INSPIRING WORDS

Staying Married

2009-02-24T07:15:00.000-08:00

Stay married and save the planet - Aussie lawmaker

CANBERRA (Reuters) – Staying married is better for the planet because divorce leads the newly single to live more wasteful lifestyles, an Australian lawmaker said Tuesday.

Senator Steve Fielding told a Senate hearing in the Australian capital Canberra that divorce only made climate change worse.

When couples separated, they needed more rooms, more electricity and more water. This increased their carbon footprint, Australian Associated Press (AAP) quoted Fielding as telling the hearing on environmental issues.

"We understand that there is a social problem (with divorce), but now we're seeing there is also environmental impact as well on the footprint," AAP quoted him as saying.

Such a "resource-inefficient lifestyle" meant it would be better for the planet if couples stayed married, he said.

During the hearing, the senator read out quotes from a U.S. report that advocated his stance.

Fielding, who leads the independent Family First party, grew up in a family of 16 children and has been married for 22 years, his website says.

When God calls you....

2009-02-16T11:09:00.000-08:00

Let us finish the race that we have started no matter what the outcome will be, no matter what the odds will be, even if it takes our breath away. Someday, our "wall" that we are building will soon be complete!

When God calls you to work on a project, I think it’s helpful to keep in mind both the project itself, and the future purpose for which God called you to it.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).

God knows your heart, and He’ll honor your heart as you honor His. Don’t give up. Don’t give in. Keep pressing on with what God has called you to do. Whatever the outcome, you will reap a harvest at the proper time, if you do not give up.

Scriptural Reading: Nehemiah 6:15-19

Scripture reading: Mattew 6:15

2009-01-30T09:05:00.000-08:00

Some of life's hurts are so painful that to forgive the people who caused them seems impossible. Forgiveness is not about forgetting and wiping out the past. Instead, it is the experience of healing that drains the poison from the wound.

"Lord Jesus, give us grace each day that we may follow in Your way, especially when some unloved soul needs our forgiving to be whole." - Dennis De Haan

"Be Careful of What you Say"

2009-01-28T12:33:00.000-08:00

Jesus Said; "THERE IS NOTHING THAT ENTERS A MAN
FROM THE OUTSIDE WHICH CAN DEFILE HIM; BUT THE
THINGS WHICH COME OUT OF HIM, THOSE ARE THE
THINGS THAT DEFILE HIM."- MARK 7:15

As Christians we must be careful of the words we speak,
and keep them soft and sweet, because sometimes we can
defile ourselves with our words. For if we are not careful:
OUT OF THE SAME MOUTH PROCEED BLESSING AND
CURSING. MY BRETHREN, THESE THINGS OUGHT NOT
TO BE SO. ( JAMES 3:10 ) Therefore: LET YOUR SPEECH
ALWAYS BE WITH GRACE, SEASONED WITH SALT,
THAT YOU MAY KNOW HOW YOU OUGHT TO ANSWER
EACH OTHER. ( COLOSSIANS 4:6 )

So dear friends, speak only words of kindness, and: SPEAK
EVIL TO NO ONE, TO BE PEACEABLE, GENTLE,
SHOWING ALL HUMILITY TO ALL MEN. ( TITUS 3:2 )

FINALLY, ALL OF YOU BE OF ONE MIND, HAVING
COMPASSION FOR ONE ANOTHER; LOVE AS
BROTHERS, BE TENDERHEARTED, BE COURTEOUS;
NOT RETURNING EVIL FOR EVIL OR REVILING FOR
REVILING, BUT ON THE CONTRARY BLESSING,
KNOWING THAT YOU WERE CALLED TO THIS, THAT
YOU MAY INHERIT A BLESSING. Amen.
( 1 PETER 3:8-9 )

IS IT TRUE???

2009-01-26T20:17:00.000-08:00

"THE KEY TO SUCCEEDING IN MARRIAGE IS NOT FINDING THE RIGHT PERSON. IT'S
LEARNING TO LOVE THE PERSON YOU FOUND."

THE RIGHT PERSON?

On one seminar, a woman asked a common question. She said,
"How do I know if I married the right person?" I noticed that there was
a large man sitting next to her so I said, "It depends. Is that your
husband?" In all seriousness, she answered, "How do you know?"

Let me answer this question because the chances are good that it's
weighing on your mind. Here's the answer.

EVERY relationship has a cycle. In the beginning, you fell in love with
your spouse. You anticipated their call, wanted their touch, and liked
their idiosyncrasies.

Falling in love with your spouse wasn't hard. In fact, it was a
completely natural and spontaneous experience. You didn't have to DO
anything. That's why it's called "falling" in love... because it's
happening TO YOU. People in love sometimes say, "I was swept off my
feet." Think about the imagery of that expression. It implies that you
were just standing there; doing nothing, and then something came along
and happened TO YOU.

Falling in love is easy. It's a passive and spontaneous experience.

But after a few years of marriage, the euphoria of love fades. It's the
natural cycle of EVERY relationship. Slowly but surely, phone calls
become a bother (if they come at all), touch is not always welcome (when
it happens), and your spouse's idiosyncrasies, instead of being cute,
drive you nuts.

The symptoms of this stage vary with every relationship, but if you
think about your marriage, you will notice a dramatic difference between
the initial stage when you were in love and a much duller or even angry
subsequent stage.

At this point, you and/or your spouse might start asking, "Did I marry
the right person?" And as you and your spouse reflect on the euphoria of
the love you once

had, you may begin to desire that experience with someone else. This is
when marriages breakdown. People blame their spouse for their
unhappiness and look outside their marriage for fulfillment.

Extramarital fulfillment comes in all shapes and sizes. Infidelity is
the most obvious. But sometimes people turn to work, church, a hobby, a
friendship, excessive TV, or abusive substances.

But the answer to this dilemma does NOT lie outside your marriage. It
lies within it. I'm not saying that you couldn't fall in love with
someone else.

You could. And TEMPORARILY you'd feel better. But you'd be in the same
situation a few years later. Because (listen carefully to this):

THE KEY TO SUCCEEDING IN MARRIAGE IS NOT FINDING THE RIGHT PERSON. IT'S
LEARNING TO LOVE THE PERSON YOU FOUND.

SUSTAINING love is not a passive or spontaneous experience. It will
NEVER just happen to you. You can't "find" LASTING love. You have to
"make" it day in and day out. That's why we have the expression "the
labor of love." Because it takes time, effort, and energy. And most
importantly, it takes WISDOM. You have to know WHAT TO DO to make your
marriage work.

Make no mistake about it. Love is NOT a mystery. There are specific
things that you can do (with or without your spouse) to succeed with
your marriage.

Just as there are physical laws of the universe (such as gravity), there
are also laws for relationships. Just as the right diet and exercise
program makes you physically stronger, certain habits in your
relationship WILL make your marriage stronger. It's a direct cause and
effect. And if you know and apply the laws, the results are
predictable... you can "make" love.

Love in marriage is indeed a "decision"... not just a feeling.

--------------------------------------

"When a man's ways are pleasing to the Lord, he makes even his enemies
live at peace with him." (Proverb 16:7)

"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to
those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose"

Haggai 2:8-9

2009-01-25T06:39:00.000-08:00

For God's glory, it was an amazing service of God!

"As for me and my house....."

2009-01-19T19:39:00.000-08:00

AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSEHOLD, WE WILL SERVE THE LORD.-JOSHUA 24:15 NIV

As a child of GOD, we are to strive to become as much like
CHRIST as we can possibly be. Remember that CHRIST
came as a Servant, not as a Great King, and Serving others
is an important way of becoming more like JESUS!

After all our Savior JESUS CHRIST said, "FOR EVEN THE
SON OF MAN DID NOT COME TO BE SERVED BUT TO
SERVE, AND TO GIVE HIS LIFE AS A RANSOM FOR MANY."
( MARK 10:45 )

Therefore we should also, BE VERY CAREFUL TO KEEP
THE COMMANDMENT AND THE LAW THAT MOSES THE
SERVANT OF THE LORD GAVE YOU: TO HOLD FAST TO
HIM AND TO SERVE HIM WITH ALL YOUR HEART AND
WITH ALL YOUR SOUL. ( JOSHUA 22:5 )

Now, we may do that by sharing our love with each other,
and by Serving our Heavenly Father as well. Some Serve GOD
by teaching Sabbath or Sunday School, others by helping people who are
in need! After all, there are many ways to Serve our Heavenly
Father.

Therefore why not volunteer to help others when the need
arises, SINCE YOU KNOW THAT YOU WILL RECEIVE AN
INHERITANCE FROM THE LORD AS A REWARD. IT IS
THE LORD CHRIST YOU ARE SERVING. Amen.
( COLOSSIANS 3:24 )

Investing Time & Talents

2009-01-12T06:33:00.000-08:00

Use every opportunity to work for the Lord. We do not know when our time here is over. But whatever we do, His will must be made our will in all things.
For Scriptural Reading: James 4:14

THE YEAR 2009

2009-01-05T15:38:00.000-08:00

"A LAND FOR WHICH THE LORD YOUR GOD CARES; THE EYES OF THE LORD YOUR GOD ARE ALWAYS
ON IT, FROM THE BEGINNING OF THE YEAR TO THE VERY END OF THE YEAR." - DEUTERONOMY 11:12

As we begin the year 2009, with all the problems the World is facing, it can be unsettling to the mind. Today, I will share with you 10 predictions that are sure to come true this year!

Top 10 Predictions for 2009

1. The Bible will still have all the answers.
2. Prayer will still be the most powerful thing on Earth..
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still honor the praises of His people.
5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.
6. There will still be singing of praise to God.
7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8. There will still be room at the Cross.
9. Jesus will still love you.
10.Jesus will still save the lost when they come to Him.

Isn't It Great To Remember Who Is Really In Control,
and that; "THE WORD OF THE LORD ENDURES FOREVER."
Amen! - 1 Peter 1:25

"Press On Toward What is Ahead"

2008-12-31T15:13:00.000-08:00

Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV)

"Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

Life Application:

We have all done things for which we are ashamed, and we live in tension of what we have been and what we want to be. Because our hope is in Christ, however, we can let go of past guilt and look forward to what God will help us become. Dont dwell on your past. Instead grow in knowledge of God by concentrating on your relationship with Him now. Realize that you are forgiven, and then move on to a life of faith and obedience. Look forward to a fuller and more meaningful life because of your hope in Christ.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!

"The Greatest Gift"

2008-12-29T18:54:00.000-08:00

FOR UNTO US A CHILD IS BORN, UNTO US A CHILD IS GIVEN;
AND THE GOVERNMENT SHALL BE ON HIS SHOULDER, AND
HIS NAME SHALL BE CALLED WONDERFUL, COUNSELOR
THE MIGHTY GOD, THE EVERLASTING FATHER, THE PRINCE
OF PEACE. - ISAIAH 9:6 NKJV

As we celebrate this day let us not lose sight of the first
Christmas present ever given, that being God giving us His Son,
our Savior Jesus Christ, to dwell with us!

So let us not get lost in all the hustle and bustle of this time
of year. Instead, let us be mindful of all our blessings, and
share the Christmas Spirit with others. Remembering.....

THE GREATEST Gift

The greatest gift at Christmastime
Is one we all may give -

A friendly smile that helps to make
Life easier to live.

A kindly thought, a helping hand,
To show someone we care

And let them know how much it means
For us to have them here.

The greatest gift at Christmastime
Costs not a lot to buy -

It's being a good neighbor
As days and months go by:

It's offering a shoulder
When someone needs a lift,

And so I pray this Christmas Day
That this may be your gift!
Poet, Grace E. Easley

May have a Very Merry Christmas and a Wonderful
New Year! May we all experience what is promised to us, His Overflow!

"A Friend"

2008-12-29T18:51:00.000-08:00

Jesus said, "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 HAVE LEARNED FROM MY FATHER I HAVE MADE KNOWN TO YOU." -JOHN 15:15 NIV

"Oh, what a Friend we have in Jesus!" A friend that is always there for us no matter what! A friend that loves, comforts and guides us through out this life. A friend that loved us so much that HE gave HIS life to pay for our sins! After all;
GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD THAT HE GAVE HIS ONE AND ONLY SON, THAT WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM SHALL NOT PERISH BUT HAVE ETERNAL LIFE. ( JOHN 3:16 )

Now it is written; GREATER LOVE HAS NO MAN THAN THIS, THAT HE LAY DOWN HIS LIFE FOR HIS FRIENDS. ( JOHN 15:13 ) and that is exactly what Jesus did for us!

So whenever you see the Cross, think about the tremendous
price that HE paid for all of us! Why not stop right now and
thank HIM for all of the things HE has done for you as well. Also
right about now, why not sing to yourself that beautiful old Hymn,
"What A Friend We Have In Jesus." For what a friend we have
indeed!!! Amen.

The "W" in Christmas

2008-12-22T16:08:00.000-08:00

This is shared to me by a friend:
"AND HE TOOK THE CHILDREN IN HIS ARMS, PUT HIS HANDS ON THEM AND BLESSED THEM."- ( MARK 10:16 *NIV )

As you know our Savior Jesus Christ loves little children! So today I will share with you a message that I know you will enjoy as much as I do. It is titled.......

The "W" in Christmas

Each December, I vowed to make Christmas a calm and peaceful experience. I had cut back on nonessential obligations - extensive card writing, endless baking, decorating, and even overspending. Yet still, I found myself exhausted, unable to appreciate the precious family moments, and of course, the true meaning of Christmas.

My son, Nicholas, was in kindergarten that year. It was an exciting season for a six year old. For weeks, he'd been memorizing songs for his school's "Winter Pageant." I didn't have the heart to tell him I'd be working the night of the production. Unwilling to miss his shining moment, I spoke with his teacher. She assured me there'd be a dress rehearsal the morning of the presentation. All parents unable to attend that evening were welcome to come then. Fortunately, Nicholas seemed happy with the compromise.

So, the morning of the dress rehearsal, I filed in ten minutes early, found a spot on the cafeteria floor and sat down. Around the room, I saw several other parents quietly scampering to their seats. As I waited, the students were led into the room. Each class, accompanied by their teacher, sat cross-legged on the floor. Then, each group, one by one, rose to perform their song.

Because the public school system had long stopped referring to the holiday as "Christmas," I didn't expect anything other than fun,commercial entertainment - songs of reindeer, Santa Claus, snowflakes and good cheer. So, when my son's class rose to sing, "Christmas Love," I was slightly taken aback by it's bold title.

Nicholas was aglow, as were all of his classmates, adorned in fuzzy mittens, red sweaters, and bright snow caps upon their heads. Those in the front row- center stage - held up large letters, one by one, to spell out the title of the song. As the class would sing "C is for Christmas," a child would hold up the letter C. Then, "H is for Happy," and on and on, until each child holding up his portion had presented the complete message, "Christmas Love."

The performance was going smoothly, until suddenly, we noticed her; a small, quiet, girl in the front row holding the letter "M" upside down - totally unaware her letter "M" appeared as a "W". The audience of 1st through 6th graders snickered at this little one's mistake. But she had no idea they were laughing at her, so she stood tall, proudly holding her "W".

Although many teachers tried to shush the children, the laughter continued until the last letter was raised, and we all saw it together. A hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen. In that instant, we understood the reason we were there, why we celebrated the holiday in the first place, why even in the chaos, there was a purpose for our festivities. For when the last letter was held high, the message
read loud and clear: "CHRISTWAS LOVE" And, I believe, He still is. Amen. Author Unknown

MERRY "CHRISTWAS LOVE" TO ALL!

The Truth: CHRISTMAS IS CHRIST AND MASS...CHRIST AND HIS DEATH AND OUR WALK WITH HIM! LET US ALL GIVE LOVE TO EVERYONE!

2008-12-03T11:39:00.000-08:00

The Wings of Burden

An old legend relates that long ago God had a great many burdens which He wished to have carried from one place to another on earth, so He asked the animals to lend a hand. But all of them began to make excuses for not helping: the elephant was too dignified; the lion, too proud; and so on. Finally the birds came to God and said, "If you will tie the burdens into small bundles, we'll be glad to carry them for you. We are small but we would like to help."

So God fastened upon the back of each one a small bundle, and they all set out walking across the plain to their destination. They sang as they went, and did not seem to feel the weight of their burdens at all. Every day the burdens seemed lighter and lighter, until the loads seems to be lifting the birds, instead of the birds carrying the burdens.

When they arrived at their destination, they discovered that when they removed their loads, there were wings in their place, wings which enabled them to fly to the sky and the tree tops.

They had learned how to carry their burdens, and their loads had become wings to carry them nearer to God.

Burdens we carry for others may become wings of the spirit, to lift us into happiness such as we have never known.

Do It Anyway

2008-12-03T11:30:00.000-08:00

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and sincere, people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.
What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.
In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.

M.T.

"Put on the Whole Armor of God"

2008-11-27T06:48:00.000-08:00

"PUT ON THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD, THAT YOU MAY BE ABLE TO STAND AGAINST THE WILES OF THE DEVIL." (EPHESIANS 6:11 NKJV)

God tells us to put on the Gospel Armor to protect us from satan's evil tricks and temptations as well. This is; BECAUSE YOUR ADVERSARY THE DEVIL WALKS ABOUT LIKE A
ROARING LION, SEEKING WHOM HE MAY DEVOUR.( 1 PETER 5:8 )

Therefore God also tells us what the Gospel Armor is, for He said; "STAND THEREFORE, HAVING GIRDED YOUR WAIST WITH TRUTH, HAVING PUT ON THE BREAST PLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, AND HAVING SHOD YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF
PEACE; ABOVE ALL, TAKING THE SHIELD OF FAITH WITH WHICH YOU WILL BE ABLE TO QUENCH ALL THE FIERY DARTS OF THE WICKED ONE. AND TAKE THE HELMET OF SALVATION, AND THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, WHICH IS THE WORD OF GOD," ( EPHESIANS 6:14-17 )

Now that you know what the "Gospel Armor" is, wear it with pride. It is perfect for every occasion from a black tie affair, to mowing the lawn! Best of all it never goes out of style and one size fits all! Wearing that armor will help you to; RESIST THE DEVIL AND HE WILL FLEE FROM YOU. AMEN!( JAMES 4:7 )

"Cast all Your Cares"

2008-11-25T09:55:00.000-08:00

"CAST ALL YOUR ANXIETY ON HIM BECAUSE HE CARES FOR YOU."(1 PETER 5:7 NIV)

We are often filled with worry and anxiety in the fast paced World of ours today. When you think about it, what is worry but the opposite of faith!

Now Jesus Christ said; "THEREFORE I TELL YOU, DO NOT WORRY ABOUT YOUR LIFE, WHAT YOU WILL EAT OR DRINK; OR ABOUT YOUR BODY, WHAT YOU WILL WEAR. IS NOT LIFE MORE IMPORTANT THAN FOOD, AND THE BODY MORE IMPORTANT THAN CLOTHES? LOOK AT THE BIRDS OF THE FIELD THEY DO NOT SOW OR REAP OR STORE AWAY IN BARNS, AND YET YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER FEEDS THEM. ARE YOU NOT MUCH MORE VALUABLE THAN THEY? "AND WHY DO YOU WORRY
ABOUT CLOTHES? SEE HOW THE LILIES OF THE FIELD GROW. THEY DO NOT LABOR OR SPIN. YET I TELL YOU THAT NOT EVEN SOLOMON IN ALL HIS SPLENDOR WAS DRESSED LIKE ONE OF THESE."
(Matthew 6:25-26; & 28-29)
Therefore my friends, know that God is always with you, and there is no reason to worry about what might happen. After all it is written; "THEREFORE DO NOT WORRY ABOUT TOMORROW, FOR TOMORROW WILL WORRY ABOUT ITSELF. EACH DAY HAS ENOUGH TROUBLE OF ITS OWN. SO; DO NOT BE ANXIOUS ABOUT ANYTHING, BUT IN EVERYTHING, BY PRAYER AND PETITION, WITH THANKSGIVING,PRESENT YOUR REQUESTS TO GOD. AND THE PEACE OF GOD, WHICH TRANSCENDS ALL UNDERSTANDING, WILL GUARD YOUR HEARTS AND YOUR MINDS IN CHRIST JESUS. AMEN." (MATTHEW 6:34/PHILIPPIANS 4:6)

Now my friends; "LET THE PEACE OF CHRIST RULE IN YOUR HEART, SINCE AS A MEMBER OF ONE BODY YOU WERE CALLED TO PEACE. AND BE THANKFUL." Amen. (COLOSSIANS 3:15)

The Holy Spirit

2008-11-24T17:12:00.000-08:00

At the moment of salvation, the time we received Jesus as our personal Lord and Savior, the Holy Spirit comes to take His place and dwells in the center of our hearts. But we do not stop there. We are not satisfied. We want Him in full! Our new birth in Christ does not change natural qualities but brings them in line with holy purpose; when they are placed under the control of the Holy Spirit, they are raised to new effectiveness. Hidden abilities are often released.

To know the Holy Spirit is our foundation. To acknowledge his person is to embrace his person as precious, wonderful. He is a real person who came to reside within Jesus Christ’s true followers after Jesus rose from the dead and ascended to heaven (Acts 2). A person that can feel us – our pain, our purpose and our potentials.
He is a person equal in every way with God the Father and God the Son; considered to be the 3rd member of the Godhead. (Matthew 29:18-20. He is another helper to us.(John 14:16-18)

The Holy Spirit bears “witness” of Jesus Christ (John 15:26, 16:14). He tells people’s heart about the truth of Him. He also acts as a Christian’s teacher (1 Cor. 2:9-14). He reveals God’s will and God’s truth to a Christian. “He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all I said to you.” (John 14:26). “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth.” (John 16:13)
The Holy Spirit was given to live inside those who believe in Jesus, in order to produce God’s character in the life of a believer. In the way that we can not do on our own, the Holy Spirit will build into our lives love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Gal. 5:22-23)

The Holy Spirit also performs a function for non-Christians as well. He convicts people’s hearts of God’s truth concerning how sinful we are – needing God’s forgiveness; how righteous Jesus is…that He died in our place, for our sins; and God’s eventual judgment of the world and those who do not know Him (John 16:8-11). The Holy Spirit tugs on our hearts and minds, asking us to repent and turn to God for forgiveness and a new life.

The Coming of the Holy Spirit - Acts 2:1-13 The Spirit descends at Pentecost”. Pentecost was the second of the Annual harvest festival.

The Holy Spirit is the gift that was promised by the Father – a new and greater empowering of the Holy Spirit that the disciples were to await in Jerusalem (Luke 3:15-17/ John said “he who is mightier than I is coming and he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire”. )

Spiritual leadership requires Spirit-filled people. Other qualities are important; to be Spirit-filled is indispensable. (crucial, vital, essential, necessary, very important, requisite, obligatory)

HOW?
1. BE SPIRIT LED AND FILLED
Acts 6:4 – filled with the holy spirit does not mean to pour into a passive container but ‘to take possession of the mind’. Luke 5:26 ‘they were filled with awe?” (admiration, wonder, amazement, surprise, astonishment)

There is strength and passion when we invite the Spirit to fill us. The Spirit’s power grips our lives with strength and passion.

Acts 6:1-7
The growth of the church created problems when a number of Hellenistic (Greek Speaking Jews) responded to the gospel. The resulting language barrier led to the neglect of some needy widows, and the apostles called upon the Greek speaking community to choose leaders to meet the need.

The church at Jerusalem listened to the apostles’ instructions and selected seven men who possessed the one necessary qualification. (Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism.

Vs. 4 – essential to the work of the apostles was their devotion to prayer and to the ministry of the word.
Vs. 6 – the apostles confirmed the congregational election when they prayed and laid their hands on them.
Result: Because of their Spirit-filled work, the church was blessed. The men selected to distribute the food and earthly care, were soon seen as the Spirit’s agents in dispensing (provision, providing, giving out) heavenly blessings.
Vs. 7 – the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem in spite of suffering and persecution (5:41); in spite of sin in the church (5:1-11) and in spite of conflict (6:1) the church continued to grow.

Leaders who are faithful in the exercise of their gifts prepare the way for promotion to greater responsibilities and usefulness.
Like Stephen, he became the first martyr for Christ, and his death played a large role in the conversion of Paul. He was filled with the Spirit, bore witness to Christ and died a radiant martyr (6:3; 7:55)

Acts 20:28 – “Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers”. Here, Paul counseled leaders in the church at Ephesus on how to understand their office. These leaders did not hold office by apostolic selection or popular election but by divine appointment. They were accountable not only to the church but also to the Holy Spirit.

Without the filling of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, how could the apostles have faced the superhuman task ahead? They needed supernatural power for their warfare against the devil and hell.

They need a helper. (Luke 24:29). They need to put on the Armor of God. (Eph. 6:10-18)

2. VOLUNTARILY SURRENDERS LIFE AND WILL TO THE TO THE SPIRIT
Surrender all. Through faith, the believer’s personality is permeated (filled, infuse, saturate), mastered and controlled by the Spirit.

The Holy Spirit does not take control of anyone against his or her will. When people who lack spiritual fitness are elected to leadership positions, the Holy Spirit quietly withdraws and leaves them to implement their own policies according to their own standards. The result is not spiritual administration.

3. BE CONTROLLED BY THE SPIRIT
The Christian leader’s mind, emotions, will, and physical strength all become available for the Spirit to guide and use.
Under the Spirit’s control, natural gifts of leadership are lifted to the highest power, sanctified for holy purpose. All the fruits of the Spirit start to grow in the leader’s life. His witness is more winsome, service more steady, and testimony is more powerful.

The early leaders of the church were sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. They surrendered their own wills to the Spirit’s control. They delighted to obey the Spirit’s promptings and guidance.

The Spirit helped Peter to overcome his bias and meet with Cornelius, which led to blessings for the Gentile world (10:19; 11:12).
The Spirit intervened to bring the gospel to the Gentiles. The Spirit’s great purpose is missions!

John 7:37-39 says that all real Christian service is but the expression of Spirit power through believers yielded to Him. And each believer has as much of the Spirit’s presence as he or she will ever need. Our task is to remain yielded to Him. The Holy Spirit comes because He is needed; because is wanted.

Covet the anointing of the Holy Spirit as you fulfill your calling. Luke 4:17-19 “The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him…unrolling it, he reads “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor…to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”

Acts 2:17 “In the last days, God says: I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.”

Is the Spirit talking to you today?

"Love"

2008-11-19T15:36:00.000-08:00

"LOVE IS PATIENT, LOVE IS KIND, IT DOES NOT ENVY, IT DOES NOT BOAST, IT IS NOT PROUD. IT IS NOT RUDE, IT IS NOT SELF-SEEKING, IT IS NOT EASILY ANGERED, IT KEEPS NO RECORD OF WRONGS. LOVE DOES NOT DELIGHT IN EVIL BUT REJOICES WITH THE TRUTH. IT
ALWAYS PROTECTS, ALWAYS TRUSTS, ALWAYS HOPES, ALWAYS PERSEVERES. (1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-7 NIV)

Our society today often confuses love with lust. True love,like the kind God shows toward us, is directed outward toward others not inward toward ourselves.

Therefore we are to show others God's unselfish love everyday. For it is written; "NOBODY SHOULD SEEK HIS OWN GOOD, BUT THE GOOD OF OTHERS."(1 CORINTHIANS 10:24) So; LET US NOT BECOME CONCEITED, PROVOKING AND ENVYING EACH OTHER".(GALATIANS 5:26) Instead we should be; "BE KIND AND COMPASSIONATE TO ONE ANOTHER, FORGIVING EACH
OTHER, JUST AS IN CHRIST GOD FORGAVE US. (EPHESIANS 4:32)

Also remember that there is joy to be found in giving to others without expecting anything in return! After all that kind of unselfish love is the kind that God fills His Children with, and expects His Children to show to one another as well. After all it is written that; "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF". (MATTHEW 22:39)

Rebuilding: "Find Your Resources"

2008-11-18T08:50:00.000-08:00

Has God called you to do something that’s bigger than you can pull off yourself? Then it’s time to call on Him to help you find the resources you need from somewhere else. It’s hard to ask for help, though. But the good news is that when you ask God first, He’ll show you who to ask next. Listen to this conversation that Nehemiah had with King Artaxerxes, just after Nehemiah had been praying to God about rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem:

“In the month of Nisan in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was brought for him, I took the wine and gave it to the king. I had not been sad in his presence before; so the king asked me, ‘Why does your face look so sad when you are not ill? This can be nothing but sadness of heart.’ “I was very much afraid, but I said to the king, ‘May the king live forever! Why should my face not look sad when the city where my fathers are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire?’ “The king said to me, ‘What is it you want?’

“Then I prayed to the God of heaven, and I answered the king, ‘If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my fathers are buried so that I can rebuild it.’

“Then the king, with the queen sitting beside him, asked me, ‘How long will your journey take, and when will you get back?’ It pleased the king to send me; so I set a time. “I also said to him, ‘If it pleases the king, may I have letters to the governors of Trans-Euphrates, so that they will provide me safe- conduct until I arrive in Judah? And may I have a letter to Asaph, keeper of the king’s forest, so he will give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel by the temple and for the city wall and for the residence I will occupy?’ And because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the king granted my requests. So I went to the governors of Trans-Euphrates and gave them the king's letters. The king had also sent army officers and cavalry with me” (Nehemiah 2:1-9).

Even though Nehemiah was “very much afraid,” God opened a door for him with the king, and Nehemiah walked through it. I can’t guarantee that God will send a king to give you what you need, but it may surprise you who God does put in your path.

There’s a story told about Mother Teresa, who went walking door-to- door to raise money for her orphans. At one door, when she asked for help, a man spat in her face. She took her habit, wiped her face clean and said, “Well, that’s for me. That’s for my humility. Now how about something for the children?” The man gave her some money.

If God has put a project on your heart, remember that He wants you to succeed even more than you do. My prayer for you is that when God opens a door in front of you, you'll have the courage you need to walk through it and find the resources you need.

"The Word of the Lord indures forever!"

2008-11-17T08:14:00.000-08:00

"THE GRASS WITHERS, AND ITS FLOWER FALLS AWAY, BUT THE WORD OF THE LORD ENDURES FOREVER." (1 PETER 1:24-25 NKJV)

The Bible is full of Hebrew & Greek Idioms which can make understanding God's Holy Word difficult in many verses throughout the Old & New Testaments. So today we will take a look at some of these Idioms to gain a better understanding of how much they
can change the English meaning of some verses.

The following verses are a few examples of this: GENESIS 19:26, speaking of Lott's wife, "BUT HIS WIFE LOOKED BACK BEHIND HIM, AND SHE BECAME A PILLAR OF SALT."
(Pillar of Salt) meaning lifeless; stricken dead.

DEUTERONOMY 32:33 "THEIR WINE IS THE POISON OF SERPENTS, AND THE CRUEL VENOM OF COBRAS." Meaning Pagan teaching; corrupt practices and slanderous actions. In this verse Moses was speaking of Enemy Nations'ike Sodom & Gomorrah, thus Nations which were cruel,immoral and corruptive!

2 SAMUEL 22:9 "SMOKE WENT UP FROM HIS NOSTRILS;"Idiom meaning very angry, enraged!

JOB 15:2 "FILL HIS BELLY WITH THE EAST WIND."Idiom meaning he was proud, bragging, boasting.

PSALM 29:10 "THE LORD SITTETH UPON THE FLOOD." Idiom meaning that God is in control. He crushes the armies of the enemy.

PROVERBS 23:34 "LIETH DOWN IN THE MIDST OF THE SEA." Idiom meaning Lost; in a dilemma; senseless; in doubt.

ECCLESIASTES 4:2 "CAST THY BREAD UPON THE WATER AND THOU SHALL FIND IT."
Idiom meaning to give generously to charities and it shall be given back to you.
Note: Ecclesiastes, Chapter 12 is filled with Idioms in all most every verse!

ISAIAH 2:10 "ENTER INTO THE ROCK, AND HIDE IN THE DUST." Idiom meaning take refuge in a cave; flee for your life.

MATTHEW 5:29 "IF THY RIGHT EYE OFFEND THEE PLUCK IT OUT." Idiom meaning If you have a habit of envying others, stop it.

MATTHEW 5:30 "CUT YOUR HAND OFF." Idiom meaning to stop stealing!

MATTHEW 5:39 " WHOSOEVER SHALL SMITE THEE ON THY RIGHT CHEEK, TURN TO HIM THE OTHER ALSO." Idiom meaning Don't start an argument or fight. Instead be humble.

MARK 14:22 "EAT MY BODY."Idiom meaning Share my sufferings. Make my teachings part
of you. Think of me when you celebrate the Passover!

MARK 14:24 "DRINK MY BLOOD." Idiom also meaning make my teachings part of your life. Be willing to suffer for my truth. Think of me when you celebrate
the Passover!

MARK 16:18 "DRINK ANY DEADLY THING." Idiom meaning live a clean life so if others attack your character no one will believe them!

Lead us Not into Temptation

2008-11-13T09:31:00.000-08:00

"And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For yours is the Kingdom and the power and the glory, forever." Amen! - Matthew 6:13

We all face temptations in this life at times so: "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." -1 Pet 5:8

After all satan knows that: "Each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed." = James 1:14 and that is one of his favorite tricks!

Therefore, "My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent." - Proverbs 1:10. Instead: "Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." -Mark 14:38

Also remember that: "No temptation has overtaken you except such is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it." - 1 Cor 10:13

So the next time you are tempted do not give in, instead: "Submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you." - James 4:7

"Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever." Amen! - Jude 24-25

"Rebuilding" - Acknowledge your position

2008-11-10T18:45:00.000-08:00

If God has called you to rebuild something in your life, do you have any idea why He called you to do it? Why He didn’t call on someone else?

Maybe you don’t feel particularly qualified to undertake the project God has put on your heart. If so, I’d like to encourage you to take a closer look at a few of the reasons God may have called you, specifically.

Nehemiah may have thought that he was an unlikely candidate to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem. As far as we know, he wasn’t an architect, a bricklayer or a gate builder. He was, as he tells us at the end of Nehemiah chapter 1, a cupbearer: “I was cupbearer to the king” (Nehemiah 1:11b).

As cupbearer to the king, Nehemiah was a servant in the king’s court, serving the king his wine. Yet God called him to undertake one of the greatest rebuilding projects documented in the Bible. He may have wondered why God called him specifically, too. In fact, just a few verses later, when Nehemiah approached the king with his idea, Nehemiah says, “I was very much afraid” (Nehemiah 2:2b).

He had a lot to fear as a servant to a king in a foreign land. Yet there was something about Nehemiah’s position that made him a more likely candidate than even he may have realized. As cupbearer, Nehemiah was in a highly trusted position. The king literally had to trust his cupbearer with his life, because anyone might try to poison him at any time. The cupbearer helped to keep the king alive.

As you can read throughout the rest of the book of Nehemiah, you’ll see that God used the trust that Nehemiah had earned to give him great favor with the king. God moved on the king’s heart to provide Nehemiah with the resources he needed to rebuild the wall, to send him letters of safe passage back to Jerusalem, and to eventually appoint Nehemiah as the governor of the rebuilt city.

So even though Nehemiah felt “very much afraid,” God had very good reasons for choosing him! Nehemiah acknowledged his position, both the fear he felt and willingness he showed to use whatever favor God had given him to advance this project.

Queen Esther faced the same dilemma when her people were about to be destroyed. As wife of another king, she was in a unique position to ask him to overturn a wrongful law of the land. Yet, she also knew that approaching the king with such a request could mean death for her if the king felt insulted by her approach. Still, Esther’s cousin Mordecai reminded her of her unique position, saying, “And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14b).

So Esther acknowledged her position, recognizing both the incredible impossibility and the incredible possibility of what God had laid before her. In the end, she concluded that she would go to the king no matter what, saying, “And if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16b). God used both her humility and her unique position to save the lives of her people.

Maybe you feel like there’s no way you can move forward with what God’s called you to do. But know this: if God has put a special project on your heart, know that He has a very good reason for choosing you! And if you look closely at some of His reasons, they may just give you the confidence you need to move forward, too.

Maybe it’s simply because you have a stronger desire to see it succeed than anyone else. Maybe it’s because the project involves people or places close to you, so you have a greater vested interest in the outcome than anyone else. Maybe it’s because of the unique position God has given you in life, a position that gives you access to resources others may not have.

Whatever the reasons, acknowledge your position, recognizing both the incredible impossibility and the incredible possibility of what God has laid before you. Then ask Him for help to move past your fears and move on with the task at hand.

by Eric E.

Food for the Soul

2008-11-07T07:32:00.000-08:00

SMALL TALENTS HAVE VALUE AND CAN BE INCREASED

WHATEVER YOU DO, DO IT HEARTILY, AS TO THE LORD. THE SMALLEST TRUST IS A TRUST FROM GOD. THE ONE TALENT, THROUGH DILIGENT USE WITH THE BLESSINGS OF GOD, WILL MULTIPLY IN MULTIPLE FOLDS.

Steps

2008-11-05T10:56:00.000-08:00

"The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the Lord upholds him with His hand." - Ps. 37:23-24 NKJV

Now when we first learned to walk, we often fell down, but did we stay down? NO, we reached out to the extended hand of our mother or father, who helped us back on our feet. This happened often until we finally learned to walk on our own.

We can learn to walk with our Heavenly Father's helping hand the very same way! For then when we fall, we can reach out to God through prayer, and accept His merciful helping hand as well! After all it is written; " The Lord lifts up the humble; He casts the wicked down to the ground." - Ps. 147:6

Also written; "HE SHALL GIVE HIS ANGELS CHARGE OVER YOU, TO KEEP YOU IN ALL YOUR WAYS. IN THEIR HANDS THEY SHALL BEAR YOU UP, LEST YOU DASH YOUR FOOT AGAINST A STONE." - Ps 91:11-12

So friends, walk with God everyday and you will find; "The Lord your God in your midst, He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing." Zeph 3:17

Have a great day knowing that the loving hand of God is always there ready to help you, no matter what you may face! AMEN..
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"Sing to the Lord"

2008-11-04T05:54:00.000-08:00

"Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him. The Lord has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nation. He has remembered his love and his faithfulness to the house of Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God." - Psalm 98:1-3 NIV

"A Christian should always remember that the value of his good works is not based on their number and excellence, but on the love of God which prompts him to do these things." -St. John of the Cross

"Thoughts"

2008-10-31T06:02:00.000-07:00

God is within all things but not included; outside all things, but not excluded; above all things, but not beyond their reach. - Pope Gregory I

Light is shed upon the righteous and joy on the upright in heart. - Psalm 97:11

You were once darkness, but now you are light!

2008-10-30T08:04:00.000-07:00

"You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth." - Eph 5:8-10 NIV

As children of light, our actions should reflect our faith, and shine brightly to others. We should never be afraid to show our faith no matter where we are, or who we are with. After all, we are beacons of God's love shining out into dark world that is searching for love in all the wrong places. A world that is full of people without love, hope and faith.

Therefore, our Savior Jesus Christ stressed this truth in the sermon on the Mount, for He said; "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house." - Matthew 5:14-15

Further, you probably have known people that seem to light up a room when they enter, well, "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven." - Matthew 5:16

Now you may be thinking "my light is a dim one." Well, I believe that our dim light is magnified by the immense of God's love. Thus it truly shines brightly when we tell others about our Heavenly Father, and show goodness toward the people in our lives! So try it today and see for yourself, for if everyone would light just one little candle what a bright world this would be!

Amen!
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He will Guard You in All Your Way

2008-10-29T06:35:00.000-07:00

"He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways." - Ps 91:10 NIV

You may take comfort in knowing that God is always watching over us. He even sends us a guardian angel when we need one! For there are many examples of this written in the Scriptures. (1 Kings 19:5; Daniel 6:22; Matthew 18:10; Luke 16:22 & Acts 12:7).

After all it is also written of angels; "They will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone." - Ps 91:12

For: "Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit Salvation?" - Heb 1:14

Therefore; "He who dwells in the secret place of the most high shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." - Ps 91:1

And; "Because He loves me," says the Lord, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for He acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer Him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him." - Ps 91:14, 15

So again, take comfort in knowing that our Heavenly Father is always watching over us, and ready to send us help when ever we need it! Therefore; "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting!" - Ps 106:48
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He Knows What is Best for Us!

2008-10-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

This is what the Lord says, - your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the Lord Your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go." - Isa. 48:17 NIV

When we turn our life and will over to the care of God, He will guide us on the journey to become the person that we were meant to be. For He has promised: "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." - Psalms 32:8

Now in the process of becoming that person, our life will be filled with love, hope, faith and fulfillment, as we have never known before! The emptiness we felt before will be filled to overflowing! We will then start looking at life differently, and loving every moment of it. This is because; "If anyone is in Christ, He is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come." - 2 Cor. 5:17

Therefore, I pray that you are on that journey right now, and feel these changes within yourself! If not, today is a great day to start that journey! Just tell God that you ready, and; "The Lord will guide you always; He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail." - Isa. 58:11
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The Silver

2008-10-25T17:47:00.000-07:00

Malachi 3:3 says: “He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.”

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God.

One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.

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

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

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

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

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

He smiled at her and answered.

“Oh, that’s easy, “ “When I see my image in it.”

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

“Life is a coin. You can spend it any way you wish, but you can only spend it once.”
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Acts 8:26-39 NIV

2008-10-24T08:35:00.000-07:00

Philip was having a successful preaching ministry to great crowds in Samaria but he obediently left that ministry to travel on a desert road. Because Philip went where God sent him, Ethiopia was opened up to the gospel.

Philip found the Ethiopian man reading Scripture. Taking advantage of this opportunity to explain the gospel, Philip asked the man if he understood what he was reading.
Philip:
1. followed the Spirit's leading
2. began the discussion from where the man was (immersed in the prophecies of Isaiah)
3. explained how Jesus Christ fulfilled Isaiah's prophecies.

The eunuch asked Philip to explain a passage of Scripture that he did not understand.

Some think that the Old Testament is not relevant today, but Philip led this man to faith in Jesus Christ by using the Old Testament.

Baptism was a sign of identification with Christ and with the Christian community. Although there were no witnesses besides Philip, it was still important for the eunuch to take this step.

Application:
1. Follow God's leading, even if it seems like a demotion. At first you may not understand His plans, but the results will prove that God's way is right. (vs 26)
2. When we share the gospel, we should start where the other person's concerns are focused. Then we can bring the gospel to bear on those concerns. (vs 29-35)
3. When we have trouble understanding the Bible, we should ask others to help us. We must never let our insecurities or pride get in the way of understanding God's Word. (vs 30, 31)
4. Jesus Christ is found in the pages of both the Old and the New Testaments. God's entire Word is applicable to all people in all ages. Don't avoid or neglect to use the Old Testament. It too is God's Word. (vs 35)
5. The first step to do in following Jesus is to be baptized (immersed in water) as Jesus also has done together with John the Baptist. (vs 38)
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"Never will I leave you!"

2008-10-23T08:11:00.000-07:00

God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5NIV)

Now that is a promise from our Heavenly Father! After all He is always with us no matter what may happen! Therefore when you face adversity; GOD IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH, AN EVER-PRESENT HELP IN TROUBLE. (PSALM 46:1)

When you are afraid, why not do what King David did, for he stated; I SOUGHT THE LORD, AND HE ANSWERED ME; HE DELIVERED ME FROM ALL MY FEARS. (PSALM 34:4)

When you mourn it is written; BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO MOURN, FOR THEY WILL BE COMFORTED.(MATTHEW 5:4)

When you are worried why not; CAST ALL YOUR ANXIETY ON HIM BECAUSE HE CARES FOR YOU.
(1 PETER 5:7)

When you are feeling low; HUMBLE YOURSELVES BEFORE THE LORD, AND HE WILL LIFT YOU UP. (JAMES 4:10)

Also always remember that it is written; I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME. Because; YOU, DEAR CHILDREN, ARE FROM GOD AND HAVE OVERCOME THEM, BECAUSE THE ONE WHO IS IN YOU IS GREATER THAN THE ONE WHO IS IN THE WORLD. (PHILIPPIANS 4:13) & (1 JOHN 4:4)

So; DO NOT BE TERRIFIED; DO NOT BE DISCOURAGED,FOR THE LORD YOUR GOD WILL BE WITH YOU WHERE EVER YOU GO." AMEN. (JOSHUA 1:9)
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Rebuilding - Nehemiah 6:15-16

2008-10-20T06:02:00.000-07:00

Is there something broken in your life that you'd like to fix, but don't know how? A broken marriage, a failing business, a dying relationship? Or is there something that's fallen apart that you'd like to rebuild: a house, a church, a ministry, a career?
Nehemiah took on a rebuilding project that seemed imposing, impractical and nearly impossible. But when he told God what he wanted to do, and God gave him the green light to do it, God walked him through every step of the project. With God's help, Nehemiah rebuilt a wall around the entire city of Jerusalem-a wall that is still standing and you can still visit today, several thousands of years later!
People told Nehemiah it was impossible; people tried to stop his work; people threatened his life. But Nehemiah pressed on. After many months of planning, praying, fighting and building, the work was finally completed. When all the surrounding countries, including his elements, saw what Nehemiah had done, they also knew how he got it done.
"....they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God." - Nehemiah 6:16

Here is a simple truth: if it matters to you, it matters to God. God cares about the details of your life. He cares about the things that you care about. That does not mean that He always wants to head out and do whatever you want to do. Our plans are not always His plans. But if He does not want you to do it, He will let you know, if you are willing to listen. God has redirected many people's good plans so He can do something better through them, (see 2 Sam 7).
But if God does want you to go forward with your plans, He'd love to help you succeed. He is undoubtedly for you. He created you, He loves you and He has an incredible plan for your life. You could say He has a "vested" interest in you, because He is in-vested so many gifts and skills into your life because He has so many things He wants to do through you.
The hardest part of starting a project is often believing that God really wants you to do it: that He really cares, and that He'll really help you every step of the way.
Once you know that, you are half-way there! After that, it's just a matter of figuring out the details of how to proceed.
Nehemiah followed a series of practical steps to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem, steps which you can follow to rebuild the things in your own life that need rebuilding. It involved much prayer, much planning, many people and fair amount of hard work. But He did not have to do it alone: God helped him all along the way.
"So the wall was completed..." - Nehemiah 6:15
I am inspired what Nehemiah was able to accomplish. My prayer is that they inspire you as well. God bless!
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The Peace of God

2008-10-17T06:33:00.000-07:00

"Grace to you and peace from God that Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father." - Galatians 1:3-4 NKJV

As you know, no one knows what the future holds for them, but the Children of God may have peace of mind! Our Heavenly Father has great plans for our future, not only on Earth, but in Heaven as well! For it is written: "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him." - 1 Corinthians 2:9

Therefore we have no reason to fear the future, for with God in charge, there is no need to worry about anything! For in this life when we have heartache and woe, He is always there to comfort and guide us, and in our next life, we will live with him in Paradise forever!

No, we cannot imagine all of the wonderful things that God has planned for our future, but one thing that we may count on is that the best is yet to come! "For I know the thoughts that I thnk toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." - Jeremiah 29:11

Therefore; "There is hope in your future, says the Lord." - Jeremiah 31:17

May God's Great Love, Hope and Faith, fill your heart and mind,
and may; "The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard your heart and mind through Christ Jesus." Amen! - Philippians 4:7

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The Spirit of Servanthood

2008-10-16T14:15:00.001-07:00

Text: Mark 10:35-45 (NIV)
Title: The Spirit of Servanthood

Man or woman loves to influence others. We love to impact other people’s lives especially to those whom we love…our friends, our co-workers, in the ministry, in our families. We love to accept responsibility. We love to lead. We aspire to be great. Is it wrong? But what does the Bible say about it?
- 1 Tim 3:1 – ‘here is a trustworthy saying: if anyone sets his heart on being an overseer (leader), he desires a noble task.”
- Jer 45:5 “Should you seek great things for yourself? Seek them not…”
Is God against us becoming great?

What Christ taught about the Kingdom of God?
- a place where each member served the others: Gal. 5:13
- a place where “servant hood” He requires

Two very close friends of Jesus, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, influenced by their own ambitious mother’s scheme in securing the top positions in the coming kingdom approached Jesus and demand something from Him. But despite of their friendships, our Lord Jesus made it clear to James and John that high position in the kingdom of God is reserved for those whose hearts are qualified.
Has Jesus rebuked them? No! He just want James and John to know and understand what is it required to be a leader or of influence. (vs. 38-40)

Cup and Baptism symbolizes:
*cup – the good or the bad things to come; the sufferings, trials, difficulties in life; blessing or wrath
Mk 14:36 - Jesus’ crucifixion; Prayer: “remove this cup from me, yet not my will, but your will be done.”
*baptism – is a picture of being totally submerged; overwhelmed by water. In the O.T. the Jews were afraid of the ocean. And to them, death by drowning was the worst kind. So the idea of being totally overwhelmed and was terrifying. Jesus was talking to James and John about His death and burial underground in the sense.

2 principles of leadership:

1.) the sovereign principle of spiritual leadership – vs. 40
Top positions like honor and rank are for those who are qualified-someone who has prepared himself for it, and worked very hard to get it. But to the fundamental difference in Jesus’ teaching, God assigns places of spiritual ministry and leadership in His Sovereign will. “God has prepared those places for the one he has chosen.” Jesus told his disciples: “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you.” (Jn 15:16).

2.) the suffering principle of spiritual leadership – vs. 38
Jesus simply and honestly set forth the cost of serving in His kingdom.
James & John – responded “we are able”. They don’t know that greatness comes through servanthood, and leadership through becoming a servant of all..

Serving and Suffering are paired in the teaching and life of our Lord Jesus Christ. One does not come without the other.

Question: What servant is greater than the Lord? In Isa. 42 we read about the attitudes and inner motives that the coming Messiah would demonstrate as the ideal servant of the Lord.

6 Principles of God regarding Spiritual Servanthood

1. Dependence – Isa. 42:1 “Here is my servant, whom I uphold”
- speaks of the coming Messiah; fulfilled the prophecy by emptying Himself of divine prerogative (made himself nothing – Phil. 2:7); surrendered His privileges of His God-nature and became dependent on His heavenly Father. He became in all ways like a human being.
As we become empty of self and dependent on God, the Holy Spirit will use us.

2. Approval – Isa. 42:1 “My chosen one in whom I delight”
- God took delight in His servant Jesus (Matt 3:17; 17:5)

3. Modesty – Isa. 42:2 “He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets”
- When the devil tempted Jesus, urging Him to jump from the rooftop of the temple (Matt 4:5), Jesus did not fall to the plot…or to the trick.

4. Empathy – Isa. 42:3 “A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out”
- The Lord’s servant is sympathetic with the weak, mercifully understanding toward those who err. He or she does not trample on the weak and failing. He mends bruises and fans the weak spirit into flame. He or she never walks over people.

5. Optimism – Isa. 42:4 “He will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth”
- Hope and optimism are essential qualities for the servant of God who battles with the powers of darkness over the souls of men and women. God’s ideal servant is optimistic until every part of God’s work is done.

6. Anointing – Isa. 42:1 “I will put my spirit on him”
- None of these leadership qualities (above) are sufficient for the task without the touch of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit comes to rest upon and dwell in the ideal Servant.
- Acts 10:38 - How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and went around doing good.
- Jesus’ ministry began when the Spirit descended at His baptism, and began to shake the world!

Leadership springs from God’s nature and it is God’s nature to serve! Matt. 20:28 – “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Jesus is an example of modeling true servant leadership. He represents Kingdom leadership motivated by servant-hood’. A Servant Leader is a Servant first! Eph 5:1-21

Christian leader need not fear that care of the flock of God will be too heavy a burden. By God’s invitation, the leader can transfer the weight of spiritual burdens onto shoulders bigger, stronger, broader and durable. 1 Pet 5:7 says, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” God cares for you.

Praise the Lord!
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Transformational Christian Leadership, JIL Bilbe Silver Edition, Webster Dictionary

"He Is Always With Us!"

2008-10-16T14:03:00.000-07:00

GOD HAS SAID, "NEVER WILL I LEAVE YOU; NEVER WILL I FORSAKE YOU." (HEBREWS 13:5 NIV )

Now that is a promise from our Heavenly Father! After all He is always with us no matter what may happen!

Therefore when you face adversity; GOD IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH, AN EVER-PRESENT HELP IN TROUBLE. ( PSALM 46:1 )

When you are afraid, why not do what King David did, for he stated; I SOUGHT THE LORD, AND HE ANSWERED ME; HE DELIVERED ME FROM ALL MY FEARS. ( PSALM 34:4 )

When you mourn it is written; BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO MOURN, FOR THEY WILL BE COMFORTED. ( MATTHEW 5:4 )

When you are worried why not; CAST ALL YOUR ANXIETY ON HIM BECAUSE HE CARES FOR YOU. ( 1 PETER 5:7 )

When you are feeling low; HUMBLE YOURSELVES BEFORE THE LORD, AND HE WILL LIFT YOU UP. ( JAMES 4:10 )

Also always remember that it is written; I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME. Because; YOU, DEAR CHILDREN, ARE FROM GOD AND HAVE OVERCOME THEM, BECAUSE THE ONE WHO IS IN YOU IS GREATER THAN THE ONE WHO IS IN THE WORLD. ( PHILIPPIANS 4:13 ) & ( 1 JOHN 4:4 )

So; DO NOT BE TERRIFIED; DO NOT BE DISCOURAGED, FOR THE LORD YOUR GOD WILL BE WITH YOU WHEREVER YOU GO." AMEN. ( JOSHUA 1:9 )

Fear Not!

2008-10-16T07:59:00.000-07:00

"FEAR NOT"

“SO THE KING GAVE THE ORDER, AND THEY BROUGHT DANIEL AND THREW HIM INTO THE LION'S DEN.” DANIEL 6:16

The Aramaic word for "DEN" means pit, thus implying that it was a hole in the ground.

There are times that we may feel just like poor Daniel did when he was thrown into the lion's den. However, just like Daniel our faith will come to our rescue as well!

After all, “HE WHO DWELLS IN THE SHELTER OF THE MOST HIGH WILL REST IN THE SHADOW OF THE ALMIGHTY. I WILL SAY OF THE LORD, HE IS MY REFUGE AND MY FORTRESS, MY GOD IN WHOM I TRUST. “ ( PSALM 91:1-2 ) Further God has said: "FEAR NOT, FOR I HAVE REDEEMED YOU; I HAVE CALLED YOU BY NAME; YOU ARE MINE." ( ISAIAH 43:1-2 )

God has also stated: "DO NOT FEAR, FOR I AM WITH YOU; DO NOT BE DISMAYED, FOR I AM YOUR GOD. I WILL STRENGTHEN YOU AND HELP YOU; I WILL UPHOLD YOU WITH MY RIGHTEOUS RIGHT HAND." ( ISAIAH 41:10 ) Therefore, "CALL UPON ME IN THE DAY OF TROUBLE; I WILL DELIVER YOU, AND YOU WILL HONOR ME." ( PSALM 50:15 )

So when you feel like Daniel always: “TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND LEAN NOT ON YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING; IN ALL YOUR WAYS ACKNOWLEDGE HIM, AND HE WILL MAKE YOUR PATHS STRAIGHT”
( PROVERBS 3:5-6 )

What Is Your Faith?

2008-10-16T07:28:00.000-07:00

Text: Hebrews 11:1

Title: What is Your Faith?

Faith Defined:

“emunah” in Hebrew" - firm belief in God, the creator of heaven and earth; the omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent one.

“pistis” in Greek - conviction regarding the things of God

Faith is the key ingredient and the most important element in Christian’s life which needs to grow; not an emotional feeling or something we can work upon. Ep 2:8 “for by grace are you saved through faith and that not of yourselves.” It is a gift from God.

Faith is Substance and Evidence: Heb 11:1

Substance

- Solid, foundation of our hope - Ro 8:24-25

- Confidence of things hoped for – Heb 3:14 /John 14:12

2. Evidence

- certainty; a fixed or strong belief; a thing/things helpful in forming a conclusion or judgment

- evidence of things not seen – Heb 11:3

II. Kinds of Faith

A Radical (extreme, daring) Faith – Mat 9:29

End of last year, 2007, I began to pray God’s direction regarding my work. Then after evaluating my life, I decided to start praying and asking God to lay me off from my work. Specifically, I prayed “no termination” and “no resignation”. Just lay off. It is an extreme and daring prayer or request because I have been with this company for more than 12 years. Seniority wise, it is impossible for me to be laid off for there are many who are new in the company. “The first in will be the last out – the last in will be the first out”. Besides, the company is doing well. And why “lay-off”? Many people want to keep their jobs. Many people got laid-off not even their choice... Why lay-off?

I then submitted to our cell group my request to pray for me: to be laid off, no resignation, no termination. They seemed not convinced at first, yet, they started to pray. February 2008, I spoke to my Supervisor my heart’s desire. I could have been fired out at that moment. But God is on my side. My Supervisor could not understand my wish, yet, he just said, “why?” and “okay”. Many months passed by. My prayer did not change. I let it be under the hands of God already. I worked as normal. Until one afternoon, we were called for an emergency meeting for all the office staff. That was August 1, 2008. It was a shocking news we heard from our CEO that we will be loosing all our Condo Units to a new management. But the good news was all the people working on our Condos will be absorbed by the new management. No lay off. Then after a week of the announcement. I was called by my Supervisor. He wanted to know how serious I was when I told him before “anything happen to the company, please consider me to go…do not let any of my friends go, but, let me go”. And my response to him was still the same…”I want you to let me go…no termination, no resignation.”

Is God an answering God? Yes! He is an awesome God! He answered my prayer. August 22, 2008, I was laid off with peace in my heart and of course with blessings in my pocket.

When we dare to believe Him for the impossible, with strong faith, miracles can happen!

An Unshakable (unwavering) Faith – 2 Chronicles 20:9

King Jehoshaphat was to face three great armies, threatening to destroy every living thing in Israel. He was terrified (he is normal). He got scared. But before Jehoshaphat made a move, he decided to seek God’s help. Did not call on his counselors/wise men first nor his top military aids to devise a strategy. He cried out to God for help! (vs. 9)

While waiting for the answer of my prayers from God…many people tried to convince me not to continue my heart’s prayer. I was threatened and said that it is very impossible….as there is no such kind. Some discouraged me. Some belittled my God! Some frightened me financially because I have a house mortgage and other expenses to face.

But no matter how bad the situation may looks like to them, I run to God. My faith to God was unshaken. Like Jehoshaphat said, “You will deliver us!” And the armies were defeated!

An Expectant Faith – 2 Corinthians 5:7

Hebrews 11:8 By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. (Gen. 12:1-5)

Abraham was an example of walking by faith, not by sight, in life decisions — God spoke and 75-year-old Abraham obeyed, “not knowing where he was going.” But he had heard from God, and that was enough to go on.

My God is an answering God! I have faith with an expectant heart that God will answer my prayers. I was expecting God to work miracles in my life. I expected of greater things to happen for His greatest Glory!

When you pray, you do not see God’s answer right away…just as I could not see my baby growing inside my womb for nine months. And during the pregnancy, I was expecting the entire time. On good days, bad days, happy days, sad days. It did not matter. I was still expecting. My brothers and sisters, treat your faith like that. Stay in an attitude of expectancy. No matter what is happening around you, hold on to the Word of God and expect a miracle! Amen!

We can't expect to receive faith from God for a situation when we're looking at ourselves or conditions instead of looking to Him. We must look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. “For with God, nothing shall be impossible” (Lk 1:37) “The things which are impossible to man, is possible to God.” (Lk 18:27). It is more than believing. (Lk 17:5)

By faith:

- Simon caught multitude of fish. Jesus told Simon, “Launch out into the deep with your faith, for it’s your faith that you use to touch the future.” (Lk 5:4-9)

- Peter was able to walk on the water. He told Peter, “Come…walked on the water.” (Matt 14:29-31)

- 2 Kings 4:1-7 tells us of the woman who was in debt and her sons were about to be sold into slavery. The prophet Elisha instructed her how to use her pot of oil, and God got her into a position to receive her miracle.

- John 6:9-11, when Jesus multiplied the loaves and fishes, He first had all the people sit down. And then they saw the miracle as the loaves and fishes were distributed.

Jesus always get the attention of His people to do something before receiving their miracle. He wants us to exercise our faith with action. James 2:26 says “…For as the body without spirit is dead; so as the faith without action is dead also.” .

PRAISE THE LORD!

A Servant Leadership

2008-10-16T07:23:00.000-07:00

Text: 1 Peter 5:1-7
Title: A Servant Leadership

Do you desire to become a leader? To aspire is acceptable. (1 Tim. 3:1) It is a holy aspiration. The willingness to accept responsibility, with risk and cost is honorable.

a. Servant – one that serves others (public servant); one that perform duties about the person or home of a master or personal employer; one who expresses submission; originally, it is use as the word ‘slave’ (Ro 1:1- 2; 2Pet 1:1; James 1:1)
b. Leadership – the ability to affect human behavior as to accomplish goal or a mission; influencing a group of people to move towards its goal or goal achievement;

Who is Peter?
- argued, rebuked the Lord about His coming suffering and death (Matt. 16:22)
- argued with the other disciples about who was the greatest and who would be in the Kingdom (Mk 9:33-34; Lk 9:46)
Also:
- a natural leader; many followed him; a transformed man (Matt 4:19)
- joined Jesus during the miracle of walking on the water (Matt 14:29)
- bitterly repented for denying Jesus (Lk 22:62)
- commissioned by Jesus after His resurrection at the Sea of Galilee (Jn. 21:1-25)
- bold and often the first to step into a situation, and the first to speak.
- an apostle of Jesus Christ who never exalted himself over the other apostles even before and after Jesus was crucified. He remained humble servant of God even after Jesus' Resurrection.

Peter like to most of us is a changed man whose view of leaders has been radically transformed…his view is of God! Hallelluiah!

What makes a Servant leader?
A servant leader is someone who:
1. is willing (1 Pet 5:2)
- serve not because it is our duty, but because of love
- see that your ‘flock of God’ is properly fed and cared for – is the shepherd’s primary responsibility
- serve with an attitude of God (forgiving, seeking-love, with limitless serve of God)
- no excuses
e.g. Moses – when he tried to excuse himself to lead the Israelites, because he thought he is inadequate, God became angry. (Exo 4:10-14).

2. is not bossy (1 Pet 5:3)
bossy – means domineering; offensive and tyrant’s talk
- a worthy example for the people – “but being examples to the flock”
Paul’s advise to Timothy (1 Tim 4:12) “…set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.”
- does not forget that the flock they lead is God’s. Jesus is the chief Shepherd – we are His assistant; an associate working under His authority.

3. is humble (1 Pet 5:5)
- lowly in heart, act humbly in relating to others; gracious and thankful; forgives when offended; produces a teachable spirit; imitating Christ’s humility (Phil. 2:1-11); excellence in spirit (Col. 3:23). True leadership and true greatness in the kingdom of God is characterized by humility (Matt 18:1-6). It means the recognition of dependence of God.

Mark 10:42-44 “whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant – for even the Son of Man did not to be served but serve.”

A servant leader is a servant first – Eph 5:1-21

4. is Prayerful (1 Tim 2:1)
- Prayer is the Christian’s vital breath; the backbone of every believer…of the Church.

Jesus as our model:
- spent full nights in prayer (Lk 6:12)
- often rose before dawn to have unbroken communion with His Father (Mk 13:5)
- The great crises of His life and ministry began with periods of special prayer (Lk 5:16)
We communicate directly to God when we pray. It is through God’s influence on us that prayer moves others. It is God to whom we pray that moves people. To move people, the leader must be able to move God, for God has made it clear that He moves people in response to prayer. God will not cooperate with prayers of mere self-interest, or prayers that come from impure motives. The Christian who clings to sin closes the ear of God. Unbelief is the chief of sins (Heb 11:6)

1 Pet 5:4 – when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will not fade away.” The crown of glory does not rust. And no such loss comes to the Christian Servant of God who has chosen treasures in heaven to comforts on earth.

Praise the Lord!

Prayer Meeting Exhortation