Friday April 1`2, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Today is  new choice to do better-

2-No one can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start now and make a new ending-

3-Fear is the single greatest weapon that satan uses to keep you from God's best-

4-You can chose to not listen to, act on or focus on fear, by facing the fear and placing trust in the promises of God-

5-Focusing on your fears causes them to be reality-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Isn't it strange how we believe everything that magazines and newspapers say but we question the words in  the Bible?

 

I'VE LEARNED-Jesus trumps satan's guilt with his grace-

 

DID YOU KNOW-It takes 24 hours for a tiny newborn swan to peck its way out of its shell-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why is the antichrist mentioned in only a few references in John's short letters?

2-Is the antichrist mentioned in scripture the Beast of Revelations who gains world dominating power with satan's help and who performs miracles that fool many into believing he is God?

3-Why is no antichrist mentioned in revelations or any other Bible book about "end times"?

4-Why wasn't the book "Acts of Peter not considered worthy of being a part of scripture?

5-How can you know for sure when religious people make up clever lies to take your money?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who told people to make peace with their brothers before they made a sacrifice on the altar?

Yesterday's answer-John    Revelation 6:9

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 21:1-14

21 Later, Jesus showed himself to his followers again—this time at Lake Galilee.^[a] This is how he showed himself: ² Some of the followers were together: Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the two sons of Zebedee, and two other followers. ³ Simon Peter said, “I am going out to fish.”

The others said, “We will go with you.” So they went out and got into the boat. They fished that night but caught nothing.
⁴ Early the next morning Jesus stood on the shore, but the followers did not know it was Jesus. ⁵ Then he said to them, “Friends, did you catch any fish?”
They answered, “No.”
⁶ He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they did, and they caught so many fish they could not pull the net back into the boat.
⁷ The follower whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Peter heard him say this, he wrapped his coat around himself. (Peter had taken his clothes off.) Then he jumped into the water. ⁸ The other followers went to shore in the boat, dragging the net full of fish. They were not very far from shore, only about a hundred yards. ⁹ When the followers stepped out of the boat and onto the shore, they saw a fire of hot coals. There were fish on the fire, and there was bread.
¹⁰ Then Jesus said, “Bring some of the fish you just caught.”
¹¹ Simon Peter went into the boat and pulled the net to the shore. It was full of big fish, one hundred fifty-three in all, but even though there were so many, the net did not tear. ¹² Jesus said to them, “Come and eat.” None of the followers dared ask him, “Who are you?” because they knew it was the Lord. ¹³ Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, along with the fish.
¹⁴ This was now the third time Jesus showed himself to his followers after he was raised from the dead.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, there are many choices I will make today based upon the variables that I cannot foresee. But above all I must deny my own selfish desires, take up my cross daily, and follow Christ. In denying myself I will be careful never to deny Christ nor the work He wants to do in me. I don’t know what my cross will look like today, whether it be in the form of physical pain, ridicule of my faith, rejection from one that I love, a major letdown, or another difficulty that may arise. The wonderful blessing is that I don’t carry my cross in my own strength but You carry it for me as I lean upon You for strength, guidance, endurance and the assurance that today’s cross will soon be exchanged for tomorrow’s crown. Until then I remain faithful through Christ Jesus our Lord in whose name I pray. Amen.

SMILE, LAUGH, FORGIVE, BELIEVE AND LOVE, OVER AND OVER AGAIN!

Thursday April 11, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Don't be afraid to ask for  a little ice cream in life-

2-The challenge is not just to know the truth, but to be a person of the truth-

3-Freedom is not just a matter of being free from something or someone, but also to be what we were meant to be-

4-You have to know the truth of who you are to be free to be who you are-

5-Retirement should not be the goal of a God surrendered life-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Isn't it strange how a $20 bill seems like a large amount when giving it to church but a small amount when going shopping-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Satan's condemnation brings no repentance or resolve, just regret-

 

DID YOU KNOW-It may take longer than two days for a chick to brake out of it's shell-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Is there only one antichrist mentioned in scripture?

2-Are any or all false religious teachers antichrists?

3-What sins can kill us and what sins only wound us?

4-What is "the sin that leads to death"?

5-How much do we really know about the antichrist?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who had a vision of the souls of the martyrs underneath the altar?

Yesterday's answer-Athens     Acts 17:23

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 20:30-31

 Jesus did many other miracles in the presence of his followers that are not written in this book. ³¹ But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Then, by believing, you may have life through his name.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY

 

Father, thank You for Your wonderful salvation through Your Son, Jesus Christ. You created in my body a thirst and hunger for physical food just as You created in my soul a hunger and thirst for spiritual food.  My soul thirsts for You, the living God. As I drink from Your living water my soul’s desires are satisfied. I am refreshed as I taste and see that You are good and Your mercies are everlasting and very personal. As I partake of the Living Water and the Bread of Life I am led by Your hand. I am no longer my own, for I have been bought with a tremendous price – Your Son, Your only Son, who gave His life that I might experience forgiveness for sin. Thank You for forgiving me and leading me in the paths of righteousness where I find love, joy and peace forevermore. My heart and my flesh, they may fail, but You are my strength and my portion for ever and ever.  Amen.

MAY YOU ALWAYS HAVE LOVE TO SHARE, HEALTH TO SPARE AND FRIENDS THAT CARE!

Tuesday April 2, 2013 thought for the day

 

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Surrendering to God brings freedom not bondage-

2-Surrendering to God is not passive resignation,fatalism, an excuse for laziness nor accepting the status quo-

3-When we completely surrender ourselves to Jesus we find he is not a tyrant but a savior, not a boss but a brother, not a dictator but a friend-

4-Surrendering to God is not putting your brain in neutral and giving up rational thinking, nor is it repressing your personality-

5-The more we let God take over our lives, the more truly ourselves we become-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Does pain hurt if that is all you've ever known-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Christians too often write too many checks on God's kindness account-

 

DID YOU KNOW-It takes 42 days for an ostrich egg to hatch-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Does God's marvelous grace allow us to live immoral lives?

2-Who were the heretics in Judea that started teaching an alternative brand of the Christian faith?

3-Who were the angels in heaven who rebelled along with satan?

4-Was Jude a brother of Jesus and James?

5-Who was John the author of 2nd John talking about when he wrote to "the chosen lady and her children"?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Where did Paul see an altar inscribed "To the Unknown God?"

Yesterday's answer-Zacharias     Luke 1:11

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 20:24-29

²⁴ Thomas (called Didymus), who was one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. ²⁵ The other followers kept telling Thomas, “We saw the Lord.”
But Thomas said, “I will not believe it until I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were and put my hand into his side.”
²⁶ A week later the followers were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. The doors were locked, but Jesus came in and stood right in the middle of them. He said, “Peace be with you.” ²⁷ Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand here in my side. Stop being an unbeliever and believe.”
²⁸ Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”
²⁹ Then Jesus told him, “You believe because you see me. Those who believe without seeing me will be truly blessed.”

PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father God, we thank You for our brothers and sisters who, because of Your redemptive love, share together in the work of furthering the kingdom of God. Thank you for those who see a need and are quick to respond. We also know of those who see the need but feel inadequate for the task. Would You empower and embolden them to take a step of faith by moving in the direction You’re leading to the point of commitment. We’re mindful of Tychicus’ example of faithfulness in his duties and his loving spirit toward Paul and his fellow servants. We also want to be faithful in our thoughts, our conversation, and our duties this day.  We pray to You through Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.

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

Monday Aopril 1, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Remember not only to say the right thing in the right place, but more importantly still is to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment-

2-Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase-

3-The heart of worship is surrendering to God, giving ourselves completely to him-

4-The Bible teaches us that rather than trying to win, succeed, overcome and conquer, we should instead yield, submit, obey and surrender-

5-Surrendered people obey God's word, even when it doesn't make sense-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Beer must not be good for you for it didn't make Budwiser-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Forgiven people forgive people-

 

DID YOU KNOW-A baby gray whale drinks enough milk to fill more than two thousand bottles a day-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Who are the 144,000 God's servants mentioned in Revelations?  Is this an actual number or symbolism?

2-Are all the 144,000 people Jewish?

3-Seal 7-Why is there still more devastation coming?  Is any of this coming to Christian people?

4-Why are the disasters of the 7 seals announced with trumpet fan fare?

5-Are all the natural disasters of today a part of the seals being opened in our day?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What priest saw an angel standing beside the incense altar?

Yesterday's answer-Abraham   Genesis 12:7

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 20:19-23

¹⁹ When it was evening on the first day of the week, Jesus’ followers were together. The doors were locked, because they were afraid of the elders. Then Jesus came and stood right in the middle of them and said, “Peace be with you.” ²⁰ After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. His followers were thrilled when they saw the Lord.
²¹ Then Jesus said again, “Peace be with you. As the Father sent me, I now send you.” ²² After he said this, he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. ²³ If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven. If you don’t forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Jesus, You are the Solid Rock that keeps us anchored in this vast landscape of shifting sands. Our unfading hope is secured in Your finished work on the cross and our guide map is the inspired Holy Scriptures that make us wise unto salvation. Help us to resist the temptation to look further or to add to Your clearly prescribed plan for living a life that pleases You. We offer to You our lives as living sacrifices. May they be holy and pleasing to You. Amen.


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

Sunday March 31, 2013 thought for the day

 

MY THOUGHT FOR TODAY

 

Jesus’ Tomb Is Empty

20 Early on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb while it was still dark. When she saw that the large stone had been moved away from the tomb, ² she ran to Simon Peter and the follower whom Jesus loved. Mary said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him.”

³ So Peter and the other follower started for the tomb. ⁴ They were both running, but the other follower ran faster than Peter and reached the tomb first. ⁵ He bent down and looked in and saw the strips of linen cloth lying there, but he did not go in. ⁶ Then following him, Simon Peter arrived and went into the tomb and saw the strips of linen lying there. ⁷ He also saw the cloth that had been around Jesus’ head, which was folded up and laid in a different place from the strips of linen. ⁸ Then the other follower, who had reached the tomb first, also went in. He saw and believed. ⁹ (They did not yet understand from the Scriptures that Jesus must rise from the dead.)

Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene

¹⁰ Then the followers went back home. ¹¹ But Mary stood outside the tomb, crying. As she was crying, she bent down and looked inside the tomb. ¹² She saw two angels dressed in white, sitting where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and one at the feet.
¹³ They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?”
She answered, “They have taken away my Lord, and I don’t know where they have put him.” ¹⁴ When Mary said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know it was Jesus.
¹⁵ Jesus asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Whom are you looking for?”
Thinking he was the gardener, she said to him, “Did you take him away, sir? Tell me where you put him, and I will get him.”
¹⁶ Jesus said to her, “Mary.”
Mary turned toward Jesus and said in the Hebrew language,^[a] “Rabboni.” (This means “Teacher.”)
¹⁷ Jesus said to her, “Don’t hold on to me, because I have not yet gone up to the Father. But go to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am going back to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’”
¹⁸ Mary Magdalene went and said to the followers, “I saw the Lord!” And she told them what Jesus had said to her.

Saturday March 30, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-We are to plan ahead, not worry ahead-

2-Peace of mind comes from putting your future in God's hands and trusting him to work things out-

3-Everyone is beautiful until they prove otherwise-

4-Truth is absolute.  You can test it, you can prove it-

5-It is always a mistake to decide what you are going to do before you decide who you are going to be-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-If anything is possible, how do your dribble a football-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Be careful of what you do or don't do for we don't often get a second chance-

 

DID YOU KNOW-A baby giraffe is about 6 feet tall at birth-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Seal four-Who is the rider on a gray horse called death who is authorized to kill a fourth of all of earth's populations.  Did this happen in John's century or is it yet to come?

2-Seal five-Why do the Christian martyrs in heaven want their deaths to be avenged?

3-Seal six-How does the earth survive the massive convulsions of earthquakes, stars falling to the ground, mountains collapsing, the sun going dark, the moon shines red, etc?

4-In the sixth seal, did the sun really stop shining or was it covered by massive dark cloud and ash?

5-Why do we talk about "the four corners of the earth"?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What patriarch built an altar after he arrived in Canaan for the first time?

Yesterday's answer-Malachi   2:13

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 20:1-9

Early on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb while it was still dark. When she saw that the large stone had been moved away from the tomb, ² she ran to Simon Peter and the follower whom Jesus loved. Mary said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him.”

³ So Peter and the other follower started for the tomb. ⁴ They were both running, but the other follower ran faster than Peter and reached the tomb first. ⁵ He bent down and looked in and saw the strips of linen cloth lying there, but he did not go in. ⁶ Then following him, Simon Peter arrived and went into the tomb and saw the strips of linen lying there. ⁷ He also saw the cloth that had been around Jesus’ head, which was folded up and laid in a different place from the strips of linen. ⁸ Then the other follower, who had reached the tomb first, also went in. He saw and believed. ⁹ (They did not yet understand from the Scriptures that Jesus must rise from the dead.)
PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, we desire to have You lead us in the paths of righteousness that lead us in the way everlasting. Sometimes the next step we take is clearly visible and other times it is a step of faith as darkness seems to veil Your leading. As we earnestly pray we can trust You who stilled the tempest and turned darkness into light. We pray for discernment and a willing spirit to follow Your leading in all matters, no matter the outcome. Amen.

TODAY WILL NEVER COME AGAIN. BE A BLESSING. BE A FRIEND. ENCOURAGE SOMEONE. TAKE TIME TO CARE. LET YOUR WORDS AND ACTIONS HEAL AND NOT WOUND.

Friday March 29, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Passion drives perfection-

2-Meaning is far more important than money-

3-You can have a lot to live on and still have nothing to live for-

4-Don't settle for achieving the good life, aim instead for the better life-serving God in a way that expresses your heart-

5-Figure out what you love to do and then do it for his glory-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-If a turtle doesn't have a shell, is he homeless or naked?

 

I'VE LEARNED-Tomorrow is still unborn and you shouldn't borrow from it-

 

DID YOU KNOW-A baby beaver stays with its parents for a period of two years-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why is Jesus the only one worthy of breaking the seals on the scrolls held by God.  Why doesn't God break them himself?

2-Why is Jesus called "The Lion of he Tribe of Judah"?

3-Seal one-A power hungry rider on a white horse who wants world dominion.  Has he already come or yet to come?

4-Seal two-Who is the war hungry rider on a red horse?

5-Seal three-Who/what is the famine bringing rider on a black horse?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What prophet spoke of the Jews weeping and wailing in front of the altar because God would not accept their offerings?

Yesterday's answer?  Solomon      1 Kings 6:20

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 19:41-42

⁴¹ In the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden. In the garden was a new tomb that had never been used before. ⁴² The men laid Jesus in that tomb because it was nearby, and they were preparing to start their Sabbath day.

PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, we enjoy positive results and favorable comments when we do good. But there are many times that we do good or take a position, in accordance to the Bible, that results in our being ridiculed, mocked and even persecuted. Would You enlarge the importance of eternity in our hearts so that we don’t become weary of doing good and always expect reward here and now. Help us to remember, in many instances, the proper time that we reap a harvest will not be on this side but on the other side of eternity. Above all, remind us through Your Holy Spirit, that we choose to do good because it pleases You. May the fulfillment of pleasing You be of much greater importance than pleasing or impressing those among us. We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.


SMILE, LAUGH, FORGIVE, BELIEVE AND LOVE, OVER AND OVER AGAIN!

Thursday March 28, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Truly understanding the power of gratitude can change your life forever-

2-Your spiritual gifts were not given for your own benefit, but for the benefit of others-

3-You may not always know the detail of your journey or clearly see where the trail is leading but God will always give you enough light to take the next step-

4-God wants you to serve him passionately not dutifully-

5-You rarely excel at tasks you don't enjoy doing or feel passionate about-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Save the earth for it is the only planet with chocolate-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Today you can be the kind of person you always dreamed you'd be tomorrow-

 

DID YOU KNOW-A baby caribou is so swift it can easily outrun its mother when it is only three days old-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Who told John what to write to the 7 churches of Asia?

2-The number 7 is a code number in Jewish writings.  What did it represent?

3-What is "satan's throne" that John writes about in Revelations?

4-Why was there only 7 churches which John wrote to?

5-Who are the 24 elders in Revelations who are honored with their own thrones surrounding God's throne?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who constructed the first altar covered with gold?

Yesterday's answer-Amos 3:14

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 19:39-40

³⁹ Nicodemus, who earlier had come to Jesus at night, went with Joseph. He brought about seventy-five pounds of myrrh and aloes. ⁴⁰ These two men took Jesus’ body and wrapped it with the spices in pieces of linen cloth, which is how they bury the dead.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

 Father, sometimes we are frustrated by what little we have to offer others when we compare ourselves with those who are greatly talented or those who have a special way with words, or even those who may have financial resources to bless others in ways that we cannot. But we are not limited in reaching out to one who may be looking for a reason to smile or to the one who simply needs a helping hand. We pray for the prompting of the Holy Spirit to show us ways that we can encourage those around us so that it will be passed on to others as well. We pray for this through Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.


MAY YOU ALWAYS HAVE LOVE TO SHARE, HEALTH TO SPARE AND FRIENDS THAT CARE!

Wednesday March 27, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-The Christian's enemy is not possessions, but excess-

2-Jesus was such a big miracle in such a little child-

3-Life is all about love-

4-Our greatest need is to experience God's love-

5-God's grace comes from God's love-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-If money doesn't grow on trees why do banks have branches?

 

I'VE LEARNED-A successful business motto--"I believe I can have everything I need so long as I give my customers everything they want"-

 

DID YOU KNOW-A baby blue whale is 25 feet long at birth-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-What is the purpose of famine, disease, earthquakes, floods, etc that kill so many of humanity?

2-Are there Christians that will be killed during the great calamities of the "Last Days"?

3-At what point is satan and his followers cast into the "Lake of Fire"?

4-Which John is the authentic writer of revelations?

5-Why was Revelations written and sent to the 7 churches of Asia?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What prophet foresaw the destruction of the altars of Bethel?

Yesterday's answer-Ezekiel    8:5

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY     John 19:38

³⁸ Later, Joseph from Arimathea asked Pilate if he could take the body of Jesus. (Joseph was a secret follower of Jesus, because he was afraid of some of the leaders.) Pilate gave his permission, so Joseph came and took Jesus’ body away.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY

  Father, all wisdom, knowledge, and understanding needed for life and godliness is contained in the Holy Scriptures. Help us to be careful, attentive students of the Word, ever learning, and always applying that which the prophets of old and disciples of Christ have revealed to us through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. That which shines so brightly on the horizon of our lives today will someday fade and vanish away, but the Word of our God stands forever and is demonstrated in our lives for all eternity. Amen.

 

 

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

Tuesday March 26, 2013 thought for the day

HEAR ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Great thoughts reduced to practice become great acts-

2-Better to die in peace than to live in anger-

3-Doing something for others can sometimes be a thankless endeavor-

4-A relationship with Jesus is the oasis in the desert of human relations-

5-Contentment is the secret of inward peace-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-I just got lost in thought, it wasn't a familiar territory-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Some of the things you've been putting off for so long, you can't do them yesterday and may not have the chance to do them tomorrow.  So do them today-

 

 

DID YOU KNOW-A jiffy is an actual unit of time: one-hundredth of a second.  Thus the saying, "I will be there in a jiffy!"

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-How do celestial beings worship God?

2-How could the Jesus of Revelations written about by John look like "a lamb that looked as if it had been slaughtered"?

3-Are any of the disasters where the seals that had wrapped a scroll and opened by the lamb occurring today in our time?

4-Why was Revelations written in such extreme symbolism and code words?

5-What is the main meaning of the book of Revelations?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What prophet had a vision of an idol near the altar of God?

Yesterday's answer-Isaiah  6:6

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    JOHN 19:31-37

³¹ This day was Preparation Day, and the next day was a special Sabbath day. Since the religious leaders did not want the bodies to stay on the cross on the Sabbath day, they asked Pilate to order that the legs of the men be broken^[a] and the bodies be taken away. ³² So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first man on the cross beside Jesus. Then they broke the legs of the man on the other cross beside Jesus. ³³ But when the soldiers came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. ³⁴ But one of the soldiers stuck his spear into Jesus’ side, and at once blood and water came out. ³⁵ (The one who saw this happen is the one who told us this, and whatever he says is true. And he knows that he tells the truth, and he tells it so that you might believe.) ³⁶ These things happened to make the Scripture come true: “Not one of his bones will be broken.”^{[b] 37} And another Scripture says, “They will look at the one they stabbed.”^[c]

Footnotes:

1. 19:31 broken The breaking of their bones would make them die sooner.
2. 19:36 “Not one . . . Broken.” Quotation from Psalm 34:20. The idea is from Exodus 12:46; Numbers 9:12.
3. 19:37 “They . . . Stabbed.” Quotation from Zechariah 12:10.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

  Father, thank You for speaking to us through Your Word, other believers, and through serious events in our lives. You beamed Your searchlight from the portals of heaven to show us how lost we were. We’re tremendously blessed to know that celestial beings held a celebration in heaven when we  chose to be Your followers. Though misplacing material things leads to time lost and great frustration, misplacing our faith leads to error and eternal damnation. Father, You’ve shown us the way and instructed us, “This is the way; walk in it.” Help us to seek out others who’ve yet to find the way so that they too will follow You and cause rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents. We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

 

 

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

Monday March 25, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-The sign of wisdom is continual cheerfulness-

2-To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides-

3-You can never do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late-

4-Every problem is a possibility in disguise-

5-Look backward with gratitude and forward with confidence-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Ever feel like you are parked in a parallel universe?

 

I'VE LEARNED-It often seems impossible until it is done-

 

DID YOU KNOW-At room temperature, the average air molecule travels at the speed of a rifle bullet-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Can heaven be located?

2-What is the "New Heaven" and "New Earth" that scriptures refer to?

3-Is there a galactic address for heaven?

4-Does heaven have anything to do with our physical universe?

5-What do celestial beings look like?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who had his lips touched by a coal from the altar in the temple?

Yesterday's answer-The priest Joshua    Ezra 3:2

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 19:28-30

⁸ After this, Jesus knew that everything had been done. So that the Scripture would come true, he said, “I am thirsty.”^{[a] 29} There was a jar full of vinegar there, so the soldiers soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a branch of a hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ mouth. ³⁰ When Jesus tasted the vinegar, he said, “It is finished.” Then he bowed his head and died.

Footnotes:

1. 19:28 “I am thirsty.” Read Psalms 22:15; 69:21.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

  Father, would You help me to be quick to listen, slow to speak and eager to observe that which You want to show me. As I read Your Word, may it not be simply out of duty or habit. Intensify my hunger for Your hidden treasures that can only be found as I dig deeper into the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God. Open my mind, my heart, my ears and my eyes to spiritual insights that bring understanding, acceptance, and gratitude for Your work in my life. Lord, open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in Your Law.  Amen.

 

 

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

Sunday March 24, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Experience is almost always a greater determinant of happiness than things are-

2-Those who don't do anything never make mistakes-

3-True friendship comes when the silence between two people is comfortable-

4-Do more than exist---live-

5-Wisdom is the quality that keeps you from getting into situations where and when you need it-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Half of the people you meet are below average-

 

I'VE LEARNED-The happier the time, the faster it passes-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Twenty years make up a vicennial period-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-When trying to understand what the number 666 means, which language should be used-Hebrew, Greek, Latin,English, etc?

2-Why do some ancient editions of Revelations say the number is 616?

3-Was Nero the man being referred to as 666?

4-Was Nero the antichrist or is he still to come?

5-Is heaven out of this world?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who rebuilt the Jerusalem altar when the exiles returned to Israel?

Yesterday's answer-Ahaz   2 Kings 16:10

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 19:25-27

⁵ Standing near his cross were Jesus’ mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. ²⁶ When Jesus saw his mother and the follower he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Dear woman, here is your son.” ²⁷ Then he said to the follower, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, the follower took her to live in his home.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY

  Father, we who find the answers to life in the Scriptures have also found the peace that comes with knowing Jesus as our Saviour. There is a restlessness and unending struggle for those who set out to rewrite that which has already been written for all time; the manual for all people of every nation, inspired by the Holy Spirit. We thank You for the Bible, Your holy instructions that teach, inspire, and give us faith for that which we don’t understand or have not yet experienced. The cross is foolishness to those who don’t believe, but for us who place our trust in Your plan for our salvation, cherish the old rugged cross so despised by the world. Keep us faithful and trusting until all is fully revealed in Your divine time. Amen.

 

 

I WISH YOU LOVE IN YOUR HEART.....PEACE IN YOUR SOUL.....AND JOY IN YOUR LIFE.....ALWAYS!!!

Saturday March 23, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Money is an instrument that can buy you everything but happiness and pay your fare to every place but heaven-

2-Searching for true happiness in the context of a Godless life is like looking for a needle in a haystack that doesn't have any-

3-Commitment isn't just a sign of love, it is a cause of love-

4-To increase happiness, worry less about big sources of joy and find a steady stream of small sources-

5-Giving is literally a joy-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-What is the speed of dark?

 

I'VE LEARNED-There are four things you can't recover-

          1-The stone after it has been dropped in the sea-

          2-The word after it has been spoken-

          3-The occasion after it is missed-

          4-The time after it is gone-

 

DID YOU KNOW- the belief that soy foods are a good source of vitamin B12 is a myth? The truth is the compound that mimics vitamin B12 in soy cannot be utilized by your body. Instead, consuming soy will make you require more vitamin B12.

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Who are the 10 kings who represent the 10 horns on the beast?

2-Are the 10 kings from the past, present or future?

3-Will these 10 kings all reign together at one time or different times?

4-Which of the two beasts in scripture is assiciated with the antichrist?

5-What does the number of the beast (666) mean?  Is it the number of a single man?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What evil king of Judah built an altar modeled on the altars of Syria?

Yesterday's answer-Jacob   Genesis 33:20

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 19:23-24

²³ After the soldiers crucified Jesus, they took his clothes and divided them into four parts, with each soldier getting one part. They also took his long shirt, which was all one piece of cloth, woven from top to bottom. ²⁴ So the soldiers said to each other, “We should not tear this into parts. Let’s throw lots to see who will get it.” This happened so that this Scripture would come true:

“They divided my clothes among them,
    And they threw lots for my clothing.” Psalm 22:18

So the soldiers did this.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, we know that none of us are 100% humble, for we are clothed in these mortal, fallible bodies. But we do know that Jesus is the model of One completely humble in His humanity and divinity. He did not consider equality with You, something to be grasped but took on His personhood as a man and became obedient to death on the cross. We look to Him as the supreme example of humility and obedience. As we clothe ourselves in Your righteousness we can overcome the pride that is ever before us. We recognize that no good thing can come from us, but all that is good comes from You. Remind us daily that the attitude of gratitude is the antidote for feelings of pride. When we acknowledge that everything we have and all that we are is due to Your merciful blessings we are humbled and grateful to You, the Giver of every good and perfect gift. Amen.

TODAY WILL NEVER COME AGAIN. BE A BLESSING. BE A FRIEND. ENCOURAGE SOMEONE. TAKE TIME TO CARE. LET YOUR WORDS AND ACTIONS HEAL AND NOT WOUND.

Friday March 22, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Our total welfare is the constant concern of God's heart-

2-The nail pierced hands of Jesus reveal the love filled heart of God-

3-There is no place where the mind can be so fully renewed as in the secret place of prayer alone with God-

4-God is so big he can cover the whole world with his love and yet so small he can reside inside your heart-

5-Without a friend, you can miss out on a lot-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-If swimming is so good for you, why are whales so fat?

 

I'VE LEARNED-When a deep injury is done to us, we never heal until we forgive-

 

DID YOU KNOW-The smallest unit of time is the yoctosecond-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Who are the 7 kings that the beast with 7 heads represents?

2-Does the Roman Empire have any part to play in explaining who the 7 heads of the beast represents?

3-Who is the 7th king that is said yet to come of the 7 heads of the beast?

4-Which of the 7 kings (head of the beast) will recover from a mortal wound?

5-Is the recovery from a mortal wound by one of the "beasts" an evil counter point to Jesus' resurrection?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who built an altar and named it El, the God of Israel?

Yesterday's answer-Jehoiada    2 Kings 12:19

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY  John 19:16-22

The soldiers took charge of Jesus. ¹⁷ Carrying his own cross, Jesus went out to a place called The Place of the Skull, which in the Hebrew language^[a] is called Golgotha. ¹⁸ There they crucified Jesus. They also crucified two other men, one on each side, with Jesus in the middle. ¹⁹ Pilate wrote a sign and put it on the cross. It read: Jesus of Nazareth, the king of the Jews. ²⁰ The sign was written in Hebrew, in Latin, and in Greek. Many of the people read the sign, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city. ²¹ The leading priests said to Pilate, “Don’t write, ‘The King of the Jews.’ But write, ‘This man said, “I am the King of the Jews.”’”
²² Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.”

Footnotes:

1. 19:17 Hebrew language Or Aramaic, the languages of many people in this region in the first century.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, we have been given a trust and desire to prove ourselves faithful in all areas of our lives as evidenced in our responsibilities carried out here on earth.  Being a faithful steward of all that is entrusted to us involves sacrifice, humbleness, repentance, and obedience which does not come easily, but is nevertheless required. As we walk steadily with You and prayerfully apply Scriptural principles we will be found faithful. We look to You in prayer and come to You through Jesus Christ our Lord in whose name we pray. Amen.

 

 

SMILE, LAUGH, FORGIVE, BELIEVE AND LOVE, OVER AND OVER AGAIN!

Thursday March 21, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY

1-The time to say "I love you" is now-

2-The more you have to live for, the less you will need to live on-

3-I don't just believe in miracles, I rely on them-

4-I can't do everything, but I can do something-

5-The true measure of God's love is that he loves without measure-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-What do sheep count when they can't sleep?

 

I'VE LEARNED-Strangers are friends you have yet to meet-

 

DID YOU KNOW-A standard grave is 7'8"X3'2"X6'

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Did satan try to stop the birth of Jesus?

2-Are there 2 "beasts", in Revelations and where are they from?

3-What kind of creatures are the "beasts" of Revelations?

4-Will people see the "beasts" as strange or evil?

5-Who is the "great prostitute" of Babylon?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What priest of Judah placed a money box near the temple's altar?

Yesterday's answer-Elijah  1 Kings 18

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 19:12-16

¹² After this, Pilate tried to let Jesus go. But some in the crowd cried out, “Anyone who makes himself king is against Caesar. If you let this man go, you are no friend of Caesar.”
¹³ When Pilate heard what they were saying, he brought Jesus out and sat down on the judge’s seat at the place called The Stone Pavement. (In the Hebrew language^[a] the name is Gabbatha.) ¹⁴ It was about noon on Preparation Day of Passover week. Pilate said to the crowd, “Here is your king!”
¹⁵ They shouted, “Take him away! Take him away! Crucify him!”
Pilate asked them, “Do you want me to crucify your king?”
The leading priests answered, “The only king we have is Caesar.”
¹⁶ So Pilate handed Jesus over to them to be crucified.

Jesus Is Crucified

The soldiers took charge of Jesus.

Footnotes:

1. 19:13 Hebrew language Or Aramaic, the languages of many people in this region in the first century.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

  God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, Your mercy endures to all generations. Your truths are timeless and Your provisions are abundant to those who call upon your name. Help us to declare Your faithfulness to our own generation and to the generations that follow. Thank you for our ancestors who proclaimed Your faithfulness to their children who in turn passed on spiritual truths to us. And we now have the blessing and responsibility of proclaiming Your faithfulness to our children. Generation by generation we proclaim the salvation that comes through faith in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.”

 

MAY YOU ALWAYS HAVE LOVE TO SHARE, HEALTH TO SPARE AND FRIENDS THAT CARE!

Wednesday March 20, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Worry often gives small things a big shadow-

2-Things that don't happen worry us the most-

3-Worry never keeps trouble from overtaking you-

4-It is impossible to feel grateful and depressed at the same time-

5-Sticks and stones may break your bones but words may break your heart-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Where can you run to escape yourself?

 

I'VE LEARNED-Always be a little kinder than necessary-

 

DID YOU KNOW-The CN tower in Toronto is the tallest free standing structure in the world-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-If the Mark of the Beast is literal, what is it?

2-Will the Mark of the Beast come from computer technology?

3-What will people do if they cannot conduct commerce without the Mark of the Beast?

4-Does 666 have a meaning?

5-Who are the evil allies that Satan joins with to form an unholy trinity?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What prophet triumphed when God consumed the offering on the altar and shamed the prophets of Baal?

Yesterday's answer-Baal's   1 Kings 18:26-29

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 19:6-11

⁶ When the leading priests and the guards saw Jesus, they shouted, “Crucify him! Crucify him!”
But Pilate answered, “Crucify him yourselves, because I find nothing against him.”
⁷ The leaders answered, “We have a law that says he should die, because he said he is the Son of God.”
⁸ When Pilate heard this, he was even more afraid. ⁹ He went back inside the palace and asked Jesus, “Where do you come from?” But Jesus did not answer him. ¹⁰ Pilate said, “You refuse to speak to me? Don’t you know I have power to set you free and power to have you crucified?”
¹¹ Jesus answered, “The only power you have over me is the power given to you by God. The man who turned me in to you is guilty of a greater sin.”

PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, we marvel at the miracles Jesus performed, as recorded in the New Testament. Taking a young boy’s small lunch and feeding 5,000 men along with their wives and families is beyond our imagination. And then to have leftovers from such a setting is amazing. Just as the disciples and the crowd learned so much about Jesus through His feeding of the crowd we too learn that nothing is impossible with You. We also learn from this story that You are a resourceful God when Jesus instructed that the leftovers be collected rather than tossed. Help us to be good stewards of all that You provide for us showing us how to be creative and generous toward others as well. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

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

Tuesday March 19, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-If you don't forgive others, you will break the bridge over which you yourself will have to pass-

2-Our habits predict our future-

3-Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase-

4-Repetition is the mother of learning-

5-They who anger you control you-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-What hurts worse-Saying something and wishing you had not or saying nothing and wishing you had?

 

I'VE LEARNED-Striving for success without hard work is like trying to harvest where you haven't planted-

 

DID YOU KNOW-The metal instrument used in shoe stores to measure feet is called the Brannock device-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why are there various understandings of what and when the millennium is?

2-When does the rapture take place?

3-Is the Tribulation Period still to come or could we be in it?

4-Why isn't the tribulation period time stated specifically in the Bible?

5-Is the Mark of the Beast a literal mark or is it symbolism?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What god's priests danced around the altar while they cut themselves with knives and daggers?

Yesterday's answer-Gideon    Judges 6:25

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 19:1-5

Then Pilate ordered that Jesus be taken away and whipped. ² The soldiers made a crown from some thorny branches and put it on Jesus’ head and put a purple robe around him. ³ Then they came to him many times and said, “Hail, King of the Jews!” and hit him in the face.

⁴ Again Pilate came out and said to them, “Look, I am bringing Jesus out to you. I want you to know that I find nothing against him.” ⁵ So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, “Here is the man!”

PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, Your Word tells us to do everything without complaining and arguing so that we may become blameless and pure in a crooked and depraved generation. Instead of spreading negativity from our words and actions we are to shine like stars in the universe so that the divine light of Christ may be evident in the way we interact with our peers. Would You raise us above the fray of life as we determine to have an attitude of gratefulness and praise to Him who doeth all things well!  Amen.

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

Monday March 18, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-You must be content within yourself first, your completeness will not come from another person-

2-Being single or married does not make the difference in whether you are happy or not-

3-When peace anywhere is broken, peace everywhere is afflicted-

4-Be kind to unkind people, for they need it he most-

5-If you insist on perfection, make the first demand on yourself-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-What does it mean to give more than 100%-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Our society strives to avoid offending anyone, except for God-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Robots in Japan pay union dues-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-What does "Gehenna" mean and where is it found?

2-Why did the Jews practice killing people as well as children as sacrifices to idols when God forbade it?

3-What dimensions is heaven?

4-Where is heaven located?

5-Why wasn't the millennium stated clearly in scripture?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What leader was told to tear down his father's altar to Baal?

Yesterday's answer-It fell apart and the ashes scattered  1 Kings 13:5

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 18:36-40

³⁶ Jesus answered, “My kingdom does not belong to this world. If it belonged to this world, my servants would have fought to keep me from being given over to the Jewish leaders. But my kingdom is from another place.”
³⁷ Pilate said, “So you are a king!”
Jesus answered, “You are the one saying I am a king. This is why I was born and came into the world: to tell people the truth. And everyone who belongs to the truth listens to me.”
³⁸ Pilate said, “What is truth?” After he said this, he went out to the crowd again and said to them, “I find nothing against this man. ³⁹ But it is your custom that I free one prisoner to you at Passover time. Do you want me to free the ‘king of the Jews’?”
⁴⁰ They shouted back, “No, not him! Let Barabbas go free!” (Barabbas was a robber.)

PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, there are many goals, deadlines, and expectations we meet as we tarry here below. But there’s one goal yet unmet that will carry us to the very end of our lives here, and that’s to cross over the finish line that transports us from our temporal dwelling to our place of eternal rest. Rest from all that troubles us, a place where we will no longer taste of death, sickness, evil or sorrow. But until then we rejoice in knowing that Christ our Redeemer lives. He walks with us through every trial, every heartache, and every temptation that our enemy, the devil, hurls at us. We are victors through Christ Jesus our Lord in whose name we pray. Amen.

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