before
the LORD, the King.
Psalm 98:4-6 *** KJV

BIRD SONG...
When you hear God's little hymn-birds
singing their hearts out, remember to
sing your own song of salvation.
Lift up your voice, harmonious, hoarse
or harsh, and join with them in praise
to our Creator, Redeemer and Lord.... :D :) ;) 8-) :lol: :P :oops:

Field and forest, vale and mountain,
Flowery meadow, flashing sea,
Chanting bird and flowing fountain
Call us to rejoice in Thee.

All creation sings God's praise. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Psalm 98

[Eleanor]

Do all things without murmurings
and disputings, that ye may be
blameless and harmless, the sons
of God, without rebuke, in the midst
of a crooked and perverse nation,
among whom ye shine as lights in
the world.
Holding forth the word of life, that
I may rejoice in the day of Christ
that I have not run in vain, neither
labored in vain.
Philippians 2:14-16 *** NIV

NO GRIPING! :cry:
We need to avoid a complaining spirit when
serving Christ. Instead, rejoice and thank God
for all He has done! NO GRIPING ALLOWED. :o

When things go wrong, I would not be a grumbler,
Complaining, seeing everything as grim;
For when I think of how the Lord has blessed me,
I cannot help but give my praise to Him.

When you feel like griping, start counting your blessings. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Philippians 2

[Eleanor]

Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD,
that walketh in his ways.
For thou shalt eat the labor of thine hands;
happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with
thee.
Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides
of thine house; thy children like olive plants
round about thy table.
Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed
who feareth the LORD.
Psalm 128:1-4 *** KJV

ALL OUT OF TEENAGERS? :(
As looking back on parenting, we learn some
valuable lessons:
1. Some teens follow life in a straight line,
while others zig-zag along life's pathway.
2. All teens need unconditional love because
they live in a conditional world.
3. A love of God's Word is vital to successfully
transferring faith from one generation to the next.
4. Teens need to develop a relationship with Christ
that is based not on rules but on a deep love of Jesus.

FOOD FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION! :shock:
Has God placed any young people in your life?
1. Whatever their age, love them unconditionally.
2. Help them learn to love God's Word.
3. Show them how to have a deep love for Jesus.
4. Then hold on tight and keep praying.

Parents, give your children guidance
And instruction from God's Word;
Then with wisdom and compassion
Teach them how to love the Lord.

Don't merely spend time with your children, invest it. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Psalm 128

[Eleanor]

Watch therefore, for ye know not what
hour your Lord doth come.
Therefore be ye also ready; for in such
an hour as ye think not the Son of Man
cometh.
Matthew 24:42, 44 *** KJV

WHAT ARE YOU THINKING? :roll:
The apostle Peter told us that in the
last days scoffers would say of Jesus' return:
"Where is the promise of His coming?
For since the fathers fell asleep, all things
continue as they were from the beginning
of creation."
2 Peter 3:4

WHERE ARE YOU TODAY? :o
Scoffers are with us today, just as Peter warned.
Are you among them? Or are you ready for the
Lord Jesus to return?
Ignoring the signs is even more dangerous than
living in the shadow of a active volcano.

Signs of His coming multiply,
Morning light breaks in the eastern sky;
Watch, for the time is drawing nigh,
What if it were today?

To ignore the Bible is to invite disaster. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Matthew 24

[Eleanor]

And you hath he quickened, who were
dead in trespasses and sins;
For through him we both have access
by one Spirit unto the Father.
Now therefore ye are no more strangers
and foreigners, but fellow citizens with
the saints, and of the household of God.
Ephesians 2:1, 18-19 *** KJV

ANYTIME, ANYWHERE! :o
The door is open for everyone.
God welcomes all who come by faith.
Through Christ we can enter His presence,
anytime, anywhere. Now, that's amazing!

Let's always keep the prayer lines open,
Knowing God is always there;
For we upon His name may call,
Anytime and anywhere...

There is no place or time we cannot pray. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Ephesians 2

[Eleanor]

Why do ye not understand my speech?
Even because ye cannot hear my word.
Which of you convinceth me of sin?
And if I say the truth, why do ye not
believe me?
He that is of God heareth God's words;
ye therefore hear them not, because
ye are not of God.
John 8:43, 46-47 *** KJV

ONE EXCEPTION... :D
Because all humanity has sinned,
we can rejoice that Jesus was qualified,
He and He alone, to be the flawless
Sacrifice we need.
We give thanks for Jesus Christ, our
sinless sin-bearer, the One Exception!

Guilty, vile, and helpless, we;
Spotless Lamb of God was He;
"Full atonement!" can it be?
Hallelujah! what a Savior!

Only Jesus, the perfect sacrifice,
can declare guilty people perfect. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** John 8

[Eleanor]

It is not expedient for me doubtless to
glory. I will come to visions and revelaltions
of the LORD.
And lest I should be exalted above measure
through the abundance of the revelations,
there was given to me a thorn in the flesh,
the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest
I should be exalted above measure.
For this thing I besought the LORD thrice,
that it might depart from me.
And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient
for thee; for my strength is made perefect
in weakness.
2 Corinthians 12:1, 7-9a *** KJV

GOD'S GREATER GOAL. :o
In my own life, I am trying to remian open
to new realities, not blaming God when my
expectations go unmet, but trusting Him
to lead me through failures toward renewal
and growth.
I see that the way in which I may want
God to act does not achieve the results
I might expect.
When God sent His own Son, sinless, full
of grace and healing, we killed Him.
God Himself allows what He does not prefer,
to achieve some great goal.

God uses our difficulties to develop His Son's likeness in us. :mrgreen:


Todays Reading *** 1 Corinthians 12

[Eleanor]

For Christ's love compels us, because we
are convinced that one died for all, and
therefore all died.
And he died for all that those who live
should no longer live for themselves but
for him who died for them and was raised
again.
2 Corinthians 5:14-15 *** NIV

AMATEUR CHRISTIANS! :roll:
In today's world, God is still looking for
"amateurs" those who will serve the Lord
for the sheer love of it.
Compelled by our love for Jesus, may we,
like the disciples and apostles before us
proclaim the love of God for the world by
following Christ's example of loving and
serving.

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.

One proof of our love for God is our love for our neighbor. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** 2 Corinthians 1

[Eleanor]

For I know my transgressions, and my
sin is always before me.
Against you, you only, have I sinned
and done what is evil in your sight,
so that you are proved right when
you speak and justified when you
judge.
Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful
from the time my mother conceived
me.
Psalm 51:3-5 *** NIV

TRUE CONFESSIONS. :oops:
When we recognize the ongoing reality
of sin in our lives, we are reminded of
our ongoing need for the presence of God
and the power of His Word to keep us
safe and spiritually sane.
He is waiting for us to confess our faults
and embrace the forgiveness and cleansing
that He readily offers.
Remember, a refreshing plunge into God's
mercy awaits you on the other side of
confessed sin!

Out of my shameful failure and loss,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into the glorious gain of Thy cross,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

Own up to your sin and experience the joy of confession. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Psalm 51

[Eleanor]

Since we have now been justified by his blood,
how much more shall we be saved from God's
wrath through him!
For if, when we were God's enemies, we were
reconciled to him through the death of his Son,
how much more, having been reconciled, shall
we be saved through his life!
Romans 5:9-10 *** NIV

SIN, A DISEASE! :o
All of us are infected with the fatal disease of sin.
There is only one cure. It resides in the cleansing
power of Jesus Christ's shed blood, we shall be saved
from wrath through Him.
The righteous wrath of God against transgression
has been fully satisfied through Jesus' death in our
place.

YOU MAY ASK HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE? :?
Listen, take a hint from the wise of this world and
do this: "All you need to do is repent, recognize
Christ as your Savior, and receive the spiritual
cure for sin."Don't waste time trying to figure
it out, just do it! We talking about eternal things,
besides, it really, really works.

NOW, THE BIG QUESTIION IS....? :roll:
Have you made that decision? - Please, please
be positive with your response....

Redeemed, how I love to proclaim it!
Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb;
Redeemed through His infinite mercy,
His child, and forever, I am.

The price of our freedom from sin was paid by Jesus' blood. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Romans 5

[Eleanor]

Charge them that are rich in this world,
that they be not highminded; nor trust
in uncertain riches, but in the living God,
who giveth us richly all things to enjoy.
1 Timothy 6:17 *** KJV

JOYFUL LIVING. :D :) ;) :lol: :P
When we recognize that He "gives us
richly all things to enjoy" and that
"every good gift is from above" our
hearts should be full of thankfulness
and praise.
This, in and of itself, is an act of
worship!
Enjoy the Giver and the gifts.

We thank Thee, Lord, for daily food,
For plenteous store of earthly good;
For life and health we still possess,
With house and home so richly blessed.

Our heavenly Father delights in bringing us delight. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** 1 Timothy 6

[Eleanor]

To wit, that God was in Christ reconciling
the world unto himself, not imputing their
trespasses unto them, and hath committed
unto us the word of reconciliation.
Now, then, we are ambassadors for Christ,
as though God did beseech you by us;
we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye
reconciled to God.
2 Corinthians 5:19-20 *** KJV

BEING AN AMBASSADOR! ;)
Being "ambassadors for Christ" opens doors of
opportunity both to share the gospel and to
strengthen the struggling.
Seek out someone today who needs encouragement
or "the word of reconciliation."

Lord, use us as Your instruments
Of truth and love and care,
And may we bring encouragement
As Your good news we share.

A word of encouragement can make the difference
between giving up and going on. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** 2 Corinthians 5

[Eleanor]

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing
by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving
let your request be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all
understanding, shall keep your hearts and
minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 *** KJV

WHAT, ME WORRY? :(
Worry may be a sympton of a bigger
problem:
1. Sometimes it's a lack of gratitude for
the way God has cared for us in the past.
2. Perhaps it's a lack of faith that God really
is trustworthy.
3. It may be a refusal to depend on God instead
of ourselves.

LET GO AND LET GOD! :o
Don't let worries hold you back from what
God may be trying to teach you.
He invites you to bring your anxious thoughts
directly to Him.

When you feel the tension mounting,
And across the busy day,
Only gloomy clouds are drifting,
As you start to worry - pray!

To be anxious about nothing, pray about everything. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Philippians 4

[Eleanor]

It is for freedom that Christ has set
us free.
Stand firm, then, and do not let
yourselves be burdened again by
a yoke of slavery.
Galatians 5:1 *** NIV

THE UNPAYABLE DEBT WE OWE! :o
This is a question of the heart:
Are we truly grateful to Jesus for all He sacrificed
to set us free "spiritually?"
If so, we are to "Stand fast...in the liberty
by which Christ has made us free."
No matter what else may be demanding our
attention, let's take time to remember:
"the unpayable debt we owe Him."

But drops of grief can never repay,
The debt of love I owe:
Here, Lord, I give myself away,
'Tis all that I can do!

Salvation is infinitely costly, but absolutely free. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Galatians 5

[Eleanor]

Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God,
believe also in me.
In my Father's house are many mansions; if it
were not so, I would have told you. I go to
prepare a place for you.
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will
come again, and receive you unto myself;
that where I am, there ye may be also.
John 14:1-3 *** KJV

FINISHING TOUCHES... :)
We are not sure what our place in heaven
will be like, but we do know this:
Jesus went to heaven to prepare it for us,
and it will be ready when we get there.
As followers of Christ, we can take great comfort
in knowing that Jesus is putting the finishing
touches on the place He's prepared for us.

Death's hour evokes ambivalence;
To stay with those we love,
Or see the Face of Him who has,
Prepared our home above.

While you prepare a place for us, Lord, prepare us for that place. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** John 14

[Eleanor]

And let us consider how we may spur
one another on toward love and good
deeds.
Let us not give up meeting together,
as some are in the habit of doing, but
let us encourage one another, and all
the more as you see the Day approaching.
Hebrews 10:24-25 *** NIV

WHY BOTHER WITH CHURCH? :(
Fewer people attend church on Sunday than
claim to follow Christ.
Some feel burned by a former experience.
Others simply "get nothing out of church."
Why bother?
Today, I could hardly imagine life without
church. Church has filled a need for me
that can't be met in any other way.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT! :roll:
How do you feel about attending
church services?

We join our hearts and hands together,
Faithful to the Lord's command;
We hold each other to God's standards,
All that truth and love demand.

The church is not a select circle for a few,
but a spiritual center open to all. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** Hebrews 10

[Eleanor]

We are therefore Christ's ambassadors,
as though God were making his appeal
through us.
We implore you on Christ's behalf:
Be reconciled to God.
2 Corinthians 5:20 *** NIV

UNDER AUTHORITY. :D
Today, those of us who submit to Christ
are men and women "under authority."
Because of our relationship to Him, we have
the authority to speak on His behalf.

LET US SEARCH OURSELVES! :shock:
Do we live and speak as people
under the authority of Christ?

Am I a soldier of the cross?
A follower of the Lamb?
And shall I fear to own His cause
Or blush to speak His name?

We can speak for Christ only when we listen to Christ. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** 2 Corinthians 5

[Eleanor]

But, beloved, be not ignorant of this
one thing, that one day is with the
LORD as a thousand years, and a
thousand years as one day.
2 Peter 3:8 *** KJV

THE TIME MACHINE.. :o
The biblical view of the future is
very different.
We can be optimistic about the future
because God will replace our world with
a new one.
Even now, Jesus is preparing a place
for those who love Him, a place where
"there shall be no more death, sorrow
nor crying."

If God has made this world so fair,
Where sin and death abound,
How beautiful beyond compare
Will paradise be found!

Jesus is preparing a place for us and preparing us for that place. :mrgreen:

Todays Reading *** 2 Peter 3