Submitted by Gloria Lewis
Friday, February 27, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
It Ain't Over Til It's Over
So Peter and the other disciple went out and came to the tomb. They both ran, but the other disciple ran faster than Peter and arrived at the tomb first; he bent down and saw the burial cloths there, but did not go in. When Simon Peter arrived after him, he went into the tomb and saw the burial cloths there, and the cloth that had covered His head, not with the burial cloths, but rolled up in a separate place. Then the other disciple also went in, the one who had arrived at the tomb first, and he saw and believed (Jn. 20:3-8).
The holy season of Lent began yesterday, a time of penitence and spiritual inventory taking. When I was a kid, we used to try to outdo each other in giving something up for those 40 days before Easter. As an adult, I still give something up, but my focus now is more on why we do what we do. What’s the purpose of such sacrifice? What is it all leading to?
Part of it, of course, is in memory of the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on Calvary. Another part of it is learning discipline. I’ve known lots of people who decided to use Lent work on some habit (like smoking) that they wanted to get rid of, and after the 40 days of struggle, found they were rid of it for good. Others reverse it, and discipline themselves into doing things they know they need to do, but find difficult. However we approach it, it’s about acknowledging that we are weak, that we are poor and oppressed (Ps. 86:1), and that it is in the cross of Christ that we truly find our strength (cf. Gal. 6).
We know that Calvary and the cross were not the end, but rather the beginning of our salvation. We know that there will be Alleluias sung come Easter Sunday. But Easter isn’t the end either. I received an e-mail from a friend the other day that added a new dimension to my understanding of the story of that first Easter morning. I wanted to share it with all of you for your own meditations. It has to do with the cloth that was placed over the face of Jesus at His burial. We read about that cloth being off by itself and it’s easy to kind of skim right over that passage. Read on and see why we shouldn’t neglect this verse. Being an eternal student of history with a fascination for ancient customs, I found this most interesting and hope you do also. Excerpt from my friend’s message follows:
“In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded napkin had to do with the Master and the Servant, and every Jewish boy knew this tradition. When the servant set the dinner table for his master, he made sure that it was exactly the way the master wanted it. The table was furnished perfectly, and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the master had finished eating. The servant would not dare touch that table until the master was finished. Now if the master were done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers and mouth, and clean his beard, and would wad up that napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For in those days, the wadded napkin meant, 'I'm done'. But if the master got up from the table, and folded his napkin, and laid it beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table because the folded napkin meant, 'I'm coming back!' Jesus is coming back!”
Prayer Request: For those struggling to break bad habits
Prayer: Lord God, thank you for sending you Son Jesus to be our Savior, and for the gift of the cross that helps us to separate ourselves from all that separates us from You. As we journey through these 40 days of Lent, keep us mindful that our true strength is in You. We make this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen.
The holy season of Lent began yesterday, a time of penitence and spiritual inventory taking. When I was a kid, we used to try to outdo each other in giving something up for those 40 days before Easter. As an adult, I still give something up, but my focus now is more on why we do what we do. What’s the purpose of such sacrifice? What is it all leading to?
Part of it, of course, is in memory of the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on Calvary. Another part of it is learning discipline. I’ve known lots of people who decided to use Lent work on some habit (like smoking) that they wanted to get rid of, and after the 40 days of struggle, found they were rid of it for good. Others reverse it, and discipline themselves into doing things they know they need to do, but find difficult. However we approach it, it’s about acknowledging that we are weak, that we are poor and oppressed (Ps. 86:1), and that it is in the cross of Christ that we truly find our strength (cf. Gal. 6).
We know that Calvary and the cross were not the end, but rather the beginning of our salvation. We know that there will be Alleluias sung come Easter Sunday. But Easter isn’t the end either. I received an e-mail from a friend the other day that added a new dimension to my understanding of the story of that first Easter morning. I wanted to share it with all of you for your own meditations. It has to do with the cloth that was placed over the face of Jesus at His burial. We read about that cloth being off by itself and it’s easy to kind of skim right over that passage. Read on and see why we shouldn’t neglect this verse. Being an eternal student of history with a fascination for ancient customs, I found this most interesting and hope you do also. Excerpt from my friend’s message follows:
“In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded napkin had to do with the Master and the Servant, and every Jewish boy knew this tradition. When the servant set the dinner table for his master, he made sure that it was exactly the way the master wanted it. The table was furnished perfectly, and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the master had finished eating. The servant would not dare touch that table until the master was finished. Now if the master were done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers and mouth, and clean his beard, and would wad up that napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For in those days, the wadded napkin meant, 'I'm done'. But if the master got up from the table, and folded his napkin, and laid it beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table because the folded napkin meant, 'I'm coming back!' Jesus is coming back!”
Prayer Request: For those struggling to break bad habits
Prayer: Lord God, thank you for sending you Son Jesus to be our Savior, and for the gift of the cross that helps us to separate ourselves from all that separates us from You. As we journey through these 40 days of Lent, keep us mindful that our true strength is in You. We make this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Contentment under worst circumstances
Scripture: "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." (Philippians 4:12)
I know I've done blogs before on being content in any circumstance, but I was sent a most AMAZING video titled "Get Back Up" last week that I am compelled to share with you.
His name is Nick Vujicic and I wish I had done more research on him before I wrote this blog to find out his whole story, but he is a man born without limbs, and yet he is the most incredible motivational speaker, using his own life, body and experiences as examples of being content when things aren't exactly all you would like or expect. He is a Christian man, and when you watch this video, you will understand what I mean when I say, "He must be the most hugged man in the world".
He has no limbs, and yet he can play music, surf, play ball!! SURF!! My jaw dropped at the sight!! Imagine the trust he must have in his close friends to snatch him up out of the water in time!!
I know people think Christians are NUTS to be content, happy, even comedic in situations that are so adverse - but we all have a choice to make in life: we can either rail against what we cannot change - or we can embrace what we have - and be thankful, for things could be much, much worse.
I'm not saying we all must walk around with a plastic smile on our faces because it's "the Christian thing to do." Absolutely not. I've moaned, groaned, cried, whined and complained endlessly about situations out of my control that made me incredibly unhappy. And boy did God get an earful!! But in the end - I wiped my tears, stood up straight, accepted what was, grew thankful for what was IN my control - and moved on. And I more often than not find my contentment once again in almost all situations. Why? Because ultimately I know GOD is in control. And He knows what's best for me.
Sometimes contentment is a process. I'm sure NickVujicic has had some seriously bad days, months, maybe even years. Life could not have been easy, and certainly, he wasn't always so happy. He eludes to that himself.
Look at him now. Amazing. An at times humorous, motivational speaker, who travels to schools to talk to children, making an impact in their young lives in such a positive way. Wow!
If you have a few minutes of down time - play this video, and keep a tissue nearby. On the right side of the page are more videos I just now discovered, so I haven't watched them yet. But his message in the following link is powerful and touching.
Be content with what you have. Be thankful for all God HAS given you, and don't focus so much on what He hasn't - He works in His own time. And sometimes - we don't get what we want for good reason - often reasons we are unaware of. God knows our future - he's our protector, too.
Here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MslbhDZoniY
Prayer request: For those facing circumstances out of their control, who need to find contentment once again. Ask that they can find solace in Jesus Christ and his boundless mercy.
Prayer: Father, we thank You for giving us strength to overcome obstacles in our way, and we thank You for helping us to grow through each challenging experience. We ask that you touch those who need to feel Your presence in their situation. Give them peace and strength only You can provide. Amen.
I know I've done blogs before on being content in any circumstance, but I was sent a most AMAZING video titled "Get Back Up" last week that I am compelled to share with you.
His name is Nick Vujicic and I wish I had done more research on him before I wrote this blog to find out his whole story, but he is a man born without limbs, and yet he is the most incredible motivational speaker, using his own life, body and experiences as examples of being content when things aren't exactly all you would like or expect. He is a Christian man, and when you watch this video, you will understand what I mean when I say, "He must be the most hugged man in the world".
He has no limbs, and yet he can play music, surf, play ball!! SURF!! My jaw dropped at the sight!! Imagine the trust he must have in his close friends to snatch him up out of the water in time!!
I know people think Christians are NUTS to be content, happy, even comedic in situations that are so adverse - but we all have a choice to make in life: we can either rail against what we cannot change - or we can embrace what we have - and be thankful, for things could be much, much worse.
I'm not saying we all must walk around with a plastic smile on our faces because it's "the Christian thing to do." Absolutely not. I've moaned, groaned, cried, whined and complained endlessly about situations out of my control that made me incredibly unhappy. And boy did God get an earful!! But in the end - I wiped my tears, stood up straight, accepted what was, grew thankful for what was IN my control - and moved on. And I more often than not find my contentment once again in almost all situations. Why? Because ultimately I know GOD is in control. And He knows what's best for me.
Sometimes contentment is a process. I'm sure NickVujicic has had some seriously bad days, months, maybe even years. Life could not have been easy, and certainly, he wasn't always so happy. He eludes to that himself.
Look at him now. Amazing. An at times humorous, motivational speaker, who travels to schools to talk to children, making an impact in their young lives in such a positive way. Wow!
If you have a few minutes of down time - play this video, and keep a tissue nearby. On the right side of the page are more videos I just now discovered, so I haven't watched them yet. But his message in the following link is powerful and touching.
Be content with what you have. Be thankful for all God HAS given you, and don't focus so much on what He hasn't - He works in His own time. And sometimes - we don't get what we want for good reason - often reasons we are unaware of. God knows our future - he's our protector, too.
Here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MslbhDZoniY
Prayer request: For those facing circumstances out of their control, who need to find contentment once again. Ask that they can find solace in Jesus Christ and his boundless mercy.
Prayer: Father, we thank You for giving us strength to overcome obstacles in our way, and we thank You for helping us to grow through each challenging experience. We ask that you touch those who need to feel Your presence in their situation. Give them peace and strength only You can provide. Amen.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
As the Spirit moves you
Scripture: For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
“Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' (Matthew 25:35-40)
Last Sunday, right after church, I went to the gas station hardly a block away to fill up my tank. While I fed the pump my debit card, I heard a woman’s voice coming from the other side of the gas pump. “Hello? Ma’am? Excuse me. Ma’am?” I looked over, and there was a woman probably in her early to mid 20s sitting in her car, and she told me she had no money, and would I please be willing to put a little gas in her tank. She offered me free movie tickets for the favor.
My first reaction was to be very guarded. How many times have I been approached, “Hey, can you lend me a few bucks?” “Excuse me, I need some cigarettes, could you give me just a little change?” How often have we driven by people sitting at the exits or entrances to shopping centers, holding cardboard signs in front of them, “Hungry. Need food.” “Out of work, please help.” As a single woman, often by myself, I feel I must first protect myself before giving my heart out to those less fortunate.
It is really sad in this day and age that instead of freely helping our neighbors; those less fortunate, those in need – I feel first suspicious, then sometimes, a little afraid. It’s a reasonable feeling, given the circumstances and the society which we live in. But nonetheless, as Christians, we are called to help those in need. Not that God wants us to put ourselves in danger or to be foolhardy, thinking everyone has good intentions, and are therefore harmless.
Too often I have heard news reports of beggars who will spend a weekend on a corner begging for money, and when secretly followed, they get into a nice car and go home to a nice house, having filched from a heartbroken society who thought they were helping someone in horrible circumstances.
I ended up holding back my suspicions from this young lady, declined the movie tickets, and put a few gallons of gas in her car. I just wanted to show God’s kindness to her without the expectation of receiving something in return. I believe she was genuinely stranded. She wasn’t asking for money, she wasn’t asking for a full tank. She was asking for whatever I could offer. I asked her how long she had been sitting there, and she said about 20 minutes. Even the men refused to help.
And this is the society we all live in. There is a fair amount of suspicion, a sense of protecting ourselves and then there are others who are just plain selfish. A “better you than me” mentality, it seems.
So as I have talked to the Lord about this situation, I keep hearing one thing in response. I could be wrong, so if anyone has a different point of view, I don’t mind hearing it. But what I heard, in a non-condemning way, was, “And who are you to judge?” It wasn’t a reprimand or a scold. It was a genuine question I feel I heard from the Holy Spirit.
Whether the need is real or materialized, who are we to judge? And I mean that within reason. It is not up to us, upon seeing someone in ragged clothing and uncombed hair - to decide if they are worthy of a few coins. If they pose no threat, and the Spirit moves you – then allow the Holy Spirit to lead you. Jesus died so ALL could be saved. By showing a bit of kindness to someone, are we not showing God’s love in action? Maybe the individual we give 50 cents to will buy a candy bar. Maybe he or she will save enough for a fast food meal. Maybe not. It’s not up to us to judge.
It’s a dark world we live in and we must always practice safety and common sense. But I have to admit to you right now, that there is a man that I pass by on the road once in a while who parks his grocery cart along side a 2-lane road in the middle of Oxnard’s agricultural farm land, and I will see him sleeping on the dirt along side the road.
Twice now, I’ve been moved to leave some food for him on his cart without disturbing his slumber. Twice now I have failed to take action. And I often wonder about that man when I am at home at night and it’s 40 degrees outside. I think about him when the rain wakes me up in the middle of the night, as it makes that familiar “slapping” noise outside the window, because it is raining so hard.
Where is he? Where does he go? Is he warm? Has he found shelter? I don’t know his plight; I don’t know why he is out there. But I am moved to compassion for this one individual I have seen a few times as I have traveled that road. I hope the next time I see him – if I feel the Lord’s prompting again, I will take action.
Prayer request: Pray for those in desperate need, who must survive on what little strangers give them, on whatever the government can offer. Pray for more Christians to follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit to take action when they feel the familiar stirring in their hearts.
Prayer: Lord, we ask You to help each of us to hear Your voice more clearly, and to help us to move swifter when the Spirit moves us, because when You move us into action, You don’t send us into harm’s way. Help us to not judge so quickly those who need you so badly in their lives. These are hard times, Lord, and we may need to depend on each other some day as this world gets darker, and if we don’t practice now – how cold and hungry will we get?
“Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' (Matthew 25:35-40)
Last Sunday, right after church, I went to the gas station hardly a block away to fill up my tank. While I fed the pump my debit card, I heard a woman’s voice coming from the other side of the gas pump. “Hello? Ma’am? Excuse me. Ma’am?” I looked over, and there was a woman probably in her early to mid 20s sitting in her car, and she told me she had no money, and would I please be willing to put a little gas in her tank. She offered me free movie tickets for the favor.
My first reaction was to be very guarded. How many times have I been approached, “Hey, can you lend me a few bucks?” “Excuse me, I need some cigarettes, could you give me just a little change?” How often have we driven by people sitting at the exits or entrances to shopping centers, holding cardboard signs in front of them, “Hungry. Need food.” “Out of work, please help.” As a single woman, often by myself, I feel I must first protect myself before giving my heart out to those less fortunate.
It is really sad in this day and age that instead of freely helping our neighbors; those less fortunate, those in need – I feel first suspicious, then sometimes, a little afraid. It’s a reasonable feeling, given the circumstances and the society which we live in. But nonetheless, as Christians, we are called to help those in need. Not that God wants us to put ourselves in danger or to be foolhardy, thinking everyone has good intentions, and are therefore harmless.
Too often I have heard news reports of beggars who will spend a weekend on a corner begging for money, and when secretly followed, they get into a nice car and go home to a nice house, having filched from a heartbroken society who thought they were helping someone in horrible circumstances.
I ended up holding back my suspicions from this young lady, declined the movie tickets, and put a few gallons of gas in her car. I just wanted to show God’s kindness to her without the expectation of receiving something in return. I believe she was genuinely stranded. She wasn’t asking for money, she wasn’t asking for a full tank. She was asking for whatever I could offer. I asked her how long she had been sitting there, and she said about 20 minutes. Even the men refused to help.
And this is the society we all live in. There is a fair amount of suspicion, a sense of protecting ourselves and then there are others who are just plain selfish. A “better you than me” mentality, it seems.
So as I have talked to the Lord about this situation, I keep hearing one thing in response. I could be wrong, so if anyone has a different point of view, I don’t mind hearing it. But what I heard, in a non-condemning way, was, “And who are you to judge?” It wasn’t a reprimand or a scold. It was a genuine question I feel I heard from the Holy Spirit.
Whether the need is real or materialized, who are we to judge? And I mean that within reason. It is not up to us, upon seeing someone in ragged clothing and uncombed hair - to decide if they are worthy of a few coins. If they pose no threat, and the Spirit moves you – then allow the Holy Spirit to lead you. Jesus died so ALL could be saved. By showing a bit of kindness to someone, are we not showing God’s love in action? Maybe the individual we give 50 cents to will buy a candy bar. Maybe he or she will save enough for a fast food meal. Maybe not. It’s not up to us to judge.
It’s a dark world we live in and we must always practice safety and common sense. But I have to admit to you right now, that there is a man that I pass by on the road once in a while who parks his grocery cart along side a 2-lane road in the middle of Oxnard’s agricultural farm land, and I will see him sleeping on the dirt along side the road.
Twice now, I’ve been moved to leave some food for him on his cart without disturbing his slumber. Twice now I have failed to take action. And I often wonder about that man when I am at home at night and it’s 40 degrees outside. I think about him when the rain wakes me up in the middle of the night, as it makes that familiar “slapping” noise outside the window, because it is raining so hard.
Where is he? Where does he go? Is he warm? Has he found shelter? I don’t know his plight; I don’t know why he is out there. But I am moved to compassion for this one individual I have seen a few times as I have traveled that road. I hope the next time I see him – if I feel the Lord’s prompting again, I will take action.
Prayer request: Pray for those in desperate need, who must survive on what little strangers give them, on whatever the government can offer. Pray for more Christians to follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit to take action when they feel the familiar stirring in their hearts.
Prayer: Lord, we ask You to help each of us to hear Your voice more clearly, and to help us to move swifter when the Spirit moves us, because when You move us into action, You don’t send us into harm’s way. Help us to not judge so quickly those who need you so badly in their lives. These are hard times, Lord, and we may need to depend on each other some day as this world gets darker, and if we don’t practice now – how cold and hungry will we get?
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Five Languages of Apology
Scripture:
"Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." (Col. 3:13)
For years I have been developing the "skill" to forgive someone. If some one offended me, the first couple of times I usually say something like, "it is ok", or "don't worry about it". But if the same type of thing keeps happening over and over again, it usually becomes harder and harder and in turn the relationship gets estranged.
This is particularly true in a marriage. If your spouse does something that irks you, you love them and don't make an issue of things, but if they keep doing it, it is easy to either bury it down inside and then one day it explodes out or it will tear you up on the inside of you and eventually do irreparable damage.
Now today I don't want to go in a direction of counseling others or giving advice to ourselves. Instead, all I want to do is share a link I found recently that I have begun thinking about.
This link goes to a small 20 page pdf by Drs. Gary Chapman and Jennifer Thomas. Gary Chapman is the author of "The Five Love Languages". I was on his website this weekend and found this small document about the Five Languages of Apology and there were some good thoughts about how we can apply this in the workplace. This pdf is not about how to apologize if you don't want to, it is more about how to apologize in the way the person who is unhappy wants you to apologize. That is, each one of us has a way in which we apologize and expect someone else to apologize. The trick is to know the way the other one expects you to apologize and if you know that, then your apology will be better received.
I am sure at times we apologize and it does not seem to be accepted. This might help. I know I am going to try it.
http://www.moody.edu/mp/promo/garychapman/free_res_land/pdf/StudyGuide_Wkplace.pdf
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, We know that you love us and we desire to love others the same way you love us. We know you forgive us and we desire to love others by being able to forgive as well as having others forgive us. Teach us Holy Spirit and glorify Jesus in our lives. Amen
"Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." (Col. 3:13)
For years I have been developing the "skill" to forgive someone. If some one offended me, the first couple of times I usually say something like, "it is ok", or "don't worry about it". But if the same type of thing keeps happening over and over again, it usually becomes harder and harder and in turn the relationship gets estranged.
This is particularly true in a marriage. If your spouse does something that irks you, you love them and don't make an issue of things, but if they keep doing it, it is easy to either bury it down inside and then one day it explodes out or it will tear you up on the inside of you and eventually do irreparable damage.
Now today I don't want to go in a direction of counseling others or giving advice to ourselves. Instead, all I want to do is share a link I found recently that I have begun thinking about.
This link goes to a small 20 page pdf by Drs. Gary Chapman and Jennifer Thomas. Gary Chapman is the author of "The Five Love Languages". I was on his website this weekend and found this small document about the Five Languages of Apology and there were some good thoughts about how we can apply this in the workplace. This pdf is not about how to apologize if you don't want to, it is more about how to apologize in the way the person who is unhappy wants you to apologize. That is, each one of us has a way in which we apologize and expect someone else to apologize. The trick is to know the way the other one expects you to apologize and if you know that, then your apology will be better received.
I am sure at times we apologize and it does not seem to be accepted. This might help. I know I am going to try it.
http://www.moody.edu/mp/promo/garychapman/free_res_land/pdf/StudyGuide_Wkplace.pdf
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, We know that you love us and we desire to love others the same way you love us. We know you forgive us and we desire to love others by being able to forgive as well as having others forgive us. Teach us Holy Spirit and glorify Jesus in our lives. Amen
Monday, February 16, 2009
His Timetable
Scriptures: Jesus replied, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.” (John 12:23)
I don’t know why. But, I think God has been reminding me of His timing recently. Yesterday, in our bible study, someone in our church, a student from Taiwan, shared how God has shown him the divine timing. He said that he has been very busy recently. On the one hand, he has been applying for a graduate school in one of the many prestigious colleges here in Southern California. The application required a proof of his financial resources. On the other hand, because of the location of the school, he needed get a driver license so as to buy a car to take him to school.
He told us that, in the beginning, he didn’t think much. He knew both were important and tried to proceed on both accounts simultaneously. But, somehow his efforts in getting the driver license did not go anywhere. He failed the first couple of times which he did not think much because he thought it might have something to do with him being new to this country and to all the systems here.
But, after 2 or 3 times, he was puzzled. He had been driving in Taiwan for some time and driving really was not a problem for him. But his experiences and knowledge did not seem to help and this kind of frustrated him. To make a long story short, he ended up taking 7 driving tests before he was able to secure a driver license. Afterwards, he said, everything else went smoothly. He wondered to himself, why?
Then, he noticed that, just a couple of days before he took that 7th driving test, he received the admission to the school he wanted. He realized that the Lord would not let him pass the test to get his car because he needed the money in the back for the college to verify his financial resources. As soon as the verification process was complete and the school found his academic performance acceptable, according to him, there was no more reason to hold up his driver’s license process and everything took off from that point on.
It was a very interesting testimony of how God worked according to His timing. The Bible teaches that God has a timetable. Jesus repeatedly talked about His hour. In Cana, when Mary asked Him to take care of the wine shortage problem, He told her, “Dear woman, why do you involve m? My time has not yet come.” (John 2:4) In the 7th chapter of the book of John, Jesus told His brothers, “The right time for me has not yet come.” (John 7:6) There was a time set and Jesus was clearly aware of it.
I guess that’s why, in everything Jesus did, we would never see Him in panic or rushing things. He took time to do things He needed to. He was always in control and, as a result, things were accomplished exactly the way they were planned. It seems to me that God’s plan is accomplished by His execution of His plan and His execution is based on His timing.
Another good example of God’s command over timing can be seen in the death and the resurrection of Lazarus. When Jesus was told of Lazarus’ illness, He deliberately delayed for a couple of days. He knew that this illness was “for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” (John 11:4) Even if He allowed Lazarus to die, He, the Lord of life and death, was capable of bringing Lazarus back from death. The life and death of His loved ones was definitely His concern. But, what’s more important to Him were the glory of God and our growing knowledge of this amazing God.
Life is full of surprises and heart-breaking incidences that catch us off-guard. Three weeks ago, on a Monday, I took my dad to a doctor’s appointment. Who would have thought that this doctor’s appointment would turn into a week of hospitalization and a surgery. When I read Michele’s sharing last Thursday, I knew exactly how that must have felt like. We are only moments away from a potentially life turning experience. But, let’s learn from our Master, Jesus, that, even in the face of the most terrifying moments in life, we can remain hopeful in His peace because, first of all, He is in control always and, secondly, He will bring out His goodness in His timing. Before that time comes, let’s entrust ourselves to Him by waiting on Him because He has promised us that “those hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)
Prayer Requests:
For our loved ones who have to go through medical treatments of any size in their old age
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for blessing us with loved ones in life. As we lift up those who are physically or spiritually weak to You, please help us to be mindful of Your goodness and sovereignty in our lives so we may be the witnesses of Your joy and peace for all, in good time and in bad. Help us to look to You for strength and faithfulness as we await for Your timing. In the mighty name of our Lord Jesus we pray, Amen!
I don’t know why. But, I think God has been reminding me of His timing recently. Yesterday, in our bible study, someone in our church, a student from Taiwan, shared how God has shown him the divine timing. He said that he has been very busy recently. On the one hand, he has been applying for a graduate school in one of the many prestigious colleges here in Southern California. The application required a proof of his financial resources. On the other hand, because of the location of the school, he needed get a driver license so as to buy a car to take him to school.
He told us that, in the beginning, he didn’t think much. He knew both were important and tried to proceed on both accounts simultaneously. But, somehow his efforts in getting the driver license did not go anywhere. He failed the first couple of times which he did not think much because he thought it might have something to do with him being new to this country and to all the systems here.
But, after 2 or 3 times, he was puzzled. He had been driving in Taiwan for some time and driving really was not a problem for him. But his experiences and knowledge did not seem to help and this kind of frustrated him. To make a long story short, he ended up taking 7 driving tests before he was able to secure a driver license. Afterwards, he said, everything else went smoothly. He wondered to himself, why?
Then, he noticed that, just a couple of days before he took that 7th driving test, he received the admission to the school he wanted. He realized that the Lord would not let him pass the test to get his car because he needed the money in the back for the college to verify his financial resources. As soon as the verification process was complete and the school found his academic performance acceptable, according to him, there was no more reason to hold up his driver’s license process and everything took off from that point on.
It was a very interesting testimony of how God worked according to His timing. The Bible teaches that God has a timetable. Jesus repeatedly talked about His hour. In Cana, when Mary asked Him to take care of the wine shortage problem, He told her, “Dear woman, why do you involve m? My time has not yet come.” (John 2:4) In the 7th chapter of the book of John, Jesus told His brothers, “The right time for me has not yet come.” (John 7:6) There was a time set and Jesus was clearly aware of it.
I guess that’s why, in everything Jesus did, we would never see Him in panic or rushing things. He took time to do things He needed to. He was always in control and, as a result, things were accomplished exactly the way they were planned. It seems to me that God’s plan is accomplished by His execution of His plan and His execution is based on His timing.
Another good example of God’s command over timing can be seen in the death and the resurrection of Lazarus. When Jesus was told of Lazarus’ illness, He deliberately delayed for a couple of days. He knew that this illness was “for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” (John 11:4) Even if He allowed Lazarus to die, He, the Lord of life and death, was capable of bringing Lazarus back from death. The life and death of His loved ones was definitely His concern. But, what’s more important to Him were the glory of God and our growing knowledge of this amazing God.
Life is full of surprises and heart-breaking incidences that catch us off-guard. Three weeks ago, on a Monday, I took my dad to a doctor’s appointment. Who would have thought that this doctor’s appointment would turn into a week of hospitalization and a surgery. When I read Michele’s sharing last Thursday, I knew exactly how that must have felt like. We are only moments away from a potentially life turning experience. But, let’s learn from our Master, Jesus, that, even in the face of the most terrifying moments in life, we can remain hopeful in His peace because, first of all, He is in control always and, secondly, He will bring out His goodness in His timing. Before that time comes, let’s entrust ourselves to Him by waiting on Him because He has promised us that “those hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)
Prayer Requests:
For our loved ones who have to go through medical treatments of any size in their old age
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for blessing us with loved ones in life. As we lift up those who are physically or spiritually weak to You, please help us to be mindful of Your goodness and sovereignty in our lives so we may be the witnesses of Your joy and peace for all, in good time and in bad. Help us to look to You for strength and faithfulness as we await for Your timing. In the mighty name of our Lord Jesus we pray, Amen!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Peace in the Storm
Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, He came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea they were terrified. "It is a ghost," they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." (Mt. 14:24-27).
As I was getting ready to post, I got a call from my Mom to say that Dad had just been taken to the hospital again. He's been having a hard time breathing for the past few days, and the doctor decided he needed to be where he could have round-the-clock care from medical professionals.
Just last night, I received the following story from a friend of mine, and given the current circumstances - both in my own life and in the world as a whole - this seemed very appropos. I share it with all of you as a reminder that even in the worst of storms, Jesus is with us, and that with Him, we can be at peace no matter how turbulent the world around us becomes.
Years ago, a farmer owned land along the Atlantic seacoast. He constantly advertised for hired hands. Most people were reluctant to work on farms along the Atlantic. They dreaded the awful storms that raged across the Atlantic, wreaking havoc on the buildings and crops.
As the farmer interviewed applicants for the job, he received a steady stream of refusals. Finally, a short, thin man, well past middle age, approached the farmer. "Are you a good farm hand?" the farmer asked him.
"Well, I can sleep when the wind blows," answered the little man. Although puzzled by this answer, the farmer, desperate for help, hired him. The little man worked well around the farm, busy from dawn to dusk, and the farmer felt satisfied with the man's work.
Then one night the wind howled loudly in from offshore. Jumping out of bed, the farmer grabbed a lantern and rushed next door to the hired hand's sleeping quarters. He shook the little man and yelled, "Get up! A storm is coming! Tie things down before they blow away!"
The little man rolled over in bed and said firmly, "No, sir. I told you, I can sleep when the wind blows."
Enraged by the response, the farmer was tempted to fire him on the spot. Instead, he hurried outside to prepare for the storm. To his amazement, he discovered that all of the haystacks had been covered with tarpaulins. The cows were in the barn, the chickens were in the coops, and the doors were barred. The shutters were tightly secured. Everything was tied down. Nothing could blow away. The farmer then understood what his hired hand meant, so he returned to his bed to also sleep while the wind blew.
When you're prepared, spiritually, mentally, and physically, you have nothing to fear. Can you sleep when the wind blows through your life? The hired hand in the story was able to sleep because he had secured the farm against the storm. We secure ourselves against the storms of life by grounding ourselves in the Word of God. We don't need to understand everything; we just need to hold His hand to have peace in the midst of storms.
Prayer Request: For my Dad as he faces this latest storm in his life and for all of those going through life's storms.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for being near to us in good times, but especially when the winds of life's storms blow against us. Help us to remember Your promise that You are with us always, holding our hands and holding us up with Your love and power. We make this prayer through Him who is our sure hope in the storm, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
As I was getting ready to post, I got a call from my Mom to say that Dad had just been taken to the hospital again. He's been having a hard time breathing for the past few days, and the doctor decided he needed to be where he could have round-the-clock care from medical professionals.
Just last night, I received the following story from a friend of mine, and given the current circumstances - both in my own life and in the world as a whole - this seemed very appropos. I share it with all of you as a reminder that even in the worst of storms, Jesus is with us, and that with Him, we can be at peace no matter how turbulent the world around us becomes.
Years ago, a farmer owned land along the Atlantic seacoast. He constantly advertised for hired hands. Most people were reluctant to work on farms along the Atlantic. They dreaded the awful storms that raged across the Atlantic, wreaking havoc on the buildings and crops.
As the farmer interviewed applicants for the job, he received a steady stream of refusals. Finally, a short, thin man, well past middle age, approached the farmer. "Are you a good farm hand?" the farmer asked him.
"Well, I can sleep when the wind blows," answered the little man. Although puzzled by this answer, the farmer, desperate for help, hired him. The little man worked well around the farm, busy from dawn to dusk, and the farmer felt satisfied with the man's work.
Then one night the wind howled loudly in from offshore. Jumping out of bed, the farmer grabbed a lantern and rushed next door to the hired hand's sleeping quarters. He shook the little man and yelled, "Get up! A storm is coming! Tie things down before they blow away!"
The little man rolled over in bed and said firmly, "No, sir. I told you, I can sleep when the wind blows."
Enraged by the response, the farmer was tempted to fire him on the spot. Instead, he hurried outside to prepare for the storm. To his amazement, he discovered that all of the haystacks had been covered with tarpaulins. The cows were in the barn, the chickens were in the coops, and the doors were barred. The shutters were tightly secured. Everything was tied down. Nothing could blow away. The farmer then understood what his hired hand meant, so he returned to his bed to also sleep while the wind blew.
When you're prepared, spiritually, mentally, and physically, you have nothing to fear. Can you sleep when the wind blows through your life? The hired hand in the story was able to sleep because he had secured the farm against the storm. We secure ourselves against the storms of life by grounding ourselves in the Word of God. We don't need to understand everything; we just need to hold His hand to have peace in the midst of storms.
Prayer Request: For my Dad as he faces this latest storm in his life and for all of those going through life's storms.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for being near to us in good times, but especially when the winds of life's storms blow against us. Help us to remember Your promise that You are with us always, holding our hands and holding us up with Your love and power. We make this prayer through Him who is our sure hope in the storm, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Love your enemies
Scripture: "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:43-45)
Last weekend I went to a party with some friends, and someone brought the movie "Fireproof" to watch. At first, I have to admit that inwardly, I cringed. I know it's a Christian movie, created by the same people who made "Flywheel" and "Facing the Giants" - both movies I very much enjoyed. But "Fireproof" carries a message about marriage.
I'm in my early 40's, and I am not likely to get married any time soon. It just isn't my calling, so I wondered how much I would enjoy the movie.
Boy was I wrong! "Fireproof" proved to be a movie about relationships and not just marriage. I thought it was really well done.
So why would I pick a scripture about how one should treat one's enemies, you wonder. I'm not being sarcastic or negative, don't get me wrong. But rather, the story is about a husband and wife who, after a few years of marriage, have forgotten how to treat each other kindly, and in fact, live in a house of strife and anger.
I don't want to give the movie away, I highly recommend you see it, I don't care if you're married or single - you will get something out of it. But let's just say one spouse learns how to love the other through some serious hardships. At one point, one character asks, "How am I supposed to show love to somebody who constantly rejects me?"
Wow .. isn't that what God is doing with His creation? He is just waiting for His people to come to Him, to recognize Who He is, to give their lives to Him. He continues to make Himself present to them, through sunsets, "close calls" when you have some kind of near accident, unexpected blessings, the miracle of birth, unexplained healings. He is constantly calling His creation to Himself.
The concept of treating others kindly through adversity doesn't apply only to marriage, but I can see it working through any relationship; parent/child, between siblings, friends, even in the work place. And it's not about being phony or insincere, but genuinely sharing the love of Christ with others through acts of kindness. Romans 12:19-21 says "Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
This is one of the many callings we have as Christians. We don't beat people over the head with the bible, shame them or judge them - but we are to love people into the kingdom. We all have our own testimonies about how we came to know Christ, but I'm certain everyone has a story of an unexpected kindness shown in a time of need that made in impact in our lives.
Rent or buy "Fireproof". You won't regret it. And I challenge you to share Christ's love with those around you in unexpected ways.
Prayer: Lord, help us to shine Your light to others through genuine acts of love and respect. Help us to share Your word but with less words - and more action. Let our actions speak louder than any amount of preaching we could do.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Interpretation of Time
Scriptures: “Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?” (Luke 12:56)
The church I am attending is an ethnic church. Every now and then, due to various occasions, we would have guest speakers from other churches to share messages of God in English. As a result, I have been blessed with opportunities to translate the messages into the language our folks know.
There are, of course, many ways of translating a message. One can translate a message in summary which saves a lot of time. One can also translate the message sentence by sentence or paragraph by paragraph. These usually depend on the speakers’ preferences. Sometimes, at the request of the speaker, I was required to do some synchronized interpretation, which basically means the speaker would continually give the message while I would be required to translate alongside. This usually was done with me doing the translation in another room sending the translation through a microphone that sent messages to the listeners’ ear buds.
Regardless of the ways of translation, the main challenge for the interpreter is to understand what the speaker is saying. Most speakers would give me the message in written form ahead of time so I can study and look up information I need. Some would only give me an outline, with scriptures. In some rare cases, there was nothing in written form at all. I would have to be very attentive and had to work really hard to remember whatever the speaker had said so as not to miss anything he/she said. Sometimes, the speakers would have such a great time sharing the message that they forgot to pause for me to translate. With so much been said and so little could be retained in the small brain I have, I could only translate the summary. This made the understanding of the main points from the speaker all the more important.
In most cases where a translation is needed, it usually also means that the interpreter is not just translating a language, he/she is also translating the message from one culture to another. Finding the equivalent across cultures are not always feasible. Therefore, up-front studies and preparation are essential to good translation.
In the book of Luke, Jesus rebuked people of His time that, as much as they could interpret the signs of this natural world, they were not able to interpret the time in God’s time table. He seemed to be telling us that, in each generation, God has in mind messages for us to learn and to live by. These messages are not readily available. They require efforts on our part to study and to interpret in order to understand. After all, these messages are indeed cross-cultural messages, coming from the divine culture intended for this sinful culture we live in.
Just like the translations I had done before, these divine messages are more than for the interpreters’ benefits. As interpreters, to accurately interpret the time as our Lord instructed us, we need to study and understand both cultures involved. Then, we need to learn how to relay the messages in the words and expressions that our audiences can understand so as to faithfully pass on the messages. We also need to be sensitive to the things going on in both cultures because, in many situations, the messages are actually in the events, not in the words, just like the parables used by our Lord.
I am convinced that, as long as we frame our interpretations in the correct context, the messages resulting from the interpretations will be correct and powerful as they are from God for our benefits. Our challenges are, as always, do we know what’s going on in the Kingdom of God? What’s going on in our world? What do these events mean from the perspective of who sent the messages? What do they mean to us? How can we apply what we learned to living?
May the Spirit of God help us to remove all obstacles and barriers in us so we can see clearly what God meant for us through this seemingly wicked and hopeless generation and help us to live, as Apostle Paul instructed us, “…as children of light (for the fruit of light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:8-10)
Prayer Requests:
For interpreters
Prayer:
Our heavenly Father, thank You for Your presence in our lives and for Your guidance through Your Spirit and all messages You have in store for us through the people, events, and circumstances placed in our lives. We ask that You bless us with divine wisdom and obedient hearts so we can be sensitive and responsive to Your leading and instructions, written or not, so as to live as children of light in this dark and depraved generation. In the wonderful name of our Lord Jesus we pray, Amen!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
The Holy Spirit
Scripture: "Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon-possessed. They would say, "In the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out." ... (One day) the evil spirit answered them, "Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?"" (Acts 19:13, 15)
We each have within us a compass, a weapon, the power to heal and the ability to gain great spiritual wisdom. Do you know Who I am referring to? Believe me, it isn't any one of us, but the Holy Spirit promised to anyone who accepts Christ as Savior. "I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 3:11)
The Holy Spirit is a powerful source that took residence in us the moment we accepted Christ into our hearts. It is only through Him, that third prong of the Holy Trinity, that we can know right from wrong, cast out evil spirits,the sick can be healed, or we can touch others through His prompting, if we are attentive enough to listen to Him.
As a child of God, the Holy Spirit guides us into a deeper relationship with the One who created us, knows the number of hairs on our head, knows us better than any family member or best friend ever could, who loves us deeper than any human possibly can.
As with any relationship, the closer you draw to Him, the more about Himself He will reveal to you. As you become more familiar with His voice, you learn the rewards of obeying that voice as it becomes more familiar to you. You also learn what pleases and displeases the Lord, not only through reading the Bible, but also through an inner "nudging" that was previously missing in your life. Often you will begin to feel spiritual "nudges" to stop listening to what you are listening to, or in inaudible, inner "feeling" that tells you to pray for someone in particular. Sometimes you begin to pray for a child you pass in the store, often you aren't told why, but you just do it. These are examples of the prompting of the Holy Spirit. We do not control the Holy Spirit. We are mere vessels by which He chooses to reside. But God gets His work done through us if we are faithful to listen and act when His instructions come through the Holy Spirit.
In Acts 19, it is very clear that non believers cannot simply call on God to do anything, just because they use His holy name. We do not command God to do anything. Rather, we ask and believe He will answer in His good time. Our requests come out of faith and relationship. As believers, we do not use the Holy Spirit as a rabbits' foot; something not held in high esteem and only called upon to fulfill worldly desires. His name is holy, and He is to be revered and held in a place of awe in our hearts.
It is always disheartening to me to hear people, non believers as well as the occasional believer, exclaim in exasperation, "Jesus!!" in the same way we all say, "Rats!" "Darn it!" or "Shoot!" I find it interesting that you never hear people shout out, "Buddha!", "Mohammad!" or "Dalai Lama!". Why is that?
Always remember, even if a non believer tries to invoke the name of Jesus Christ for their own purposes, evil spirits know and recognize who Christ is. You never want to take the name of the Lord lightly. Nor do you want to attempt to drive out evil spirits without truly knowing Christ.
Prayer: Lord, we humbly ask you to continue to help each one of us grow in relationship with You, and give us wisdom to make right choices in our lives. Teach us to listen intently for your voice, and then to ACT upon whatever prompting you give us. Help us to fulfill YOUR will in our lives each and every day. Amen
Prayer request: Pray for all those who desire to know God more, that the Holy Spirit will continue to drive them into a closer relationship with him, and that He will faithfully increase their faith and wisdom of Who He is.
We each have within us a compass, a weapon, the power to heal and the ability to gain great spiritual wisdom. Do you know Who I am referring to? Believe me, it isn't any one of us, but the Holy Spirit promised to anyone who accepts Christ as Savior. "I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 3:11)
The Holy Spirit is a powerful source that took residence in us the moment we accepted Christ into our hearts. It is only through Him, that third prong of the Holy Trinity, that we can know right from wrong, cast out evil spirits,the sick can be healed, or we can touch others through His prompting, if we are attentive enough to listen to Him.
As a child of God, the Holy Spirit guides us into a deeper relationship with the One who created us, knows the number of hairs on our head, knows us better than any family member or best friend ever could, who loves us deeper than any human possibly can.
As with any relationship, the closer you draw to Him, the more about Himself He will reveal to you. As you become more familiar with His voice, you learn the rewards of obeying that voice as it becomes more familiar to you. You also learn what pleases and displeases the Lord, not only through reading the Bible, but also through an inner "nudging" that was previously missing in your life. Often you will begin to feel spiritual "nudges" to stop listening to what you are listening to, or in inaudible, inner "feeling" that tells you to pray for someone in particular. Sometimes you begin to pray for a child you pass in the store, often you aren't told why, but you just do it. These are examples of the prompting of the Holy Spirit. We do not control the Holy Spirit. We are mere vessels by which He chooses to reside. But God gets His work done through us if we are faithful to listen and act when His instructions come through the Holy Spirit.
In Acts 19, it is very clear that non believers cannot simply call on God to do anything, just because they use His holy name. We do not command God to do anything. Rather, we ask and believe He will answer in His good time. Our requests come out of faith and relationship. As believers, we do not use the Holy Spirit as a rabbits' foot; something not held in high esteem and only called upon to fulfill worldly desires. His name is holy, and He is to be revered and held in a place of awe in our hearts.
It is always disheartening to me to hear people, non believers as well as the occasional believer, exclaim in exasperation, "Jesus!!" in the same way we all say, "Rats!" "Darn it!" or "Shoot!" I find it interesting that you never hear people shout out, "Buddha!", "Mohammad!" or "Dalai Lama!". Why is that?
Always remember, even if a non believer tries to invoke the name of Jesus Christ for their own purposes, evil spirits know and recognize who Christ is. You never want to take the name of the Lord lightly. Nor do you want to attempt to drive out evil spirits without truly knowing Christ.
Prayer: Lord, we humbly ask you to continue to help each one of us grow in relationship with You, and give us wisdom to make right choices in our lives. Teach us to listen intently for your voice, and then to ACT upon whatever prompting you give us. Help us to fulfill YOUR will in our lives each and every day. Amen
Prayer request: Pray for all those who desire to know God more, that the Holy Spirit will continue to drive them into a closer relationship with him, and that He will faithfully increase their faith and wisdom of Who He is.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Stay in Your Seat With Your Buckle Safely Fastened
A friend sent this to me, thought I would share
Woke in the middle of the night with God talking to me ....
When you go on a plane flight, you get on the plane and you are told to take a seat and fasten your seat belt ...prepare for take off. You don't ask any questions you just obey, knowing it's necessary for your safety and the safety of others around you. As the plane stabilizes the captain comes over the loud speaker and says, "You are allowed now to walk freely about the cabin."
All of a sudden you hear, ..."Please take your seats and buckle your seat belts for we are heading into some turbulent weather, I will keep you advised." You immediately get into your seat and fasten your seat belt, knowing that there is danger ahead.
God spoke to me and said... When I give you instructions, it is for your safety and for those around you..so please get in your seat...take your position and do whatever I tell you wether it be great or small. Fasten your seat belt ... You are tight and secure in the belt of truth as you obey my every command.
In the natural you would never run into the Captains cabin and try to take over and try to control the plane .... The same is with me, I am your Captain, Chief of Command so let me be in control of your life and I will get you safely home to your destination...the stops on this flight are up to me ...But I will always be with you and in control of this "Flight", your life.
You would never on a flight go to the emergency exits and try to open the hatch and jump out, it would not only kill you, but others on the flight with you... so stay in your seat, there is no exit in this walk, no running from your calling and I will tell you when it's safe to walk freely about the cabin ...rest time... but for right now stay in your position, walking in obedience to my every word, and keep the belt of truth securely fastened till the storm passes by.
Yes Lord .... Keep us safe till the storm passes by.
submitted by Gloria Lewis
Woke in the middle of the night with God talking to me ....
When you go on a plane flight, you get on the plane and you are told to take a seat and fasten your seat belt ...prepare for take off. You don't ask any questions you just obey, knowing it's necessary for your safety and the safety of others around you. As the plane stabilizes the captain comes over the loud speaker and says, "You are allowed now to walk freely about the cabin."
All of a sudden you hear, ..."Please take your seats and buckle your seat belts for we are heading into some turbulent weather, I will keep you advised." You immediately get into your seat and fasten your seat belt, knowing that there is danger ahead.
God spoke to me and said... When I give you instructions, it is for your safety and for those around you..so please get in your seat...take your position and do whatever I tell you wether it be great or small. Fasten your seat belt ... You are tight and secure in the belt of truth as you obey my every command.
In the natural you would never run into the Captains cabin and try to take over and try to control the plane .... The same is with me, I am your Captain, Chief of Command so let me be in control of your life and I will get you safely home to your destination...the stops on this flight are up to me ...But I will always be with you and in control of this "Flight", your life.
You would never on a flight go to the emergency exits and try to open the hatch and jump out, it would not only kill you, but others on the flight with you... so stay in your seat, there is no exit in this walk, no running from your calling and I will tell you when it's safe to walk freely about the cabin ...rest time... but for right now stay in your position, walking in obedience to my every word, and keep the belt of truth securely fastened till the storm passes by.
Yes Lord .... Keep us safe till the storm passes by.
submitted by Gloria Lewis
Monday, February 2, 2009
Punxsutawney Phil
Scriptures: “And we have the word of prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.” (I Peter 1:19)
Punxsutawney Phil is a groundhog that comes out of his burrow on Gobbler’s Knob, Pennsylvania, each February 2 to predict the weather. According to legend, if Phil sees his shadow, there will be 6 more weeks of cold weather. If he doesn’t see his shadow, spring will come early.
This is all humbug and good humor, of course. No one to my knowledge takes Phil’s predictions seriously. Furthermore, he’s unreliable—more often wrong than right, I’m told.
There is One, however, who is always right and whom we must take seriously. Peter writes of Him, “We have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts” (2 Peter 1:19).
Peter was thinking of that day on the Mount of Transfiguration with James and John when he saw Jesus standing with the two great prophets of the Old Testament, Moses and Elijah. In that august company of true prophets the Father pointed to the Son and said: “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!” (Luke 9:35). Jesus’ word is a “prophetic word” that is certain!
There is One who is never wrong and who will never lead us astray: our Lord Jesus. We must hear Him! — David H. Roper
At the name of Jesus bowing,
Punxsutawney Phil is a groundhog that comes out of his burrow on Gobbler’s Knob, Pennsylvania, each February 2 to predict the weather. According to legend, if Phil sees his shadow, there will be 6 more weeks of cold weather. If he doesn’t see his shadow, spring will come early.
This is all humbug and good humor, of course. No one to my knowledge takes Phil’s predictions seriously. Furthermore, he’s unreliable—more often wrong than right, I’m told.
There is One, however, who is always right and whom we must take seriously. Peter writes of Him, “We have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts” (2 Peter 1:19).
Peter was thinking of that day on the Mount of Transfiguration with James and John when he saw Jesus standing with the two great prophets of the Old Testament, Moses and Elijah. In that august company of true prophets the Father pointed to the Son and said: “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!” (Luke 9:35). Jesus’ word is a “prophetic word” that is certain!
There is One who is never wrong and who will never lead us astray: our Lord Jesus. We must hear Him! — David H. Roper
At the name of Jesus bowing,
Falling prostrate at His feet,
King of kings in heaven we’ll crown Him
When our journey is complete. —Baxter
In a world full of speculation, only God’s Word is certain
(From RBC Ministries’ Our Daily Bread, February 2, 2009 – by David H. Roper)
Prayer Requests:
For those feeling insecure in life
Prayer:
In a world full of speculation, only God’s Word is certain
(From RBC Ministries’ Our Daily Bread, February 2, 2009 – by David H. Roper)
Prayer Requests:
For those feeling insecure in life
Prayer:
Our gracious Lord, in this world of constant changes, we know the only one who is steadfast and trustworthy is You. Thank You for blessing us with the Living Word, our Lord Jesus, and the written Word, Bible, so our little faith can be strengthened with Your daily guidance through the scriptures. Please help us to fix our eyes on You and Your Word so we can walk closely with You through all changes and uncertainties in life. In the mighty name of our Lord Jesus we pray, Amen!
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