tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89744084104596485242024-03-20T20:59:03.452-07:00B-FLYUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-12269848618714937662018-03-25T04:55:00.001-07:002018-03-25T04:55:22.001-07:00IT'S THE G IN ME<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I never find much comfort in the grim reality of the daily grind. If given the chance, I’d prefer to live in an animated tv series with a perfectly green lawn and butterflies to greet me every morning.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Alas, life on this side of glory is not always joyful. It is not always fun. I realize this. But thanks be to God there are ways to navigate this world with joy and laughter.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Paul speaks about a Power that enables him to thrive despite a series of setbacks that would cripple just about anyone.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">I have worked harder, been put in prison more often, been whipped times without number, and faced death again and again. 24 Five different times the Jewish leaders gave me thirty-nine lashes. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea. 26 I have traveled on many long journeys. I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not.[a] 27 I have worked hard and long, enduring many sleepless nights. I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food. I have shivered in the cold, without enough clothing to keep me warm. 2 Corinthians 11:23-27</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Paul believes that it is the Christ in Him that makes all the difference. In other words, he is able to survive prison, betrayal, beatings, depression, illness not because of his mental prowess, intellectual reasoning, strong will, financial resources; but because of his partnership with Christ that actually completes and perfects him.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Where Paul is weak and flawed, Christ makes him strong and perfect. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Likewise, if I develop a strong relationship with Christ, I will be strengthened in all the places where I am deficient. I too will be made perfectly suited to handle the stresses, health crises, epidemics, terrorist threats, economic instabilities, and mean spirit-ness of this world.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Notice that the Power that Paul speaks of does not manifest itself as a sense of resignation. Paul does not wallow in the fact that the world is evil. Paul does not hunker down in isolation with an intent to bear the world’s trials without hope. Instead Paul continues on his mission. He continues to live his life in the face of tragedy. He gets up every morning with a sense of Joy that he is not alone and that the victory is already his. Why worry about the hardships that confront you when God has promised to provide the inner Power to deal with each and every tribulation come what may. Not only can God work miracles but God can change your countenance so that the things that used to perplex and debilitate you no longer have any effect on you at all.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. Phillipeans 4:13</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I admit that it is staggering to even consider that the obstacles that I face daily are already taken care of by a benevolent God. It is amazing to know that even if I was placed in a pit by my enemies, the Christ in me would work it so that I would be ok. The Christ in me would meet my needs and infuse me with supernatural Power no matter what. WOWEE! </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Just meditating on the impact of these statements is transformative and will enable you to skip through the tulips no matter the obstacles. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">It bears noting that the Power of which Paul speaks does not come by accident but develops naturally when we abide in Christ. It is the resting in Christ that results in the Power of Christ.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">And how do we abide in Christ?</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">It’s simple really- we must pray and meditate on Him daily. In other words, we must read about Christ’s methods, his life, his responses. We must think about these things and apply the rules we extract from His life to our daily lives.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">For example, if Jesus prayed all night for guidance before He selected his 12 disciples. Then we must pray to God before we make major decisions. See Luke 6:12</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">We must ask Christ to manifest Himself in our lives. </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Then we must leave the rest to Him.</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">The result of our action combined with Christ Power is unspeakable Joy even here on this side of glory.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">It is a promise, darlings!</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-60503463374211691342017-11-24T04:26:00.001-08:002017-11-24T04:26:18.191-08:00PRAYED UP TO GET OVER<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana;">This week in my quiet time with G3 (the Son, Father, Holy Spirit) I stumbled upon a more refined definition of Prayer.</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana;"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana;">The footnotes of a Study Bible I am reading, stresses that the purpose of prayer is really to learn about God’s will for me and to obtain the Power to be able to fulfill this will.</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana;"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana;">REALLY?</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">Apparently, Prayer is not my attempt to change the will of God. Though, a tenacious believer can do just this…. (Remember </span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Kings%2020:2-6" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; -webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(232, 30, 232); color: #e81ee8; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><b>Hezekiah 2 Kings 20:2-6</b></span></a><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">)</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">And, Prayer is not attempting to conquer God’s reluctance to answer through persistence (Though this too can be accomplished).</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Instead, Prayer is laying hold of God’s willingness to help. Prayer is an act of total confidence and assurance in the plan and purpose of God.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Every part of God’s plan for me is for my good. And when I go to God in Prayer it is an opportunity to learn more about God’s Plan for me.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">I may want some things…and certainly my God promises to give all of us the desires of our hearts. But in my prayer time, I should seek above all else is to follow the path God has ordained for me. <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+37&version=NIV"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; -webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(232, 30, 232); color: #e81ee8; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><b>Psalm 34:7 </b></span></a></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">So, if i want a new car, I can say to God, "I want a 2018 marshmallow white Dodge Challenger RT." But my request really should be secondary. I should really only crave what God wills for my life. Therefore, in my Prayer, I will convey to G3 that I’d love a new Dodge. But, and this is the important party, I trust HIM and I know that HE knows the best car option for me and that this car option can actually be "no car" at all. In this instance, even the "no car option" can be perfectly acceptable if it is God's will. Why? Because God is good and His plans for me are perfect! </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">ABOVE ALL ELSE, our daily prayer should be that God’s will be done here “on earth as it is in heaven.” This is not an easy ask, especially when God’s will goes against the plans I have set for myself. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">I am learning more and more to TRUST God’s way wholly even when it goes against earthly logic; even when it makes no sense to me or my mentors/friends/advisors; even when it looks difficult and feels worse. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">When we choose God’s way, He provides all that we need to be successful.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(52, 52, 52); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">There is no struggle in God’s will. There is work. But no struggle.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-37192105809390657012017-11-12T05:11:00.002-08:002017-11-12T05:11:14.402-08:00FORTIFIED?<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">My latest decadent pastime involves listening to someone else read Agatha Christie novels to me. Hugh Fraser and David Suchet have a real talent for bringing Hercule Poirot stories to life better than any other narrator in the <a href="http://audible.com/"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">audible.com</span></a> arsenal. This week, I’m deep into The Hollows, a winding story involving a slew of characters that descend upon a country estate for the weekend. Before the murder is committed, per usual, Christie provides the most unlikely yet informative comments about life, good and evil, human nature and love. In one passage, after weeks of searching, Henrietta, a celebrated sculptor, finds a country girl to model for her. There was something about the girl’s vapid face, agreeable mouth and wide eyes that made her a perfect stand in for the blind woman Henrietta wanted to create out of clay. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">On the surface, the model that Hernietta discovered was perfect. However soon after the girl arrived at the studio, Henrietta discovered that the girl's innocent expression was due to the fact that the child was severely near sighted. Once the girl became familiar with her surroundings and began to talk, her facial lines along with her speech hardened revealing a spiteful and mean spirited personality. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">All the while Henrietta sculpted, the girl recounted her exploits, gossiped about her neighbors and boasted about her accomplishments. When the piece was complete, Henrietta paid the model and ushered her quickly out of the studio. She covered the piece with a cloth and went to bed to rest. A few hours later she when she removed the cloth, she was horrified. Why? Somehow, despite her best efforts, she had worked a bit of the meanness that the girl exuded into the clay. How had it happened? Easily enough… </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">We are such delicate creatures. Any addictive (good or bad) that seeps into our environment has an effect. We become what we eat, hear, touch, see. Is there no wonder that many of us are broken, angry, sad, weary individuals who have encountered too many pollutants, too much evil, too much heartbreak, too much pain. Even when we know that those around us (their mannerisms, speech, actions, decisions, habits, friends) are toxic, many of us believe that we are strong enough to withstand it or that we can fortify ourselves to block out the inevitable effects. We are not. We can not. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">But thanks be to God, there is a Power that can fortify us; there is a Balm that can repair us. God has directed us to seek his presence daily. Just consistently thinking about HIM, his goodness, His perfect love, His Spirt, His Son’s work - Reflecting on ALL OF GOD’s ways will work to reset our equilibrium. God Power enables us to: forgive when we are abused, love our enemies, endure heartbreak, smile in terrible conditions, push beyond our limits.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">There is perfect peace in Christ Jesus, In the Spirit, In God’s plan. There is no other way to move through this life without conforming to the ways of the world. </span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-33037045779843327812017-10-01T05:11:00.002-07:002017-10-01T05:11:50.873-07:00OBEY THE PROMISES, TOO<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">Lawyers are an interesting group of people. And by interesting, I mean they have an interesting way of viewing requirements, rules, laws and edicts. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Typically, (most if not all) lawyers view laws as challenges. They read a rule and immediately begin to contemplate ways to circumvent the rule without really breaking the rule. I am a lawyer, therefore I feel uniquely qualified to make this sweeping statement. (smile)</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">I used to try this approach when confronted with God’s laws. Sometimes if I thought the rule was a bit too hard to follow, I would begin to justify a softer approach.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Every time I did this, however, my disobedience caused serious problems. When any of God’s children disobey Him, we cause the Spirit of God that lives within us to shrink in power. When we lose our Holy Ghost Power, we no longer have access to the 7 gifts of the Spirit: (1) discernment; (2) capacity to perform even when the body is tired, sick and resistant; (3), judgement - craving & pursuing only the things that are good for us; (4) reception - an ability to hear the voice of Truth and respond accordingly (5) ability to love even when hurt, angry, abused; (6) telepathy - an ability to communicate spirit to spirit; and (7) intuition - abillity to hear God's still small internal voice and to respond accordingly. Without access to the Spirit it is more difficult to successfully navigate through Life on this side.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="color: #e81ee8;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b>Jeremiah 42:6</b></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="color: #e81ee8;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b>Whether we like it or not, we will obey the LORD our God to whom we are sending you with our plea. For if we obey him, everything will turn out well for us.”</b></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">This week, as I journaled, I learned about another aspect of obedience. As children of God, we are not only admonished to obey God’s commandments, but we must also be obedient to God’s promises!</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">This means that when God promises to deliver you from a bad situation, you must likewise be obedient to the promise by responding to the promise in faith. You should not laugh at the promise because it seems so outlandish. You must not take matters into your own hands to bring the promise to fruition. You must not wallow in depression as you wait for the promise to be fulfilled. Instead, you must rejoice in the promise of God and whistle as you prepare for the promise to occur.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Obedience to God requires that you not only follow the law as written but to also believe (and act like you believe in real time) ALL the promises of God.</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-81502804832923776752017-03-26T06:27:00.001-07:002017-03-26T06:27:11.742-07:00ENCOURAGE YOURSELF<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">This week, I felt like I faltered a bit in my faith. Despite all that God has done for me, I felt overcome with anxiety and fear. These feelings worked like an ancient dark elixir sapping my joy and my vitality. I felt so agitated that a few times while I worked, I had to actually get up from my desk and actively encourage myself. Picture me walking around my home office in a Hello Kitty kimono reciting the following Principles aloud.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Principles:</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">To know God is to love God. </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">And to love God is to trust God. </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">And to trust God is to rely on God. </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">And to rely on God is to live without anxiety or fear. </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">And a life without fear or anxiety is a happy life.</span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Reciting these Principles helped me to calm down so that I was in a position to quietly reflect on why I was so anxious. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4: 6-7</span></blockquote>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">It turned out that I was anxious because I was fearful that God had not heard my most recent Prayer for assistance. For 5 years, I have prayed for help to for a specific issue. Yet, God had not moved. In my mind, I was running out of time. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">When I finally got quiet and began to reflect on God and how He has moved in my life, I began to relax because I began to see a pattern. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4: 6-7</span></blockquote>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">In the past, whenever I have asked God for seemingly impossible things, He has moved in a very particular way. In my experience, God uses every situation, good and bad, to improve my character, endurance, ability to love and knowledge of Him. In other words, every situation I face is used by God for the purpose of making me more like Christ Jesus, the ultimate example of a spirit filled man.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">No matter what I place on my Prayer List, I must remember that God is more interested in the journey to obtain the goal than about the actual goal itself. Yes, God will answer prayer. But, the process will not always be pretty or pleasant. The lesson that I get from this journey of Life is that If you trust God and His way, you will not only reach your goal but you will become a better person in the process.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">This means that if I pray asking God to heal my leg that was broken in 3 places so that I could not only walk without a limp but I would be able to dance in heels, God will do it. And in the process God will take me on a journey to learn discernment, patience, forgiveness, joy and eventually healing.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">If I pray asking to be approved for a home equity loan despite student loan debt, I will eventually get the loan, but the process may take 2 years during which time, I learn how to streamline my business, improve my credit score and save for my retirement.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">God is a healer and a “way maker.” But, his methods are not for the timid. Instead, God’s methodologies will yank you out of your comfort zone; and stretch your resolve, your love ethic, your faith and your courage. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">I encourage you to follow God’s precepts come what may because when the dust settles, you will be a stronger, better YOU!</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">It is a promise, darling.</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-45001974774290024892017-03-15T05:56:00.001-07:002017-03-15T05:56:43.463-07:00Relax, It's Magic!<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">I believe in magic. I believe that a spark exists in all of us that when cultivated can spur us on to do great, noble, wonderful things despite hurdles, counter forces and popular opinion. The magic I speak of is not Disney branded magic, it is not ushered in by a clicking of “ruby slippers”. This magic does not emanate from a “Fellowship of the Ring” nor is it properly described as “the Force.” Though my name is not Harry Potter, I see/feel/wield magic all around me. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">There is magic in Christianity. There is good and evil. There is sorcery, miraculous healing, battles to the death. There is intrigue and resurrection and super natural power that takes the form of the most unlikely characters.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Each of us are lead characters in our own saga. We like all super heroes/heroines are given supernatural gifts at birth from an all Powerful Force. We like all supers must cultivate these gifts through study, training, and mentorships with other great warriors. After our training we are set up to face a series of tests that grow in difficulty. Sometimes we get wounded so badly that we have to retreat. Other times we barely defeat the Evil One - appearing so bruised at the final battle scene that we can hardly stand.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">What I know is that no matter the test, my God has already ensured that I will win- meaning I will learn what I need to learn to move up a little higher in my development. My only job is to train diligently, try my best, remain obedient to the Principals of God, and discipline myself to spend daily quiet time with God to be refreshed, renewed and ready to meet the next challenge.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">We don’t have to look to Hollywood for our next adventure. We are the heroine/hero of this Epic Life Story and we have all we need to triumph! </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="color: #e81ee8;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Ephesians 6:10-18</span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="color: #e81ee8;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.</span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="color: #e81ee8;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.</span></span></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-84124242782143624312017-02-05T05:58:00.000-08:002017-03-15T05:58:47.363-07:00A New Reality<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Reality TV theatrics are being adopted by the general population at an alarming rate. The pattern is simple: A feels slighted because of something B said or did; A seeks advice from C; B seeks advice from D; Soon thereafter A and B encounter each other and the "hair puling" ensues. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">But, what would have happened if after feeling slighted, A and B went (separately) to a neutral omnipresent G for advice before taking any action? What if after receiving guidance, A and B followed the advice of G to resolve the conflict instead of taking matters into their own hands? </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Since we are finite beings we can never fully understand the complexities of our neighbors, friends, colleagues, family members, enemies. Truth is relative and has many sides. Therefore it is best to seek advice from an omnipotent being who knows all the angles instead of a mere mortal. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">The God that I serve is so accessible that I can actually converse with him like I converse with a good girl friend. I can share my fears, my disappointments and my hurts with my God. I can seek forgiveness for my missed opportunities. I can ask for help to fix a complicated situation. I can seek specific guidance on issues as mundane as where to get my lashes done. I can also seek guidance on life altering issues like: whether to quit my job to pursue a hobby full time.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Seeking help from God requires a listening ear, discipline, patience and obedience.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">But, God promises to answer us. And He never goes back on His word.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="color: #d62f80;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">"Keep asking, and it will be given to you. Keep searching, and you will find. Keep knocking, and the door will be opened for you." Matthew 7:7</span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">To clarify, God’s timing while perfect is not akin to our timing. In other words, He does not always answer immediately. But He will answer in time enough to act. We must then learn to WAIT on God before taking matters into our own hands.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="color: #d62f80;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">“Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. 8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; Do not fret, it leads only to evildoing. 9 For evildoers will be cut off, But those who wait for the LORD, they will inherit the land.” Psalm 37:7-9</span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">While we wait, we are not to wait idly. Instead, we must work to cultivate a listening ear. This means, we must spend consistent time with GOD to learn to distinguish His voice from the chatter of others. We must spend consistent time praising GOD, thanking GOD, reflecting with GOD on each day’s activities in order to spot patterns in how He interacts with us. In other words, we must pray constantly.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="color: #d62f80;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">14 Dear brothers, warn those who are lazy, comfort those who are frightened, take tender care of those who are weak, and be patient with everyone. 15 See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to everyone else. 16 Always be joyful.<b> 17 Always keep on praying.</b> 18 No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:14-18</span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">In my walk with God, I have discovered that He speaks to me in several ways: 1) personally by sending messages that pop into to my mind like a new idea; 2) through advice from other Spiritual Warriors (other believers with faith that has tested over many many years); 3) through vivid and detailed dreams; and 4) through patterns in my life that seem to repeat (upon reflection, I can gauge a lesson from these acts).</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Because I try my best to set aside quiet time to sit with God, I am being rewarded. I am developing a listening ear. I am learning how to hear God’s direct guidance and advice in real time. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">There is an alternative REALITY in Christ, darling.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Seize it for yourself today. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-85781098163246884632017-01-22T09:49:00.003-08:002017-01-22T10:14:25.827-08:00Don't Worry. Be Happy.<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Lately sleep eludes me. Each night it is the same. My eyes flutter open around 3 am and anxiety grips me. I am worried. How will I do it? How will I rise to meet the newest challenge? Who told me that I could produce a tv show, work full time and teach a law class? Who is gonna pay for all of this? Am I insane?</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">The thing about God (and the Holy Spirit) is that the more time we spend with Him, the more we begin to rely on Him to help us reach our goals. And the more goals we reach, the more we begin to ask God for greater and greater things.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">The sense of HOPELESSNESS or even HELPLESSNESS that we feel when we step outside of our comfort zone is understandable. But, we must combat this feeling with FAITH.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:6</span></blockquote>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Faith is Hope in the face of seemingly unsurmountable obstacles. Faith is knowing with certainty that ALL WILL WORK OUT IN THE END even when all seems lost. Faith is knowing that God, his angels and principalities are ever present even when we can feel nothing but discomfort.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Faith enables us to work effectively. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">But we do a disservice to ourselves when we work believing that our work is what makes the difference between success and failure. Yes, our work is required. But it is God’s work, it is the work of His Spirit that enables us to reach our goals.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">If it is God’s work that ensures success, we should continue to dream BIG in faith come what may. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">There is no need to worry about the outcome. God has already taken care of the outcome. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">So when those thoughts of inadequacy molest you, combat them with the knowledge that God will provide whatever is needed when it is needed. Rest…knowing that God will intervene so long as we do our part: pray in faith for the desires of our hearts, seek God’s guidance, act when directed and be obedient to the Word of God.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">It’s out of our hands. Whew, what a relief, darling! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-89823394399681461812016-11-06T21:06:00.001-08:002016-11-06T21:06:24.489-08:00A 2ND PARADIGM SHIFT<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">This week during my quiet time with God, I believe I had another paradigm shift. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">EUREKA!</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<ol>
<li style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: normal;"></span><span style="font-kerning: none;">You never have to summon God to come to your aid </span></li>
</ol>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">In actuality, God is ever present. He is here within you and around you. During the times that we feel distant from God, we should simply pray that the scales will be removed from our eyes so that we can better “see” Him. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<ol>
<li style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: normal;"></span><span style="font-kerning: none;">God’s Power is Never Stagnant</span></li>
</ol>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">God Power is really God’s Will in Motion in our lives. In order to access God Power you need only do one thing, move “self” out of the way. God Power is free flowing when we abandon our will and allow God’s will to take precedent. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">How? The only way I know to learn to embrace God’s Will as opposed to our own will is to learn to trust God. If you trust God, you will trust Him to lead. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">But how can you trust God if you do not know Him? </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">When you read the word of God, you learn about the character of God (His likes and His dislikes). You learn about the behavior that is pleasing to God. You learn how God delights in giving His children the desires of their hearts. You learn that He will not abandon his people even when they make mistakes. You learn how to identify the people of God in a fallen world. You learn about the miracles of God that occur even now. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">And GUESS WHAT? Over time, you learn how good God is. The more time you spend talking to God and learning of God, the more you realize that God only does good things. And then you start gradually relying on God more and more. First you assign God small tasks, e.g., assistance paying bills, healing for a friend, a path forward at work. Soon you learn to pray more and more effectively and then you start to see God move on the things you have entrusted to Him (not always in the way you want but always in a good way). Now, you start to relax. You are now eager to abandon your strategies for success opting to let this Awesome GOD take the lead. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">And darling, at that moment (the moment you move over to the passenger seat), you will be AMAZED at what God Power will do for you and for those you entrust to Him.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">I am a witness, darling.</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-46836341387421155882016-10-24T04:29:00.001-07:002016-11-06T21:04:52.318-08:00A PARADIGM SHIFT<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Like most folks, I struggle to remain optimistic in the face of disappointment, heartbreak and challenges. While I am learning to rely more on SPIRIT and less on my own ability, I notice with a sigh that the higher I get, the more trouble I see. “Is this as good as it gets,” I wonder? </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">The truth is that the Christian journey is fraught with difficulty. The idea that life on this side of glory will be difficult is not make believe. IT IS A PROMISE.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. John 16:33</span></blockquote>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">The good news is that if we commit ourselves to growing in the SPIRIT, we will face these challenges with POWER that will enable us to triumph: come what may.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Triumphing, though can take many forms. Sometimes, triumphing does not mean an immediate removal of an obstacle. Rather, to triumph can take the form of a paradigm shift. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">This week, I hit upon an interesting point that did wonders for my outlook. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">When challenges abound and prayers seem to go unanswered, don’t abandon your Spiritual practices. Instead, turn your focus inward. Why? When you switch your attention away from your problem and direct it towards improving yourself, you unlock Spirit Power. Once this GOD Power is released miracles will happen. I am a witness.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">This concept of “an imprisoned GOD” represents a paradigm shift for me. When I am confronted with financial difficulty, discord in my personal relationships or missed opportunities, I MUST NOT give up. Instead, I should look within. ALL REFORM BEGINS WITH SELF. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Instead of simply asking for relief, ask God to show you the things within yourself that need to be righted. Once you receive your marching orders, get busy working on these things with Joy and Rejoicing.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">You did not choose Me, but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit--fruit that will remain--so that whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you. John 15:16</span></blockquote>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Help is on the way, darling. It is a promise.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-15564286027337841852016-09-04T09:39:00.006-07:002016-09-04T09:39:52.170-07:00FAITH EVOLUTION CON'T<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I do believe that right now, at this very moment, I am in a unique but precarious position. Daily, I feel as though I were perched on the age of a very tall precipice: gilded airbrushed tip toes dangerously close to the edge. I can see off in the distance, my Emerald City: all of those glittery goals and ridiculous time tables that I have set for myself. The goals akin to bench marks represent what success looks like to me. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">If I could, I would jump up right now in my purple Betsey Johnson pajamas and run, full throttle toward my goals. But, that would be FOLLY. Who begins a journey without supplies, without a compass, without shoes? </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Thankfully the journey (my journey), from Northeast to the Emerald City is divinely orchestrated. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Arial; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: normal;"><b>11 </b></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11</span></blockquote>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">My task: to put one foot in front of the other, sure that when I set aside time daily to commune with God, I will be guided, directed, protected and loved.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I am a witness that when you seek God daily, He will impart wisdom; the type of insight that can enable you to take a step forward even when it appears that you will walk right off the cliff.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. James 1:5</span></blockquote>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">This week like the week before, I spent my quiet time with God seeking clarity on what constitutes faith. The book of Luke provides some guidance.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">According to Luke chapter 11, faith is evidenced by importunity. It is persistence (without anxiety) in your ask. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Remember the proverb about the man who had no bread to offer his houseguest. Instead of fretting, he went to his friend’s house and repeatedly knocked on the friend’s door. Eventually the friend answered and gave the man some bread. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The obvious lesson is that we must be persistent when we ask God for assistance. But the the more latent lesson is this: God’s very nature is such that He (like a good friend) delights in giving gifts to His beloved. In fact, God’s gifts bear witness to His very character. Consequently, we can approach God boldly knowing with certainty that He will answer.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">5 Then Jesus said to them, “Suppose you have a friend, and you go to him at midnight and say, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves of bread; 6 a friend of mine on a journey has come to me, and I have no food to offer him.’ 7 And suppose the one inside answers, ‘Don’t bother me. The door is already locked, and my children and I are in bed. I can’t get up and give you anything.’ 8 I tell you, even though he will not get up and give you the bread because of friendship, yet because of your shameless audacity[e] he will surely get up and give you as much as you need.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">9 “So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">11 “Which of you fathers, if your son asks for[f] a fish, will give him a snake instead? 12 Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” Luke 11:5-13</span></blockquote>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">God is ever present to provide us with “our daily bread,” all that we need to exceed our goals. We need only ask God for help in real time with laughter and no anxiety.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">He will answer. Be persistent. Be prayerful. Be patient. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">It is a promise, darling.</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-85540018366016017912016-08-28T06:12:00.003-07:002016-08-28T10:44:21.229-07:00FAITH EVOLUTION<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; text-align: center;">(dedicated to Dr. A. Petersen for her encouraging words)</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">The Christian journey is never stagnate. Every day that you spend reading, dissecting and pondering the Word of God, is another day of growth. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">For example, while I know that it is impossible to please God without Faith, I am constantly refining my concept of what FAITH actually looks like in my day to day life.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;"><span style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; font-family: "arimo" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 11px; text-align: justify;">And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:6</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Accordingly, my definition for FAITH is based on core statements excerpted from the Bible and from sermons that I have heard over the years combined with my own personal experiences (of what works and what doesn’t.) </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">To me, FAITH is: </span></div>
<br />
<ol>
<li><span style="color: #343434; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;">knowing with certainty that everything will work out for the best;</span><span style="color: #343434; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #343434; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">knowing with certainty that God (Holy Spirit, Jesus, assembly of Angels) is ever present to come to my aid, even when I cannot perceive God with my senses; </span><span style="color: #343434; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #343434; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;">the absence of anxiety or worry in the face of difficulty; </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #343434; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;">being able to rest during the appointed time; and</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #343434; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;">joy and laughter in the face of disappointment, betrayal, death (This joy is not manufactured but is gifted by God when you live in the Spirit).</span></li>
</ol>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Within the last month or so, I can now add a new point of clarification to my ever evolving definition of Faith. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><b style="line-height: 11px;">No. 6:</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Faith is NOT taking matters into your own hands unless directed to do so.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><b style="line-height: 11px;">This is BIG.</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">At my core, I am really a risk taker. I may not mountain climb or parasail, but I take risks all the time with my career, with my finances, my projects. For example, I will readily spend my last dollar on a pair of sparkly earrings if I needed them for a specific event, photoshoot or a present for a friend. My reasoning would be, “surely God will send more resources for rent, car insurance, groceries. Everything will work out for the good. Right?” Well…not always, darling. Read the fine print.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><b style="line-height: 11px;">There really is a difference between FAITH and FOLLY.</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Remember the God that we encounter in the Old Testament is the same God we encounter in the New Testament. Our God is a God of order. Every occurrence has its season. There is a time and place for everything.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">When it comes to giving, there is also an appointed time.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><b style="line-height: 11px;">We are told to give to Caesar his due. Meaning we must pay our debts.</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">14 They came to him and said, “Teacher, we know that you are a man of integrity. You aren’t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are; but you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">Is it right to pay the imperial tax[b] to Caesar or not? </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">15 Should we pay or shouldn’t we?”</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">But Jesus knew their hypocrisy. “Why are you trying to trap me?” he asked. “Bring me a denarius and let me look at it.” </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">16 They brought the coin, and he asked them, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?”</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">“Caesar’s,” they replied.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">17 Then Jesus said to them, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">And they were amazed at him. </span><b style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Mark 12 14-17</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><b style="line-height: 11px;">We are told to pay our tithes to the church.</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">“Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ “In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. Malachi 3:8-10</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><b style="line-height: 11px;">We are told to take care of the poor.</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land. Deuteronomy 15:11</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">“When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Leave them for the poor and for the foreigner residing among you. I am the Lord your God.’ Leviticus 23:22</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">‘If any of your fellow Israelites become poor and are unable to support themselves among you, help them as you would a foreigner and stranger, so they can continue to live among you. Leviticus 25:35</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><b style="line-height: 11px;">….Back to those sparkly earrings….</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Faith in God to provide all that we need or want necessitates that we will not deviate from God’s rules in order to have our own way. In other words, even though I want/need the sparkly earrings, job promotion, car payment, food for the week, I may not take matters into my own hands outside of God’s laws to obtain them. In fact, I am bound by the Laws of God. Faith means that I must trust God to provide me with the desires of my heart in His own way and in His own time. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><b style="line-height: 11px;">We are told to ask God for whatever we want. Then wait on Him for the victory.</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. John 14:14</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">If I want sparkly earrings, I should ask God for them. I should then do my part to prepare for the blessing (learn about sparkly earrings, where to purchase, how much they are, what I will wear with them). And finally, I must cultivate a lifestyle that will enable me to listen to God for direction as to how and when to obtain them (e.g., I must go to Him in prayer daily in order to develop a listening ear).</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Taking matters into my own hands…deciding not to pay rent to afford sparkly earrings, orchestrating a plot to steal them, refraining from giving to the poor to justify them, or failing to take care of my family to obtain them is not FAITH. This is FOLLY and it is not God’s way.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;">All we have to do for a VICTORY on Earth is to ask a benevolent GOD…wait in Faith…and do our part (pray and study the Word of God)! </strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><br /></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;">It is a promise, darling.</strong></div>
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-29146628405380646842016-07-31T06:15:00.000-07:002016-08-28T06:15:50.707-07:00THE POWER OF A GOOD STORY<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I love a good story: Agatha Christie <i style="line-height: 11px;">who-done-its</i>, Fairy Tales, Memoirs, Greek tragedies, C.S. Lewis epics… To this day, I remain fascinated by the magic, mystery, and teaching moments of good fiction. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">There is an art to story telling. If it is done correctly, it can serve as a mechanism to train, educate and entertain.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Jesus likewise understands the value of a good story. The New Testament is full of wonderful Parables that elucidate God’s promises.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">4 While a large crowd was gathering and people were coming to Jesus from town after town, he told this parable: </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">5 “A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path; it was trampled on, and the birds ate it up. 6 Some fell on rocky ground, and when it came up, the plants withered because they had no moisture. 7 Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up with it and choked the plants. 8 Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown.”</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">When he said this, he called out, “Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.”</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">9 His disciples asked him what this parable meant. 10 He said, “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to others I speak in parables, so that,</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">“‘though seeing, they may not see;</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;"> though hearing, they may not understand.’[a] Luke 8:4-10</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Admittedly, I have needed to read some Parables more than once to really understand them. Thankfully, whenever Jesus presents a new Parable, He will take time to explain the meaning.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">11 “This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God. 12 Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. 13 Those on the rocky ground are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. 14 The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. 15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop. Luke 8:11-15</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">God’s WORD is given to all. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">We are tasked with reading the WORD and turning it over and over in our minds until we understand it. It is up to us to incorporate the WORD into our lives. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">The Word of God can be dense, baffling and confusing. But, we are not alone. God has promised that if we seek after HIM, he will reveal his truths to us.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">7“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Mathew 7:7-8</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">When you read the WORD of God ask for guidance and for a right mind to receive, understand and correctly apply the WORD of God to your life.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Remember we are called to be a Perfect people. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Matthew 5:48</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">But perfection does not mean to live without sin. It means to be spiritually trained. And, you cannot be spiritually trained without a thorough knowledge of the WORD of God.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should. Ephesians 6: 10-20</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">The Battle is the Lord’s. But we must do our part to gear up for the challenges ahead. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">This is a promise, darling.</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-67696625904893241122016-07-24T06:05:00.000-07:002016-07-31T06:06:38.871-07:00ANIMATED ON THIS SIDE<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I never find much comfort in the grim reality of the daily grind. If given the chance, I’d prefer to live in an animated tv series with a perfectly green lawn and butterflies to greet me every morning.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Alas, life on this side of glory is not always joyful. It is not always fun. I realize this. But thanks be to God there are ways to navigate this world with joy and laughter.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Paul speaks about a Power that enables him to thrive despite a series of setbacks that would cripple just about anyone.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">I have worked harder, been put in prison more often, been whipped times without number, and faced death again and again. 24 Five different times the Jewish leaders gave me thirty-nine lashes. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea. 26 I have traveled on many long journeys. I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not.[a] 27 I have worked hard and long, enduring many sleepless nights. I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food. I have shivered in the cold, without enough clothing to keep me warm. 2 Corinthians 11:23-27</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Paul believes that it is the Christ in Him that makes all the difference. In other words, he is able to survive prison, betrayal, beatings, depression, illness not because of his mental prowess, intellectual reasoning, strong will, financial resources; but because of his partnership with Christ that actually completes and perfects him.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Where Paul is weak and flawed, Christ makes him strong and perfect. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Likewise, if I develop a strong relationship with Christ, I will be strengthened in all the places where I am deficient. I too will be made perfectly suited to handle the stresses, health crises, epidemics, terrorist threats, economic instabilities, and mean spirit-ness of this world.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Notice that the Power that Paul speaks of does not manifest itself as a sense of resignation. Paul does not wallow in the fact that the world is evil. Paul does not hunker down in isolation with an intent to bear the world’s trials without hope. Instead Paul continues on his mission. He continues to live his life in the face of tragedy. He gets up every morning with a sense of Joy that he is not alone and that the victory is already his. Why worry about the hardships that confront you when God has promised to provide the inner Power to deal with each and every tribulation come what may. Not only can God work miracles but God can change your countenance so that the things that used to perplex and debilitate you no longer have any effect on you at all.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. Phillipeans 4:13</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I admit that it is staggering to even consider that the obstacles that I face daily are already taken care of by a benevolent God. It is amazing to know that even if I was placed in a pit by my enemies, the Christ in me would work it so that I would be ok. The Christ in me would meet my needs and infuse me with supernatural Power no matter what. WOWEE! </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Just meditating on the impact of these statements is transformative and will enable you to skip through the tulips no matter the obstacles. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">It bears noting that the Power of which Paul speaks does not come by accident but develops naturally when we abide in Christ. It is the resting in Christ that results in the Power of Christ.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">And how do we abide in Christ?</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">It’s simple really- we must pray and meditate on Him daily. In other words, we must read about Christ’s methods, his life, his responses. We must think about these things and apply the rules we extract from His life to our daily lives.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">For example, if Jesus prayed all night for guidance before He selected his 12 disciples. Then we must pray to God before we make major decisions. See Luke 6:12</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">We must ask Christ to manifest Himself in our lives. </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Then we must leave the rest to Him.</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">The result of our action combined with Christ Power is unspeakable Joy even here on this side of glory.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">It is a promise, darlings!</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-73523833296122055952016-07-10T06:02:00.000-07:002016-07-31T06:02:50.045-07:00A PRAYER FOR MY FRIEND<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">A few months ago, I was struggling with an obstinate issue- despite my prayers and quiet time with God, I did not perceive a resolution. In fact, I felt as if I was in a holding pattern. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Folks who know me, know that my patience is…well…limited. So being forced to stand still was beyond difficult for me.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I spoke with a prayer warrior, my mom, and she inquired about my prayers. True to form, I was praying for resolution. I was praying for a miracle. I was praying for relief. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">"What about praying for yourself?," mom asked.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">"Praying for myself?," I thought, "What a strange idea."</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I pray for so many things. I pray for healing for others. I pray for my finances. I pray for wisdom. I pray for a change in the heart of others. But I have never really prayed for Mariessa. I mean I never really prayed in earnest for Mariessa as if she was a friend.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><b style="line-height: 11px;">Here is a prayer for my friend, Mariessa.</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Lord, God, I know who You are. You are the maker and finisher of all things. You created heaven and earth and created me. You know all about me and love me anyway; even when I do wrong and make mistakes. You love me and all mankind so much that you sacrificed your son Jesus just so that we can pray directly to you despite our flaws. Oh, you are a Holy God.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I know who Jesus is. Jesus is the Good Shepherd, the Son of the Living God. Jesus is the ultimate example of what we can become when we link our lives up with God. Jesus is human and divine and so He knows all that we go through on this Earth. Jesus is a healer with power to raise the dead. Jesus is my advocate and regularly pleads my case before God. Hallelujah.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I know who the Holy Spirit is. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of the Living God that entered into me at baptism. The Sprit is a supernatural power that is activated when I spend time with God. The Spirit enables me to access special gifts that God has given me: wisdom, discernment, love, intuition, telepathy, capacity, feeling, receptiveness, judgement. The Spirit hears my groanings and relays this information to God on my behalf. When I don’t know what to pray for, the Spirit steps in and speaks for me. When I am striving to live in God’s Will, I am living in the Spirit. When I am living in the Spirit, I am infused with supernatural Power.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I am not alone. I am surrounded by a crowd: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Therefore I am not afraid and I can approach God boldly knowing that all is well.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Today I am praying for my friend, Mariessa. Help her to activate her gifts. Give her the strength to withstand the tug of the world.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Remind her that disobedience is death. Because, only God has a bird’s eye view. When God reveals truth to her. Give her the courage to listen and obey.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Teach her that she has capacity to do all things. She can defeat the evil one - she can find resources to take care of her needs, she can meet evil intentions with love, she can withstand temptation, she can live alone and in joy. She can be at peace and happy in the present.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Teach her that she already has the ability to receive and hear the Word of God. She can decipher the Will of God, not because she is a Prophet, but because God promised to reveal His way to anyone who diligently seeks Him.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Teach her that she is wise. She knows the right way. And she can remain on the right path because she is not alone. There is a crowd (Father, Son, Holy Ghost, angels, and the assembly) around her.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Unstop her ears and destroy her will, her sensitive nature and her earthly limitations. Replace her Will with THINE. Remind her that break throughs come when her will is synced up with God’s Will. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Teach her that she must not crave the things (food, circumstances) that are bad for her. These strongholds must be broken.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Teach her that she is not in bondage to the belief that feeling comes from matter. And therefore she need not run after the pleasures that appeal to the senses. This is bondage. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Remind her that it is better to dilligently seek a Spirit filled existence - this brings euphoria and real happiness.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Father, I am praying in earnest for Mariessa to have a quickening of the Holy Spirit. She needs help to break up the strongholds in her life.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Only YOU can do it. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">In the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Amen.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><br /></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-8644854847719389242016-06-05T06:00:00.000-07:002016-07-31T06:00:44.819-07:00DEW DROPS<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
I believe that the Bible is an excellent guidebook. It provides so many wonderful examples of how we can best navigate through this life on Earth. Over time, I have come to know and understand that the WORD of God is Powerful in and of itself. The Word of God was present in the Beginning of Time and will be present at the End of Time. To simply speak the WORDS of God can initiate a chain reaction that when combined with Prayer, Faith and Works can work miracles.</div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
Understanding the Word of God and applying it properly to our specific conditions takes a willingness to study and an outpouring of super natural Power (Holy Ghost power). It is only through our effort, coupled with God power that can make the WORDS of God clear to us.</div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;">I know this to be true.</strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
When I was a child, my parents and grandparents required us to memorize a favorite scripture. I chose <strong style="line-height: 12px;"><a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+23&version=KJV" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+23&version=KJV" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255) !important; line-height: 12px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">Psalm 23</span></a></strong>, the Psalm of David.</div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. Psalm 23:2</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
When I first memorized Psalm 23, I did not understand the true meaning of the words. But over time, as I grew up and began to face my own challenges, the words began to take on new meaning. It was as if the words represents compressed layers of truth. The longer I studied them, the more sense they made to me. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
About 2 years ago, I had a break through. Finally the words of Psalm 23 resonated and I began to more fully understand the relationship between a Good Shepherd and His sheep. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
First of all, to be described as sheep is not a compliment.</div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
Sheep are actually defenseless, stubborn, and quite frankly silly creatures. They are not graceful or strong.</div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
David Murray at Head Heart Hand ministries wrote a wonderful description of sheep that lists their <strong style="line-height: 12px;"><a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.facebook.com/ShepherdPrayer/posts/478660482180024" href="https://www.facebook.com/ShepherdPrayer/posts/478660482180024" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255) !important; line-height: 12px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">12 characteristics. </span></a><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;"> </span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<span style="color: blue; line-height: 12px;"><strong style="line-height: 12px;">Here are some of my fav excerpts:</strong> </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<ol style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<li style="line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">Sheep are foolish…They are so irrational. You watch them as they pause in front of a stream. They know they can’t jump it or swim it. So what do they do? They jump in anyway!</li>
<li style="line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">Sheep are slow to learn … A sheep may get caught in barbed wire trying to break through a fence. And the next day it will try it again, and again,…</li>
<li style="line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">Sheep are unattractive…so awkward, so lacking in agility and dignity. …to most outside observers sheep are dirty, smelly, and ugly.</li>
<li style="line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">Sheep are demanding …Almost as soon as it is born, it is violently sucking its mother’s udders. And that insatiable demand never leaves them. They demand grass, grass, and more grass; day after day, and night after night…</li>
<li style="line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">Sheep are stubborn Have you ever tried to move a sheep? It’s like trying to move an elephant. …</li>
<li style="line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">Sheep are strong I’ve watched the most macho of men beaten by sheep. You look at their skinny “arms” and “legs” and think “easy.” Next thing you are flat on your back or face down in the dirt…</li>
<li style="line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">Sheep are straying [and have a] ….well-deserved reputation for straying (Isa. 53:6) and getting lost (Lk. 15:3ff). So many times I was out in the middle of nowhere when I would come across a sheep – miles from anyone and anything – and totally unconcerned….</li>
<li style="line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">Sheep are unpredictable If you travel along the roads of the Scottish Highlands you will soon learn to expect the unexpected. ..</li>
<li style="line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">Sheep are copycats …When one sheep decides to start running, they all decide to start running….</li>
<li style="line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">Sheep are restless…I once heard that for sheep to lie down they need freedom from fear, freedom from friction with others, freedom from hunger, and freedom from pests and parasites. From what I’ve seen, that combination is very rare.</li>
<li style="line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">Sheep are dependent…[They can not] cope and thrive without… close supervision….They are very dependent on their shepherd.</li>
<li style="line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">Sheep are the same everywhere…The American sheep is the same as the African sheep (see 1-11 above), which is the same as the Asian sheep, which is the same as…</li>
</ol>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
If we are like SHEEP, then Jesus is the GOOD SHEPHERD who will give His life to protect us, to care for us, to love us.</div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;"><strong style="line-height: 12px;">2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. Psalm 23:2</strong></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;"><strong style="line-height: 12px;">4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Psalm 23:4</strong></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<a data-cke-saved-href="http://www.bibletools.org/index.cfm/fuseaction/Topical.show/RTD/cgg/ID/12460/Sheep-Characteristics-of.htm" href="http://www.bibletools.org/index.cfm/fuseaction/Topical.show/RTD/cgg/ID/12460/Sheep-Characteristics-of.htm" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255) !important; line-height: 12px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">Forerunner Commentary</span></a> provides another fun fact about sheep. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
Sheep are “excellent dry weather animals and they can go for months without taking a drink of water from a pool.” How do they do it? Sheep have a habit of getting up “early enough to eat the grass in the morning when the <span style="color: blue; line-height: 12px;"><strong style="line-height: 12px;">DEW</strong></span> is still on it.” If the sheep eat the <strong style="line-height: 12px;"><span style="color: blue; line-height: 12px;">DEW</span></strong> in the morning they will survive. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;">WOAH!</strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
And so it is with us. Even if we are best described as dependent, defenseless, stubborn, silly creatures; we can still survive the harsh conditions that surround us; provided that we get up early to fortify ourselves with dew, or more precisely, the WORD OF GOD. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Mark 1:35</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
Do not neglect your time with God. Get up early before the cares of the world invade your heart and mind. Make it a habit to read, study and listen (quietly and diligently) to the Spirit that lives within YOU. When you are in sync with the HOLY SPIRIT you can face any difficulty with love and laughter. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;">This is a promise, darling.</strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 40px; margin-top: 5px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;"><strong style="line-height: 12px;">31But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31</strong></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-52399559306658266672016-05-29T05:58:00.000-07:002016-07-31T05:59:24.760-07:00DREAMING OF MY FRIEND (REPOST)<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 5px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">When I was a child I could not wait to go to sleep. As soon as the lights went out I would begin weaving intricate tales of all kinds. Typically, the dream would start with me taking a long trip. Sometimes, I'd travel via the Orient Express through remote parts of India or I would ride a split level barge down the Nile River in Egypt. Very often, I would live in a rambling bungalow nestled at the top of a few towering trees. Or, I’d reside in an igloo with opulent fur rugs and secret underground passages carved out of ice. Regardless of where I lived, I was always the oldest daughter of the king and queen. I was the rebellious, beautiful, intelligent Princess with a killer wardrobe and hair like Pam Grier.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I am much older. But my dreams still represent a form of escape from the humdrum monotony of life. Through the past 30 years or so, I have learned the hard way that constantly seeking this world's thrills when confronted with tragedy, disappointment or sadness is NEVER the way. It inevitably leads to errors and mistakes.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">God through his son Jesus has shown us that the only thing we should seek with regularity is HIS WAY. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">This is no easy task.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Who would choose to die on a cross if she could help it? (Remember, Jesus chose to die even though he was capable of avoiding this horrible death. God had a divine Purpose. And Jesus obeyed.)</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">39 Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. 40 On reaching the place, he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.” 41 He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, 42 “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” 43 An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. 44 And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.</span> <u style="line-height: 11px;"><a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022&version=NIV" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022&version=NIV" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255) !important; line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: blue; line-height: 11px;">Luke 22:39-44</span></a></u></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Who would choose to watch his friends grieve heavily for a deceased brother when you knew you had power to resurrect him? (Notice, Jesus did not come to Lazarus' aid right away even though he knew Lazarus was sick sick unto death. In fact he delayed His trip. But when he arrived, he wept with his friends and raised Lazarus from the dead. God had a divine Purpose and Jesus obeyed.)</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. 34 “Where have you laid him?” he asked. </span><a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john+11&version=NIV" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john+11&version=NIV" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255) !important; line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: blue; line-height: 11px;">John 11:33</span></a></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">The point is that if God has commanded us to do something, we MUST do it. We must not seek escape. We must not run away. The up side is that God will reward obedience.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Today, my favorite dream is always the same. I am climbing very steep and rocky terrain. The sky is gray and devoid of sunlight. I am bruised and exhausted. Yet, just when I feel I can not take one more step, suddenly a gift will appear. Once I received an ice cold bottle of Fiji water. Another time a hammock appeared in my favorite color. Or after a dull meal, I would discover, a bowl of juicy peaches that burst like drops of sunshine in my mouth.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Finally after what seems like 100 years I reach the summit. There I am greeted by a large silver gate. I touch it lightly and the gate swings open to reveal the most beautiful green grass I have ever seen. In the middle of the grass is a bubbling fountain that has my name on it. As I touch the water, my entire body is revived. I am suddenly imbued with the energy of a child. All of my aches and pains from my journey have gone away. In fact, I can no longer even remember the hardships of the past. I am radiant and I can see everything around me with new clarity. I encounter butterflies everywhere and when I each time I spot one, I can immediately recall all the fun facts that I ever learned about these majestic creatures. I remember their scientific name, place of origin, etc. I am now as wise as Solomon.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Thus refreshed, I begin to look for my Friend. I know I will find him sitting under my favorite tree. Sure enough, I see Him there. And we sit and chat under the weeping willow about everything for ever.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;">Never forget that Jesus is your FRIEND and He is here to help you. </strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">He is the good shepherd. The one that will protect HIs sheep come what may. He serves as our High Priest or intercessory who will listen to our requests and will plead our case before a benevolent GOD. Jesus, who once lived on this earth knows what we face on a daily basis. He understands how mean folks around us can be. He knows how difficult it is to resist temptation. And, He too faced difficult choices. Jesus stands as the ultimate example of what happens when you commit yourself to serving, obeying and loving GOD. When you do your part to remain in sync with God, you will receive supernaural Spirit power. <a data-cke-saved-href="http://bflyforjesus.blogspot.com/2016/01/nevermind-what-they-say-spirit-life-has.html" href="http://bflyforjesus.blogspot.com/2016/01/nevermind-what-they-say-spirit-life-has.html" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255) !important; line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">Click here to read, "Spirit Life Has Its Privileges."</span></a></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 5px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">STOP now and decide to make it a practice to learn more about JESUS. Your efforts will enable you to build a friendship with HIM. And this friendship will embolden you to not only ask JESUS for help, but to KNOW WITH CERTAINTY that HE can fix every bad situation. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 5px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">JESIS is the Son of GOD and HIS power is supernatural. Trust Him, darlings.</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-2600689184208618572016-04-17T06:08:00.002-07:002016-04-17T06:08:32.185-07:00STRENGTH IN WEAKNESS<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 5px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">In a recent <strong style="line-height: 11px;"><a data-cke-saved-href="http://bflyforjesus.blogspot.com/2016/04/death-where-is-your-sting.html" href="http://bflyforjesus.blogspot.com/2016/04/death-where-is-your-sting.html" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255) !important; line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">BFLYFORJESUS blog episode</span></a></strong>, I espoused my belief that Jesus is indeed the Son of God and that Jesus is a perfect example of what man can do when he commits himself to learning about God and following His precepts. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">When you get right down to it, <strong style="line-height: 11px;">our singular mission in life is simple: to be like Jesus. </strong></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><strong style="line-height: 11px;">Why? </strong>Jesus, represents the pinnacle of what man can become when he gets in sync with God.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;">Think about it.</strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Jesus was not only GOD; He was also fully Man. Like all humans, He was subject to human limitations. And like all children, Jesus inherited the personality of his parents. He possessed a divine nature of God, His Father and he possessed the human nature of Mary, his mother. Jesus was in every respect, human, except that Jesus was without sin.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;">Jesus’ humanity is documented throughout the Bible.</strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Jesus grew up like all human children. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;">See Luke 3:52 </strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">So Jesus grew both tall and wise, and was loved by God and man.</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Jesus became weary from time to time.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;">See John 4:4-6 </strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: normal;">4 </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">He had to go through Samaria on the way, </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: normal;">5-6 </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">and around noon as he approached the village of Sychar, he came to Jacob’s Well, located on the parcel of ground Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Jesus was tired from the long walk in the hot sun and sat wearily beside the well.</span></span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Jesus experienced sorrow and pain.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;">See Luke 22:41-42</strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">41-42 He walked away, perhaps a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed this prayer: “Father, if you are willing, please take away this cup of horror from me. But I want your will, not mine.” 43 Then an angel from heaven appeared and strengthened him, 44 for he was in such agony of spirit that he broke into a sweat of blood, with great drops falling to the ground as he prayed more and more earnestly. </span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Jesus responded as man does (with the Word of God not with supernatural power) when faced with temptation.<br style="line-height: 11px;" /><strong style="line-height: 11px;">See Matt 4:1-11 </strong></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">4 Then Jesus was led out into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit, to be tempted there by Satan. 2 For forty days and forty nights he ate nothing and became very hungry. 3 Then Satan tempted him to get food by changing stones into loaves of bread.</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">“It will prove you are the Son of God,” he said.</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">4 But Jesus told him, “No! For the Scriptures tell us that bread won’t feed men’s souls: obedience to every word of God is what we need.”</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">5 Then Satan took him to Jerusalem to the roof of the Temple. 6 “Jump off,” he said, “and prove you are the Son of God; for the Scriptures declare, ‘God will send his angels to keep you from harm,’ . . . they will prevent you from smashing on the rocks below.”</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">7 Jesus retorted, “It also says not to put the Lord your God to a foolish test!”</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">8 Next Satan took him to the peak of a very high mountain and showed him the nations of the world and all their glory. 9 “I’ll give it all to you,” he said, “if you will only kneel and worship me.”</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">10 “Get out of here, Satan,” Jesus told him. “The Scriptures say, ‘Worship only the Lord God. Obey only him.’”</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">11 Then Satan went away, and angels came and cared for Jesus.</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">JESUS indeed stands as the supreme example of what Christians can become when they tap into the power of the Holy Spirit and incorporate faith, prayer, and discipline into their daily life. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Jesus is a Man as approachable and understanding as a High Priest. He knows our struggles and is prepared to speak to God on our behalf. All he asks is that we approach in grace and faith and love! </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;">See Hebrews 4:15</strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">14 But Jesus the Son of God is our great High Priest who has gone to heaven itself to help us; therefore let us never stop trusting him. 15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses since he had the same temptations we do, though he never once gave way to them and sinned. 16 So let us come boldly to the very throne of God and stay there to receive his mercy and to find grace to help us in our times of need.</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Read the complete <strong style="line-height: 11px;"><a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%204&version=TLB" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%204&version=TLB" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255) !important; line-height: 11px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">Hebrews 4 passage here.</span></a></strong> <strong style="line-height: 11px;">It is profound!</strong></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<strong style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Be encouraged, darlings,</strong><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%204&version=TLB" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%204&version=TLB" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255) !important; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">p</a></span><a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%204&version=TLB" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%204&version=TLB" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255) !important; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">/passage/?search=Hebrews%204&version=TLB</span></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-82133272707205052062016-04-09T05:37:00.000-07:002016-04-17T05:37:41.098-07:00GOT WISDOM?<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 5px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">We know that we serve a powerful God who has devised a perfect plan for us: a plan to prosper us not to harm us.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
Yet, many times, we stray from the perfect path. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;">Why?</strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
God’s will can seem tiresome, too difficult or not flashy enough. Or else our own hearts tempt us to wander. During these times, it is best to ask for WISDOM.</div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
Wisdom can be defined as knowing God’s Plan for your life and having the courage and the strength NOT TO STRAY from the Plan despite temptations, trials and fatigue.</div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px; text-align: justify;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. 6 But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. 7 Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. James 1: 5-8 NLT</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;">Is there anything more difficult than waiting patiently for God to reveal His wisdom?</strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
Anyone who knows me can attest to the fact that I am beyond impatient. Before my car accident in December 2014, I believed that I could not be effective unless I was moving at warp speed. At that time in my life, I believed that any motion was better than waiting. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
During my year of recovery, I spent time studying God’s word and His teaching. It was at this time that He revealed a valuable precept. Despite what the world teaches, there is SUPERNATURAL power in stillness. This power is called the Holy Spirit. And if you call on the Spirit, the Spirit will work in you to accomplish great things. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;">It is BEST to seek Wisdom and stir up the Holy Spirit before you act. </strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
Think about it. Isn’t a finely tuned instrument more effective than a rock?</div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
God's will is clear, unchanging, perfect. Why not get directions from the maker and creator of the universe before venturing out on your own?</div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
But be prepared. As you grow in GOD and as you learn about HIM, you will notice that the temptations and trials in your life begin to mount. This is not your imagination. The forces of darkness are real and they have a vested interest in knocking you off your course. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
Don't Worry!</div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px; text-align: justify;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but with the temptation also make a way to escape that ye may be able to bear it."</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px; text-align: justify;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">1Corinthians 10:13</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;">Stay on the Perfect Path, darling! But know that this heroic feat cannot be accomplished alone.</strong> Seek to learn more about God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit and you will be rewarded with WISDOM. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px; text-align: justify;">
<strong style="line-height: 12px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13</span></strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
Simply ASK and God will reveal the secrets of life to you. The process is supernatural. It is barely perceptible. Keep seeking, it will happen. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; text-align: justify;">
He promised, darling!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-28905953321101985762016-04-03T05:22:00.001-07:002016-04-03T05:22:54.169-07:00DEATH: WHERE IS YOUR STING?<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">A few years ago, a very close friend asked me whether I truly believed that Jesus was the Son of God. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
Now, the question itself was not odd. But, it was oddly timed. We were not talking about spirituality or theology at the time the question was posed. Rather, we were actually discussing career plans and the minutia of the day.</div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
When my friend posed his query, I looked at him intently for a moment. I wondered, seriously, if this was a test of some kind. And then, after a beat, I answered as succinctly as I could. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
“Yes, I do believe Jesus is the Son of God.” </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
I also believe that Jesus is a perfect example of what man can do when he commits himself to learning about God and following His precepts. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
Imagine the possibilities if we would get in sync with God and the Holy Spirit. If we worked to become like Jesus, we would become super spirit filled heroes. We would be transformed from frail humans to miracle working paragons of faith. We would be able to face death without fear. We would be full of knowledge of God. We would even die and be resurrected again.</div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
Today, is <strong style="line-height: 12px;">Easter Sunday,</strong> the day in which we celebrate the resurrection of the Son of the Living God. It is the day when the finality of death was forever erased. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">51 Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— 52 in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. 53 For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. 54 When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”[h]</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">55 “Where, O death, is your victory?</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;"> <strong style="line-height: 12px;">Where, O death, is your sting?</strong>”[i]</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px; margin-left: 40px;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 12px;">58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 55: 51-58 </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
When Jesus died, He became the ultimate sacrifice. This sacrifice was needed to atone for the sins of the world. It is because of His death that we can even approach the Holy God with our petitions and requests. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
Remember, the God in the Old Testament is the same God in the New Testament. This means that God’s nature has not changed. In the Old Testament, no one was allowed to approach near unto the place where God dwelt without being clean and making a blood sacrifice (an animal). Today, thanks to Jesus, blood sacrifices are no longer required. Now, we can approach God whenever we desire to do so - even when we have made a mistake. Jesus’ sacrifice makes this possible! </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
I am ever grateful to Jesus for His selfless act. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
Yes, Jesus is real. He is the Son of God. He is the Holy Lamb of God. </div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<br style="line-height: 12px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
Happy Easter, darlings.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-21507790166259909312016-03-20T15:28:00.001-07:002016-03-20T15:28:44.707-07:00BE PECULIAR!<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">As I have grown in faith, I have learned that once you decide to follow God, you step through the “looking glass.” In other words, once you become a follower of Christ, you are routinely asked to adopt ways opposite to the ways of this world.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">It is Sunday morning and I am sitting in th DollHouse quietly watching Paris Hilton (my cat) sleep. She is actually snoring- sleeping so soundly that I am almost envious. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Shouldn’t she be worried that there is no cat food in the house? </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">No! P. Hilton trusts me absolutely. She knows that I love her and that I will not allow her to starve. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I have learned a lot about God from my cat. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I have also learned a lot about God from the various trials and victories that have confronted me in the last 5 years. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Here are a few of the rules that I have teased out of my most recent adventures through the Looking Glass</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<ol style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">If you want more (money, a new car, a new kitchen floor etc.) give what you have away in love.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">If you want happiness, seek, with God’s help, to be holy and righteous.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">f you want a good job, pray first, listen for God’s answer, then based on God’s direction, begin your job search.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">If you feel lonely, cease all activity and seek God quietly before reaching for your girl squad, guys or your significant other.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">If you feel depressed, shake it off by rejoicing and recounting the miracles in your life and God’s promises to give you peace, joy, love.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">If you have made a mistake, confess it to God, ask for forgiveness, believe in faith that the slate is wiped clean, and do better with God’s help.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">If someone has wronged you, do not take matters into your own hands, pray for the wrong doer and be kind. God promises that he will avenge His own.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">If you are overwhelmed with problems or debt that you cannot think how to fix, ask God for help, determine (with God’s direction) what tiny steps you can take and in faith (with laughter) leave the rest to Him. It is already done even before you ask. This is a promise.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">If you feel like you are cut off from God, remind yourself that God lives within you and no matter how you feel or what dire situation you are in, God has not forsaken you. Keep reminding yourself of this until it “clicks” and your heart leaps.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">If you are sick, call for the elders of the church to pray for you, and ask God to stir up the Holy Spirit within you so that you can access the spirit of good health that God gave us from birth. The Holy Spirit will direct you to the right doctor, medicines, scriptures, books, and life style changes that will heal you.</span></li>
</ol>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">On this side of glory, these rules fly in the face of logic.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Why should you give away the little bit that you have to gain more?</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">If you need a job, why waste time praying about it for a few days when you can start applying to washingtonpost.com jobs now?</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Why would a sick person call for elderly church members to help? Aren’t they sick themselves? What can they possibly do?</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Oh the mind, can go on and on challenging each of the 10 rules outlined above.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">But, God calls us to be PECULIAR! </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><b style="line-height: 11px;">But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. - 1 Peter 2:9</b></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">We are a peculiar people who have been given a peculiar challenge.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">At the core of God’s methodology is requirement that we rely on Him only.</span></div>
<ul style="color: #343434; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">We must not rely on the Washington Post job section. </span></li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">We must not rely on the doctors to heal us. </span></li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">We must not rely on our friends to rescue us from a melancholy mood. </span></li>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">We must not even rely on our intellectual prowess to solve our financial woes.</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">We must rely on GOD first! He will direct our path. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">We must trust God absolutely: come what may.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">When you understand that God can and will handle everything in your life (your mistakes, your goals, your challenges, your fears) then you can relax. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Right? </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Yes. You can relax. But make no mistake, you will still have to work.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Remember, once God gives you your “marching orders.” You will then be asked to MARCH FORWARD. You may be asked to visit washingtonpost.com and apply for 50 jobs. You may be asked to sell your car to raise funds to visit a doctor on the other side of the country. You may be asked to research President Obama's new student loan forgiveness program to reduce your monthly bills. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">But, in your MARCH FORWARD, you will not be alone.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">You will march forward with supernatural power in the form of the Holy Spirit.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">You will march forward with a firm example of what can be accomplished with God in the form of Jesus the Christ.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">You will march forward with a loving Father to guide and direct you in the form of God Himself.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Oh, the battle is the Lord’s. And it has already been won. All you have to do is continue to MARCH FORWARD come what may.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I promise, darling.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;"><br /></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-81554674918696103192016-03-06T04:54:00.002-08:002016-03-06T05:32:52.658-08:00Encouraged.<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Though the temperature is still in the mid </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">30°</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">, the birds sitting atop my Brookland porch are currently heralding the arrival of Spring. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I hear their animated twitters and chirps. And, I am encouraged. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Standing still on this new plateau, I take a moment to look back over the past few years with a sense of wonder and incredulity. It has been such a loooong winter at the DollHouse: so many downs, so many sad moments, so much pain. And yet, there have also been bursts of bright colored highs sent by a benevolent God to offset the deep indigo blues. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Today, as I peek back over my shoulder, I see a rainbow of such magnificence that I know without a doubt that each trial and blessing was divinely orchestrated to prepare me for even this very moment. If God can fashion my zig zag past into a vibrant rainbow, surely, He can reset the clock and give me back the time it would appear that I have lost. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Time - on this side of glory is tricky. If you are not careful, you can fall into one of the Anti Christ’s (AC) favorite traps. The AC delights in stealing our Happiness by focusing our attention on the past and how much time we have lost. He enjoys twisting us up into pretzels: bowed over by worry, anxiety, fear. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">But darling, don’t listen to the naysayers. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">No! You have not lost any time.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">No! It is not too late for you to achieve the desires of your heart.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">It is NEVER too late when you have supernatural God power.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="font-size: 10px; line-height: 10px;"><strong style="line-height: 10px;"><span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 10px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; line-height: 10px;">Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me? Jeremiah 32:27</span></span></strong></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Today, thanks to the grace of God and a new Spiritual awakening, I know that each and every happening in my past (the good, the bad and the ugly) has prepared me for this exact moment.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Today, I am confidant that what ever I have seemingly lost, will be restored. <strong style="line-height: 11px;">Why?</strong></span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">Because through my studies of God and His word, I have come to understand (better) who God is.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I am telling you the truth. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">God is good.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">God only does good things for His people. </span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">You can absolutely trust God’s plan.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">No matter how bad it feels. No matter how bad it looks. No matter what you have been through. God can turn it around and give you flowers for ashes.</span></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; margin-left: 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;"><strong style="line-height: 11px;">And [He] will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten… </strong></span><strong style="color: #d62f80; line-height: 11px;">Joel 2:25</strong></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<br style="line-height: 11px;" /></div>
<div style="color: #343434; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 11px;">I promise, darlings.</span></div>
</div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">To read more about what I have learned in my quest for Happiness in God VIST <span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><a href="http://www.bflyforjesus.blogspot.com/">www.bflyforjesus.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><br /></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-20443322203069111012016-02-28T05:36:00.000-08:002016-02-28T06:27:02.303-08:00PRAY. LISTEN. WORK.<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">I used to believe that hard work coupled with faith in God ensured success. Therefore throughout my life, I have strived to give each task appointed to me my undivided attention. I worked hard. I prayed hard. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>But I didn’t listen hard enough.</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I suppose that I never really understood, until recently, that my hard work is not really what makes the difference between success and failure; between joy and despair. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>God is the difference. </b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">God desires that we integrate Him into our lives in such a way that we are wholly dependent upon Him. But, dependence is not a sniveling, whimpering reliance. The type of dependence that God requires is active dependence. God desires simply that His people, made in His image, seek Him for guidance on all things. And then, he asks that we OBEY. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">God demands that we come to Him for everything: from the mundane to the ludicrous to the impossible. We can ask Him for instructions, explanations, healing. Specifically we can ask anything: Why we are being chastised. How to process betrayal. How to deal with a break up. What to say to a disgruntled youth. How to initiate healing. How to be more disciplined in our food choices. Where to look to find a good counselor. How to handle credit card debt. How to tap into the Holy Spirit. What bank is the best one for refinancing a mortgage. Where to find a contractor for a kitchen repair. How to stretch a weekly budget. How to deal with a overbearing boss…..</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Notice however, that even when we go to God for help, God expects us to do our part. For example, if you are seeking to refinance your home. God will work through you. He may soften the heart of the bank rep. But you will still have to pay off your credit card debt.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>We must realize it is not our efforts that solve our problems. Rather it is God’s Power coupled with our union with Him that works a miracle. </b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">When we encounter an obstacle of any size, God wants us to go to him first. Ask for help knowing that He will do it for His people. And then wait in Joy for his signal. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Once He gives the signal or direction, He wants us to GO! Run toward the goal using all of our talents, intellect, physical strength, endurance and spiritual gifts! </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>It is a rather delicate balance: our efforts and God’s supernatural power.</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Consider this example: </b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">We are like a woman sitting in a row boat in the middle of an ocean. God has commanded her to row against the current. So she is paddling like crazy to make progress. The fact that she is acting in God’s will as commanded, is significant. God rewards her act of obedience and faith by promising to take care of her. God will provide what she needs for her journey. He will send food, and shade. He will send fresh water and even a companion. He will also provide a time for her to rest. If she disobeys GOD and paddles every day all day…she will become too tired and worn out to be effective. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">We must live our lives with GOD. God is the only one with the bird’s eye view. He alone knows when we must paddle or when we may ely on the current. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Surely it is better to get to know the navigator than to paddle in vain. </b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Seek to cultivate a relationship with God in the same way you cultivate a relationship with your significant other. Spend quiet time with God, reading about Him: his favorite things, his unique attributes. Develop intimacy with God by sharing your secrets, your desires, your mistakes with Him. Ask for forgiveness when you make a mistake and violate his precepts. Celebrate your victories with God. Acknowledge God for all that He has done to help you. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The more time we spend with God, the stronger our relationship with Him will become. In time, God will reward our diligence by amplifying the still small voice that lives within each of us. Soon we will become receptive to God’s will. We will be able to listen and understand the guidance that God has been trying to tell us all along. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b>God’s plans for our lives unfold like the seasons.</b> </span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span>
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">There is a time for everything: a time to rest, a time to paddle, a time to celebrate, a time to mourn. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Oh, if only we would get in sync with God. Then, we would discover real peace, real joy, real balance. </span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">28“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30</span></blockquote>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I am striving daily for this peace. But, it only comes when I cultivate a daily relationship with God.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I promise, darling</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b>Wondering How to Cultivate a Relationship with God? Click Here</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<b><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></b></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b><a href="http://bflyforjesus.blogspot.com/2008/03/step-1-ask-for-directions.html">Getting Directions 1 </a></b></span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b><a href="http://bflyforjesus.blogspot.com/2008/03/getting-directions-continued.html">Getting Directions 2</a> </b></span></div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-35043139469817083392016-02-21T07:24:00.003-08:002016-02-21T08:51:12.011-08:00CHIN UP, DARLING!<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">God’s love in many ways is akin to a Father’s love.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">A good father, like God the Father, loves his children with an active kind of love.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">A good father, like God the Father also disciplines his own.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">God’s discipline or chastening <i>may</i> take many forms but generally can be described as a change in circumstances, e.g., an illness, a broken relationship, financial hardship, a major disappointment, a betrayal, a set back, job loss, loss of funds, etc. This does not mean that every bad thing that comes our way is sent as a punishment by God. But it bears investigating.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The disciplines that are sanctioned by God are divinely orchestrated. In other words, God’s plans - even the uncomfortable moments are perfect and spring out of love. God only chastises his beloved!</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">5 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says,</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline,</span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"> and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,</span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">6 because the Lord disciplines the one he loves,</span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"> and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”[a]</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? 8 If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. 9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 10 They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:5-11</span></blockquote>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The concept of correcting a child out of love is not foreign to us.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">On this side of glory, we have learned that children who are taught right from wrong through a series of metered punishments, time outs, and withholdings grow up to be more responsible, selfless adults. </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Those unfortunate children who are never rebuked or scolded tend to grow up to be self centered, disrespectful and willful adults unconcerned with the needs or feelings of others. </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">This is documented. </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Similarly, the Christian that is rebuked and scolded benefits from such chastisements.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">If we, as followers of Christ, accept and learn from our punishments, we will be better, stronger, and more equipped for the next battle.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12</span></blockquote>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Make no mistake, we are engaged in spiritual warfare. And yet, we need not be worried. God has already won the battle. We simply must withstand to the end. See, <a href="http://bflyforjesus.blogspot.com/2016/01/nevermind-what-they-say-spirit-life-has.html">Spirit Life Has it’s Privileges</a> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>How do we withstand? </b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">We can stand because we are not only well equipped, but we have been trained by the best. Think of it like this: the series of chastisements that we face serve as a type of bootcamp designed to teach us, refine us, and prepare us not only for the next battle but for life in eternity with God. These refinements are necessary because “only the righteous shall see God.” </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Now that we understand the value of God’s chastisements. How do we ensure that these chastisements serve their purpose of refining our character to resemble the character of Jesus?</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Chastisements do not work automatically to refine us. In fact, there is a right and wrong way of dealing with God’s chastisements.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline,</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"> and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">6 because the Lord disciplines the one he loves,</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”[a] Hebrews 12:5-6</span></blockquote>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span><br /></div>
<ol>
<li style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="line-height: normal;"></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b> We must not make light of the Lord’s discipline</b></span></li>
</ol>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In today’s society, we have become somewhat desensitized to the hardships that plague us and others. We can be so nonchalant that we become impersonal and loosely attached to our fellow man, to our family, to our children. We no longer feel responsible for others. Therefore we can easily walk away from our obligations to them. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">These days, we celebrate the man or woman who is able to deal dispassionately with painful circumstances. “She/he is so strong,” we say! “She/he is putting on such a brave front.” But sometimes we can take this “brave front” too far. We can anesthetize ourselves with mood altering drugs/alcohol, a party, or reckless behavior in an effort to escape painful circumstances. “You had a bad day at work? No worries, lets go to happy hour.” </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Instead of trying to escape our punishments, we should take time to analyze them with God’s help. When we are in the midst of a chastisement, we should take a moment to examine ourselves to discern what God is really trying to show us. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i>Ask yourself:</i> Is God trying to get my attention? Am I on the right path? Have I strayed? Is there a sin in my life that I need to address? Am I not spending enough time with God? Am I in danger? Have I elevated another person, place, thing and displaced God in my life?</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Don’t skip through your hardships without examination. Pay attention! God may be trying to tell you something. Go to Him and ask Him for clarification.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>2. We must not lose heart or become bitter</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">It is essential that we do not “faint” under the burden of God’s punishments. We cannot give up. We cannot slide into despair. We must not grumble and complain. We must not become bitter. God has not given us up. FAINT NOT!</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Notice that we unconsciously communicate who we are by how we behave under difficult circumstances.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Those who are not children of God tend to become bitter when faced with misfortune. Sometimes even God’s own feel bitter temporarily. But we are warned in Hebrews to RESIST this response.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>IT IS VITAL THAT WE RESIST THE REACTIONS LISTED ABOVE! </b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">We must not take our chastisements lightly, we must not lose heart, we must not become bitter.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">5 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? Hebrews 12:5</span></blockquote>
</div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">According to D Martyn Lloyd-Jones, this scripture should be read as: Ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as GROWN MEN. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"> “When we are [punished as] children we always think we are being death with harshly, that it is most unfair of our parents and that we do not deserve it. That is the child’s reaction and, spiritually, some of us remain children. But this [scripture] says: ‘Now remember that you are not children. You are men, you are sons, you are adults.’ -D. Martyn Lloyd Jones</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>Pull yourself together! </b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Do you remember the Pixar animated fim, <i>The Incredibles</i> featuring fictional character, Edna Mode. In one of my favorite scenes, Elasti-Girl visits Edna and has a meltdown. She believes her husband is having an affair and she, despondent, cries out, “What will I do?”</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Edna, the diminutive designer of super hero costumes, jumps on the table in front of Elasti-Girl and exclaims,</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><i>“What are you talking about? You are Elast-Girl. My God, pull yourself together. What will you do? Is this a question? You will show him you remember that he is Mr. Incredible. And you will remind him who you are.…Go! Confront the problem. Fight. Win. And call me when you get back, darling.” <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLDWhn8HZfY">The Incredibles</a></i></span></blockquote>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>What must we do when confronted by a real painful change in our circumstances?</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">We must remember the word of EXHORTATION! </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">When things go wrong in the life of a Christian, we fall back on the Word of God. We go to the Scriptures to find out what the Scriptures say and then we apply it to our lives.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">But do not read the Scriptures passively. Instead, we follow the logic of it and bring intelligence to our reading. The Scriptures are not meant to merely soothe and comfort, Your favorite Psalm is not merely an incantation. No! Follow the logic and let the scriptures reason with you.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>THE ARGUMENT:</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">“The great argument is that it is God who is doing this, and God is doing it to you because you are His child.” </span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 10 They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. Hebrews 12:9-10</span></blockquote>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The TRUTH is that because God is doing this to us for our good, we do not make light of it, we do not lose heart, we do not become bitter. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">We say: </span><i>GOD IS IN THIS AND GOD IS DOING THIS TO ME BECAUSE I AM HIS CHILD, BECAUSE I DO NOT BELONG TO THE WORLD, BECAUSE HE SENT HIS SON TO DIE FOR ME AND HAS DESTINED ME FOR HEAVEN. GOD IS IN THIS, AND IT IS ALL BEING DONE FOR MY GOOD.</i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span></span></span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.</span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">12 Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. 13 “Make level paths for your feet,”[b] so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed. Hebrews 12: 11-12</span></blockquote>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In order to be transformed into the image of Jesus the Christ, we must be strengthened. We must exercise. We must go through God’s boot camp. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">We must put our tin hat on, thrust our CHIN UP and out, accept the trial and endure the pain. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">But, darlings, we are not in this alone. We are well equipped remember! <a href="http://bflyforjesus.blogspot.com/2016/01/nevermind-what-they-say-spirit-life-has.html">See S<i>pirit Life Has Its Privileges </i></a></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Trust that this refining process yields dividends. Through this process we become HOLY in the sight of God.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Hebrews 12:14</span></blockquote>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Without holiness, no man shall see God!</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I promise, darling.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><br /></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974408410459648524.post-22378579218386453002016-02-14T05:21:00.003-08:002016-02-14T05:37:45.540-08:00LOVE, defined.<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">We serve a generous GOD, one who loves us regardless of our foibles, iniquities and sins. The love of God is awesome because it is an active love that never fails.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I read once that <i>pity without responsibility is useless</i>. In other words, pitying a homeless man without attempting to meet his needs by offering him a kind word, food or money is useless.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">We are admonished by God to love one another. </span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><br /></span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’[a] 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[b] There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31</span></blockquote>
<br />
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">This love we are asked to extend to others is an active love. We don’t get any points by uttering the words,”I love you” with no action. If we love God, we are asked to do something: to feed his sheep. If we love others, we are likewise called to action.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. John 21:17</span></blockquote>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><br /></span>
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Over time, I have refined my definition of love. Love is so much more than the sentimental platitudes interwoven into the average Hollywood script. Instead, love can be defined as <i>acts of kindness deserved and undeserved. </i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span>
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Exercising this type of “active” love requires supernatural help. It is impossible to be loving in the face of prolonged cruelty, hatred, mean spiritedness and betrayal without God’s help. Likewise, without God, It is impossible to be loving when we don’t feel particularly lovable.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Because GOD loves us, He takes a special interest in each of his children. God delights in giving us presents. At creation, we were each given a series of perfect gifts: perfect love, perfect understanding perfect peace, perfect health. In order to actually access these gifts, to be able to unwrap the gift boxes and actualize them, we have to first access the Holy Spirit.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Recall the words of Jesus found in John 14:6.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">And I will pray the Father, and he will give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. John 14:6</span></blockquote>
</div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The Comforter that Jesus speaks of is the Holy Spirit sent to dwell inside of us and to provide us with all we need to be our most perfect / healthy / happy / beautiful selves.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The Holy Spirit is really the light of God...it is GOD ENERGY that resides inside each of us. This GOD ENERGY is Supernatural Power.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">What do I mean by GOD ENERGY??</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Remember back in science class, we learned that all matter, even human cells are made of spinning atoms of energy. This energy is really light energy. When a person's light is at it's peak or at it's best, the person’s atoms spin harmoniously: radiating perfect health, perfect joy, perfect LOVE!</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The world is beginning to develop its own ways to jump start and revive the Spirit energy in all of use. Consider the newest acne remedies by Illumask that actually treats and prevents blackheads with daily 20 minute doses of red and blue light.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Or the latest acupuncture techniques that involve shining light into hollow tubes to activate cells and heal organs from the inside out.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Isn't it terrific that as Christians, we can recharge our energy levels through contact with the Holy Spirit? We don't need light acupuncture or a mask. Instead, we need only draw down on the Power of the Holy Spirit that God freely gave to us at birth.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The Holy Spirit enables us to access all the gifts that God has given us. When we are living in the Sprit, our internal light shines very bright and our aura is a magnificent BLUE color. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">According to Charles Fillmore, author of <i>Teach Us to Pray,</i> when we are in the Spirit, we, like Jesus, have supernatural powers, e.g.,</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
</div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="letter-spacing: 0px; white-space: pre;"> </span><b style="letter-spacing: 0px;">LOVE: An ability to be extend kindness even when it is not deserved</b></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="letter-spacing: 0px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">DISCERNMENT: A perfect vision for our lives</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="letter-spacing: 0px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">CAPACITY: Perfect courage and fearlessness in the face of difficulties</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="letter-spacing: 0px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">RECEPTION: Perfect heart to heart communication with God</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="letter-spacing: 0px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">JUDGEMENT: Craving only those things that are sanctioned by God</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="letter-spacing: 0px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">INTUITION: Knowing right from wrong and conceding to the "right'</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="letter-spacing: 0px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">TELEPATHY: An ability to transmit our thoughts, desires, prayers, and praise directly to God</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
Basically, when we live in the Spirit we can access the Upper Room, we become more like Jesus and we can do all things including, LOVING our enemies, LOVING ourselves, LOVING our neighbors.<br />
So how do we build up our Spirit energy? How do we access the Holy Spirit?<br />
<br />
Simply and Consistently by:<br />
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="letter-spacing: 0px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">studying the word</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="letter-spacing: 0px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">reflecting on God's goodness</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="letter-spacing: 0px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">praying constantly</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="letter-spacing: 0px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">carving out quiet time to commune with God</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="letter-spacing: 0px; white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">extending random acts of kindness to others</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">We must cultivate a practice of BEING STILL to revive, renew and recharge our GOD ENERGY.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal; min-height: 13px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: helvetica; line-height: normal;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">When we are calm and living in the SPIRIT, we are operating in the image of GOD. We radiate light from within. Over time, we become like Jesus, able to actively LOVE others whether it is deserved or not<span style="font-size: 11px;">.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><br /></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0