Do you think Jesus was annoyed when His disciples were so afraid when the ship was tossed about by the stormy waves? They'd seen Him take care of all kinds of problems, feeding the five thousand and healing the sick. Ironically, a lot of people still panic in adversity despite knowing all the events that took place in the Bible.
He is still the same today as He was yesterday. He still heals, feeds and calms the storms today. Yet, there are times He chooses to ride the storms with us. He calms His child while the cancer, financial and personal storms rage. If you're in the midst of one of these storms don't be afraid. God knows exactly where you are. He'll sweep you up into His loving arms, and hold you close, if you'll by faith, ask Him. Without faith, were are merely walking dead men.
Faith in Christ gives us everything we will ever need in life. :) You're equipped to handle anything this life throws at you-Press On!
Read : Matthew 8:23-27 Then Read: Psalm 146
"Do not put your trust in princes, in mortal men, who can not save." Psalm 146:3
"Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob,whose hope is in the Lord his God, the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them the Lord, who remains faithful forever.
Psalm 146:5&6 (NASB)
"Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?
John 11:25 & 26 (NASB)
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Gossip is Destructive, It Needs to be Confronted
Have you ever over heard two people talking about you, when they thought you were out of ears reach? It hurts doesn't it? Probably, everyone has experienced this at some point in their life. I think the best thing a person can do when this happens is to confront the gossiper at the time it's happening. This will quickly stop rumors and back biting in its tracks. Hopefully, both the gossiper and the naive listener will realize how crude they are being.
"A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends." Proverbs 16:28 (NASB)
How sad that this even needs to be addressed to brothers and sisters in Christ. We should know better and act better. Doesn't every believer have enough trouble, without added conflict from a brother or sister in Christ?
"He who brings trouble on his family will inherit only wind, and a fool will be servant to the wise." Proverbs 11:29 (NASB)
I don't think it's talking about a bad case of gas here, but that would be very funny if the gossiping lips got a bad case of the noisy tooty fruitys in the midst of their mouthy ways. Wouldn't it be the berries if along with those windy toots, came a rank odor? Maybe at that point those anxious to listen to gossip could get a good whiff of what they're listening to besides.
The next time you're tempted to gossip, or to listen to it, may God bless you with a gassy belly to help you remember how rude and counter productive you are being.
Finally, remember what 1st Corinthians chapter 13 says. "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal." 1st Corinthians 13:1 (NASB) READ ON
"A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends." Proverbs 16:28 (NASB)
How sad that this even needs to be addressed to brothers and sisters in Christ. We should know better and act better. Doesn't every believer have enough trouble, without added conflict from a brother or sister in Christ?
"He who brings trouble on his family will inherit only wind, and a fool will be servant to the wise." Proverbs 11:29 (NASB)
I don't think it's talking about a bad case of gas here, but that would be very funny if the gossiping lips got a bad case of the noisy tooty fruitys in the midst of their mouthy ways. Wouldn't it be the berries if along with those windy toots, came a rank odor? Maybe at that point those anxious to listen to gossip could get a good whiff of what they're listening to besides.
The next time you're tempted to gossip, or to listen to it, may God bless you with a gassy belly to help you remember how rude and counter productive you are being.
Finally, remember what 1st Corinthians chapter 13 says. "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal." 1st Corinthians 13:1 (NASB) READ ON
Monday, September 26, 2011
Stay Focused on Christ and His Will for Your Life
"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory, that will be revealed in us. The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed in us."
Romans 8:18 &19 (NASB)
One of the most painful memories in life is watching our loved ones suffer physically or mentally. If we could, we'd gladly bare their pain for at least a while to give them a break if we could. Often, the disease or circumstance remains until God calls them home.
Those of us who know Christ as our Savior and Lord have an eternal peace because we have been justified and forgiven by faith in Christ. His grace also gives us a hope and promise that this life is not the end, but the beginning of an awesome eternity with Him in heaven.
Growing in Christ is sometimes painful, (both physically and spiritually.) Most of us will experience the pain of loosing loved ones, our own physical disease and decay and sometimes an emptiness that can only be filled by Christ. All three of these circumstances can draw us closer to Christ, if we let them.
"...We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character, and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.
Romans 5:5 (NASB)
Ironically, there have been days my body has been stretched beyond what I thought ever possible to live through. God gives the strength, grace and love to endure a little more. Because of those times my faith, endurance, and even my peace about His Will for my life is at a deeper trusting level. Horrible storms in life have a beautiful way of developing a deep secure relationship in Christ.
Maybe when our loved ones are experiencing hard times we could encourage them to let Jesus cradle their broken bodies. If they're close enough to God and want to describe the tender lessons they're learning- absorb everything they're sharing. God may also want to comfort your hurting heart through their life and love they're willing to share. These maybe some of the most tender lessons you'll learn together.Knowing your loved one is at peace, will give you peace.
Please hug and hold them if they want to be held. I love being held by the people I'm closest to.(Honestly though, there are times when it hurts too much to be held. Most people will let you know if you ask.) Reading comforting verses may also help, ask them if they'd like to hear Bible passages.
In my own life looking back at both the good and bad that has made me who I am Paul's words describe how I feel the best!
"My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge."
Colossians 2:2 & 3 (NASB)
"For though I am absent from the body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is." Colossians 2:5 (NASB)
Finally, I would encourage you to read and take to heart Hebrews chapters 12 and 13. Throw off everything that hinders and brings you down. You are surrounded by "the great cloud of witnesses." (Those treasured saints who are already in God's presence, they are cheering you on to grow and become all God wants you to be for His Glory and your true gain!)
Romans 8:18 &19 (NASB)
One of the most painful memories in life is watching our loved ones suffer physically or mentally. If we could, we'd gladly bare their pain for at least a while to give them a break if we could. Often, the disease or circumstance remains until God calls them home.
Those of us who know Christ as our Savior and Lord have an eternal peace because we have been justified and forgiven by faith in Christ. His grace also gives us a hope and promise that this life is not the end, but the beginning of an awesome eternity with Him in heaven.
Growing in Christ is sometimes painful, (both physically and spiritually.) Most of us will experience the pain of loosing loved ones, our own physical disease and decay and sometimes an emptiness that can only be filled by Christ. All three of these circumstances can draw us closer to Christ, if we let them.
"...We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character, and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.
Romans 5:5 (NASB)
Ironically, there have been days my body has been stretched beyond what I thought ever possible to live through. God gives the strength, grace and love to endure a little more. Because of those times my faith, endurance, and even my peace about His Will for my life is at a deeper trusting level. Horrible storms in life have a beautiful way of developing a deep secure relationship in Christ.
Maybe when our loved ones are experiencing hard times we could encourage them to let Jesus cradle their broken bodies. If they're close enough to God and want to describe the tender lessons they're learning- absorb everything they're sharing. God may also want to comfort your hurting heart through their life and love they're willing to share. These maybe some of the most tender lessons you'll learn together.Knowing your loved one is at peace, will give you peace.
Please hug and hold them if they want to be held. I love being held by the people I'm closest to.(Honestly though, there are times when it hurts too much to be held. Most people will let you know if you ask.) Reading comforting verses may also help, ask them if they'd like to hear Bible passages.
In my own life looking back at both the good and bad that has made me who I am Paul's words describe how I feel the best!
"My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge."
Colossians 2:2 & 3 (NASB)
"For though I am absent from the body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is." Colossians 2:5 (NASB)
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
At What Point Do We Walk Away?
I'm frustrated, at what "point" do we say, "Okay, that's it-I'm done with you?" I have a very redneck, mouthy sister who my parents choose to baby and coddle beyond belief. She was in an accident which left her with some physical scars. She did have a head injury, but currently there is no reason for her abrasive, mule ways. She simply chooses to be the biggest jerk I've ever met.
While I was at my mother's she took every opportunity she possibly could to interrupt every conversation I was in. When she addressed me she was constantly loud and crude. My parents continue to tell me I need to include and embrace her. All I want to do is to get as far away from her as I can. No confrontation with her or my parents; that's be the easiest way out. We all know that will not resolve the fact that they'll all come back saying I'm trying to avoid her-and I am.
There is no easy solution while she cackles as she makes my life miserable. She has my parents in her sorry back pocket. While all this is going on my parents refuse to acknowledge her abusive ways. She also has one of her son's who is following her example, diving into grouse sins, that are affecting many other lives. Is our family contributing to these grouse sins which affect many lives besides just my sister and her son? I think so.
So do I call them all on the carpet or just tell them all I have a gut full and can't take anymore? Your advice would be greatly appreciated, thanks.
"Do not be deceived,God is not mocked; for whatever a man so this he will also reap." Galatians 6:7 (NASB)
Monday, September 12, 2011
Are you thankful for the Holy Spirit's prompting in your life?
The morning glories on my back porch remind me how much we should keep our heart where it belongs-with God. When they're watered well the grow and spread so very fast. When I fail to check on them they tend to head directly for everything they shouldn't like my yellow roses. Growing side by side they look great, but when they becme intwined well life isn't so divine. In fact-they will choke the roses to death, if they're allowed to just keep wraping their vines around the rose stems.
My life can be like that. As long as I allow the Holy Spirit toguide and direct me I will stay on track, but sometimes I just head off in the wrong direction and keep going, until God gently prods me back to His track. I'm very thankful for the Holy Spirit aren't you?
Yellow roses and deep lavander morning glories look and grow great together as long as their is respect for each others growing space. Christian relationships are like that too. We all need our time and space alone with God. It's great to grow together as long as the Holy Spirit guides and directs our paths.
"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to rememberance all that I have said to you. Do not let your heart be troubled , nor let it be fearful." John 14:26 (NASB)
Monday, July 25, 2011
Life in Christ-God's Greatest Blessing on Your Life!
"How blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, Who walks in His ways. When you shall eat of the fruit of your hands, You will be happy and it will be well with you. Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine Within your house, Your children are like olive plants Around your table. Behold, for thus shall the man be blessed Who fears the Lord.
The Lord bless you from Zion, And may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life. Indeed, may you come to see your children's children. Peace be upon Isreal!" Psalm 128 (NASB)
Do you ever consider how blessed we are to walk in God's light? Personally knowing our creator and sustainer eases the tensions of life with His help. As we release our will to His will, life falls into place as it should. Burdens are lifted with Grace and peace replaces a heavy yoke.
"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you andd learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30 (NASB)
"The fear of the Lord prolongs life, But the years of the wicked will be shortened."
Proverbs 10:27 (NASB)
"The way of the Lord is a stronghold to the upright, But ruin to the workers of iniquity." Proverbs 10:29 (NASB)
We were made in God's image. If we live life on His terms, we should be the happiest most fulfilled beings, because we are living the way He designed us to be. Before you were born God had a plan for your life. Glorifying Him will make you happy and satisfied all the days of your life!
"The Lord lives, and blessed be my rock; And exalted be the God of my salvation,"
2nd Samuel 22:47 (NASB)
Read Second Samuel chapter 22, this passage is truly a believers blessing! The day you accepted Jesus as your personal Savior you gained Everything in life you would ever need. Spring forth with confidence, good cheer and know you are a winner in Christ Jesus!
The Lord bless you from Zion, And may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life. Indeed, may you come to see your children's children. Peace be upon Isreal!" Psalm 128 (NASB)
Do you ever consider how blessed we are to walk in God's light? Personally knowing our creator and sustainer eases the tensions of life with His help. As we release our will to His will, life falls into place as it should. Burdens are lifted with Grace and peace replaces a heavy yoke.
"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you andd learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30 (NASB)
"The fear of the Lord prolongs life, But the years of the wicked will be shortened."
Proverbs 10:27 (NASB)
"The way of the Lord is a stronghold to the upright, But ruin to the workers of iniquity." Proverbs 10:29 (NASB)
We were made in God's image. If we live life on His terms, we should be the happiest most fulfilled beings, because we are living the way He designed us to be. Before you were born God had a plan for your life. Glorifying Him will make you happy and satisfied all the days of your life!
"The Lord lives, and blessed be my rock; And exalted be the God of my salvation,"
2nd Samuel 22:47 (NASB)
Read Second Samuel chapter 22, this passage is truly a believers blessing! The day you accepted Jesus as your personal Savior you gained Everything in life you would ever need. Spring forth with confidence, good cheer and know you are a winner in Christ Jesus!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
What is the Differerence between Clean and Un Clean;Do you Know?
I'm always amazed how different societies think they can out whit, or out maneuver God. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. Man has not evolved into a better species. In fact, I'd dare say society seems more ignorant today than they were a generation ago. I was in Walmart this morning. A small child about 3 stood in the middle of an isle, playing with an adult kitchen utensil, she could have easily been injured. I stopped the cart waiting for the mother, or father to take the object away from her. After 3 to 5 minutes the mother did reach down and take the sharp grater away from her, but left the little girl setting in the middle of the isle. At that point I asked, "Would you mind moving your daughter, so she doesn't get hurt setting there?"
Honestly, I've seen deer in headlights with more sense than these two parents, "Oh, okay." That's a prime example of why children should be raised and not hatched. Little by little we give up more of doing what is right, there will be a price for the lack of responsibility. The down hill slide is quickly coming to an end.
As our nation fails to teach our children about God, His ways and keep pulling away from God, He will bring this society to an end.
Read Ezekiel 22. Israel has always been his chosen people, but He is just with All. He will be just with America as well.
"Behold, then, I smite My hand at your dishonest gain which you have acquired and at the bloodshed which is among you. Can your heart endure, or can your hands be strong in the days I will deal with you? I the Lord have spoken and will act. I will scatter you among the nations and will disperse you through the lands, and I will consume your uncleanness from you. You will profane yourself in the sight of the nations, and you will know that I am the Lord."
Ezekiel 22:13-16 (NASB)
"Son of man, say to her, "You are a land that is not cleansed or rained on in the day of indignation.' There is a conspiracy of her prophets in her midst like a roaring lion tearing the prey. They have devoured lives; they have taken treasure and precious things; they have made many widows in the midst of her. Her priests have done violence to my law and have profaned My holy things; they have made no distinction between the holy and the profane, and they have not taught the difference between the unclean and the clean, and they hide their eyes from My Sabbaths, and I am profaned among them. Ezekiel 22:24-26 (NASB)
Just because God seems silent, do not take that for His toleration. He patiently hopes we will turn around. If we choose not to turn back to Him, God will punish us as well.
"Thus I have poured out My indignation them; I have consumed them with the fire of My wrath; their way I have brought upon their heads, declares the Lord God." Ezekiel 22:31 (NASB)
Do you know the difference between clean and unclean? Can you discern between what is holy and unholy? Are you observing the Sabbath Day and keeping it holy? The Only way you will know is to study God's word and seek His guidance through His Word-the Bible.
If the church you are going to is practicing immoral sex acts inside it's congregation, stealing from the elderly for the churches dishonest gain, or doing other dirty acts get away from that group of people. They are unclean, wolves in sheep's clothing.
If you want to please God seek Him through the Bible first, attend a Bible preaching and practicing church. Do Not be deceived by wolves in sheep's clothing. You are accountable to God.
Honestly, I've seen deer in headlights with more sense than these two parents, "Oh, okay." That's a prime example of why children should be raised and not hatched. Little by little we give up more of doing what is right, there will be a price for the lack of responsibility. The down hill slide is quickly coming to an end.
As our nation fails to teach our children about God, His ways and keep pulling away from God, He will bring this society to an end.
Read Ezekiel 22. Israel has always been his chosen people, but He is just with All. He will be just with America as well.
"Behold, then, I smite My hand at your dishonest gain which you have acquired and at the bloodshed which is among you. Can your heart endure, or can your hands be strong in the days I will deal with you? I the Lord have spoken and will act. I will scatter you among the nations and will disperse you through the lands, and I will consume your uncleanness from you. You will profane yourself in the sight of the nations, and you will know that I am the Lord."
Ezekiel 22:13-16 (NASB)
"Son of man, say to her, "You are a land that is not cleansed or rained on in the day of indignation.' There is a conspiracy of her prophets in her midst like a roaring lion tearing the prey. They have devoured lives; they have taken treasure and precious things; they have made many widows in the midst of her. Her priests have done violence to my law and have profaned My holy things; they have made no distinction between the holy and the profane, and they have not taught the difference between the unclean and the clean, and they hide their eyes from My Sabbaths, and I am profaned among them. Ezekiel 22:24-26 (NASB)
Just because God seems silent, do not take that for His toleration. He patiently hopes we will turn around. If we choose not to turn back to Him, God will punish us as well.
"Thus I have poured out My indignation them; I have consumed them with the fire of My wrath; their way I have brought upon their heads, declares the Lord God." Ezekiel 22:31 (NASB)
Do you know the difference between clean and unclean? Can you discern between what is holy and unholy? Are you observing the Sabbath Day and keeping it holy? The Only way you will know is to study God's word and seek His guidance through His Word-the Bible.
If the church you are going to is practicing immoral sex acts inside it's congregation, stealing from the elderly for the churches dishonest gain, or doing other dirty acts get away from that group of people. They are unclean, wolves in sheep's clothing.
If you want to please God seek Him through the Bible first, attend a Bible preaching and practicing church. Do Not be deceived by wolves in sheep's clothing. You are accountable to God.
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