TODAY'S ENCOURAGING WORD
A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered.
-- Proverbs 17:27
WHOM TO PRAY FOR
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men.
1 Timothy 2:1
Let no one ever say that he has nothing to pray about, or that he doesn't know how to pray in God's will, for it is always in the will of God to pray for other people! This is a great gift that any Christian can give, even if he is penniless or bedridden. There are none so poor as to be unable to afford such a gift, nor can even the wealthiest give a finer gift.
Note just a few of the relevant commandments to believers: First, we are to pray for all fellow Christians: "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints" (Ephesians 6:18). We should also pray for the lost. Jesus commanded: "The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth laborers into his harvest" (Luke 10:2).
There is a special command to pray for sick disciples. "Pray one for another, that ye may be healed" (James 5:16). We are even told to pray for our enemies. "Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you" (Luke 6:28).
We are told to pray for Christian brethren who "sin a sin which is not unto death" (1 John 5:16), though if the sin has already led to physical death (as in 1 Corinthians 11:30), there is no warrant for further prayer in that case. Finally, we are especially admonished to pray "for kings, and for all that are in authority" (1 Timothy 2:2), and for the ministries of those who proclaim the gospel (Colossians 4:2-4). In short, in the words of our text, we should offer up supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving for all men everywhere, "for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you" (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
PRAYER IN TIMES OF GLOBAL STRIFE
We come to you, Lord,
Knowing you are the source of life and unity.
Help us at this time, when war and rumours of war
weigh heavily on us.
Bring your peace to a divided world.
Amen.
Forward to your family and friends!
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God Bless You!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
March 24, 2010 Sharing God’s Word
March 24, 2010 Sharing God’s Word
TODAY'S ENCOURAGING WORD
So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
-- 1 Corinthians 15:58
ENDURING FOREVER
O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever.
-- Psalm 136:26
This is the final verse in the unique Psalm 136 in which all 26 verses end with the thrilling testimony: "His mercy endureth for ever!" This same affirmation occurs 15 more times in the Old Testament. How important it must be for us to remember forever that God's "lovingkindness" (same word as "mercy") does endure forever!
But it is not only His mercy which is everlasting. He is eternally kind and loving, but He is also eternally just and righteous. "Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever" (Psalm 119:160).
His Word of truth existed in the beginning, and will also exist through all the ages to come. "For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever" (Psalm 117:2). In this verse, the word "great" actually means "victorious." Nothing can ever defeat God's loving mercy and His truthful word, for they endure from eternity to eternity. Likewise, His "kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and |His| dominion endureth throughout all generations" (Psalm 145:13), and "the goodness of God endureth continually" (Psalm 52:1).
Finally, there is this all-encompassing testimony: "Thy name, O LORD, endureth for ever" (Psalm 135:13). All the divine attributes and all the divine purposes are embraced in His holy name, and thus none can ever fail.
Now, note that in all the verses cited, the verb "endureth" was not in the original. The divinely inspired writers thus recognized that no verb was really necessary. The very concepts of the name, the truth, the righteousness, and the mercy of God must be everlasting, for He is the God of eternity!
PRAYER TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT
O Almighty and Everlasting God, Creator of Heaven, Earth, and the Universe, help me to be, to think, to act what is right, because it is right. Make me truthful, honest, and honorable in all things; make me intellectually honest for the sake of right and honor and without thought of reward to me. Give me the ability to be charitable, forgiving, and patient with my fellow men. Help me to understand their motives and their shortcomings, even as thou understandest mine! Amen.
Forward to your family and friends!
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God Bless You!
TODAY'S ENCOURAGING WORD
So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
-- 1 Corinthians 15:58
ENDURING FOREVER
O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever.
-- Psalm 136:26
This is the final verse in the unique Psalm 136 in which all 26 verses end with the thrilling testimony: "His mercy endureth for ever!" This same affirmation occurs 15 more times in the Old Testament. How important it must be for us to remember forever that God's "lovingkindness" (same word as "mercy") does endure forever!
But it is not only His mercy which is everlasting. He is eternally kind and loving, but He is also eternally just and righteous. "Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever" (Psalm 119:160).
His Word of truth existed in the beginning, and will also exist through all the ages to come. "For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever" (Psalm 117:2). In this verse, the word "great" actually means "victorious." Nothing can ever defeat God's loving mercy and His truthful word, for they endure from eternity to eternity. Likewise, His "kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and |His| dominion endureth throughout all generations" (Psalm 145:13), and "the goodness of God endureth continually" (Psalm 52:1).
Finally, there is this all-encompassing testimony: "Thy name, O LORD, endureth for ever" (Psalm 135:13). All the divine attributes and all the divine purposes are embraced in His holy name, and thus none can ever fail.
Now, note that in all the verses cited, the verb "endureth" was not in the original. The divinely inspired writers thus recognized that no verb was really necessary. The very concepts of the name, the truth, the righteousness, and the mercy of God must be everlasting, for He is the God of eternity!
PRAYER TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT
O Almighty and Everlasting God, Creator of Heaven, Earth, and the Universe, help me to be, to think, to act what is right, because it is right. Make me truthful, honest, and honorable in all things; make me intellectually honest for the sake of right and honor and without thought of reward to me. Give me the ability to be charitable, forgiving, and patient with my fellow men. Help me to understand their motives and their shortcomings, even as thou understandest mine! Amen.
Forward to your family and friends!
Want to be added to list or removed from list? Email sgw316@gmail.com and indicate to be added or removed.
God Bless You!
Easy Steps to Renovate Your Lawn
Solve your lawn's problems with our step-by-step guide to lawn renovation.
Diagnose the Problem
Figure out why your lawn has declined. If you don't determine the problem, fixing your lawn could be a waste of time. For example, if grubs are the problem, you'll need to treat for them before laying a new lawn. But if too much shade is the problem, you're better off forgetting a lawn and investing in low-maintenance shade-loving ground covers instead.
Get a Fresh Start
If more than half of your lawn is screaming for help, start from scratch. Spray the lawn with an herbicide containing glyphosate (be sure to follow all directions on the packaging). It kills all vegetation but allows new turf to re-establish quickly.
Mow Low
Wait a couple of weeks after applying the herbicide, then mow the turf as short as you can. Don't be afraid to really scalp it -- this low mowing leaves the area with short, dead plants, to prevent erosion, and keeps the dead plants from shading your new lawn too much.
Rake, Rake, Repeat
Visit your local rental center and get a power rake. Don't worry, it's not as bad as it sounds -- many models are as easy to handle as the average lawn mower. To save yourself frustration, ask the clerk to show you how to adjust the blades.
You want to leave just the barest layer (about 1/4 inch) of thatch on the ground. Then rake off the remaining debris and compost it. You'll know you've raked enough when you see equal amounts bare soil and dead grass stems. Then spread a thin layer of compost over the soil and rake it in evenly.
Add the Green
Now it's time to plant. If you're using seed, follow the instructions on the package to determine how much seed to use. This is important: Not enough, and your lawn will be thin and scraggly. To make the seed application uniform, spread half the seed in a north/south direction, then turn around and apply the other half in an east/west direction. This will lessen the likelihood that you'll end up with bare spots.
If you're installing sprigs or plugs, it's just a matter of digging little holes and plopping the plants in place. Cut a small trench for sprigging and using a transplanter tool for plugs. You can usually buy this little tool from the same place you purchased the plugs.
Deter New Weeds
This is an optional step, but it's pretty easy and usually worth the effort. Apply a pre-emergence herbicide containing siduron. This product will prevent crabgrass seeds from sprouting, yet allow lawn grass seed to grow. Note: If you renovate in fall, this isn't necessary, because crabgrass is mainly a problem in spring.
Water Well
When everything is planted, your task is to keep the area moist. For the first week or so after planting, be sure the soil does not go dry. After the grass is up and growing, it's like the story of the three bears: You don't want the area too dry or too soggy, but just moist. This may mean watering a couple of times a day early on (for short, five-minute applications). Over time, you can go to a once-a-day watering for 10 or 15 minutes. It's important that the moisture be applied evenly so that your seed doesn't wash away, creating bare spots.
Feeding Time
When the grass shoots are about an inch tall, apply a starter fertilizer to encourage growth. The same goes for sprigs and plugs: After you see a couple of new shoots, apply fertilizer. But be sure to wait until there's growth -- you can burn roots if you fertilize too early.
Start Mowing
When the grass is about 3 inches tall, give it its first mowing. This will discourage weeds and encourage the spread of your grass. This simple step makes a huge difference in the success of the project!
Be sure the mower blade is sharp the first time you mow; a dull blade could rip the seedlings right out of the ground. Then mow as normal once the grass is the height you want it. For the health of your turf, don't cut off more than a third of the leaf length in any one mowing.
Diagnose the Problem
Figure out why your lawn has declined. If you don't determine the problem, fixing your lawn could be a waste of time. For example, if grubs are the problem, you'll need to treat for them before laying a new lawn. But if too much shade is the problem, you're better off forgetting a lawn and investing in low-maintenance shade-loving ground covers instead.
Get a Fresh Start
If more than half of your lawn is screaming for help, start from scratch. Spray the lawn with an herbicide containing glyphosate (be sure to follow all directions on the packaging). It kills all vegetation but allows new turf to re-establish quickly.
Mow Low
Wait a couple of weeks after applying the herbicide, then mow the turf as short as you can. Don't be afraid to really scalp it -- this low mowing leaves the area with short, dead plants, to prevent erosion, and keeps the dead plants from shading your new lawn too much.
Rake, Rake, Repeat
Visit your local rental center and get a power rake. Don't worry, it's not as bad as it sounds -- many models are as easy to handle as the average lawn mower. To save yourself frustration, ask the clerk to show you how to adjust the blades.
You want to leave just the barest layer (about 1/4 inch) of thatch on the ground. Then rake off the remaining debris and compost it. You'll know you've raked enough when you see equal amounts bare soil and dead grass stems. Then spread a thin layer of compost over the soil and rake it in evenly.
Add the Green
Now it's time to plant. If you're using seed, follow the instructions on the package to determine how much seed to use. This is important: Not enough, and your lawn will be thin and scraggly. To make the seed application uniform, spread half the seed in a north/south direction, then turn around and apply the other half in an east/west direction. This will lessen the likelihood that you'll end up with bare spots.
If you're installing sprigs or plugs, it's just a matter of digging little holes and plopping the plants in place. Cut a small trench for sprigging and using a transplanter tool for plugs. You can usually buy this little tool from the same place you purchased the plugs.
Deter New Weeds
This is an optional step, but it's pretty easy and usually worth the effort. Apply a pre-emergence herbicide containing siduron. This product will prevent crabgrass seeds from sprouting, yet allow lawn grass seed to grow. Note: If you renovate in fall, this isn't necessary, because crabgrass is mainly a problem in spring.
Water Well
When everything is planted, your task is to keep the area moist. For the first week or so after planting, be sure the soil does not go dry. After the grass is up and growing, it's like the story of the three bears: You don't want the area too dry or too soggy, but just moist. This may mean watering a couple of times a day early on (for short, five-minute applications). Over time, you can go to a once-a-day watering for 10 or 15 minutes. It's important that the moisture be applied evenly so that your seed doesn't wash away, creating bare spots.
Feeding Time
When the grass shoots are about an inch tall, apply a starter fertilizer to encourage growth. The same goes for sprigs and plugs: After you see a couple of new shoots, apply fertilizer. But be sure to wait until there's growth -- you can burn roots if you fertilize too early.
Start Mowing
When the grass is about 3 inches tall, give it its first mowing. This will discourage weeds and encourage the spread of your grass. This simple step makes a huge difference in the success of the project!
Be sure the mower blade is sharp the first time you mow; a dull blade could rip the seedlings right out of the ground. Then mow as normal once the grass is the height you want it. For the health of your turf, don't cut off more than a third of the leaf length in any one mowing.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
March 23, 2010 Sharing God’s Word
TODAY'S ENCOURAGING WORD
They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them.
-- Psalm 112:7
CREATION EVANGELISM
But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.
-- John 20:31
John's Gospel is perhaps the best tool with which to lead people to saving faith in Christ, for this was John's very purpose in writing. He presents the claims of Christ and evidence for the deity of Christ, along with His substitutionary death and resurrection, in a uniquely effective way.
It is very important to note, however, that John begins with an affirmation of the truth of special creation. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. . . . All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made" (John 1:1, 3). This creative word was Jesus Christ, for "the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us" (v. 14).
John also points out the world's rejection of its Creator. "He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not" (v. 10). The world, on the whole, then rejected--and still rejects--its Creator, who was "the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world" (v. 9). But not all rejected, for "as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name" (v. 12).
And what is His name? In context, His name is given as "the Word," "God!" "the true Light," (vv. 1, 9). Only after this is He revealed as the Lamb of God, the Son of God, the Messiah (vv. 29, 34, 41), names which imply His functions and attributes.
If we would be more effective evangelists, we would do well to follow the approach used by John. Christ must first be accepted as the omnipotent (but offended and rejected) Creator, before He really can be understood and received as incarnate, dying, sin-purging, glorified Savior.
PRAYER FOR ANXIOUS PEOPLE
Father, I pray for people and others in my circle of family and friends who are carrying heavy loads...
Your Word says an anxious heart weighs a person down, and this is how I think they must feel—as if they're carrying heavy loads, more than they can bear. When they feel upset and beside themselves, calm them down and comfort them with the assurance of Your love. Help them not be overwhelmed by anxious thoughts. (Proverbs 12:25a; Psalm 94:19)
Our hearts are not supposed to be troubled; but that's their struggle—help them trust You and the Lord Jesus, as I know they must. Help them understand that You are the One who makes a way when things seem impossible; nothing is too hard for You! (John 14:27; Isaiah 43:19; Jeremiah 32:17; Luke 1:37)
Help them be faithful to You and to the way You want them to live, for You guard the lives of those who are faithful; You protect them and never turn away from them. Help them know You as their fortress, as the rock in whom they take refuge, as One who is good, whose love endures forever, whose faithfulness continues through all generations. (Psalm 97:10; Proverbs 2:8; Psalm 37:28; 94:22; 100:5)
In Jesus' name, amen.
Forward to your family and friends!
Want to be added to list or removed from list? Email sgw316@gmail.com and indicate to be added or removed.
God Bless You!
They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them.
-- Psalm 112:7
CREATION EVANGELISM
But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.
-- John 20:31
John's Gospel is perhaps the best tool with which to lead people to saving faith in Christ, for this was John's very purpose in writing. He presents the claims of Christ and evidence for the deity of Christ, along with His substitutionary death and resurrection, in a uniquely effective way.
It is very important to note, however, that John begins with an affirmation of the truth of special creation. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. . . . All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made" (John 1:1, 3). This creative word was Jesus Christ, for "the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us" (v. 14).
John also points out the world's rejection of its Creator. "He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not" (v. 10). The world, on the whole, then rejected--and still rejects--its Creator, who was "the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world" (v. 9). But not all rejected, for "as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name" (v. 12).
And what is His name? In context, His name is given as "the Word," "God!" "the true Light," (vv. 1, 9). Only after this is He revealed as the Lamb of God, the Son of God, the Messiah (vv. 29, 34, 41), names which imply His functions and attributes.
If we would be more effective evangelists, we would do well to follow the approach used by John. Christ must first be accepted as the omnipotent (but offended and rejected) Creator, before He really can be understood and received as incarnate, dying, sin-purging, glorified Savior.
PRAYER FOR ANXIOUS PEOPLE
Father, I pray for people and others in my circle of family and friends who are carrying heavy loads...
Your Word says an anxious heart weighs a person down, and this is how I think they must feel—as if they're carrying heavy loads, more than they can bear. When they feel upset and beside themselves, calm them down and comfort them with the assurance of Your love. Help them not be overwhelmed by anxious thoughts. (Proverbs 12:25a; Psalm 94:19)
Our hearts are not supposed to be troubled; but that's their struggle—help them trust You and the Lord Jesus, as I know they must. Help them understand that You are the One who makes a way when things seem impossible; nothing is too hard for You! (John 14:27; Isaiah 43:19; Jeremiah 32:17; Luke 1:37)
Help them be faithful to You and to the way You want them to live, for You guard the lives of those who are faithful; You protect them and never turn away from them. Help them know You as their fortress, as the rock in whom they take refuge, as One who is good, whose love endures forever, whose faithfulness continues through all generations. (Psalm 97:10; Proverbs 2:8; Psalm 37:28; 94:22; 100:5)
In Jesus' name, amen.
Forward to your family and friends!
Want to be added to list or removed from list? Email sgw316@gmail.com and indicate to be added or removed.
God Bless You!
Monday, March 22, 2010
March 22, 2010 Sharing God’s Word
TODAY'S ENCOURAGING WORD
Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
-- Isaiah 40:31
GIVEN BY INSPIRATION
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
This passage is the most definitive of all passages on the inspiration of the Bible. It explicitly repudiates all the false concepts which men have developed to try to escape this vital doctrine.
For example, it repudiates the humanistic theory of inspiration, which says that the writers were "inspired" with the same quality of exalted feelings that inspired other great writers. But this verse attributes it not to human inspiration, but to the "inspiration of God."
Then, there is the partial theory of inspiration, which says that part of the Bible is inspired (the "religious" parts), but that part of it is not (the scientific and historical parts). But our verse says that all Scripture is inspired! The dynamic theory says the thoughts are inspired, but not the words. However, it is the Scriptures that are inspired, not the thoughts of the men who wrote them. The "Scriptures" mean the "writings"--the actual words written.
The encounter theory says the Scriptures are not inspired in themselves, but only become inspired when a reader "encounters" God through reading them. This, also, is false. The Scriptures are inspired regardless of how they affect the reader. Actually, the phrase "given by inspiration of God" is one word in the Greek, meaning "God-breathed."
Thus, plenary verbal inspiration and complete divine origin and authority of all the Holy Scriptures is the true biblical doctrine. When one does accept the God-breathed authority of Scripture, however, he has an infinite resource, serving as an inerrant framework for all true wisdom and knowledge, and leading him into full maturity in the Christian life.
PRAYER; IN GRATITUDE FOR THE LABORS OF OTHERS
A hundred times a day I remind myself
that my inner and outer life depends
on the labors of other men,
living and dead,
and that I must exert myself in order
to give in the measure as I have received
and am still receiving.
Forward to your family and friends!
Want to be added to list or removed from list? Email sgw316@gmail.com and indicate to be added or removed.
God Bless You!
Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
-- Isaiah 40:31
GIVEN BY INSPIRATION
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
This passage is the most definitive of all passages on the inspiration of the Bible. It explicitly repudiates all the false concepts which men have developed to try to escape this vital doctrine.
For example, it repudiates the humanistic theory of inspiration, which says that the writers were "inspired" with the same quality of exalted feelings that inspired other great writers. But this verse attributes it not to human inspiration, but to the "inspiration of God."
Then, there is the partial theory of inspiration, which says that part of the Bible is inspired (the "religious" parts), but that part of it is not (the scientific and historical parts). But our verse says that all Scripture is inspired! The dynamic theory says the thoughts are inspired, but not the words. However, it is the Scriptures that are inspired, not the thoughts of the men who wrote them. The "Scriptures" mean the "writings"--the actual words written.
The encounter theory says the Scriptures are not inspired in themselves, but only become inspired when a reader "encounters" God through reading them. This, also, is false. The Scriptures are inspired regardless of how they affect the reader. Actually, the phrase "given by inspiration of God" is one word in the Greek, meaning "God-breathed."
Thus, plenary verbal inspiration and complete divine origin and authority of all the Holy Scriptures is the true biblical doctrine. When one does accept the God-breathed authority of Scripture, however, he has an infinite resource, serving as an inerrant framework for all true wisdom and knowledge, and leading him into full maturity in the Christian life.
PRAYER; IN GRATITUDE FOR THE LABORS OF OTHERS
A hundred times a day I remind myself
that my inner and outer life depends
on the labors of other men,
living and dead,
and that I must exert myself in order
to give in the measure as I have received
and am still receiving.
Forward to your family and friends!
Want to be added to list or removed from list? Email sgw316@gmail.com and indicate to be added or removed.
God Bless You!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
March 10, 2010 Sharing God’s Word
TODAY'S ENCOURAGING WORD
You are the light of the world - like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.
-- Matthew 5:14
APPRECIATING GOD’S CREATION
And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed. And out of the ground made the Lord God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food.
-- Genesis 2:8-9
Everything in the garden of Eden was prepared for man's enjoyment. In the time between creation and the curse, Adam and Eve no doubt fully enjoyed the vegetation (Genesis 2:5, 9, 15-16), the animals (vv. 19-20), the atmosphere and the weather (vv. 5-6), the rivers and the raw materials (vv. 10-14), each other (vv. 18, 21-25), and fellowship with God (3:8). But soon they rebelled and were driven from the beautiful garden (3:24), and ever since, mankind's ability to enjoy creation has been shackled somewhat, for creation was distorted by sin, and the eyes of each one of us have become dull. The second verse of the well-loved hymn "I Am His, and He Is Mine" describes a partial reopening of the eyes of a believer upon salvation, as a love gift from our Lord.
Heav'n above is softer blue, Earth around is sweeter green;
Something lives in ev'ry hue Christless eyes have never seen!
Birds with gladder songs o'erflow, Flowers with deeper beauties shine,
Since I know, as now I know, I am His and He is mine.
In His abundant love for His children, our Lord promises to supply all our needs once again. "Why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these" (Matthew 6:28-29). Creation's beauty waits to thrill us and instruct us. Our loving Father wills it so. But creation will be fully restored soon, and "the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing" (Isaiah 35:1-2). He beckons us to join Him in His kingdom.
PRAYER; THINK ON THESE THINGS
Think on These Things
Whatsoever things are true,
Whatsoever things are honorable,
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.
Forward to your family and friends!
Want to be added to list or removed from list? Email sgw316@gmail.com and indicate to be added or removed.
God Bless You!
You are the light of the world - like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.
-- Matthew 5:14
APPRECIATING GOD’S CREATION
And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed. And out of the ground made the Lord God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food.
-- Genesis 2:8-9
Everything in the garden of Eden was prepared for man's enjoyment. In the time between creation and the curse, Adam and Eve no doubt fully enjoyed the vegetation (Genesis 2:5, 9, 15-16), the animals (vv. 19-20), the atmosphere and the weather (vv. 5-6), the rivers and the raw materials (vv. 10-14), each other (vv. 18, 21-25), and fellowship with God (3:8). But soon they rebelled and were driven from the beautiful garden (3:24), and ever since, mankind's ability to enjoy creation has been shackled somewhat, for creation was distorted by sin, and the eyes of each one of us have become dull. The second verse of the well-loved hymn "I Am His, and He Is Mine" describes a partial reopening of the eyes of a believer upon salvation, as a love gift from our Lord.
Heav'n above is softer blue, Earth around is sweeter green;
Something lives in ev'ry hue Christless eyes have never seen!
Birds with gladder songs o'erflow, Flowers with deeper beauties shine,
Since I know, as now I know, I am His and He is mine.
In His abundant love for His children, our Lord promises to supply all our needs once again. "Why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these" (Matthew 6:28-29). Creation's beauty waits to thrill us and instruct us. Our loving Father wills it so. But creation will be fully restored soon, and "the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing" (Isaiah 35:1-2). He beckons us to join Him in His kingdom.
PRAYER; THINK ON THESE THINGS
Think on These Things
Whatsoever things are true,
Whatsoever things are honorable,
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.
Forward to your family and friends!
Want to be added to list or removed from list? Email sgw316@gmail.com and indicate to be added or removed.
God Bless You!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
March 9, 2010 Sharing God’s Word
March 9, 2010 Sharing God’s Word
TODAY'S ENCOURAGING WORD
The LORD is my light and my salvation - so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?
-- Psalm 27:1
EVERLASTING LOVE
The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving kindness have I drawn thee.
-- Jeremiah 31:3
Perhaps no doctrine in Scripture is as clearly stated as that expressed in our text and in many other passages. God loves us! His love is an "everlasting love" and compels Him to act strongly and lovingly on our behalf. "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins" (1 John 4:10). This theme finds glorious expression in the grand hymn of the last century entitled "I Am His, and He Is Mine."
Loved with everlasting love, Led by grace that love to know;
Spirit, breathing from above, Thou hast taught me it is so!
O this full and perfect peace, O this transport all divine—
In a love which cannot cease, I am His and He is mine.
Jesus prayed, "I in them, and thou in me, . . . that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am" (John 17:23-24). The Father will never allow us to part from Him or our Savior.
These precious facts are taught to us by the "inspired" (literally "God-breathed") Scriptures (2 Timothy 3:16), and "the Comforter . . . , the Spirit of truth |who| will guide |us| into all truth" (John 16:7, 13). He drew us to Himself "in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself" (Ephesians 1:4-5). "Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God" (1 John 3:1). In His grace, we come to Him, experiencing sweet forgiveness and everlasting love. Cradled in the security of His undying love, we have peace. "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee" (Isaiah 26:3).
PRAYER FOR ANIMALS
Hear our humble prayer, O God, for our friends the animals,
especially for animals who are suffering;
for animals that are overworked, underfed and cruelly treated;
for all wistful creatures in captivity that beat their wings against bars;
for any that are hunted or lost or deserted or frightened or hungry;
for all that must be put death.
We entreat for them all Thy mercy and pity,
and for those who deal with them we ask a heart of compassion
and gentle hands and kindly words.
Make us, ourselves, to be true friends to animals,
and so to share the blessings of the merciful.
Forward to your family and friends!
Want to be added to list or removed from list? Email sgw316@gmail.com and indicate to be added or removed.
God Bless You!
TODAY'S ENCOURAGING WORD
The LORD is my light and my salvation - so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?
-- Psalm 27:1
EVERLASTING LOVE
The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving kindness have I drawn thee.
-- Jeremiah 31:3
Perhaps no doctrine in Scripture is as clearly stated as that expressed in our text and in many other passages. God loves us! His love is an "everlasting love" and compels Him to act strongly and lovingly on our behalf. "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins" (1 John 4:10). This theme finds glorious expression in the grand hymn of the last century entitled "I Am His, and He Is Mine."
Loved with everlasting love, Led by grace that love to know;
Spirit, breathing from above, Thou hast taught me it is so!
O this full and perfect peace, O this transport all divine—
In a love which cannot cease, I am His and He is mine.
Jesus prayed, "I in them, and thou in me, . . . that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am" (John 17:23-24). The Father will never allow us to part from Him or our Savior.
These precious facts are taught to us by the "inspired" (literally "God-breathed") Scriptures (2 Timothy 3:16), and "the Comforter . . . , the Spirit of truth |who| will guide |us| into all truth" (John 16:7, 13). He drew us to Himself "in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself" (Ephesians 1:4-5). "Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God" (1 John 3:1). In His grace, we come to Him, experiencing sweet forgiveness and everlasting love. Cradled in the security of His undying love, we have peace. "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee" (Isaiah 26:3).
PRAYER FOR ANIMALS
Hear our humble prayer, O God, for our friends the animals,
especially for animals who are suffering;
for animals that are overworked, underfed and cruelly treated;
for all wistful creatures in captivity that beat their wings against bars;
for any that are hunted or lost or deserted or frightened or hungry;
for all that must be put death.
We entreat for them all Thy mercy and pity,
and for those who deal with them we ask a heart of compassion
and gentle hands and kindly words.
Make us, ourselves, to be true friends to animals,
and so to share the blessings of the merciful.
Forward to your family and friends!
Want to be added to list or removed from list? Email sgw316@gmail.com and indicate to be added or removed.
God Bless You!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
March 2, 2010 Sharing God’s Word
March 2, 2010 Sharing God’s Word
TODAY'S ENCOURAGING WORD
The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.
--Proverbs 12:22
PERSONAL GREETINGS
Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren which are with them.
-- Romans 16:14
An interesting phenomenon occurs in the closing chapter of many of Paul's epistles, which may at first seem incongruous with the biblical doctrine of plenary verbal inspiration. This phenomenon is the recital of various names of individuals--people in the churches from which, or to which, he was writing. Most of them are people about whom we know nothing except their names, as listed by Paul. There are 11 people mentioned by name in Colossians 4:7-17. In Paul's final epistle to Timothy, right after he had written the great passage on the inspiration of the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16-17), he mentioned no less than 18 names. In the last chapter of Romans is listed 35 names, five of which are included in the one short verse of our text!
The question is, why did the Holy Spirit inspire Paul to include so many personal names of people who were of only local interest, in epistles which God intended to be used by Christians everywhere? And, of course, these lists of names are dwarfed in comparison to the very extensive lists in the Old Testament (e.g., Numbers 7 and 26).
Perhaps the main reason for their permanent inscripturation in this fashion is simply to illustrate the great truth that God knows and cares about every one of His children. We do know that each of our names is written in "the book of life of the Lamb" and in God's "book of remembrance . . . for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name" (Revelation 13:8; Malachi 3:16). Perhaps, as a small token and assurance of these great lists in heaven, God has listed a few of these names in His Book here on earth. They were ordinary people just like us, and it will be our privilege, as Paul instructs in our text, to "salute Asyncritus" when we can, and all the other believers who have gone before us!
PRAYER; DELIVER US FROM FEAR
O Lord, we beseech thee to deliver us from the fear of the unknown future; from fear of failure; from fear of poverty; from fear of bereavement; from fear of loneliness; from fear of sickness and pain; from fear of age; from fear of death. Help us, O Father, by thy grace to love and fear thee only, fill our hearts with cheerful courage and loving trust in thee; through our Lord and Master Jesus Christ.
Forward to your family and friends!
Want to be added to list or removed from list? Email sgw316@gmail.com and indicate to be added or removed.
God Bless You!
TODAY'S ENCOURAGING WORD
The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.
--Proverbs 12:22
PERSONAL GREETINGS
Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren which are with them.
-- Romans 16:14
An interesting phenomenon occurs in the closing chapter of many of Paul's epistles, which may at first seem incongruous with the biblical doctrine of plenary verbal inspiration. This phenomenon is the recital of various names of individuals--people in the churches from which, or to which, he was writing. Most of them are people about whom we know nothing except their names, as listed by Paul. There are 11 people mentioned by name in Colossians 4:7-17. In Paul's final epistle to Timothy, right after he had written the great passage on the inspiration of the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16-17), he mentioned no less than 18 names. In the last chapter of Romans is listed 35 names, five of which are included in the one short verse of our text!
The question is, why did the Holy Spirit inspire Paul to include so many personal names of people who were of only local interest, in epistles which God intended to be used by Christians everywhere? And, of course, these lists of names are dwarfed in comparison to the very extensive lists in the Old Testament (e.g., Numbers 7 and 26).
Perhaps the main reason for their permanent inscripturation in this fashion is simply to illustrate the great truth that God knows and cares about every one of His children. We do know that each of our names is written in "the book of life of the Lamb" and in God's "book of remembrance . . . for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name" (Revelation 13:8; Malachi 3:16). Perhaps, as a small token and assurance of these great lists in heaven, God has listed a few of these names in His Book here on earth. They were ordinary people just like us, and it will be our privilege, as Paul instructs in our text, to "salute Asyncritus" when we can, and all the other believers who have gone before us!
PRAYER; DELIVER US FROM FEAR
O Lord, we beseech thee to deliver us from the fear of the unknown future; from fear of failure; from fear of poverty; from fear of bereavement; from fear of loneliness; from fear of sickness and pain; from fear of age; from fear of death. Help us, O Father, by thy grace to love and fear thee only, fill our hearts with cheerful courage and loving trust in thee; through our Lord and Master Jesus Christ.
Forward to your family and friends!
Want to be added to list or removed from list? Email sgw316@gmail.com and indicate to be added or removed.
God Bless You!
Monday, March 1, 2010
March 1, 2010 Sharing God’s Word
March 1, 2010 Sharing God’s Word
TODAY'S ENCOURAGING WORD
Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives.
-- Galatians 5:25
WALK BEFORE ME
I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.
-- Genesis 17:1
Abraham had been "walking" in the land of Canaan nearly 25 years when God gave this command to him. He had experienced the shameful rebuke in Egypt by Pharaoh and a marvelous victory against Chedorlaomer--and then had demonstrated both humility and obedience before Melchizedek.
God had been explicit in His promises to Abraham, but the promised heir had not yet come. Now, in spite of the awful lapse of faith with Hagar and the nagging burden of Ishmael, God insisted that Abraham "walk before" Him and "be perfect."
The Hebrew language here is unusual. The word translated "before me" is panyim, basically meaning "the face." This is the term used in the first commandment where we are told to "have no other gods before me" (Exodus 20:3).
In Genesis 17:1, the phrase could well be translated "walk, looking at my face." The first commandment, could also be translated "don't let any other god get between your face and my face."
The implication is obvious. God expects us to live in such a way that His "face" (Person, Character, Presence) is always "before" us so that our "walk" (lifestyle, behavior) is "perfect" (complete, whole, healthy), with nothing inhibiting the relationship "of him with whom we have to do" (Hebrews 4:13).
"Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations" (Genesis 6:9). After warning Israel of the dangers of the pagan nations surrounding them, Moses still insisted that they should "be perfect with the LORD thy God" (Deuteronomy 18:13). No matter what the circumstances may be, if we are looking at God's "face" we will walk perfectly.
PRAYER; SALUTATION TO THE DAWN
Look to this day!
For it is life, the very life of life.
In its brief course
Lie all the verities and realities of your existence:
The bliss of growth;
The glory of action;
The splendor of achievement;
For yesterday is but a dream,
And tomorrow is only a vision;
But today, well lived, makes every yesterday
a dream of happiness,
And every tomorrow a vision of hope.
Forward to your family and friends!
Want to be added to list or removed from list? Email sgw316@gmail.com and indicate to be added or removed.
God Bless You!
TODAY'S ENCOURAGING WORD
Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives.
-- Galatians 5:25
WALK BEFORE ME
I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.
-- Genesis 17:1
Abraham had been "walking" in the land of Canaan nearly 25 years when God gave this command to him. He had experienced the shameful rebuke in Egypt by Pharaoh and a marvelous victory against Chedorlaomer--and then had demonstrated both humility and obedience before Melchizedek.
God had been explicit in His promises to Abraham, but the promised heir had not yet come. Now, in spite of the awful lapse of faith with Hagar and the nagging burden of Ishmael, God insisted that Abraham "walk before" Him and "be perfect."
The Hebrew language here is unusual. The word translated "before me" is panyim, basically meaning "the face." This is the term used in the first commandment where we are told to "have no other gods before me" (Exodus 20:3).
In Genesis 17:1, the phrase could well be translated "walk, looking at my face." The first commandment, could also be translated "don't let any other god get between your face and my face."
The implication is obvious. God expects us to live in such a way that His "face" (Person, Character, Presence) is always "before" us so that our "walk" (lifestyle, behavior) is "perfect" (complete, whole, healthy), with nothing inhibiting the relationship "of him with whom we have to do" (Hebrews 4:13).
"Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations" (Genesis 6:9). After warning Israel of the dangers of the pagan nations surrounding them, Moses still insisted that they should "be perfect with the LORD thy God" (Deuteronomy 18:13). No matter what the circumstances may be, if we are looking at God's "face" we will walk perfectly.
PRAYER; SALUTATION TO THE DAWN
Look to this day!
For it is life, the very life of life.
In its brief course
Lie all the verities and realities of your existence:
The bliss of growth;
The glory of action;
The splendor of achievement;
For yesterday is but a dream,
And tomorrow is only a vision;
But today, well lived, makes every yesterday
a dream of happiness,
And every tomorrow a vision of hope.
Forward to your family and friends!
Want to be added to list or removed from list? Email sgw316@gmail.com and indicate to be added or removed.
God Bless You!
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