It's comical how we try to predict the future. A ground hog predicts when spring is suppose to set in. The weather person predicts what will happen from mere hours to weeks and how cloudy, wet, dry, warm, or cold it will be. A relic tribe predicts when the end of our world will be.
The Bible shows us that there were and are people of prophecy that can foresee things in people's lives. Yet, there is one prophecy, one prediction that has been left completely hidden from mankind, the rapture of Christians and the return of Jesus Christ.
No one knows. Some will come and say they do but they truly do not because Scripture, God's Word, clearly says that only God knows when that day will be. Are you prepared?
Matthew 24:36-44 (NKJV), "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only. But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left. Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect."
Monday, January 30, 2012
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 28 Jan 12
Which path are you on?
Psalm 1 (NKJV)
Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
And in His law he meditates day and night.
He shall be like a tree
Planted by the rivers of water,
That brings forth its fruit in its season,
Whose leaf also shall not wither;
And whatever he does shall prosper.
The ungodly are not so,
But are like the chaff which the wind drives away.
Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment,
Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
For the Lord knows the way of the righteous,
But the way of the ungodly shall perish.
Psalm 1 (NKJV)
Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
And in His law he meditates day and night.
He shall be like a tree
Planted by the rivers of water,
That brings forth its fruit in its season,
Whose leaf also shall not wither;
And whatever he does shall prosper.
The ungodly are not so,
But are like the chaff which the wind drives away.
Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment,
Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
For the Lord knows the way of the righteous,
But the way of the ungodly shall perish.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 27 Jan 12
Do you have chains in your life? Ask the Father, our God, in the name of Jesus to free you from your chains and He will set you FREE!
CHRIS TOMLIN LYRICS
"Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)"
Amazing grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy rains
Unending love, Amazing grace
The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures
[2x]
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy rains
Unending love, Amazing grace
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine
But God, Who called me here below
Will be forever mine
Will be forever mine
You are forever mine
CHRIS TOMLIN lyrics are property and copyright of their owners.
"Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)" lyrics provided for educational purposes
CHRIS TOMLIN LYRICS
"Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)"
Amazing grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy rains
Unending love, Amazing grace
The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures
[2x]
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy rains
Unending love, Amazing grace
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine
But God, Who called me here below
Will be forever mine
Will be forever mine
You are forever mine
CHRIS TOMLIN lyrics are property and copyright of their owners.
"Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)" lyrics provided for educational purposes
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 26 Jan 12
Here's an idea concerning the big bang theory. God spoke and there was a big bang. When God speaks, it's a big deal. Scientists have said that there is a noise that continues to ring out giving them a reason to believe that the noise is still ringing from the boom. Instead, scripture says that even the heavens declare His majesty.
Even though objects have no vocal cord, God made a way for them to sing praises to Him. Do you sing praises to Him? It is still remarkable to me that ALL of creation has the ability to sing praises to the Creator.
Even though objects have no vocal cord, God made a way for them to sing praises to Him. Do you sing praises to Him? It is still remarkable to me that ALL of creation has the ability to sing praises to the Creator.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
25 Jan 12
When you accomplish something, do you accept it as your own or God? We all like praise and we enjoy it when we've achieved something great or small. However, God gives us the knowledge, tools, and the ability to achieve the challenge.
Next time you achieve that next challenge, take a moment to see that God gave you that challenge and He carried you through to success. Then, thank Him for the success He gave you.
Next time you achieve that next challenge, take a moment to see that God gave you that challenge and He carried you through to success. Then, thank Him for the success He gave you.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 24 Jan 12
When you are sad, lonely, going through troubles, sin, guilt, and other circumstances in life, what do you do?
Are there storms in your life that you need to seek shelter from? Many times we forget that we should first look to God our Father during these storms. God is our protector, our comfort, and our shelter in all storms.
I am reminded of a very inspirational hymn - Rock of Ages.
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure,
Save from wrath and make me pure.
Not the labors of my hands
Can fulfill thy law’s demands;
Could my zeal no respite know,
Could my tears forever flow,
All for sin could not atone;
Thou must save, and thou alone.
While I draw this fleeting breath,
When mine eyes shall close in death,
When I rise to worlds unknown,
And behold thee on thy throne,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in thee.
Are there storms in your life that you need to seek shelter from? Many times we forget that we should first look to God our Father during these storms. God is our protector, our comfort, and our shelter in all storms.
I am reminded of a very inspirational hymn - Rock of Ages.
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure,
Save from wrath and make me pure.
Not the labors of my hands
Can fulfill thy law’s demands;
Could my zeal no respite know,
Could my tears forever flow,
All for sin could not atone;
Thou must save, and thou alone.
While I draw this fleeting breath,
When mine eyes shall close in death,
When I rise to worlds unknown,
And behold thee on thy throne,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in thee.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 23 Jan 12
Do you lack Godly wisdom? All you have to do is ask for it.
James 1:5 (NKJV), "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him."
Everything is very simple with God. The biggest hurdle is asking!
James 1:5 (NKJV), "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him."
Everything is very simple with God. The biggest hurdle is asking!
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 21 Jan 12
Psalm 73:23 (NKJV), "Nevertheless I am continually with You; You hold me by my right hand."
Friday, January 20, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 20 Jan 12
God is amazing! My son is growing in my wife's womb. I am a first time parent and it's been weird, crazy, and cool to see my little boy through sonograms and by seeing and feeling his movements.
Lately, I've been able to feel him kicking and seemingly stretching or pushing his foot against mom's upper abdomen. Today, he really pushed and was very comical to feel his foot or leg pressing hard against my finger. Kind of a first serious touch between father and son.
This is just one a countless amazing blessings God has given me. What has He blessed you with? Anything amazing that God has shared with you?
Lately, I've been able to feel him kicking and seemingly stretching or pushing his foot against mom's upper abdomen. Today, he really pushed and was very comical to feel his foot or leg pressing hard against my finger. Kind of a first serious touch between father and son.
This is just one a countless amazing blessings God has given me. What has He blessed you with? Anything amazing that God has shared with you?
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 19 Jan 12
To God be the glory in all things. How often do you give Him glory and praise in a day? Just at meals? Just at good things?
Give Him His due praise in the good and the bad.
Give Him His due praise in the good and the bad.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 18 Jan 12
Sing the wondrous love of Jesus,
Sing His mercy and His grace:
In the mansions bright and blessed,
He’ll prepare for us a place.
When we all get to heaven,
What a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus,
We’ll sing and shout the victory.
While we talk the pilgrim pathway,
Clouds will over-spread the sky;
But when trav’ling days are over,
Not a shadow, not a sigh.
When we all get to heaven,
What a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus,
We’ll sing and shout the victory.
Let us then be true and faithful,
Trusting, serving ev’ry day;
Just one glimpse of Him in glory
Will the toils of life repay.
When we all get to heaven,
What a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus,
We’ll sing and shout the victory.
Onward to the prize before us!
Soon His beauty we’ll behold;
Soon the pearly gates will open;
We shall tread the streets of gold.
When we all get to heaven,
What a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus,
We’ll sing and shout the victory.
When we all get to heaven,
What a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus,
We’ll sing and shout the victory.
Sing His mercy and His grace:
In the mansions bright and blessed,
He’ll prepare for us a place.
When we all get to heaven,
What a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus,
We’ll sing and shout the victory.
While we talk the pilgrim pathway,
Clouds will over-spread the sky;
But when trav’ling days are over,
Not a shadow, not a sigh.
When we all get to heaven,
What a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus,
We’ll sing and shout the victory.
Let us then be true and faithful,
Trusting, serving ev’ry day;
Just one glimpse of Him in glory
Will the toils of life repay.
When we all get to heaven,
What a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus,
We’ll sing and shout the victory.
Onward to the prize before us!
Soon His beauty we’ll behold;
Soon the pearly gates will open;
We shall tread the streets of gold.
When we all get to heaven,
What a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus,
We’ll sing and shout the victory.
When we all get to heaven,
What a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus,
We’ll sing and shout the victory.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 17 Jan 12
The Verse of the Day provided by Biblegateway.net is a great reminder for all of us, including me.
Philippians 2:14-16 (NKJV), "Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain."
How many times have you grumbled or complained about doing any kind of work? Your employment - tasks within the job, at home - garbage, homework, or even in our church work. I must admit that I have grumbled and complained in all of these, yet when we complain are we not remembering that God gave us this task to do. There was a reason for us to do the task. Most of the time, I believe it's simple responsibility and obedience, but there may be a time where it provides a witness to someone. Especially if we don't complain about it!
Philippians 2:14-16 (NKJV), "Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain."
How many times have you grumbled or complained about doing any kind of work? Your employment - tasks within the job, at home - garbage, homework, or even in our church work. I must admit that I have grumbled and complained in all of these, yet when we complain are we not remembering that God gave us this task to do. There was a reason for us to do the task. Most of the time, I believe it's simple responsibility and obedience, but there may be a time where it provides a witness to someone. Especially if we don't complain about it!
Monday, January 16, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 16 Jan 12
Is the Holy Spirit free or contained in you?
Do you freely express and allow His to control your body or do you restrict Him?
Very recently, I witnessed a service where the pastor was interrupted because the Holy Spirit abruptly spoke to a woman who had turned her life away from terrible garbage to include suicidal intentions. As she shared how she recovered, another woman stepped up to share and encourage that woman. Again, the Spirit called on a gentleman who also encouraged those 2 women sharing his triumph.
I had never witnessed something like this. My hair stood up on end with goosebumps. The Spirit was truly free and unrestrained in that service.
Again, at another service, I witnessed the pastor hopping and waving his arms and hands in the service. Singing and praising along with the worship songs. And he was not the only one. Many people in the congregation were doing the same.
This awakened me and made me think, do we restrict or restrain the Holy Spirit in our worship and everyday lives? To me, I think that some people have. Am I saying that its wrong if we don't dance, shout, and interrupt the pastor? No, we need to be comfortable but we also cannot put God, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit in a box.
Luke 12:11-12 (NIV), "When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say."
John 3:33-34 (NKJV), "He who has received His testimony has certified that God is true. For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure."
Acts 2:16-18 (NKJV), "But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
' And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God,
That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh;
Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
Your young men shall see visions,
Your old men shall dream dreams.
And on My menservants and on My maidservants
I will pour out My Spirit in those days;
And they shall prophesy."
2 Corinthians 3:17 (NKJV), "Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty."
Do you freely express and allow His to control your body or do you restrict Him?
Very recently, I witnessed a service where the pastor was interrupted because the Holy Spirit abruptly spoke to a woman who had turned her life away from terrible garbage to include suicidal intentions. As she shared how she recovered, another woman stepped up to share and encourage that woman. Again, the Spirit called on a gentleman who also encouraged those 2 women sharing his triumph.
I had never witnessed something like this. My hair stood up on end with goosebumps. The Spirit was truly free and unrestrained in that service.
Again, at another service, I witnessed the pastor hopping and waving his arms and hands in the service. Singing and praising along with the worship songs. And he was not the only one. Many people in the congregation were doing the same.
This awakened me and made me think, do we restrict or restrain the Holy Spirit in our worship and everyday lives? To me, I think that some people have. Am I saying that its wrong if we don't dance, shout, and interrupt the pastor? No, we need to be comfortable but we also cannot put God, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit in a box.
Luke 12:11-12 (NIV), "When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say."
John 3:33-34 (NKJV), "He who has received His testimony has certified that God is true. For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure."
Acts 2:16-18 (NKJV), "But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
' And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God,
That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh;
Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
Your young men shall see visions,
Your old men shall dream dreams.
And on My menservants and on My maidservants
I will pour out My Spirit in those days;
And they shall prophesy."
2 Corinthians 3:17 (NKJV), "Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty."
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 14 Jan 12
This is an awesome song!
Great is thy faithfulness,
O God my Father,
There is no shadow of turning with thee;
Thou changest not,
Thy compassions, they fail not;
As thou hast been thou forever wilt be.
Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning
New mercies I see;
All I have need thy hand hath provided;
Great is thy faithfulness,
Lord unto me!
Summer and winter,
And spring-time and harvest,
Sun, moon, and stars
In their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To thy great faithfulness,
Mercy, and love.
Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning
New mercies I see;
All I have need thy hand hath provided;
Great is thy faithfulness,
Lord unto me!
Pardon for sin and a
Peace that endureth,
Thine own dear presence
To cheer and to guide;
Strength for today
And bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine,
With ten thousand beside!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning
New mercies I see;
All I have need thy hand hath provided;
Great is thy faithfulness,
Lord unto me!
Lamentations 3:22-23 (NKJV), "Through the LORD’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness."
Great is thy faithfulness,
O God my Father,
There is no shadow of turning with thee;
Thou changest not,
Thy compassions, they fail not;
As thou hast been thou forever wilt be.
Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning
New mercies I see;
All I have need thy hand hath provided;
Great is thy faithfulness,
Lord unto me!
Summer and winter,
And spring-time and harvest,
Sun, moon, and stars
In their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To thy great faithfulness,
Mercy, and love.
Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning
New mercies I see;
All I have need thy hand hath provided;
Great is thy faithfulness,
Lord unto me!
Pardon for sin and a
Peace that endureth,
Thine own dear presence
To cheer and to guide;
Strength for today
And bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine,
With ten thousand beside!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning
New mercies I see;
All I have need thy hand hath provided;
Great is thy faithfulness,
Lord unto me!
Lamentations 3:22-23 (NKJV), "Through the LORD’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness."
Friday, January 13, 2012
Inspiration for Today 13 Jan 12
John 3:16 - For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes on Him, will not perish but have eternal life.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 12 Jan 12
A short time ago, I wrote about sermons and how the message was important, no matter the delivery.
Now here's part two. Our spiritual growth, as Believers, is much like our personal growth. Our birth as Christians (typically known as being saved or born-again) is similar to being birthed from our mothers. As we grow as infants, we are nurtured on our mother's milk or formula. As Christians, our spiritual milk comes from learning to pray, learning to read the Bible, and learning about God through Bible studies and the pastor's sermons.
Eventually, we mature by learning our ABC's, arithmetic, speech, and even our food matures from creamy to solids. Spiritual growth is identical. However, much like our physical growth, if we do not advance to the next level, we do not mature.
Think about it. When did you mature away from your toys and into sports or other activities? This was your next level of maturity in life. The same goes with spiritual growth. Eventually, we advance to our next level of spiritual maturity and as we advance, our hunger and thirst for Godly wisdom will advance in many ways from digging deeper into the Bible, spending more time at our churches, praying longer, deeper, and pausing to hear Him speak, sing to Him outside of church, and will tune our lives to Godly lives.
For me, I continue to grow. I used to be bored and quickly tune past the sermon radio stations, only a few years, I hunger to listen to Him speak through all of the message I can grasp. I listen on the radio and download sermons from my home church and listen to them on long drives. This is in addition to more reading, more prayer, and more worship.
Are you maturing in your spiritual growth?
Now here's part two. Our spiritual growth, as Believers, is much like our personal growth. Our birth as Christians (typically known as being saved or born-again) is similar to being birthed from our mothers. As we grow as infants, we are nurtured on our mother's milk or formula. As Christians, our spiritual milk comes from learning to pray, learning to read the Bible, and learning about God through Bible studies and the pastor's sermons.
Eventually, we mature by learning our ABC's, arithmetic, speech, and even our food matures from creamy to solids. Spiritual growth is identical. However, much like our physical growth, if we do not advance to the next level, we do not mature.
Think about it. When did you mature away from your toys and into sports or other activities? This was your next level of maturity in life. The same goes with spiritual growth. Eventually, we advance to our next level of spiritual maturity and as we advance, our hunger and thirst for Godly wisdom will advance in many ways from digging deeper into the Bible, spending more time at our churches, praying longer, deeper, and pausing to hear Him speak, sing to Him outside of church, and will tune our lives to Godly lives.
For me, I continue to grow. I used to be bored and quickly tune past the sermon radio stations, only a few years, I hunger to listen to Him speak through all of the message I can grasp. I listen on the radio and download sermons from my home church and listen to them on long drives. This is in addition to more reading, more prayer, and more worship.
Are you maturing in your spiritual growth?
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 11 Jan 12
God, thank you for the love you show me, my family, and my friends each moment of the day. You are more amazing than any word or phrase can describe.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Monday, January 9, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 9 Jan 12
Where is your heart? Where do you focus your attention? What is it that drives you? Is it money? Is it gadgets? Is it your family?
As Jesus preached the sermon on the mount, He emphasized where our hearts should be focused...on Heaven. It's very easy to be distracted by money, by our family, by our success, even by TV shows, but where is your focus.
Matthew 6:19-21 (NKJV), "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
As Jesus preached the sermon on the mount, He emphasized where our hearts should be focused...on Heaven. It's very easy to be distracted by money, by our family, by our success, even by TV shows, but where is your focus.
Matthew 6:19-21 (NKJV), "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Friday, January 6, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 6 Dec 12
How much is too much? When you eat too much at dinner or snacks, do you often feel satisfied or overwhelmed?
Sometimes when we listen to the pastor, the delivery of the message can be a bit dry. At times there are many factors that make us as the receiver unable to capture the message. Alternately, God's messenger can have their own issues going on that makes the presentation, not so dazzling.
However, the message IS what's important. God uses the pastor in a multitude of ways and one of them is to send His desired message on to us.
We come to God's worship center (or house) to do what? What draws you to church? Is it the message, the fellowship, the music, or just because you think you need to be there? God always has a message for us. Yes, the message can come in a variety of ways, but when God uses His messengers, I challenge and encourage you to first ask Him what He wants you to hear, then attentively listen and take notes.
God wants to speak to you. Now's your turn to listen.
Sometimes when we listen to the pastor, the delivery of the message can be a bit dry. At times there are many factors that make us as the receiver unable to capture the message. Alternately, God's messenger can have their own issues going on that makes the presentation, not so dazzling.
However, the message IS what's important. God uses the pastor in a multitude of ways and one of them is to send His desired message on to us.
We come to God's worship center (or house) to do what? What draws you to church? Is it the message, the fellowship, the music, or just because you think you need to be there? God always has a message for us. Yes, the message can come in a variety of ways, but when God uses His messengers, I challenge and encourage you to first ask Him what He wants you to hear, then attentively listen and take notes.
God wants to speak to you. Now's your turn to listen.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 5 Dec 12
Time to meditate on God's Word...
All Scriptures are NKJV - New King James Version
Joshua 1:8, "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success."
Psalm 1:2, "But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night."
Psalm 77:12, "I will also meditate on all Your work, And talk of Your deeds."
Psalm 119:15, "I will meditate on Your precepts, And contemplate Your ways."
Psalm 119:27, "Make me understand the way of Your precepts; So shall I meditate on Your wonderful works."
Psalm 119:48, "My hands also I will lift up to Your commandments, Which I love, And I will meditate on Your statutes."
Psalm 119:148, "My eyes are awake through the night watches, That I may meditate on Your word."
Psalm 143:5, "I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your works; I muse on the work of Your hands."
Psalm 145:5, "I will meditate on the glorious splendor of Your majesty, And on Your wondrous works."
All Scriptures are NKJV - New King James Version
Joshua 1:8, "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success."
Psalm 1:2, "But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night."
Psalm 77:12, "I will also meditate on all Your work, And talk of Your deeds."
Psalm 119:15, "I will meditate on Your precepts, And contemplate Your ways."
Psalm 119:27, "Make me understand the way of Your precepts; So shall I meditate on Your wonderful works."
Psalm 119:48, "My hands also I will lift up to Your commandments, Which I love, And I will meditate on Your statutes."
Psalm 119:148, "My eyes are awake through the night watches, That I may meditate on Your word."
Psalm 143:5, "I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your works; I muse on the work of Your hands."
Psalm 145:5, "I will meditate on the glorious splendor of Your majesty, And on Your wondrous works."
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 4 Dec 12
When do you make time for God? Oh this could be a tricky one but honestly ask yourself this question.
Do you make time in the morning, noon, night? Do you make time just in prayers? Do you make time for church? Do you sing to Him, alone?
Years ago, a friend of mine asked me what I wanted for Christmas. Because I had a problem focusing time in reading the Bible, I actually asked for the Bible on CD so I could listen to it instead of the radio. Wow, did that ever help me.
I listened to it to and from work. I got addicted to the Bible, though at times it seemed dry or monotone from the narrator, I hardly ever listened to music. Which incidentally, was a small concern because I'm a DJ and need to stay familiar with the latest music. However, I was able to listen completely through the Bible at least 3 times.
In addition, this recently led me to another time that I could invest in reading about my God and Savior. Ok guys, this is almost an obvious answer. What do we men typically do when we are taking care of the #2 business? Maybe some women do this as well. We read! And now-a-days, we can play games on our cell phones while "taking care of business."
After years of "#2 gaming and reading," it dawned on me that I could be reading more about my Creator. Lately, I've been reading "Our Daily Bread" to get a little closer. But we don't have to simply read an inspirational pamphlet. How many of us have a pocket Gideon Bible laying around? Or, perhaps invest in a small, pocket size Bible. You don't have to read an entire chapter, just a few verses.
Satan is crafty and he will use any distraction to keep your focus off of the Master. However, we can combat Satan's tactics by skillfully finding ways that we know will capture our ears, hearts, and minds in an effort to seek His Kingdom.
So ask yourself, what easy distractions or tactics can I use to focus more on God? For me, switching from the drive time music to listening to the Bible and adding a page or two of the "Our Daily Bread" has helped me personally seek His Kingdom.
Do you make time in the morning, noon, night? Do you make time just in prayers? Do you make time for church? Do you sing to Him, alone?
Years ago, a friend of mine asked me what I wanted for Christmas. Because I had a problem focusing time in reading the Bible, I actually asked for the Bible on CD so I could listen to it instead of the radio. Wow, did that ever help me.
I listened to it to and from work. I got addicted to the Bible, though at times it seemed dry or monotone from the narrator, I hardly ever listened to music. Which incidentally, was a small concern because I'm a DJ and need to stay familiar with the latest music. However, I was able to listen completely through the Bible at least 3 times.
In addition, this recently led me to another time that I could invest in reading about my God and Savior. Ok guys, this is almost an obvious answer. What do we men typically do when we are taking care of the #2 business? Maybe some women do this as well. We read! And now-a-days, we can play games on our cell phones while "taking care of business."
After years of "#2 gaming and reading," it dawned on me that I could be reading more about my Creator. Lately, I've been reading "Our Daily Bread" to get a little closer. But we don't have to simply read an inspirational pamphlet. How many of us have a pocket Gideon Bible laying around? Or, perhaps invest in a small, pocket size Bible. You don't have to read an entire chapter, just a few verses.
Satan is crafty and he will use any distraction to keep your focus off of the Master. However, we can combat Satan's tactics by skillfully finding ways that we know will capture our ears, hearts, and minds in an effort to seek His Kingdom.
So ask yourself, what easy distractions or tactics can I use to focus more on God? For me, switching from the drive time music to listening to the Bible and adding a page or two of the "Our Daily Bread" has helped me personally seek His Kingdom.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 3 Dec 12
As a child of God, we have the best representation for us when we encounter any turmoil or task. I truly enjoy and relish the latter half of Romans 8:31, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" If God the Creator, our Heavenly Father is for us, His children, then what earth bound man or even Satan and his demons can be against us? The Bible has lots of good stuff :)
Romans 8:31-39 (NKJV), "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written:
“ For Your sake we are killed all day long;
We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”
Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:31-39 (NKJV), "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written:
“ For Your sake we are killed all day long;
We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”
Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Inspiration for Today - 2 Jan 12
How often to you look at God's nature and see the beauty?
EARLY this morning (3:30AM), my little cockapoo (Ariel) had to go to the bathroom. Reluctantly, I got up to take her out. After I went to the bathroom, I returned to see if Ariel was ready to come in. Instead, I found her lightly, playfully growling at the fence.
Through the darkness, my eyes finally adjusted to what my playful pup was looking at. A deer. As Ariel would hop around and let out a playful bark, the deer would continue to graze, only looking up when Ariel hopped.
After a few minutes of this, the deer decided to play along. Ariel would hop, then the deer would hop afterwards. This lastest for several minutes before the deer decided she was done playing and moved away.
God's creation is so wonderful that even in the darkness of the early morn, He can show us that His creatures can be a delight and joyful entertainment.
This reminds me of an old hymn:
All creatures of our God and King,
Lift up your voice and with us sing
Alleluia! Alleluia! Thou burning sun with golden beam,
Thou silver moon with softer gleam!
O praise Him, O praise Him!
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
EARLY this morning (3:30AM), my little cockapoo (Ariel) had to go to the bathroom. Reluctantly, I got up to take her out. After I went to the bathroom, I returned to see if Ariel was ready to come in. Instead, I found her lightly, playfully growling at the fence.
Through the darkness, my eyes finally adjusted to what my playful pup was looking at. A deer. As Ariel would hop around and let out a playful bark, the deer would continue to graze, only looking up when Ariel hopped.
After a few minutes of this, the deer decided to play along. Ariel would hop, then the deer would hop afterwards. This lastest for several minutes before the deer decided she was done playing and moved away.
God's creation is so wonderful that even in the darkness of the early morn, He can show us that His creatures can be a delight and joyful entertainment.
This reminds me of an old hymn:
All creatures of our God and King,
Lift up your voice and with us sing
Alleluia! Alleluia! Thou burning sun with golden beam,
Thou silver moon with softer gleam!
O praise Him, O praise Him!
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
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