John 15:12-14 - This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Labor
Work is an honorable, beneficial thing. Sure, some jobs are mundane at times, but remember the One for whom You are ultimately working. Be thankful for the job God gave you, and work to do the best that you can for His glory.
Deuteronomy 16:15 - Seven days shalt thou keep a solemn feast unto the LORD thy God in the place which the LORD shall choose: because the LORD thy God shall bless thee in all thine increase, and in all the works of thine hands, therefore thou shalt surely rejoice.
1 Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
The Son of God reveals Himself in me, and I serve Him in the ordinary ways of life out of devotion to Him.
Psalm 128:2 - For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee.
Proverbs 12:11 - He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.
2 Chronicles 15:7 - Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded.
2 Thessalonians 3:10 - For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.
1 Corinthians 3:8 - Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 - And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;
That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.
Proverbs 22:29 - Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.
Deuteronomy 16:15 - Seven days shalt thou keep a solemn feast unto the LORD thy God in the place which the LORD shall choose: because the LORD thy God shall bless thee in all thine increase, and in all the works of thine hands, therefore thou shalt surely rejoice.
1 Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
The Son of God reveals Himself in me, and I serve Him in the ordinary ways of life out of devotion to Him.
Psalm 128:2 - For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee.
Proverbs 12:11 - He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.
2 Chronicles 15:7 - Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded.
2 Thessalonians 3:10 - For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.
1 Corinthians 3:8 - Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 - And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;
That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.
Proverbs 22:29 - Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.
In The Blink Of An Eye
In The Blink Of An Eye
You put me here for a reason. You have a mission for me. You knew my name and You called it long before I learned to breathe. Sometimes I feel disappointed by the way I spend my time. How can I further your kingdom when I'm so wrapped up in mine? In a blink of an eye, that is when I'll be closer to You than I've ever been. Time will fly, but until then I'll embrace every moment I'm given. There's a reason I'm alive for a blink of an eye. And though I'm living a good life, can my life be something great? I have to answer the question before it's too late. If I give the very best of me, then that becomes my legacy. So, tell me what I'm waiting for?
You put me here for a reason. You have a mission for me. You knew my name and You called it long before I learned to breathe. Sometimes I feel disappointed by the way I spend my time. How can I further your kingdom when I'm so wrapped up in mine? In a blink of an eye, that is when I'll be closer to You than I've ever been. Time will fly, but until then I'll embrace every moment I'm given. There's a reason I'm alive for a blink of an eye. And though I'm living a good life, can my life be something great? I have to answer the question before it's too late. If I give the very best of me, then that becomes my legacy. So, tell me what I'm waiting for?
(Performed by Mercy Me)
Monday, May 30, 2011
Conversation
With your words, you can affect another person's life dramatically - in either a positive or negative way. Think hard about the words you say before you say them. They cannot be erased once spoken. Make it a point to always speak positively with words of kindness, helpfulness and mercy.
Proverbs 10:19 - In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.
Matthew 12:35-37 - A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
1 Peter 3:10 - For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:
Colossians 4:6 - Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
James 1:26 - If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.
Psalm 141:3 - Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.
Psalm 39:1 - I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.
Proverbs 21:23 - Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.
Proverbs 29:11 - A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.
Proverbs 29:20 - Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
Proverbs 10:19 - In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.
Matthew 12:35-37 - A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
1 Peter 3:10 - For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:
Colossians 4:6 - Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
James 1:26 - If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.
Psalm 141:3 - Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.
Psalm 39:1 - I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.
Proverbs 21:23 - Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.
Proverbs 29:11 - A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.
Proverbs 29:20 - Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
Victory Over The Works Of The Flesh
Victory over the works of the flesh (the carnal or sinful nature) is part of our inheritance as children of God. 2 Corinthians 10:4 tells us that the weapons of our warfare are not carnal. Carnal is in or of the flesh, not spiritual but worldly. 1 Peter 2:5 tells us that we are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood. Verse 9 tells us that we are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God. Verse 11 tells us to abstain from sinful desires which war against our soul. So, what are these sinful desires or works of the flesh? Galatians 5:19-21 lists them.
Sexual immorality - adultery, fornication, sexual sins of any kind including homosexuality, any illicit sex act.
Impurity - uncleanness, opposite of pure thoughts, talking dirty.
Debauchery - lasciviousness, lustfulness, lewdness, promoting sexual sin and lust.
Idolatry - anything dethroning God.
Witchcraft - practicing sorcery, casting spells, charms, potions.
Hatred- bitter and hostile dislike.
Discord - variance, dissention, disputes, quarreling.
Jealousy - emulation, envy, striving to excel at another's expense.
Wrath - fierce anger, determined and lasting anger.
Selfish ambition - trying to get the best for yourself regardless of who it hurts.
Dissentions - strife, divisions, trying to equal or pay back wrongs done to one.
Factions - discontent groups with opposing opinions stirring up strife, heresy.
Envy - ill will at the good fortune or blessing of another, jealousy, thinking the other person not worthy of what they get because you want it.
Drunkenness - living intoxicated.
Orgies - carousing, reveling, sinful partying, letting go of inhibitions to sin.
Ephesians 4:31 lists these works of the flesh:
Anger - resentful feelings, revengeful displeasure
Bitterness - strong feeling of hatred or resentment.
Wrath - fierce, determined, lasting anger.
Clamor - quarreling, contention, brawling.
Slander - evil speaking, abusive or blasphemous language
Malice - active ill will, desire to harm another.
These works of the flesh represent a critical spirit (an obsessive attitude of criticism and fault finding which seeks to tear down others). the person with a critical spirit dwells on the negative, looks for flaws, complains often, is easily and often upset, has little control over the tongue and temper, and has a tendency to gossip and slander.
Ephesians 4:25-29 lists these works of the flesh:
Lying - not speaking the truth.
Stealing - unlawfully taking what does NOT belong to you.
Cussing - obscene, corrupt communications.
Romans 8:13 -For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
Sexual immorality - adultery, fornication, sexual sins of any kind including homosexuality, any illicit sex act.
Impurity - uncleanness, opposite of pure thoughts, talking dirty.
Debauchery - lasciviousness, lustfulness, lewdness, promoting sexual sin and lust.
Idolatry - anything dethroning God.
Witchcraft - practicing sorcery, casting spells, charms, potions.
Hatred- bitter and hostile dislike.
Discord - variance, dissention, disputes, quarreling.
Jealousy - emulation, envy, striving to excel at another's expense.
Wrath - fierce anger, determined and lasting anger.
Selfish ambition - trying to get the best for yourself regardless of who it hurts.
Dissentions - strife, divisions, trying to equal or pay back wrongs done to one.
Factions - discontent groups with opposing opinions stirring up strife, heresy.
Envy - ill will at the good fortune or blessing of another, jealousy, thinking the other person not worthy of what they get because you want it.
Drunkenness - living intoxicated.
Orgies - carousing, reveling, sinful partying, letting go of inhibitions to sin.
Ephesians 4:31 lists these works of the flesh:
Anger - resentful feelings, revengeful displeasure
Bitterness - strong feeling of hatred or resentment.
Wrath - fierce, determined, lasting anger.
Clamor - quarreling, contention, brawling.
Slander - evil speaking, abusive or blasphemous language
Malice - active ill will, desire to harm another.
These works of the flesh represent a critical spirit (an obsessive attitude of criticism and fault finding which seeks to tear down others). the person with a critical spirit dwells on the negative, looks for flaws, complains often, is easily and often upset, has little control over the tongue and temper, and has a tendency to gossip and slander.
Ephesians 4:25-29 lists these works of the flesh:
Lying - not speaking the truth.
Stealing - unlawfully taking what does NOT belong to you.
Cussing - obscene, corrupt communications.
Romans 8:13 -For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Thursday, May 26, 2011
What did you do today?
A whole lot of hanging out talking to God, then went with mother to get ice cream, then to London with Kim Pam and Tay.
Who are your last 4 texts from?
Clay, Tay, Kara and Kisha
Do you have a good relationship with your mother?
Yes! She's the best!
Will you be in a relationship in the next couple months?
If God so wants me too.
Do you cry easily?
Haha! Yeah.
Ever cried while you were on the phone with someone?
Yes
When was the last time you had a real smile on your face?
Tonight at 8:29pm...that may have been the nicest thing anyone's ever said to me. :)
Have you ever read an entire book in one day?
Yep
Who was the last person to hold your hand?
Someone at church whilst praying, I'm sure.
Can you honestly say that you're happy?
Yes
Has anyone said you have changed lately?
People keep asking me "what's wrong?" or "you okay?" like I am acting different, but I don't know....I've changed a lot of things I do but that's just because I have to get closer to God.
Where did you get the shirt you are wearing?
My aunt Barb.. I miss her.
Do you listen to country music?
Yes
Do you remember those little slap bracelets?
Sure do
When is the last time someone of the opposite sex gave you a hug?
Probably at church last night..idk
Do you sleep with the lights on or off?
Off
Plans for tomorrow?
Work
A whole lot of hanging out talking to God, then went with mother to get ice cream, then to London with Kim Pam and Tay.
Who are your last 4 texts from?
Clay, Tay, Kara and Kisha
Do you have a good relationship with your mother?
Yes! She's the best!
Will you be in a relationship in the next couple months?
If God so wants me too.
Do you cry easily?
Haha! Yeah.
Ever cried while you were on the phone with someone?
Yes
When was the last time you had a real smile on your face?
Tonight at 8:29pm...that may have been the nicest thing anyone's ever said to me. :)
Have you ever read an entire book in one day?
Yep
Who was the last person to hold your hand?
Someone at church whilst praying, I'm sure.
Can you honestly say that you're happy?
Yes
Has anyone said you have changed lately?
People keep asking me "what's wrong?" or "you okay?" like I am acting different, but I don't know....I've changed a lot of things I do but that's just because I have to get closer to God.
Where did you get the shirt you are wearing?
My aunt Barb.. I miss her.
Do you listen to country music?
Yes
Do you remember those little slap bracelets?
Sure do
When is the last time someone of the opposite sex gave you a hug?
Probably at church last night..idk
Do you sleep with the lights on or off?
Off
Plans for tomorrow?
Work
JOY
True joy is deep down, long lasting satisfaction of a right relationship with God, the source of all good things. You can experience His gift of joy every single day. But, don't keep it to yourself - spread it to those around you! They're probably looking for some.
James 1:2 - My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
Romans 15:13 - Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
Psalm 28:7 - The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.
Isaiah 55:12 - For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.
Romans 12:12 - Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
Acts 2:28 - Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
John 15:11 - These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
Job 8:21 - Till he fill thy mouth with laughing, and thy lips with rejoicing.
Isaiah 61:10 - I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.
Luke 6:23 - Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets.
Philippians 4:4 - Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.
Psalm 100:1-2 - Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
Proverbs 17:22 - A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.
James 1:2 - My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
Romans 15:13 - Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
Psalm 28:7 - The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.
Isaiah 55:12 - For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.
Romans 12:12 - Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
Acts 2:28 - Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
John 15:11 - These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
Job 8:21 - Till he fill thy mouth with laughing, and thy lips with rejoicing.
Isaiah 61:10 - I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.
Luke 6:23 - Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets.
Philippians 4:4 - Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.
Psalm 100:1-2 - Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
Proverbs 17:22 - A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.
If You Want Me To
The pathway is broken and the signs are unclear. And I don't know the reason why You brought me here. But just because You love me the way that You do, I'm gonna walk through the valley
if You want me to. No,I'm not who I was when I took my first step. And I'm clinging to the promise You're not through with me yet. So if all of these trials bring me closer to You, then I will walk through the fire if You want me to. It may not be the way I would have chosen when You lead me through a world that's not my home. But You never said it would be easy. You only said I'd never go alone. So When the whole world turns against me and I'm all by myself and I can't hear You answer my cries for help, I'll remember the suffering Your love put You through. And I will go through the valley If You want me to. And when I cross over Jordan, I'm gonna sing, I'm gonna shout. I'm gonna look into Your eyes and see You never let me down. So take me on the pathway that will lead me home to You and I will walk through the valley if You want me to.
if You want me to. No,I'm not who I was when I took my first step. And I'm clinging to the promise You're not through with me yet. So if all of these trials bring me closer to You, then I will walk through the fire if You want me to. It may not be the way I would have chosen when You lead me through a world that's not my home. But You never said it would be easy. You only said I'd never go alone. So When the whole world turns against me and I'm all by myself and I can't hear You answer my cries for help, I'll remember the suffering Your love put You through. And I will go through the valley If You want me to. And when I cross over Jordan, I'm gonna sing, I'm gonna shout. I'm gonna look into Your eyes and see You never let me down. So take me on the pathway that will lead me home to You and I will walk through the valley if You want me to.
(Written by Ginny Owens)
You Must Always Know How Long To Stay and When To Go
Sometimes there is something that you want more than anything in this world. You pray and beg and plead with God for it. You pound the ground in relentless prayer asking Him, Please God, Please! But it's when you learn the beautiful art of letting go that you realize it's in His hands. He's known all along, but what if it's not in His will? No amount of ground pounding prayer is going to give it to you. That, my friends is the protection of God...and after it's all said and done, you will realize that God had something far more amazing in mind than you could EVER have thought or imagined!!!! There's also the possibility that God wants us to become closer to Him. To crave Him as much as we relentlessly craved that "thing" (whatever that may be). Yeah, I know, God always wants us to get closer to Him, but you have to want it...you have to do it...you have to take action and build up that relationship with the LORD. You can't just say, "oh Lord, I want to grow closer to You" then do nothing about it. It takes an effort, and what if, just maybe, you put as much effort into building your relationship with the Lord as you did in pursuing that thing you've been praying for all this time? Wow, the time I have wasted in pursuing things of this world, thinking it was my idea of perfection, when in reality, it is just as flawed as I am. As we all are. Perfection only comes in 1 package...and that's our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Besides, real prosperity and blessings aren't found in material things or relationships. They're found in the Spiritual things of God. The Bible tells us that He will give us the desires of our heart, and I believe He will, but in HIS time. Our job is to grow closer to Him, walk with Him, hang out with Him, spend time with Him, show the world His love, preach His gospel. It's about the Spiritual, not the carnal. Yet, in our obedience, he will bless us with the desires of our heart. And after the experiences with God I have had over the past couple of weeks, I'm just bold enough, crazy enough, and radical enough to believe that there's always hope. After all, NOTHING is impossible with God. But, will my desire still be that which I have desired for so long? Or, will God place a newer, deeper, more Spiritual desire within me? Ahh..the beauty of just letting go, and letting God!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Let My Lifesong Sing
Your purpose is to worship Him with your life. On that journey to becoming like Jesus, you may be a doctor, construction worker, salesperson or a youth pastor, but that's not why you're here. You're here to worship Him with everything you have. You're here to become like Jesus.
This is your life song. This is your act of worship: what you do with the life you've been given. A life of worship says "God, I am waking up today. I'm going to do a lot of things, I'm going to go to a lot of places. I'm going to talk to a lot of people, but my goal is to point others to You and to make You smile today." The more we live like that, the more we become like Him, and the closer we get to His heart, the more that we see that His heart is for people. So then you start seeing people that are hurting. And ministry becomes the overflow of a life poured out at Jesus' feet.
(Quotes by Mark Hall, Youth Pastor and Lead Singer of Casting Crowns)
This is your life song. This is your act of worship: what you do with the life you've been given. A life of worship says "God, I am waking up today. I'm going to do a lot of things, I'm going to go to a lot of places. I'm going to talk to a lot of people, but my goal is to point others to You and to make You smile today." The more we live like that, the more we become like Him, and the closer we get to His heart, the more that we see that His heart is for people. So then you start seeing people that are hurting. And ministry becomes the overflow of a life poured out at Jesus' feet.
(Quotes by Mark Hall, Youth Pastor and Lead Singer of Casting Crowns)
Anger
We've all heard the saying, "don't get mad, get even". Well, how about this? Don't do either. Anger robs you of the joy of the Christian life. On the other hand, being quick to forgive helps you defeat your angry feelings. Ask God for His strength to swap your anger for His joy.
James 1:19-20 - Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
Ecclesiastes 7:9 - Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.
Philippians 2:14 - Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
Romans 12:19 - Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Proverbs 17:14 - The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.
Proverbs 19:19 - A man of great wrath shall suffer punishment: for if thou deliver him, yet thou must do it again.
Psalm 37:8 - Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.
Colossians 3:8 - But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.
James 1:19-20 - Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
Ecclesiastes 7:9 - Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.
Philippians 2:14 - Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
Romans 12:19 - Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Proverbs 17:14 - The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.
Proverbs 19:19 - A man of great wrath shall suffer punishment: for if thou deliver him, yet thou must do it again.
Psalm 37:8 - Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.
Colossians 3:8 - But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.
We must not make the mistake of thinking that just because we get saved and receive salvation that everything will be smooth sailing from that day on. Your flesh is the part of you that served the devil; it will always crave things that it doesn't need. There will always be a war between your flesh and your spirit. The flesh doesn't want to be controlled by the spirit, it wants to continue to lust after the things of the world. If we will deny our flesh, we will become a conquering hero!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Monday, May 23, 2011
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Humility
While humiliation is a negative thing, humility is very positive. Being humble does not mean being weak; you could view it as quite strength. Jesus died on a cross for us because of His humility. Imagine what great things you could accomplish for God if you followed Jesus' humble example.
James 4:6-7 - But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Proverbs 22:4 - By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life.
Psalm 69:32 - The humble shall see this, and be glad: and your heart shall live that seek God.
Proverbs 11:2 - When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.
Philippians 2:5-11 - Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Luke 18:14 - I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Proverbs 15:33 - The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.
Proverbs 3:34 - Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly.
1 Peter 5:5-6 - Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
Philippians 2:1-3 - If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
Psalm 138:6 - Though the LORD be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off.
Matthew 18:4 - Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
James 4:10 - Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
James 4:6-7 - But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Proverbs 22:4 - By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life.
Psalm 69:32 - The humble shall see this, and be glad: and your heart shall live that seek God.
Proverbs 11:2 - When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.
Philippians 2:5-11 - Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Luke 18:14 - I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Proverbs 15:33 - The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.
Proverbs 3:34 - Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly.
1 Peter 5:5-6 - Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
Philippians 2:1-3 - If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
Psalm 138:6 - Though the LORD be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off.
Matthew 18:4 - Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
James 4:10 - Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Be still and know that You're in this place.
Worship is so much more than a song that's sung. Instead, worship is in the heart that lifts the song. If you think about it, worship began when I woke up this morning. My life purpose is to give God glory through everything I do. If my life does not worship Him, my songs don't either.
If ever there were a test of our faith, if there ever where a test of the motives of our worship, it is when a storm rolls into our lives. Sometimes God calms our storms. Sometimes he chooses to ride them with us.
I don't think it bothers the world that we sin. I think it bothers the world that we act like we don't. There are times that instead of being myself and exposing my own weakness and hurt, I portray and character of the person that I know I should be. But when I expose myself as weak and frail at times, it frees the Body of Christ to restore me as it should and invites others to unmask as well.
God does not need us. He wants us. To fear is to take our eyes off Jesus.
Sometimes we forget who God is. But He never forgets about us. That's what makes Him God.
I want to be an example of Christ's love. I want people to understand that Christ loves them no matter what they've done not to deserve it.
You have to be faithful to the task - ask your question and then wait for the answer.
All I really want to do is fall into the emptiness that is the space in between us. Erase it and bring us together again.
We can't break through that divide between God and us. We have to be willing to fall off the edge to reach the other side and believe that God will catch us. I see all the people standing on the edge of the "grand canyon" waiting for God. I think we need to see what it would be like to fall off and have God catch us. At the end of it all, I hope someone says that I never settled for one side of the canyon, waiting for grace to reach for me.
If ever there were a test of our faith, if there ever where a test of the motives of our worship, it is when a storm rolls into our lives. Sometimes God calms our storms. Sometimes he chooses to ride them with us.
I don't think it bothers the world that we sin. I think it bothers the world that we act like we don't. There are times that instead of being myself and exposing my own weakness and hurt, I portray and character of the person that I know I should be. But when I expose myself as weak and frail at times, it frees the Body of Christ to restore me as it should and invites others to unmask as well.
God does not need us. He wants us. To fear is to take our eyes off Jesus.
Sometimes we forget who God is. But He never forgets about us. That's what makes Him God.
I want to be an example of Christ's love. I want people to understand that Christ loves them no matter what they've done not to deserve it.
You have to be faithful to the task - ask your question and then wait for the answer.
All I really want to do is fall into the emptiness that is the space in between us. Erase it and bring us together again.
We can't break through that divide between God and us. We have to be willing to fall off the edge to reach the other side and believe that God will catch us. I see all the people standing on the edge of the "grand canyon" waiting for God. I think we need to see what it would be like to fall off and have God catch us. At the end of it all, I hope someone says that I never settled for one side of the canyon, waiting for grace to reach for me.
Adversity
One of Satan's biggest falsehoods is that the Christian life should be free of adversity. The longer you live, the more you'll realize that adversity is the rule in life, not the exception. But don't look at problems as things to be avoided. These are times that test your character, patience and faith. Sure, we might suffer grief and pain, but with Christ, we can endure any hardship. Job lost everything but he still gave glory to God.
Psalm 9:9-10 - The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.
1 Peter 5:7 - Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Psalm 23:4 - 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.
Nahum 1:7 - The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.
Matthew 11:28-30 - Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Psalm 30:5 - For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.
John 16:33 - These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Romans 12:12 - Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
Psalm 9:9-10 - The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.
1 Peter 5:7 - Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Psalm 23:4 - 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.
Nahum 1:7 - The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.
Matthew 11:28-30 - Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Psalm 30:5 - For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.
John 16:33 - These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Romans 12:12 - Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
Spiritual Gifts
1 Corinthians 12, 13 and 14
Wisdom - Godly insight
Knowledge - Ability to help people out
Discerning of Spirits - Spiritual vision
(These are gifts of revelation.)
Prophecy - Edification (instruction and improvement)
Tongues
Interpretation - What was said in tongues
(These are gifts of inspiration.)
Faith - Ability to believe God without doubt, unbelief and reasoning.
Healing - Healing without medicine (Godly healing)
Miracles - Counteracting natural laws
(These are gifts of power.)
Prophecy - the Holy Spirit inspiring us to do something.
"If you do everything in love, it will be done in the Lord's time" - Zech Siler
*These are notes I took at a Bible study Zech taught in August 2009. I loved that study and I just felt led to share it with you all.
1 Corinthians 12, 13 and 14
Wisdom - Godly insight
Knowledge - Ability to help people out
Discerning of Spirits - Spiritual vision
(These are gifts of revelation.)
Prophecy - Edification (instruction and improvement)
Tongues
Interpretation - What was said in tongues
(These are gifts of inspiration.)
Faith - Ability to believe God without doubt, unbelief and reasoning.
Healing - Healing without medicine (Godly healing)
Miracles - Counteracting natural laws
(These are gifts of power.)
Prophecy - the Holy Spirit inspiring us to do something.
"If you do everything in love, it will be done in the Lord's time" - Zech Siler
*These are notes I took at a Bible study Zech taught in August 2009. I loved that study and I just felt led to share it with you all.
John 14:23-26 - Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me. These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Honesty
Let's be honest - honesty is by no means a popular choice in our world today. It's not an easy one either. Look around and you'll see dishonesty everyday. But, God expects more of His children. We are commanded to be truthful, as followers of Christ, who is the Truth. Just like you push yourself toward any goal, push yourself to be honest. God will bless you for following the truth.
Proverbs 12:22 - Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight. (KJV)
Job 27:6 - I will maintain my innocence and never let go of it;my conscience will not reproach me as long as I live. (NIV)
2 Corinthians 4:2 - But we have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. (NKJV)
Hebrews 13:18 - Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a good conscience, desiring to conduct ourselves honorably in all things. (NASB)
Proverbs 11:1 - A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight. (KJV)
Matthew 7:12 - Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. (KJV)
Leviticus 19:11 - Do not steal. Do not deceive or cheat one another. (NLT)
2 Corinthians 8:21 - providing honorable things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. (NKJV)
Acts 24:16 - And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void to offence toward God, and toward men. (KJV)
Philippians 4:8-9 - Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. (KJV)
Colossians 3:9-10 - Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, 10 and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him, (NKJV)
Proverbs 12:22 - Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight. (KJV)
Job 27:6 - I will maintain my innocence and never let go of it;my conscience will not reproach me as long as I live. (NIV)
2 Corinthians 4:2 - But we have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. (NKJV)
Hebrews 13:18 - Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a good conscience, desiring to conduct ourselves honorably in all things. (NASB)
Proverbs 11:1 - A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight. (KJV)
Matthew 7:12 - Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. (KJV)
Leviticus 19:11 - Do not steal. Do not deceive or cheat one another. (NLT)
2 Corinthians 8:21 - providing honorable things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. (NKJV)
Acts 24:16 - And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void to offence toward God, and toward men. (KJV)
Philippians 4:8-9 - Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. (KJV)
Colossians 3:9-10 - Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, 10 and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him, (NKJV)
God is completely just in all He does.
Through faith in the sovereign God, Christians find strength and joy for living.
God's blessings come to those who live to please Him.
The Messiah came to bring salvation and will return to establish His kingdom.
God is honored when Christians please Him through their worship, attitudes and actions.
Christians must faithfully fulfill their commitments to God and people.
God desires people to respond to Him in obedience.
Eternal rewards await those who faithfully serve Christ.
Through faith in the sovereign God, Christians find strength and joy for living.
God's blessings come to those who live to please Him.
The Messiah came to bring salvation and will return to establish His kingdom.
God is honored when Christians please Him through their worship, attitudes and actions.
Christians must faithfully fulfill their commitments to God and people.
God desires people to respond to Him in obedience.
Eternal rewards await those who faithfully serve Christ.
Overflow
overflow - to flow or spread across; flood. to flow over the brim or edge of. to cause to overflow by filling beyond capacity; to run over.
Psalm 119:171 - May my lips overflow with praise, for you teach me your decrees. (NIV)
Luke 6:45 - The upright (honorable, intrinsically good) man out of the good treasure [stored] in his heart produces what is upright (honorable and intrinsically good), and the evil man out of the evil storehouse brings forth that which is depraved (wicked and intrinsically evil); for out of the abundance (overflow) of the heart his mouth speaks. (Amplified)
Romans 15:13 - May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (NIV)
2 Corinthians 4:15 - All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. (NIV)
Psalm 119:171 - May my lips overflow with praise, for you teach me your decrees. (NIV)
Luke 6:45 - The upright (honorable, intrinsically good) man out of the good treasure [stored] in his heart produces what is upright (honorable and intrinsically good), and the evil man out of the evil storehouse brings forth that which is depraved (wicked and intrinsically evil); for out of the abundance (overflow) of the heart his mouth speaks. (Amplified)
Romans 15:13 - May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (NIV)
2 Corinthians 4:15 - All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. (NIV)
Joshua 3:5 - And Joshua said unto the people, Sanctify yourselves: for to morrow the LORD will do wonders among you.
Joshua 24:15 - And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.
Joshua 24:15 - And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
John 14:15-17 - If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 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.
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