joyce's posts with tag: sundays with joyce
LIVING FOR GOD (Ephesians 4:31-32 & 5:1-2)..... Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ has also forgiven you. Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children: and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma (Romans 12:9-11)..... Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord (Matthew 5:14-16)....."You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. "Nor do men light a lamp and put it under the peck-measure, but on the lamp stand; and it gives light to all who are in the house. "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." (Philippians 4:4-7) ..... Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your forbearing spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (James 1:22-25)..... But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man shall be blessed in what he does. (Colossians 2:6)..... As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him. (1 Corinthians 10:31)..... Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. (Matthew 10:32-33)....."Everyone therefore who shall confess Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. "But whoever shall deny Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven." (Hebrews 12:1)..... Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (Philippians 4: 8-9)..... Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things. The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things; and the God of peace shall be with you. Speak To Us Of Love When love beckons to you, follow him,
Though his ways are hard and steep.
And when his wings enfold you yield to him,
Though the sword hidden among his pinions may wound you.
And when he speaks to you believe in him,
Though his voice may shatter your dreams
as the north wind lays waste the garden.
For even as love crowns you so shall he crucify you.
Even as he is for your growth so is he for your pruning.
Even as he ascends to your height and caresses your tenderest branches that quiver in the sun,
So shall he descend to your roots and shake them in their clinging to the earth. Like sheaves of corn he gathers you unto himself.
He threshes you to make you naked.
He sifts you to free you from your husks.
He grinds you to whiteness.
He kneads you until you are pliant;
And then he assigns you to his sacred fire, that you may become sacred bread for God’s sacred feast. All these things shall love do unto you that you may know the secrets of your heart, and in that knowledge become a fragment of Life’s heart. But if in your fear you would seek only love’s peace and love’s pleasure,
Then it is better for you that you cover your nakedness and pass out of love’s threshing-floor,
Into the seasonless world where you shall laugh, but not all of your laughter, and weep, but not all of your tears. Love gives naught but itself and takes naught but from itself.
Love possesses not nor would it be possessed;
For love is sufficient unto love. When you love you should not say,
"God is in my heart," but rather, "I am in the heart of God."
And think not you can direct the course of love, for love, if it find you worthy, directs your course. Love has no other desire but to fulfill itself.
But if you love and must needs have desires, let these be your desires:
To melt and be like a running brook that sings its melody to the night.
To know the pain of too much tenderness.
To be wounded by your own understanding of love;
And to bleed willingly and joyfully.
To wake at dawn with a winged heart
and give thanks for another day of loving;
To rest at the noon hour and meditate love’s ecstasy;
To return home at eventide with gratitude;
And then to sleep with a prayer for the beloved in your heart and a song of praise upon your lips. ~Kahlil Gibran Faith makes all things possible.... love makes all things easy." The road of life twists and turns and no two directions are ever the same. Yet our lessons came from the journey, not the destination. When you have come to the edge Of all light that you know And are about to drop off into the darkness Of the unknown, Faith is knowing One of two things will happen: There will be something solid to stand on or You will be taught to fly" His Power Through us, Oh Lord, let Your radiance shine forth
As we bow in humbleness and awe.
Arise within us, Oh Mighty Power
As prayer and faith bring clarity of thought. Your Love alone, will conquer all!
Nothing else can stand with pride.
As You arise within our hearts
Your Glory alone will shine! No force within or without is greater
but Your power alone brings light to all.
Open our eyes to Your wondrous Being
capturing our hearts as understanding abides. Your power will rise within our hearts,
revealing strength, forgiveness, and love to all.
Let mercy and peace reign upon this earth
as revelation knowledge has begun. Holy, my Lord, to You alone.
Everlasting One…with no beginning and no end.
Embracing You with utter wonderment
Oh, how lovely, pure, and beautiful You are! Viola M. Jaynes
HUMILITY Proverbs 15:33 ......The fear of the LORD is instruction in wisdom, and humility goes before honor. Matthew 23:12 ..... All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted. 1 Peter 5:5 ..... In the same way, you who are younger must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you must clothe yourselves with humility in your dealings with one another, for "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble." Psalm 18:27 ..... For you deliver a humble people, but the haughty eyes you bring down. Zephaniah 2:3 ..... Seek the LORD, all you humble of the land, who do his commands; seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you may be hidden on the day of the Lord's wrath. Psalm 25:9 ..... He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way. Matthew 11:29 ..... Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Ephesians 4:1-2 ..... I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, Colossians 3:12 ..... As God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. 1 Peter 3:8 .... all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Matthew 18:4 ...... Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. . Humility
Don't brag about your successes,
Don't put on false airs,
Jesus was a truly humble Man
When He lost his life to a nightmare.
God loved the world so much,
He gave His only begotten Son,
That when we truly believe
Great battles are won!
If we will listen to this message,
And believe with all our heart,
We, too, will win great battles,
And our fears will all depart.
Kneel in humble submission,
Invite Jesus to come in,
Confess all your sins to Him
And you can't help but win.
Praise His name with honor,
He is the Prince of Peace,
He takes our every problem,
And our joy will always increase.
Open your heart to the Savior,
Who gave His life for you,
He is the bright and morning star,
Humble, loving, and true.
He will bless all who listen,
All who humble themselves and pray,
Jesus is the only answer,
And He walks with us every day.
~ Eva May Young ~
'Humility is the only true wisdom by which we prepare our minds for all the possible changes of life.'
'Modesty is a shining light; it prepares the mind to receive knowledge, and the heart for truth.'
'Don't be so humble--you are not that great.'
'In peace there's nothing so becomes a man as modest stillness and humility. '
'God hath sworn to lift on high who sinks himself by true humility.'
'O be very sure That no man will learn anything at all, unless he first will learn humility' .
A Prayer for Humility
Lord Jesus, I must begin my day today by confessing that my heart has often been deceived into thinking that I am living a life of humble service when in reality, many of my motivations are grounded in selfishness. I am so grateful You helped me to understand this about myself many years ago -- and are still faithfully reminding me when I start to get off track again.
Remind me that it is far better to have no reputation at all than to attain great things on my own power. The more I have come to understand how wise You truly are, and how Your Holy Word is so full of practical advice for my day to day living, the stronger I have grown. You have blessed me with fruit that was planted solidly. Thank You that You are showing me that my feelings of inadequacy are actually good because they keep me from becoming self centered.
I pray today that I will become more like Jesus than I was yesterday. I pray I will be unafraid to act in obedience when I hear You call. Make me more aware each day of the tremendous authority I have received from You, which helps me not blow it by claiming it as my own. Please never let me misuse the gifts You have given me.
I close this prayer today by asking You to never let me become a stumbling block to anyone. Help me to never do anything that could bring harm to others. True humility empowers and strengthens and casts out fears.
Thank You for reminding me.....
Tree of Life Psalm 1:3....... He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. Psalm 106:3....... Blessed are they who maintain justice, who constantly do what is right. Pasalm 106: 8....... His heart is secure, he will have no fear; in the end he will look in triumph on his foes. Daniel 12:3..... Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. Hoseah 10:12..... Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until he comes and showers righteousness on you. Malachi 3:3..... He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. Then the LORD will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness, Malachi 4:2..... But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall. Matthew 15:4...... Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. Matthew 15: 5...... "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. The Tree Of Life Each man is as a tree, created by God, Unique as it reaches to the heavens above. For, the tree of life, it blossoms, it grows, From its roots to the heavens, its majesty shows. The tree of life, kept strong as it grew, Shed the old, and began to renew. With Christ as its roots, that we do not see, Providing the strength, for each special tree. With rings of age, trial hidden within - sturdy it stays. Through life’s stormy days - gently it sways. Its bark is a shield, to weather the strife, But, it is the blood that gives precious life. And, if its trunk grows crooked - may it not fall, As it searches for heaven - and tries to stand tall. For, the tree of life, its branches span wide, Though the tree can be hurt, by those at its side. But, a broken branch, like a broken heart, Can make the tree stronger, though it’s ripped apart. Left alone, it can wither, and most surely die, As tears, from heaven, rain down - in great cry. But, cared for, it grows – still mighty and strong, Its fruits can be many, though its life not long. For, from a single tree, fruit and seed come in plenty, Food... shelter...air... soil fertility - so abundantly. And, though the tree can be cut, shoots continue to sprout, For, the tree of life can not be put out! And when the time comes, its wood will burn bright, For, the tree of life gives warmth and eternal light. And if lightning strikes, and life on Earth stops, I’ll reap what I’ve sown as seeds for my crops. For, the tree of life, it blossoms, it grows, From its roots to the heavens, it majesty shows. Yes, each tree is special, for it is true, That Christ died on the tree - For me - and for you! By: Jeanne A. Brohart "If others believe you not, go ahead and be who you are made to be. Beleiving oneself starts from the capabilities to shoulder the real person you are" "Love your own life,
And make others love their life.
This is nothing but life."
THANKFULNESS Ephesians 5:20,.... Give thanks always for all things unto God and the father in the name of the Lord jesus Christ; Colossians 3:15 .... And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful Psalm 30:12....To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent, O Lord my God, I will give thanks to thee for ever Psalm 35:18....I will give thee thanks in the great congregation: I will praise thee among much people. 1 Thessalonians 5:18....In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you Psalm 116:17....I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the Lord. 1 Chronicles 29:13....Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. Psalm 69:30....I will praise God's name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving. Psalm 75:1....We give thanks to you, O God, we give thanks, for your Name is near; men tell of your wonderful deeds. Psalm 136:26....Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever Everyday I'm Thankful, by Heather Kemper, USA Everyday I'm thankful
you came into my life.
The good days and the bad
the darkest and the bright.
No matter what has happened
it's been better because you're there.
For your love and understanding
no words can compare.
The gifts that you have given me
I never dreamed that I'd receive.
The strength I've always found in you
gave me hope when I couldn't believe.
Some days I know you question
your effect upon my life.
Trust in all I'm saying
it's been nothing but good and bright.
All my dreams and longings
came true because of you.
Without which I'd be lost
unsure of what to do.
So every day I'm thankful
for the love and hope you give.
You've given me the reason
to dream, to love, to live.
The word "thankful" is often thought of in the most basic sense: Being grateful for something you have. But all too often, when our turn comes to list the things we are thankful for, we merely rattle off lists we have memorized by heart and that we repeat every year without even thinking about it. Examples of items on such a list are family, friends, having a home, pets, and food. However, the term "thankful" has come to mean so much more. No more does it simply mean being grateful for the bigger things--it also means being grateful for those moments where you want to lift up your hands and praise God for giving you something. The 'something' doesn't have to be a material possession--it can be the love of a friend, a beautiful sunset, the sound of rain upon a window, or the feeling you get when you accomplish a major goal. Still, this does not mean that you should not be truly thankful for the bigger things, as well. I challenge you to take time to think about everything, even the smallest things, that you are thankful for.
 ENCOURAGEMENT
Luke 21:15..... For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. Jeremiah 1:9..... Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "Now, I have put my words in your mouth. Numbers 11: 17 ..... I will come down and speak with you there, and I will take of the Spirit that is on you and put the Spirit on them. They will help you carry the burden of the people so that you will not have to carry it alone. Exodus 31:3..... and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts-- Job 32:8..... But it is the spirit in a man, the breath of the Almighty, that gives him understanding. 2 Timothy 3:16 ..... All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, Romans 1:17....." And Jesus said unto them ... , "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible to you."
1 John 4:18 ....."There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear ... " Deuteronomy 31:6 .....Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Isaiah 35:4 ...... say to those with fearful hearts, "Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you."
By Faith Not By Sight Author: Stephanie Storey Morant In waking I give thanks
In what’s not known
I have to trust, My Father
That yesterday’s pain is gone
For you’ve given me this day
For me to rejoice
To faithfully follow
To willingly hear your voice
For trials will come sometimes
And burdens I’ll have to bare
But you promised me father
To always be there
So I’m standing on that promise
No matter what I go through
And just in case I stumble
I’m depending on you
For you hold the master plan
And your path is always right
So today I’m embarking
By faith and not by sight Anyway Author: Mother Teresa People are often unreasonable and self-centered.
Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives.
Be kind anyway.
If you are honest, people may cheat you.
Be honest anyway.
If you find happiness, people may be jealous.
Be happy anyway.
The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow.
Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough.
Give your best anyway.
For you see, in the end it is between you and God.
It never was between you and them anyway.
Mother Teresa 'I believe that any man's life will be filled with constant and unexpected encouragement, if he makes up his mind to do his level best each day, and as nearly as possible reaching the high water mark of pure and useful living. '
'There are high spots in all of our lives and most of them have come about through encouragement from someone else. I don't care how great, how famous or successful a man or woman may be, each hungers for applause. '
'There is nothing better than the encouragement of a good friend.'
 VISION 1 Timothy 4:13--Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Acts 13:2 --As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. 1 Timothy 4:15--Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Psalms 127:1 --Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. Proverbs 19:21 --There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand. Acts 16:9 --And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us. Proverbs 29:18 --Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he Habakkuk 2:2--And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. Never allow what you see (your vision) be limited to current circumstances. Spiritual vision is given from above due to purpose and destiny for your existence. When circumstances seem to or attempt to cloud your view, find a Word 'seed' of promise for you to plant in what may seem like a barren time. There may be times of CHALLENGES UNCERTAINTIES FRUSTRATION FEARS SADNESS .....and DISAPPOINTMENTS Sometimes they are weeds attempting to choke out your seed. At other times, they themselves can be seeds of preparation... that can be used. Water your promises, dreams, visions, ... with faith, and allow God to grow them into existence ... of the destiny and purpose for which He created you... with spiritual encouragement and power for your journey to times of refreshing and fulfillment.
One of the most important aspects of success is the ability to visualize your path
and stay focused on the lighted path to your dreams, aspirations, callings, etc until you reach them. Establishing, or identifying your vision or life's purpose is the first step. "Not with his eyes but with His vision" "Life just seems so full of connections. Most of the time
we don't even pay attention to the depth of life.
We only see flat surfaces."
"To see what is in front of one's nose
needs a constant struggle."
"The art of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook."
"I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order."
"Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything that is beautiful,
for beauty is God's handwriting -- a wayside sacrament.
Welcome it in every fair face, in every fair sky, in every flower,
and thank God for it as a cup of blessing."
"If you go as far as you can see,
you will then see enough to go even farther."
"Our visions begin with our desires."
Patience Romans 5:3..... And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; Ephesians 4:2.... With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Hebrews 6:12.... That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. James 1:3.... Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. James 1:4.... But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. James 5:7.... Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. James 5:8.... Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. Revelation 14:12.... Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. PATIENCE Patience is a divine virtue that we are not only badly wanting, but we neglect it most foolishly. It is an inner assurance of God's unreserved love and unconditional guidance. Patience is God's power hidden in us to weather the teeming storms of life. If failure has the strength to turn your life into bitterness itself, then patience has the strength to turn your life into the sweetest joy. Do not surrender to fate after a single failure. Failure, at most, precedes success. But success once achieved, confidence becomes your name. Have patience in the heart; you will feel that the world is nor only with you and in you, but for you. Time is a flying bird. Do you want to capture the bird and encage it? Your fondest dreams will be transformed into fruitful realities if you just know the secret of growing the patience tree in your heart. Patience is your sincere surrender to God's Will. This surrender is by no means the effacement of the finite self which you now are, but a total transcendence of your finite existence to the Infinite Self. In silence patience speaks to you: "Try to live the inner life. You will not only see and reach your goal, but also become the Goal." Patience can never be imposed on you from outside. It is your own inner Wealth, Wisdom, Peace and Victory. Patience is passion tamed. The secret of patience is doing something else in the meanwhile Patience is the ability to idle your motor when you feel like stripping your gears. The keys to patience are acceptance and faith. Accept things as they are, and look realistically at the world around you. Have faith in yourself and in the direction you have chosen. The two most powerful warriors are patience and time. All human wisdom is summed up in two words - wait and hope
 Prayer
Matthew 6:6.... But you, when you pray, enter into your room. And shutting your door, pray to your Father in secret; and your Father who sees in secret shall reward you openly. 1Timothy 2:8.....Therefore, I desire that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. Psalm 5:3.....My voice You shall hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning I will direct my prayer to You, and I will look up. Luke 18:1.....Then Jesus spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart Hebrews 4:16....Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Matthew 6:7....And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. . Matthew 6.9-13..... After this manner therefore pray ye...
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen Matthew 5.44..... I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you Philippians 4.6-7 .....Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. I Shall Remember Thee Shall I remember Thee and all Thou art,
presented by this meal, Thy presence true,
this day, this creature, yea, and all things new?
I come by grace through faith, and faith apart
from works is dead, and death shall have no part
when I believe, and bless, and break bread to
remember Thee, and witness Thee, and view
Thy hands and feet and side and broken heart.
As Thou art risen, raise me from the dead
to kisses which are better than this wine
and to embraces better than this bread,
for I am Thine, O Lord, and Thou art Mine,
Thy body and Thy blood, broken and bled.
I shall remember Thee, and I shall dine I want to be the kind of person who trusts God, not just in the midst
of prosperity, but during difficult times. He is a wonderful God and He has promised to never leave me nor forsake me.
God is a person -- namely, your Father. Prayer is a deeply personal, intimate CONVERSATION with your Father -- not some *magical incantation* or religious babbling.
JUSTIFICATION Proverbs.17:15-- He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous, both of them together are detestable to the Lord. Roman.3:23,24-- For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus Romans.4:6,7-- Just as David also speaks about the blessedness of the man to whom God reckons righteousness apart from works: BLESSED ARE THEY WHOSE TRANSGRESSIONS ARE FORGIVEN, AND WHOSE SINS ARE COVERED. Psalm.103:2,3-- Bless the Lord, . . . Who forgives all your iniquities, . 1 John.2:2-- And he (Jesus Christ) is the reconciling sacrifice for our sins, and not only for our sins but also for the sins of the whole world. Romans.3:10-12-- As it is written: "There is no one righteous, not even one. There is no who understands; there is no one who seeks God. All have turned away, together they have become worthless; there is no who does good, there is not even one." Romans.7:18,19-- For I know that no good thing dwells in me, that is in my sinful nature; for the willingness is present in me, but doing the good thing is not in me. For the good that I desire to do, I do not do; but the evil that I do not desire to do, this I keep doing. Psalm.19:12-- Who can discern his errors? Pardon my sins of ignorance. 2 Corinthians.5:21-- He made him (Christ) who knew no sin to be sin for our sake, so we might become the righteousness of God in him. Romans.5:9-- Therefore, having now been justified in his blood, by how much more shall we be saved through him from his wrath! The Stonecutter There was once a stonecutter who was dissatisfied with himself and with his position in life. One day, he passed a wealthy merchant's house and through the open gateway saw many fine possessions and important visitors.
"How powerful that merchant must be!" thought the stonecutter. He became very envious, and wished that he could be like the merchant. Then he would no longer have to live the life of a mere stonecutter. To his great surprise, he suddenly became the merchant, enjoying more luxuries and power than he had ever dreamed of, envied and detested by those less wealthy than himself. But soon a high official passed by, carried in a sedan chair, accompanied by attendants, and escorted by soldiers beating gongs. Everyone, no matter how wealthy, had to bow low before the procession.
"How powerful that official is!" he thought. "I wish that I could be a high official!" Then he became the high official, carried everywhere in his embroidered sedan chair, feared and hated by the people all around, who had to bow down before him as he passed. It was a hot summer day, and the official felt very uncomfortable in the sticky sedan chair. He looked up at the sun. It shone proudly in the sky, unaffected by his presence.
"How powerful the sun is!" he thought. "
I wish that I could be the sun!" Then he became the sun, shining fiercely down on everyone, scorching the fields, cursed by the farmers and labourers. But a huge black cloud moved between him and the earth, so that his light could no longer shine on everything below.
"How powerful that storm cloud is!" he thought. "I wish that I could be a cloud!" Then he became the cloud, flooding the fields and villages, shouted at by everyone. But soon he found that he was being pushed away by some great force, and realized that it was the wind.
"How powerful it is!" he thought. "I wish that I could be the wind!" Then he became the wind, blowing tiles off the roofs of houses, uprooting trees, hated and feared by all below him. But after a while, he ran up against something that would not move, no matter how forcefully he blew against it -- a huge, towering stone.
"How powerful that stone is!" he thought. "I wish that I could be a stone!"
Then he became the stone, more powerful than
anything else on earth. But as he stood there, he heard the sound of a hammer pounding a chisel into the solid rock and felt himself being changed.
"What could be more powerful than I, the stone?" he thought.
He looked down and saw far below him the figure of a stonecutter. Benjamin Hoff from The Tao Of Pooh 'The curse of poverty has no justification in
our age...The time has come for us to
civilize ourselves by the total, direct
and immediate abolition of poverty.'
Martin Luther King, Jr "Power is when you have every justification to kill someone, and then you don't" 'The modern conservative is engaged in
one of man's oldest exercises in moral
philosophy; that is, the search for a superior
moral justification for selfishness.'
Friendship Proverbs 16:28....A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends. Proverbs 17:17....A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 27:6....Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. Proverbs 27:9.....Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel. Proverbs 27:10....Thine own friend, and thy father's friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother's house in the day of thy calamity: for better is a neighbour that is near than a brother far off. John 15:15.....Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Philippians 2:3....Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Philippians 2:4....Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 2 Timothy 2:22.....Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. A friend is like a flower
Blooming in the sun,
And your world is a better place
With the beauty of each one. A friend is like an owl,
So beautiful and wise,
Or like a special angel,
Whose spirit never dies. Friends are like the blades of grass
That you can never mow,
Standing straight, tall, and proud
In a perfect little row.
A friend is like a heart that beats
So strong until the end.
Where would we be in this world
If we didn't have a friend?
"True friendship means knowing your needed even without being told" Building a Friendship
It starts with "Hello"
As time proceeds it grows
Doing things together
Going wherever
Making the best of everything
While you have the time and can
No matter where your life leads you
Know your friendship will stay true
Miles and time can not break your bond
If of your friendship you are fond
Remember all the things you do
They will help pull you through
Treasure them in your memories and hearts
And nothing can break your friendship apart "Being a true friend is being the kind of friend that you want as a true friend"
 God will not let us down: Isaiah 41:10 Fear not; for I am with you. Be not dismayed; for I am your God. I will strengthen you; yea, I will help you; yea, I will uphold you with the right hand of My righteousness.
Who can harm or condemn those who belong to God? Isaiah 54:17 "No weapon that is formed against you shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of Me", says the LORD The Lord will stop the enemy: Isaiah 59:19 When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him. God will be found by those who seek him, and will prosper those who find him: Jeremiah 29:11-13 "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you", says the LORD, "thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall you call upon Me, and you shall go and pray unto Me, and I will hearken unto you. And you shall seek Me, and find Me, when you shall search for Me with all your heart." We were hand picked by God: John 15:16-19 You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remin; that whatsoever you shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you. These things I command you, that you love one another. If the world hate you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love his own; but because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Why we endure: Romans 5:3b-5 ...we glory in tribulations also; knowing that tribulations works patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: and hope maks not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
In both life and death, we belong to God: Romans 14:7,8 For none of us lives to himself, and no man dies to himself. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. With Jesus you can do anything: Phillipians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. God will give us mercy and grace: Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. I asked for strength and God gave me difficulties to make me strong. I asked for wisdom and God gave me problems to solve. I asked for courage and God gave me dangers to overcome. I asked for patience and God placed me in situations where I was forced to wait. I asked for love and God gave me troubled people to help. I asked for favors and God gave me opportunities. I received nothing I wanted. I received everything I needed Believe in Yourself , Author: Emily Matthews Believe in yourself -
in the power you have
to control your own life, day by day,
Believe in the strength
that you have deep inside,
and your faith will help
show you the way.
Believe in tomorrow
and what it will bring -
let a hopeful heart carry you through,
For the things will work out
if you trust and believe
there's no limit
to what you can do.
HUMILITY Job 22:29 When men are brought low and you say, 'Lift them up!' then he will save the downcast. Psalm 9:12 For he who avenges blood remembers; he does not ignore the cry of the afflicted. Psalm 10:17 You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, Matthew 18:4 Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 23:12 For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. Luke 6:20 Looking at his disciples, he said: "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Proverbs 10:8 The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin. Proverbs 11:2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. Proverbs 27:2 Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; someone else, and not your own lips . Mathew 11:29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls . Humility
Don't brag about your successes,
Don't put on false airs,
Jesus was a truly humble Man
When He lost his life to a nightmare.
God loved the world so much,
He gave His only begotten Son,
That when we truly believe
Great battles are won!
If we will listen to this message,
And believe with all our heart,
We, too, will win great battles,
And our fears will all depart.
Kneel in humble submission,
Invite Jesus to come in,
Confess all your sins to Him
And you can't help but win.
Praise His name with honor,
He is the Prince of Peace,
He takes our every problem,
And our joy will always increase.
Open your heart to the Savior,
Who gave His life for you,
He is the bright and morning star,
Humble, loving, and true.
He will bless all who listen,
All who humble themselves and pray,
Jesus is the only answer,
And He walks with us every day.
~ Eva May Young ~
He who speaks without modesty will find it difficult to make his words good.
Humility leads to strength and not to weakness. It is the highest form of self-respect to admit mistakes and to make amends for them.
Humility is the only true wisdom by which we prepare our minds for all the possible changes of life. Plenty of people wish to become devout, but no one wishes to be humble.
 RESTORATION John 10:10.....The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. Hebrews 4:16.....Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Philippians 4:6-7..... Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."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. Matthew 16:16-18....There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD. Simon Peter answered and said, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Jesus answered and said to him, "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. Isaiah 54:17...... No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; And every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their vindication is from Me," declares the LORD.The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases. Proverbs 16:9.....In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. Proverbs 20:24..... A man’s steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand his own way? Galatians 5:6...... For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. What a man desires is unfailing love. Philippians 2:12-13..... Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." Hebrews 11:1....Now faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. But my righteous one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him." Matthew 21:22.... "And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive." Isaiah 41:10-13......"Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Behold, all those who were incensed against you shall be ashamed and disgraced; They shall be as nothing, And those who strive with you shall perish. You shall seek them and not find them–Those who contended with you. Those who war against you Shall be as nothing, As a nonexistent thing. For I, the LORD your God, will hold your right hand, Saying to you, "Fear not, I will help you." Hebrews 10:35-36.... So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. 'Restoration', by Mike Bullock
Peace has fallen on this person
In a static place, no less
It's a lull before the storm breaks
Restoration time, I guess
To the state that He created
Undefiled by human touch
Like an onion, we've gained layers
Some a few, but many much.
Take a painting, sad and lifeless
Vibrant colours dulled by time
You can damage hidden beauty
As you scrub away the grime
So He takes His time about it
Lovingly He cleans away
Years of dead and poisoned foliage
In our cesspit of decay.
So I offer up my secrets
Some remembered, others not
Like a time lord reaching backwards
He is in a land forgot
But I know that when He's finished
I will be His child renewed
Thankful that He loves me dearly
Restored, refined,
no longer crude. God's plan for restoration in the Church is not to return it to some original condition of the Church, but to the original intention for the Church in the exalted Christ. The restoration of the Church is not about going back to Acts 2 (this was the Church in seed-form), but onwards to the perfection of the holy city of Jerusalem which is (even now) "coming down out of heaven from God,"
FRIENDSHIP (Prov 18.24).... A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a Friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 17:17.... A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity Proverbs 27:17.... Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend Proverbs 27:6.... Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful Proverbs 27:9.... Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel Proverbs 18:24.... A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother Proverbs 22: 24.... Make no friendship with an angry man, and with a furious man thou shalt not go John 15: 13.... Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends John 15: 14.... Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. We know for ourselves that when we have a good friend, we don’t want them to suffer alone when we are just a phone call away. We want them to call us and share their sorrows with us, as well as their joys, because this is what sharing a life through friendship is about. It is at our lowest points that we really need to rely on our friends without worrying that we are a burden. If you are feeling self-conscious about having a tough time, you can bring this fact into the conversation by acknowledging it. Chances are your friend will reassure you that she is happy to be there for you. In fact, rather than feeling taxed, most of us feel better when we have helped a friend simply by listening empathically while they share their feelings.
Without our friends, we would be hard pressed to get through the tough times and celebrate the good ones. If we leave our friends out of our process when the going gets tough, our friendships can begin to feel shallow. On the other hand, when we include our friends in the full story of our life—the good, the bad, and the ugly—we build authentic relationships in which we can be who we truly are. When we do this, we invite our friends to bring their whole selves to the relationship as well. What is a friend? I'll tell you. A friend is a person with whom you dare to be yourself.
Your soul can go naked with him. He asks you to put on nothing, only to be who you really are.
When you are with him you don't have to be on your guard.
You can say what you think, so long as it is genuinely you. He understands those contradictions in your nature that cause others to misjudge you. With him you breathe freely.
You can avow your little vanities and envies and absurdities and, in opening them up to him, they are dissolved in the vast ocean of his loyalty. He understands.
You can weep with him, laugh with him, pray with him.
Through and underneath it all he sees, knows, and loves you. A Friend, I repeat, is one with whom you dare to be yourself.
Author unknown
 Mother's Day
Proverbs 31:17, 18, 27 She girds herself with strength, and strengthens herself daily. She perceives that her provision for her family is good: she does not retire early but works diligently to see to the needs of her family, she is not an idle woman.
Proverbs 31.28
".....Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her."
Isaiah 40:11
"He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young. "
Philippians 4:13
"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
Philippians 4:19
"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
2 Timothy 1:5
"When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also."
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. This does not mean that the woman who cowers in a corner is the one who will be praised. On the contrary, a mother filled with the Holy Spirit will have boldness, confidence and peace that is beyond earthly understanding.
This verse also reminds us that beauty is skin deep, and gifts can be shallow. A faithful and strong mother will find her strength in the Lord.
BEHOLD, THY MOTHER! Behold Thy Mother! prim and proper,
As she wipes off your face.
Behold Thy Mother! broken and wounded,
As you shout for her to, "Get off your case!"
Behold Thy Mother! tears streaming,
As your spouse to be walks the aisle.
Behold Thy Mother! patiently waiting,
As you pace your 15th mile.
Behold Thy Mother! as she softly smiles,
Her last breath coming near.
Behold Thy Mother! as she rest in peace,
Home with Jesus to shed no more tears.
As mother day comes closer,
And we write Mothers Day Poems.
We need always remember,
Mothers lead us right, not like Jeroboam!
Tell them today that you love them,
Love them like no other.
And on this, their day,
Son and Daughter, Behold Thy Mother!
Your Mother Is Always With You...
Your mother is always with you...
She's the whisper of the leaves
as you walk down the street.
She's the smell of bleach
in your freshly laundered socks.
She's the cool hand on your brow
when you're not well.
Your mother lives inside your laughter.
She's crystallized in every tear drop.
She's the place you came from,
your first home...
She's the map you follow
with every step that you take.
She's your first love
and your first heart break...
and nothing on earth can separate you.
Not time, Not space...
Not even death...
will ever separate you
from your mother...
You carry her inside of you...
Author Unknown
 WORD FOR TODAY
Wisdom
1. Daniel full of wisdom Daniel 5:14 I have even heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods is in thee, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom is found in thee
2. God gave Joseph unusual wisdom Acts 7;10 And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favor and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and made him governor over Egypt and all his house.
3. Lord will give you understanding 2 Timothy 2:7 Consider what i say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.
4. Pray for wisdom James 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
5. Wise with spiritual wisdom Colossians 1:9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
Grow Heavenward
God said:
When you look up at Me, you are not looking down.
World influence often tends to pull you down.
My influence, by its very nature, lifts you up.
The world has gotten in the habit of denigrating you.
The world gives you a false picture.
It would cut you off at the start,
wanting to keep you indentured to it.
I would have you rise to the heights where you rightfully belong.
Come, look up. Come see a truer picture of you.
In its efforts to keep you small, the world would squash you. I would unleash you.
Do not think I am in competition with the world.
There is no competition when it comes to Me.
Only, life in the world travels on the surface.
It twirls itself around and wants to keep you captive.
I want to free you from the arbitrary restraints of the world.
I am not telling you to spurn the world.
I am telling you to not believe so much in what it says.
Adore the world. At the same time, do not hold it almighty.
You are not really its province. I
t doesn’t own you.
Instead of the world’s twirling you,
by the height of your thoughts, twirl the world.
There is a level beyond the world.
Reach for it.
In your daily life, you will know what is clearly from God
and what is clearly from man.
Look up at the sun and the sky,
and you will know the jewels I have strewn the world with.
Look at what I would show you, beloveds.
The world is imperfect by its own standards.
And yet it would pompously brag
and invite you to join in its legerdemain.
It is my pleasure to offer you the pure fruit of Heaven.
You are meant to be the tillers of the world, not the tilled.
You are not to be pounded into the ground.
You are meant to plant beautiful flowers
and vegetables that, like you, will grow Heavenward.
You would not turn down My invitation to join Me, would you?
Do not tremble.
Do not hold Me in awe.
Hold Me in love.
If you are a building block of the world,
represent Me. Set your feet firmly near Me.
Hold the world up to Me, beloveds.
Hold it in your hands like a precious jewel
that you polish.
Hold the world up like the sun.
 Apologetics
1. Be light o the world Mathew 5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. |
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