Wednesday February 29, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Holiness is not the way to Christ, Christ is the way to holiness-

2-There is absolutely nothing we can do to make God love us more-

3-Some may see a hopeless end, but as Christians we have an endless hope-

4-It is a great thing to do little things well-

5-God comforts us to make us comforters, not comfortable-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Women and cats will do as they please, men and boys should relax and get used to it-

I'VE LEARNED-As we grow up, we realize it becomes less important to have more fiends and more important to have real ones-

DID YOU KNOW-The Civil War was the first war in which news from the front was published within hours of its occurrence-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-When did Christianity first reach the oriental people?

2-Why did Islam grow so fast in its early years?

3-What is so appealing about Islam to people that it is the fastest growing religion in the world?

4-Does Christianity appeal most to those who have much of the worlds goods or those considered poor?

5-What was "Deism"?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What faithful woman did Elisha warn of a coming famine?

Yesterday's answer-The widow of Zarephath 1 kings 17:16

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 4:6-7

⁶ Since you are God's children, God sent the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, and the Spirit cries out, "Father."⁷ So now you are not a slave; you are God's child, and God will give you the blessing he promised, because you are his child.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, I thank You for Jesus who entered the Courtroom of Justice with me as I sought favor with You. I went to relinquish my sins but I had no defense or gift to offer in exchange for them. I entered the Courtroom dressed in my very best as I presented to You my righteous acts one by one, but I quickly realized they were seen as filthy, crimson rags. They were like leaves that shrivel up when detached from the vine.

But then Your Son, Jesus, my Advocate, took His robe of righteousness and lovingly placed it over my heavy shoulders. It was at that glorious moment that You looked away from my filthy, crimson rags that Jesus removed and You looked upon my new robe of righteousness. I was able to give You nothing but a heart full of crimson stains but You exchanged it for a surrendered heart that is now white as snow. I am wholly grateful that when You look at me You see Jesus’ righteousness. He paid the full price, He paid it all. I owe Him everything and it will take all my days here and throughout eternity to express my love and gratitude for His incomparable love and sacrifice toward me. Amen.

LIVE SIMPLY! LOVE GENEROUSLY! CARE DEEPLY! SPEAK KINDLY! LEAVE THE REST WITH GOD!!

Tuesday February 28, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Laughter is a tranquilizer with no bad side affects-

2-God can mend a broken heart but you have to give him all the pieces-

3-You may be old, but don't stop growing-

4-The soul would have no rainbow if the eye had no tear-

5-You don't have the right to criticize if you don't have a heart to help-

STRANGE THOUGHT-I talk to myself because I like talking to a better class of people-

I'VE LEARNED-You can change the pictures of your life's story-

DID YOU KNOW-The first aerial photograph was taken from a balloon during the Civil War-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-How could God himself place part of the "Godhead" into a baby's body?

2-Why do we call Jesus the "son of man" and not the "son of Mary"?

3-Were the natures of Jesus separate and complete or inseparable but unconfused?

4-What was the "Nestorianism teaching"?

5-How far east did the Christian church spread?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who was given a miraculous supply of food by the prophet Elijah?

Yesterday's answer-Eve--actually, she was ashamed of her lack of clothing Genesis 3:7

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 4:1-5

¹ I want to tell you this: While those who will inherit their fathers' property are still children, they are no different from slaves. It does not matter that the children own everything. ² While they are children, they must obey those who are chosen to care for them. But when the children reach the age set by their fathers, they are free.³ It is the same for us. We were once like children, slaves to the useless rules of this world.⁴ But when the right time came, God sent his Son who was born of a woman and lived under the law.⁵ God did this so he could buy freedom for those who were under the law and so we could become his children.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, Your Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. Without it we would walk in darkness and be led astray. We want to give attention to Your Word and follow its instruction so that we will not drift from the truth. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

GREATLY BLESSED, HIGHLY FAVORED, IMPERFECT BUT FORGIVEN CHILD OF GOD!!!

Monday February 27, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY

1-You will never starve if you feed on the promises of God-

2-The heart of the problem is often the problem of the heart-

3-To get out of a difficulty you usually have to go through it-

4-Praise is more spontaneous when things go right, but it is more precious when thing go wrong-

5-Those who live in the Lord never see each other for the last time-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Talk is cheap because supply exceeds demand-

I'VE LEARNED-No one can be everything to another person-

DID YOU KNOW-John Hancock was the only one of fifty signatories of the Declaration of Independence who actually signed it in July-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-If Jesus was both God and man, does that mean he was a composite of the two-

2-Did Jesus' divinity overpower his humanity or vice versa?

3-Did Jesus have two personalities, one divine and one human-

4-Did God have to assume humanity in Jesus in order to save us from sin and death?

5-Is it correct to call Mary "the mother of God"?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who was the first woman to be ashamed of her clothing-

Yesterday's answer-The witch of Endor 1 Samuel 28:25

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 3:26-29

^26-27 You were all baptized into Christ, and so you were all clothed with Christ. This means that you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus.²⁸ In Christ, there is no difference between Jew and Greek, slave and free person, male and female. You are all the same in Christ Jesus.²⁹ You belong to Christ, so you are Abraham's descendants. You will inherit all of God's blessings because of the promise God made to Abraham.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Jesus, when I lean on my own understanding I fall prey to the natural man and limit the work of the supernatural. But when I trust You with all my heart I leave no room for second guessing. Today I want to acknowledge Your presence in every area of my life…family, work, relationships, my alone times. You will bring to pass the divine plans You have for me as You direct me in all my ways. Amen.

GREATLY BLESSED, HIGHLY FAVORED, IMPERFECT BUT FORGIVEN CHILD OF GOD!!!

Sunday February 26, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-The point of having an open mind is to close it on something solid-

2-God cannot give you happiness and peace apart from himself because it doesn't exist-

3-Time and words cannot be recalled so use both wisely-

4-You always have time for the things you put first-

5-May you never miss a rainbow or a sunset because you were looking down-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Be perfectly imperfect-

I'VE LEARNED-How you say something is as important as what you say-

DID YOU KNOW-Morocco was the first country to recognize the United States in 1789-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why has Christianity split into so many different views?

2-Of what benefit were the Christian monasteries?

3-Did Jesus have a human soul, a human mind and a human will?

4-What have been the 3 most contentious doctrinal disputes in Christian history?

5-Did God ever intend for Christianity (his church) to become so fragmented?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who was the last woman to have dinner with King Saul?

Yesterday's answer- Abigail 1 Samuel 25:36-42

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 3:23-25

²³ Before this faith came, we were all held prisoners by the law. We had no freedom until God showed us the way of faith that was coming.²⁴ In other words, the law was our guardian leading us to Christ so that we could be made right with God through faith.²⁵ Now the way of faith has come, and we no longer live under a guardian.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, I lay my sins on Jesus, the spotless Lamb of God. Thank You for bearing them all and freeing me from the accuser’s condemnation. I confess my sins to You, both big and small, so that my crimson stains are washed white in the blood of the sinless Lamb of God and not a stain remains. Thank You for being the Sin bearer that redeems me from the slimy pit of mud and mire. You are the Solid Rock on which I firmly stand. You are faithful and just and forgive me of my sins and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. You put a new song in my mouth and a hymn of praise and thanksgiving for Your wondrous love and forgiveness. Thank You in Jesus’ name. Amen.

I WISH YOU ENOUGH---

Saturday February 25, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-He who finds no faults in himself needs a second opinion-

2-Problems often bring discouragement but can be motivating-

3-Worry is interest paid on trouble before it comes due-

4-Thank God every day you have something to do that day which must be done whether you like it or not-

5-A word of encouragement does wonders-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Most of us can read the writing on the wall, we just assume it is addressed to someone else-

I'VE LEARNED-More people will pay attention to your opinion if you present it in a non confrontational manner-

DID YOU KNOW-During the American Revolution, many brides used to wear the color red instead of white as a symbol of rebellion-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-What influence did Saint Augustine have on western Christianity?

2-What is the relationship of Jesus' divinity to his humanity?

3-What early church father had the most impressive philosophical intellect in the history of Christian theology?

4-Why did the difference in eastern and western Christianity happen?

5-Is "predestination" really a biblical theological concept?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who married David after her stupid husband died out of fear?

Yesterday's answer-Michal 2 Samuel 25:36-42

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 3:21-22

²¹ Does this mean that the law is against God's promises? Never! That would be true only if the law could make us right with God. But God did not give a law that can bring life. ²² Instead, the Scriptures showed that the whole world is bound by sin. This was so the promise would be given through faith to people who believe in Jesus Christ.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, our faith rests in the finished work of Jesus at Calvary. Because of His tremendous sacrifice our sins are forgiven and a place is reserved for us in heaven. We also find rest from our unending troubles in this life as we respond to Jesus’ invitation: “Come to Me all who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest.” Help us to look to You for needed strength and an overcoming spirit as we daily encounter challenges and ongoing burdens. Our burdens can be lifted at Calvary for that is where Jesus bore not only our sins but also our sorrows. Praise be to You, our Father in heaven, who daily bears our burdens. Amen.

I WISH YOU A DAY FILLED WITH LOVE, LAUGHTER, FORGIVENESS AND THANKSGIVING-

Friday February 24, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-In most religions good works are done "in order to", in Christianity good works are "therefore"-

2-Without God's grace, we cannot come to him or continue in him-

3-Those of us who have heard the gospel untold times must beware lest we become gospel hardened-

4-Don't let yesterday's failures bankrupt today's efforts-

5-Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Sometimes when you hold out for everything you end up with nothing-

I'VE LEARNED-You speak loudest through your actions-

DID YOU KNOW-The $8 bill was designed and printed by Benjamin Franklin for the American Colonies-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Did the early church fathers do more for the Christian faith than even the apostles?

2-How do you best explain the "Trinity"?

3-Did Jesus ever proclaim the "Trinity"?

4-Who was the greatest theologian of Christian thought?

5-What is the relation between "grace" and human "freedom of choice"?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What wife of King David had no children because she had criticized her husband's jubilant dancing?

Yesterday's answer-Hannah 1 Samuel 2:21

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 3:19-20

¹⁹ So what was the law for? It was given to show that the wrong things people do are against God's will. And it continued until the special descendant, who had been promised, came. The law was given through angels who used Moses for a mediator to give the law to people.²⁰ But a mediator is not needed when there is only one side, and God is only one.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, because of our human nature we are often drawn to activities and things that have no lasting or eternal value. But we want to earnestly pursue those opportunities which help us to honor You and keep us grounded in the life You have instructed us to live. A half hearted believer is torn between serving You and the world, so help us to be wholehearted in following You. Then we will be more and more passionate about our walk with You which will naturally turn our eyes away from worthless things. Thank You for preserving our lives not only here, but for all eternity! Amen.

I WISH YOU A DAY FILLED WITH LOVE, LAUGHTER, FORGIVENESS AND THANKSGIVING-

Thurday February 23, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-The covetous person is never satisfied-

2-You can't keep the birds from flying over your head but you can keep them from building a nest in your hair-

3-Set your heart on God and your spirit will soar-

4-The Bible has basically two elements, law and gospel. Unless we get the proper relationship we will not find ourselves in a right relationship with God-

5-While God's laws are not just good advice, the basic message of the whole Bible taken together is that God had an amazing announcement to make to each of us, that of the birth of Jesus the Savior-

STRANGE THOUGHT-The best way to avoid dying from medical care is to avoid medical care-

I'VE LEARNED-True friendship, like everything else worthwhile requires work-

DID YOU KNOW-When the Titanic sank, there were seventy five hundred pounds of ham on it-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Does God want to hear you complaining?

2-What is our point of greatest need?

3-Why is it hard to pray for and accept miracles for ourselves-

4-What was the contribution of the apostolic fathers to the Christian faith?

5-Who were the "Apologists" and what did they do?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who had three sons and two daughters after giving up her first son to serve the Lord at Shiloh?

Yesterday's answer-Ruth 4:15

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 3:15-18

¹⁵ Brothers and sisters, let us think in human terms: Even an agreement made between two persons is firm. After that agreement is accepted by both people, no one can stop it or add anything to it.¹⁶ God made promises both to Abraham and to his descendant. God did not say, "and to your descendants." That would mean many people. But God said, "and to your descendant." That means only one person; that person is Christ.¹⁷ This is what I mean: God had an agreement with Abraham and promised to keep it. The law, which came four hundred thirty years later, cannot change that agreement and so destroy God's promise to Abraham.¹⁸ If the law could give us Abraham's blessing, then the promise would not be necessary. But that is not possible, because God freely gave his blessings to Abraham through the promise he had made.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, I thank You for the marvelous transaction that took place when You delivered me from the domain of darkness and transferred me into the kingdom of Your Son in whom I have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. There is no earthly transaction that will ever bring about such a major change in my life or affect my future such as Your mighty deliverance. I was lost without hope, but now, because of Your transfer I am gloriously found and kept by Your grace. Praise be to Your name! Amen.

I WISH YOU A DAY FILLED WITH LOVE, LAUGHTER, FORGIVENESS AND THANKSGIVING-

Wednesday February 22, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-When your back is to the wall put your knees on the floor-

2-Being nice is not always being loving-

3-Covetousness is the inordinate desire for the things of this world-

4-Ambition is the God given desire to be the best person you can be-

5-"Thou shall not covet" commandment deals with the internal workings of the heart-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Men socialize by insulting each other but don't really mean it, women socialize by complimenting each other and don't really mean it either-

I'VE LEARNED-Genuine friendship requires time, trust and vulnerability-

DID YOU KNOW-Two dogs were among the Titanic survivors-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Who were the "apostolic fathers"?

2-Does God want all your money or your willingness to give what he prompts you to give-

3-Is God concerned how much you give or how much you have left?

4-How do we know if we are living a "holy life"?

5-Did Jesus ever fail at anything?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who was better to her widowed mother in law than any seven sons could be?

Yesterday's answer-Deborah Judges 5:31

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 3:11-14

¹¹ Now it is clear that no one can be made right with God by the law, because the Scriptures say, "Those who are right with God will live by faith." ¹² The law is not based on faith. It says, "A person who obeys these things will live because of them." ¹³ Christ took away the curse the law put on us. He changed places with us and put himself under that curse. It is written in the Scriptures, "Anyone whose body is displayed on a tree is cursed." ¹⁴ Christ did this so that God's blessing promised to Abraham might come through Jesus Christ to those who are not Jews. Jesus died so that by our believing we could receive the Spirit that God promised.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, we want to continue to live in You; our faith being rooted and built up in You and strengthened through teaching from the Holy Scriptures and from following the example of godly believers. Help us to be faithful in our walk, in our talk, in our actions, and in expanding our spiritual knowledge so that we will walk in a manner that pleases You and honors Your holy name. Amen .

I WISH YOU A DAY FILLED WITH LOVE, LAUGHTER, FORGIVENESS AND THANKSGIVING-

Tuesday February 21, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-A perfect heart is one that holds nothing back from God-

2-God takes care of his own possessions-

3-Those who fail do so because they wait for things to happen and those who succeed do so because they make things happen-

4-Some of God's greatest gifts are unanswered prayers-

5-When the worst is thrown at you, the best of God is developed in you-

STRANGE THOUGHT-The minute you settle for less than you deserve you get even less than you settled for-

I'VE LEARNED-Most of life's choices are not between good and bad but between good and best-

DID YOU KNOW-The Titanic was running at twenty two knots when it hit the iceberg-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Do many Christians have a clear understanding of the theological terms of their Christian faith?

2-How do you explain that Jesus is God?

3-What is the nature of Jesus' divine status in relation to God?

4-Did Jesus make it clear who He, the Father and the Holy Spirit were?

5-What does "only begotten son" mean?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What woman has such an influential life that Israel had forty years of peace?

Yesterday's answer-Lydia Acts 16:14

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 3:6-10

⁶ The Scriptures say the same thing about Abraham: "Abraham believed God, and God accepted Abraham's faith, and that faith made him right with God."⁷ So you should know that the true children of Abraham are those who have faith.⁸ The Scriptures, telling what would happen in the future, said that God would make the non-Jewish people right through their faith. This Good News was told to Abraham beforehand, as the Scripture says: "All nations will be blessed through you."⁹ So all who believe as Abraham believed are blessed just as Abraham was.¹⁰ But those who depend on following the law to make them right are under a curse, because the Scriptures say, "Anyone will be cursed who does not always obey what is written in the Book of the Law."

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, I confess that Jesus is my Savior. And because I do so, I am confident that Jesus will acknowledge me in heaven as Your child. And as a child of God there are sacrifices You ask of me here on earth; most especially a surrendered will so that I follow You and obey You no matter the cost. I can’t do this in my own strength but You will help me. Circumstances will test me yet I will not be confounded. I am resolute in remaining faithful so that my faith will grow and my Christian walk will be strengthened. I will not be ashamed but rather glory in the cross of Christ.

I WISH YOU A DAY FILLED WITH LOVE, LAUGHTER, FORGIVENESS AND THANKSGIVING-

Monday February 20, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Most of us won't change our ways until we hurt so much that we must-

2-A perfect heart is one that holds nothing back from God-

3-God takes care of his own possessions-

4-Those who fail do so because they wait for things to happen and those who succeed do so because they make things happen-

5-Some of God's greatest gifts are unanswered prayers-

STRANGE THOUGHT-When you do not live by faith you live faithlessly-

I'VE LEARNED-Keep your eyes on the master not the pastor-

DID YOU KNOW-The Titanic's radio call sign was "MGY".

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-How early did false teacher appear in Christianity?

2-What is the Coptic orthodox church?

3-Why are there so many divergent views on the nature of Jesus?

4-Why did it take hundreds of years for Christians to understand so many things about Jesus?

5-Why are there so many disagreements among Christians regarding many of the most basic elements of their faith?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What wealthy woman made her living by selling purple dye?

Yesterday's answer-Bathsheba 1 Kings 2:20

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 3:1-5

¹ You people in Galatia were told very clearly about the death of Jesus Christ on the cross. But you were foolish; you let someone trick you.² Tell me this one thing: How did you receive the Holy Spirit? Did you receive the Spirit by following the law? No, you received the Spirit because you heard the Good News and believed it.³ You began your life in Christ by the Spirit. Now are you trying to make it complete by your own power? That is foolish.⁴ Were all your experiences wasted? I hope not!⁵ Does God give you the Spirit and work miracles among you because you follow the law? No, he does these things because you heard the Good News and believed it.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, along with the Psalmist David, we pray for relief from our distress. We pray that the light of Your face would shine upon us, for You have filled our hearts with greater joy than when grain and new wine abound. You give us a sense of security when we lie down so that we can sleep in peace; for You alone, O Lord, make us dwell in safety. We lie down and sleep and we wake again, because You sustain us. We will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against us on every side. From You, O God, comes deliverance and You shower Your blessings upon Your people. Thank You for caring for us, for sustaining us, and for providing for us. Amen.

I WISH YOU A DAY FILLED WITH LOVE, LAUGHTER, FORGIVENESS AND THANKSGIVING-

Sunday February 12, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-If you do not learn from your past you are doomed to repeat it-

2-People will be governed by God or ruled by tyrants-

3-I may have done what you said I did, but I am not what you said I am-

4-Too many of us have huge rear view mirrors and only tiny windshields-

5-The size of your vision says a lot about the size of your God-

STRANGE THOUGHT-If athletes get athlete's feet, what do astronauts get?-missile toe?

I'VE LEARNED-People like people who like what they like-

DID YOU KNOW-The Titanic had four engines-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Was the gift of speaking in tongues given at Pentecost just so the Jews at Jerusalem could hear Galileans speak the gospel to them?

2-Did early Christian believers pray in tongues?

3-When was the office of Bishop established by the church?

4-Was it wrong for the first century Christians to believe that Jesus' return was imminent?

5-Why do we not study the person and writings of the early church fathers?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who asked her royal son to surrender his father's concubine to another son?

Yesterday's answer-Naomi Ruth 1:19-21

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 2:17-21

¹⁷ We Jews came to Christ, trying to be made right with God, and it became clear that we are sinners, too. Does this mean that Christ encourages sin? No!¹⁸ But I would really be wrong to begin teaching again those things that I gave up.¹⁹ It was the law that put me to death, and I died to the law so that I can now live for God.²⁰ I was put to death on the cross with Christ, and I do not live anymore—it is Christ who lives in me. I still live in my body, but I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself to save me.²¹ By saying these things I am not going against God's grace. Just the opposite, if the law could make us right with God, then Christ's death would be useless.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, we pray that You will empower us to live responsible lives so that we can be living examples of what it means to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. Help us to resist temptations that weaken our resolve to live holy lives by memorizing and quoting Scripture that speaks to that sinful behavior, even while we’re being tempted. We desire to bring joy to Your heart as we live responsibly and cast off that which hinders our spiritual growth. We want to seek first Your Kingdom and Your righteousness so that we will be kingdom servants pursuing righteous living. In the name of Your Son, Jesus, we pray. Amen.

I WISH YOU A DAY FILLED WITH LOVE, LAUGHTER, FORGIVENESS AND THANKSGIVING-

Saturday February 18, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-The person with a fiery temper never sets the world on fire-

2-Wisdom is knowing what is worth knowing and doing what is worth doing-

3-Life's greatest blessing is a loving friend-

4-The person with an imagination is never alone-

5-In matters of style swim with the current but in matters of principle stand like a rock-

STRANGE THOUGHT-How can the universe be constantly expanding-

I'VE LEARNED-Don't waste your sufferings-

DID YOU KNOW-Each anchor link on the Titanic was about 175 pounds-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Jesus said the Holy Spirit would lead the disciples "into all truth". What was he saying?

2-Were the disciples praying for or just waiting for the Holy Spirit in the upper room?

3-Are all the signs displayed at Pentecost for Christians today?

4-After their Pentecostal experience what did the disciples do with their gift of speaking in tongues?

5-Did all of Jesus' disciples speak in tongues?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who called herself Marah, a name meaning bitter?

Yesterday's answer-Priscilla Acts 18:2, 24-26

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 2:15-16

¹⁵ We were not born as non-Jewish "sinners," but as Jews.¹⁶ Yet we know that a person is made right with God not by following the law, but by trusting in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus, that we might be made right with God because we trusted in Christ. It is not because we followed the law, because no one can be made right with God by following the law.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, Your Word indicates the way we interact with those outside the faith will have a positive or a negative influence on whether they choose to follow You. There appears to be no neutral mode in our lives, for we do not live unto ourselves, but regularly give account for our actions and attitudes daily. Inconsistency and double standards have long been a trap Satan has set so that the world will point their accusatory finger and cry, “Hypocrite!” Sadly, it is often a true characterization. May we, as Your disciples, be faithful in our walk and consistent in our talk as we serve You at home, in the workplace, in our churches, and in our sphere of influence. We do not want to bring disgrace on the holy name of Jesus, but we want to honor His name as we glorify You in all we do. It is in Jesus’ holy name that we pray. Amen.

GREATLY BLESSED, HIGHLY FAVORED, IMPERFECT BUT FORGIVEN CHILD OF GOD!!!

Friday February 17, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-We don't inherit the land from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children-

2-One person with faith is a mountain mover-

3-We do not see things as they are, we see things as we are-

4-Generosity is doing something nice for someone who will never find out about it or cannot return the favor-

5-When you are good at making excuses you are seldom good at anything else-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Is it possible to determine the center of the universe?

I'VE LEARNED-Debt helps you appreciate wealth-

DID YOU KNOW-A B-25 bomber airplane crashed into the seventy ninth floor of the Empire Sate Building in July 28, 1945-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Is there any connection to Peter denying Jesus 3 times and later Jesus asking Peter 3 times if he loves him?

2-After Jesus' crucifixion, where did the disciples go?

3-Did Jesus give his disciples his own power to forgive sins?

4-How would Jesus have "breathed" the Holy Spirit on his disciples?

5-How could Jesus have sent the Holy Spirit to earth after his departure from the earth?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What Jewish Christian woman had lived at Rome, Corinth, and Ephesus?

Yesterday's answer - Jehosheba, Joash's aunt 2 Kings 11:2-3

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 2:11-14

¹¹ When Peter came to Antioch, I challenged him to his face, because he was wrong.¹² Peter ate with the non-Jewish people until some Jewish people sent from James came to Antioch. When they arrived, Peter stopped eating with those who weren't Jewish, and he separated himself from them. He was afraid of the Jews.¹³ So Peter was a hypocrite, as were the other Jewish believers who joined with him. Even Barnabas was influenced by what these Jewish believers did.¹⁴ When I saw they were not following the truth of the Good News, I spoke to Peter in front of them all. I said, "Peter, you are a Jew, but you are not living like a Jew. You are living like those who are not Jewish. So why do you now try to force those who are not Jewish to live like Jews?"

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, when we examine the Scriptures we see how good you are. Just as we engage our physical senses in tasting food we engage our spiritual senses in learning who You are and how You guide us by Your Spirit. Though we cannot see You, our spirit senses the work You’re doing in our life. Though we cannot hear You, You lead us through Your commands in Scripture. Though we cannot feel You, we are warmed by Your loving words expressed in the Bible. Though we cannot touch You we feel the extension of Your love as You work on our behalf. Your scent is present in the very air that we breathe and the beauty of Your creation that surrounds us everyday. Your words are sweet to our taste as we hunger for your goodness. May we in turn offer up a sweet smelling sacrifice that is pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

GREATLY BLESSED, HIGHLY FAVORED, IMPERFECT BUT FORGIVEN CHILD OF GOD!!!

Thursday February 16, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-The US constitution guarantees the pursuit of happiness but you have to catch it yourself-

2-Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned-

3-Those who are the quickest to make a promise are often the least faithful in keeping it-

4-One person with courage is a majority-

5-We find comfort from those who agree with us and growth from those who don't-

STRANGE THOUGHT- A clear conscience is sometimes the product of a clouded memory-

I'VE LEARNED-Failure helps you appreciate success-

DID YOU KNOW -Hershey bars were used overseas during WW II as currency-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why are the Gospel's story of the empty tomb all different?

2-What is "Hades", "sheol"?

3-Is Hades different from hell?

4-If upon death Jesus went into "Hades" what was it for?

5-If Jesus evangelized the dead in Hades, does that mean the dead have another chance to salvation?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What courageous woman risked her life to keep her royal nephew alive?

Yesterday's answer-Jedidah 2 Kings 22:1

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 2:6-10

⁶ Those leaders who seemed to be important did not change the Good News that I preach. (It doesn't matter to me if they were "important" or not. To God everyone is the same.)⁷ But these leaders saw that I had been given the work of telling the Good News to those who are not Jewish, just as Peter had the work of telling the Jews.⁸ God gave Peter the power to work as an apostle for the Jewish people. But he also gave me the power to work as an apostle for those who are not Jews.⁹ James, Peter, and John, who seemed to be the leaders, understood that God had given me this special grace, so they accepted Barnabas and me. They agreed that they would go to the Jewish people and that we should go to those who are not Jewish.¹⁰ The only thing they asked us was to remember to help the poor—something I really wanted to do.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, Your love for us is most visible in the great sacrifice You made in giving us Your only Son to die for our sins. John writes, “God is love” and it is Your love for us that shows us how to love one another. The love we have for our spouse doesn’t always bring about a warm, fuzzy feeling but at times is costly requiring great sacrifice. Help us to take our vows seriously and carry out that which we promise so that our tested love becomes an enduring love. As we do so, we honor the sacrament of marriage that You ordained, we honor our spouse, we are an example to others especially our children, and we fulfill the Scriptural command to be faithful to our mate.

GREATLY BLESSED, HIGHLY FAVORED, IMPERFECT BUT FORGIVEN CHILD OF GOD!!!

Wednesday February 15, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Hold yourself to a higher standard than anyone else expects of you-

2-Admitting you are wrong is saying you are wiser today than you were yesterday-

3-Don't judge those who try and fail, those who fail to try are judged already-

4-Don't count the days, make the days count-

5-Courage is doing what you are afraid to do-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Is it possible to determine the center of the earth?

I'VE LEARNED-Sickness helps you appreciate health-

DID YOU KNOW-During WW II, the Navaho language was used successfully as a code by the United States-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-What was Judas Iscariot's motive for betraying Jesus?

2-What does "synoptic gospels" mean and what are they?

3-Why did God chose to reveal himself among the least of men?

4-Why did Jesus chose to reappear after his resurrection first to the women among his followers?

5-Was Jesus' tomb more like a cave than a grave?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What woman, wife of the wicked king Amon, gave birth to the future godly king Josiah?

Yesterday's answer-Lois 2 Timothy 1:5

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 2:1-5

¹ After fourteen years I went to Jerusalem again, this time with Barnabas. I also took Titus with me.² I went because God showed me I should go. I met with the believers there, and in private I told their leaders the Good News that I preach to the non-Jewish people. I did not want my past work and the work I am now doing to be wasted.³ Titus was with me, but he was not forced to be circumcised, even though he was a Greek.⁴ We talked about this problem because some false believers had come into our group secretly. They came in like spies to overturn the freedom we have in Christ Jesus. They wanted to make us slaves.⁵ But we did not give in to those false believers for a minute. We wanted the truth of the Good News to continue for you.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, in the midst of our trials may the problem at hand not be the single focus of our prayers. Help us to seek You for godly understanding and patient endurance, so that our lives are spiritually maturing in the process of waiting upon You to answer our prayers. May seeking You be our primary focus in fulfillment of Christ’s command in Matthew 6:33, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto You.” In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

GREATLY BLESSED, HIGHLY FAVORED, IMPERFECT BUT FORGIVEN CHILD OF GOD!!!

Tuesday February 14, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-You don't stop smiling when you grow old, you grow old when you stop smiling-

2-Trouble often starts out being fun-

3-To teach is to learn again-

4-The problem with doing nothing is that you cannot stop to rest-

5-Many problems could be solved in the time spent worrying about them-

STRANGE THOUGHT-How deep into the earth's crust is it possible it go?

I'VE LEARNED-It is the bad days that help you appreciate the good days!

DID YOU KNOW-Prior to WW2, when guards were posted at the fence,

anyone could wander right up to the front door of the White House-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Are all of God's promises conditional?

2-How do we grow "the fruit of the spirit"?

3-What is "Shekhinah Glory"?

4-Did Jesus ever refer to himself as the "Messiah"?

5-Why did the Jews believe the Messiah would be a national liberator?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who was Timothy's devout grandmother?

Yesterday's answer-Delilah Judges 16:4

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 1:11-24

Paul's Authority Is from God

¹¹ Brothers and sisters, I want you to know that the Good News I preached to you was not made up by human beings. ¹² I did not get it from humans, nor did anyone teach it to me, but Jesus Christ showed it to me.

¹³ You have heard about my past life in the Jewish religion. I attacked the church of God and tried to destroy it.¹⁴ I was becoming a leader in the Jewish religion, doing better than most other Jews of my age. I tried harder than anyone else to follow the teachings handed down by our ancestors.

¹⁵ But God had special plans for me and set me apart for his work even before I was born. He called me through his grace¹⁶ and showed his son to me so that I might tell the Good News about him to those who are not Jewish. When God called me, I did not get advice or help from any person.¹⁷ I did not go to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was. But, without waiting, I went away to Arabia and later went back to Damascus.

¹⁸ After three years I went to Jerusalem to meet Peter and stayed with him for fifteen days.¹⁹ I met no other apostles, except James, the brother of the Lord.²⁰ God knows that these things I write are not lies.²¹ Later, I went to the areas of Syria and Cilicia.

²² In Judea the churches in Christ had never met me.²³ They had only heard it said, "This man who was attacking us is now preaching the same faith that he once tried to destroy."²⁴ And these believers praised God because of me.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, I want to find out what pleases You and make it my goal to honor You with my life. I want the affections of my heart, the thoughts of my mind, the expression of my emotions, the words voiced from my lips and my actions to please you. May my understanding grow as I read and apply Your written revelation and as I learn from my brothers and sisters in Christ. Since my life may be the only Bible that some people read, may it reflect the person of Christ and that which You teach about Your people being set apart for holy living. I love You, Father, with all my heart and I want to show it with all my life. Amen.

GREATLY BLESSED, HIGHLY FAVORED, IMPERFECT BUT FORGIVEN CHILD OF GOD!!!

Monday February 13, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Some people are like blotters, they quickly soak it all in but get it backwards-

2-Problems are opportunities disguised in work clothes-

3-Tomorrow is often the busiest day of the year-

4-A smile is just as contagious as a yawn and remembered more fondly when it is gone-

5-Praise loudly and blame softly-

STRANGE THOUGHT-This would be a wonderful world if people showed as much patience

in all things as they do waiting for the fish to bite-

I'VE LEARNED-It can't be sunshine all the time or the flowers wouldn't grow for lack of rain-

DID YOU KNOW-There is enough stone in the Great wall to build an eight foot wall encircling

the globe at the equator-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-If angels fell from their heavenly status, what will keep resurrected Christians from doing so also?

2-How do you measure love?

3-How quickly should we forgive someone for a transgression against us?

4-Can you ask forgiveness on behalf of another person?

5-Why doesn't the book of Mark mention the appearance of the resurrected Jesus?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What evil woman lived in the valley of Sorek?

Yesterday's answer-Asenath, the wife of Joseph Genesis 41:45

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 1:6-10

⁶ God, by his grace through Christ, called you to become his people. So I am amazed that you are turning away so quickly and believing something different than the Good News.⁷ Really, there is no other Good News. But some people are confusing you; they want to change the Good News of Christ.⁸ We preached to you the Good News. So if we ourselves, or even an angel from heaven, should preach to you something different, we should be judged guilty! ⁹ I said this before, and now I say it again: You have already accepted the Good News. If anyone is preaching something different to you, let that person be judged guilty!

¹⁰ Do you think I am trying to make people accept me? No, God is the One I am trying to please. Am I trying to please people? If I still wanted to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, Your Scriptures teach us that we’re not home yet; we’re just passing through. This world is all we’ve physically known so it is only through our spiritual transformation of salvation that we are able to transport our affections to our future home where we’ve never been. Fix our hearts and our minds upon that which is imperishable, that which satisfies the soul and lifts us above the allurement to this world along with the troubles it brings. There is nothing in this world that is of greater worth or has more lasting value than our salvation in Christ, and it is in His name that we pray. Amen.

GREATLY BLESSED, HIGHLY FAVORED, IMPERFECT BUT FORGIVEN CHILD OF GOD!!!