Tuesday March 31, 2009 thought for the day

JESUS SUFERED FOR MY TRANSGRESSIONS
Here are my thoughts for today
1-If Jesus was not risen, all Christians would be fools--but He is and they aren't-
2-To be "in Christ" means to give up all your rights to your own life-
3-There is a difference in giving your sins to God (confession) and giving yourself to God (submission)-
4-Don't risk your life for things that mean nothing-
5-"Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness-"

Strange thought-If you can't add years to your life, add life to your years-

I've learned-The cross has gone from a symbol of shame to an expensive piece of jewelry-

5 things I want to know
1-How did David live from the time he was anointed king as a teen to when he became king at 30 years of age?
2-Did Joseph ever wonder where God was when he was falsely imprisoned in Egypt?
3-What plan could God have had for John the Baptist by having him live in the desert and living like a wild man?
4-After his conversion Saul went somewhere in Arabia--where was it and what did he do there?
5-What does it take for us to give up the idea that we have to be somebody?

Scripture for today Proverbs 24:10-16
10 If you give up when trouble comes, it shows that you are weak.
11 Save those who are being led to their death; rescue those who are about to be killed.
12 If you say "We don't know anything about this," God, who knows what's in your mind, will notice.
He is watching you, and he will know. He will reward each person for what he has done.
13 My child, eat honey because it is good. Honey from the honeycomb tastes sweet.
14 In the same way, wisdom is pleasing to you. If you find it, you will have hope for the future, and your wishes will come true.
15 Don't be wicked and attack a good family's house; don't rob the place where they live.
16 Even though good people may be bothered by trouble seven times, they are never defeated, but the wicked are overwhelmed by trouble.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Monday March 30, 2009 thought for the day

LIFT UP YOUR EYES---LOOK TO ME
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Our salvation is based on Jesus's crucifixion, our hope of eternal life is based on Jesus's resurrection-
2-Worship changes the worshipper into the image of the one being worshipped-
3-God's strength is most often evident in human weakness-
4-Just good enough is the enemy of great-
5-We need to position ourselves to encounter God-

Strange thought-Politics is the only business where doing nothing but making the other person look bad is an acceptable outcome-

I've learned-Never cross a bridge without knowing how to swim the tides-

5 things I want to know
1- What was the Sanhedrin reaction when they heard that Saul had become a believer in Jesus?
2-What happened to those traveling with Saul to Damascus?
3-Why would the Jews of Damascus believe Saul was preaching in their synagogue?
4-Did Saul ever make a confession and repentance for his sins in order to receive his salvation?
5-How was it possible for Moses to go from pharaoh's household to be a shepherd in Midian?

Scripture for today Proverbs 24:1-9
1 Don't envy evil people or try to be friends with them.
2 Their minds are always planning violence, and always talk about making trouble.
3 It takes wisdom to have a good family, and it takes understanding to make it strong.
4 It takes knowledge to fill a home with rare and beautiful treasures.
5 Wise people have great power, and those with knowledge have great strength.
6 So you need advice when you go to war. If you have lots of good advice you will win.
7 Foolish people cannot understand wisdom. They have nothing to say in a discussion.
8 Whoever makes evil plans will be known as a troublemaker.
9 Making foolish plans is sinful, and making fun of wisdom is hateful.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Sundaya March 29, 2009 thought for the day

THE CROSS
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Life can only be understood backwards, but it must be lived forward-
2-Everything in life is temporary--so if things are going good enjoy it, because it won't last forever, and if things are going badly, don't worry because it won't last forever, either-
3-Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice--it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved-
4-A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step-
5-Righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ-

Strange thought-Absolute power, absolute corruption, absolutely-

I've learned-Faith is not so much a belief about God as it is a total personal trust in God-

5 things I want to know
1-Is it possible that Saul could have heard Jesus teach or preach?
2-What effect would Steven's death have had on Saul?
3-How could Ananias have been so willing to go find Saul?
4-What is the significance of laying on of hands in receiving the Holy Spirit?
5-How could Saul have been so instantaneously changed from what he was trained and educated to be?

Scripture for today Proverbs 23:17-25
17 Don't envy sinners, but always respect the Lord.
18 Then you will have hope for the future and your wishes will come true.
19 Listen, my child and be wise. Keep your mind on what is right.
20 Don't drink too much wine or eat too much food.
21 Those who drink and eat too much become poor. They sleep too much and end up wearing rags.
22 Listen to your father, who gave you life and do not forget your mother when she is old.
23 Learn the truth and never reject it. Get wisdom, self control and understanding.
24 The father of a good child is very happy; parents who have wise children are glad because of them.
25 Make your father and mother happy; give your mother a reason to be glad.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Saturday March 28, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY PICTURE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship-
2-When you realize you've make a mistake, take a immediate steps to correct it.
3-A true friend is someone who reaches for your hand and touches your heart.
4-If the works of God were really understandable by human reason, they would be neither wonderful or unspeakable.
5-Cherish things while you still have them before they are gone and you'll realize how precious they really are.

Strange thought-Success is a lousy teacher for it seduces you into thinking you can't lose-

I've learned-You can observe a lot just by watching

5 things I want to know
1-At what point was Saul converted to being a believer in Jesus?
2-Does anything we do surprise God?
3-Why should Saul have believed the voice he heard when he was blinded and fell to the ground?
4-Is there any one way a sinner must come to Jesus?
5-Do Christians tend to require more than God does of how a new believer comes to Christ and what is expected of them?

Scripture for today Proverbs 23:9-16
9 Don't speak to fools; they will only ignore your wise words.
10 Don't move an old stone that marks a border, and don't take fields that belong to orphans.
11 God, their defender, is strong; he will take their side against you.
12 Remember what you are taught, and listen carefully to words of knowledge.
13 Don't fail to punish children. If you spank them, they won't die.
14 If you spank them, you will save them from death.
15 My child, if you are wise, then I will be happy.
16 I will be so pleased if you speak what is right.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Friday March 27, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want-
2-Love deeply and passionately-you might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely-
3-Talk slowly but think quickly-
4-Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk-
5-Remember the 3 r's-respect of self, respect or others and responsibility for all your actions-

Strange thought-God puts a tear in your eye so you can see a rainbow-

I've learned-don't judge a person by their relatives-

5 things I want to know
1-Why did Saul want to go to Damascus when it was over 100 miles away?
2-Is there any significance to the blinding light that knocked Saul to the ground?
3-Who was Saul persecuting-Christians or Jesus?
4-Does God ever learn anything new?
5-Does God ever wonder what we are doing?

Scripture for today Proverbs 23:1-8
1 If you sit down to eat with a ruler, notice the food that is in front of you.
2 Control yourself if you have a big appetite.
3 Don't be greedy for his fine foods, because that food might be a trick.
4 Don't wear yourself out trying to get rich; be wise enough to control yourself.
5 Wealth can vanish in the wink of an eye. It can seem to grow wings and fly away like an eagle.
6 Don't eat the food of selfish people; don't be greedy for their fine foods.
7 Selfish people are always worrying about how much the food costs. They tell you, "Eat and drink," but they don't really mean it.
8 You will throw up the little you have eaten, and you will have wasted your kind words.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Thursday March 26, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY RAINDROP
Here are my thoughts for today-
1-If the thought of your eternity makes you uncomfortable then something is wrong with your present-
2-God conceals from Christians the happiness of death so that they may enjoy life-
3-It is not death we should fear but rather never beginning to live-
4-Jesus is the only person who ever came back from the dead who can give you the power to do the same-
5-Hell is the opposite of the ecstasies of life in heaven for the saved-

Strange thought-Never laugh at someone's dream, for people who don't dream don't have much-

I've learned-When you lose, don't lose the lesson-

5 things I want to know
1-Does God's compassion have limits?
2-Why are there not more conversions like Saul's?
3-Does God put new Christians on probation?
4-When can the word "saint" be applied to a person?
5-Why is history full of people violently oppressing Christians?

Scripture for today Proverbs 22:24-29
24 Don't make friends with quick tempered people or spend time with those who have bad tempers.
25 If you do, you will be like them. Then you will be in real danger.
26 Don't promise to pay what someone else owes, and don't guarantee anyone's loan.
27 If you cannot pay the loan, your own bed may be taken right out from under you.
28 Don't move an old stone that marks a border, because those stones were set up by your ancestors.
29 Do you see people skilled in their work? They will work for kings, not for ordinary people.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Wednesday March 25, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY PICTURE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-What happens around us is largely outside our control but the way we choose to react to it is inside our control-
2-Life is a voyage in which we choose neither vessel nor weather, but much can be done in the manning of the sails and guidance of the helm-
3-God wants you to make good decisions and one of the principles involved in reaching a decision is--don't start talking, pray!-
4-"In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct your path"
5-Dying bravely and with honor does not need any special training, only a living faith in God-

Strange thought-A lifetime on earth doesn't last very Long, it is here today and gone tomorrow-

I've learned-Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully-

5 things I want to know
1-At what point do you go from faith believing things will change to accepting things as they are?
2-Did Jesus ever feel depressed?
3-After all God had done for Elijah, why was he so afraid of Jezebel?
4-Did God ever promise something (as recorded in scripture) and then change his mind and not do it?
5-When Saul said "Who are you Lord?" how did he know who was speaking?

Scripture for today Proverbs 22:17-23
17 Listen carefully to what wise people say; pay attention to what I am teaching you.
18 It will be good to keep these things In mind so that you are ready to repeat them.
19 I am teaching them to you now so that you will put your trust in the Lord.
20 I have written thirty sayings for you, which give knowledge and good advice.
21 I am teaching you true and reliable words so that you can give true answers to anyone who asks.
22 Do not abuse poor people because they are poor, and do not take away the rights of the needy in court.
23 The Lord will defend them in court and will take the life of those who take away their rights.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Tuesday March 24, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY PICTURE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-"Better is little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble therewith".
2-The moment financial security is assured, often spiritual bankruptcy is also assured-
3-It is wrong, dishonest and a sin to borrow money you know you can't pay back-
4-Did you know, debts are unscriptural?
5-"A little a righteous man has is better than the riches of many wicked".

Strange thought-When money talks, the truth is silent-

I've learned-Pretending to be rich keeps many people poor-

5 things I want to know
1-Why didn't the prophets of baal have a chance to repent at Elijah's confrontation and become followers of God?
2-Why didn't king Ahab kill Elijah instead of allowing the fire face off?
3-Is every proverb written for us to claim and count on today?
4-Does God ever deliberately delay answers to our prayers?
5-How do you live expectantly?

Scripture for today Proverbs 22:9-16
9 Generous people will be blessed, because they share their food with the poor.
10 Get rid of the one who makes fun of wisdom. Then fighting, quarrels, and insults will stop.
11 Whoever loves pure thoughts and kind words will have even the king as a friend.
12 The Lord guards knowledge, but he destroys false words.
13 The lazy person says, "There is a lion outside! I might get killed out in the street!"
14 The words of an unfaithful wife are like a deep trap. Those who make the Lord angry will get caught by them.
15 Every child is full of foolishness, but punishment can get rid of it.
16 Whoever gets rich by mistreating the poor and gives presents to the wealthy will become poor.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Monday March 23, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY PICTURE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Believe not half you hear, repeat not half you believe, when you hear an evil report, half it, quarter it, and then say nothing about the rest of it-
2-One of the easiest habits for us to acquire is the habit of criticizing others-
3-You have to be little to belittle-
4-"For by your words you shall be justified, and by your words you shall be condemned"-
5-The secret to financial success is to spend what you have left after saving, not saving what you have left after spending-

Strange thought-If good sense makes sense, don't seek any other sense-

I've learned-When you can't pay your bills you've got to cut the frills-

5 things I want to know
1-Was Mary chosen to be Jesus's mother because of personal qualifications?
2-If Mary was only a young teen, how could she accept the angel Gabriel's announcement to her?
3-Was Jesus's resurrected body divine or human?
4-Why is Thomas never mentioned again in scripture after the resurrection encounter with Jesus?
5-How can God be both just and merciful?

Scripture for today Proverbs 22:1-8
1 Being respected is more important than having great riches. To be well thought of is better than silver or gold.
2 The rich and the poor are alike in that the Lord made them all.
3 The wise see danger ahead and avoid it, but fools keep going and get into trouble.
4 Respecting the Lord and not being proud will bring you wealth, honor, and life.
5 Evil people's lives are like paths covered with thorns and traps. People who guard themselves don't have such problems.
6 Train children how to live right, and when they are old, they will not change.
7 The rich rule over the poor, and borrowers are servants to lenders.
8 Those who plan evil will receive trouble. Their cruel anger will come to an end.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Sunday March 22, 2009 thought for the day

A BEAUTIFUL SMILE IN THE MORNING
Here are my thoughts for today
1-I will speak ill of no man, not even in a matter of truth, but rather excuse the fault I hear and upon proper occasions speak all the good I know of everyone-
2-Looking on the bright side of life will never cause eye strain-
3-Plant a little gossip and you will reap a harvest of regret-
4-Keeping a secret is not just lowering your voice when you tell it-
5-At no time is a little knowledge more dangerous than when you are using it to start a rumor-

Strange thought-In two days, tomorrow will be yesterday-

I've learned-Gossip is like throwing mud against a clean wall--it may not stick but it always leaves a dirty mark-

5 things I want to know
1-Does the church today make personal salvation more difficult than Jesus made it?
2-Did the centurion become a believer in Jesus as the messiah?
3-Why was crucifixion a favored form of execution?
4-Are there historical records of crucifixions other than Jesus?
5-Were the nails put in Jesus's hands or wrists?

Scripture for today Proverbs 21:24-31
24 People who act with stubborn pride are called "proud, bragger, and mocker".
25 Lazy people's desire for sleep will kill them, because they refuse to work.
26 All day long they wish for more, but good people give without holding back.
27 The Lord hates sacrifices brought by evil people, particularly when they offer them for the wrong reasons.
28 A lying witness will be forgotten, but a truthful witness will speak on.
29 Wicked people are stubborn, but good people think carefully about what they do.
30 There is no wisdom, understanding, or advice that can succeed against the Lord.
31 You can get the horses ready for battle, but it is the Lord who gives the victory.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Saturday March 21, 2009 thought for the day

A BEAUTIFUL LOOK AT THE FALLS
Here are my thoughts for today
1-You can't trust and worry at the same time-
2-Enjoy little things for one day you may look backward and realize that they were big things-
3-It is awesome what God can do with a broken heart if he gets all the pieces-
4-In God's rules of success, you must stoop to rise, go down to get up and shrink to grow-
5-When you pray for God's guidance, do not complain if it is different from your preference-

Strange thought-Be what you is, not what you ain't, because when you is what you ain't, then you ain't what you is-

I've learned-A kind word never broke anyone's mouth-

5 things I want to know
1-Did Simon of Cyrene and family become believers in Jesus as the messiah?
2-Did all criminals to be crucified have to carry their cross to the execution site?
3-If Jesus descended into hell when he died, how could the one crucified criminal be with Jesus in paradise that day as Jesus promised he would be?
4-When did the one criminal come to faith in Jesus as the messiah?
5-Are death bed conversions authentic?

Scripture for today Proverbs 21:17-23
17 Whoever loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and perfume will never be rich.
18 Wicked people will suffer instead of good people, and those who cannot be trusted will suffer instead of those who do right.
19 It is better to live alone in the desert than with a quarreling and complaining wife.
20 Wise people's houses are full of the best foods and olive oil, but fools waste everything they have.
21 Whoever tries to live right and be loyal finds life, success and honor.
22 A wise person can defeat a city full of warriors and tear down the defenses they trust in.
23 Those who are careful about what they say keep themselves out of trouble.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Friday March 20, 2009 thought for the day

A "DREAMING" LOOK
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Sometimes the Lord calms the storm, sometimes he lets the storm rage and calms his child-
2-Faith is not shelter from difficulties but confidence in God in the face of all contradictions-
3-Faith makes the up look good, the outlook bright and the future glorious-
4-Worry pulls tomorrows clouds over today's sunshine-
5-Worry is the senseless process of allowing leftover problems from yesterday to distract you today and clutter up tomorrow's opportunities-

Strange thought-Put silk on a pig and it is still a pig

I've learned-Patience is accepting a difficult situation without giving God a deadline to remove it-

5 things I want to know
1-How did the gospel writers know about Pilot's conversation with his wife about letting Jesus go?
2-Did pilot's wife become a believer in Jesus?
3- Was Jesus's scourging an illegal move by Pilot?
4-Was Simon of Cyrene in the wrong place or the right place to carry Jesus cross?
5-Why is Simon of Cyrene's two boys named only in Mark?

Scripture for today Proverbs 21:9-16
9 It is better to live in a corner on the roof than inside the house with a quarreling wife-
10 Evil people only want to harm others. Their neighbors get no money from them.
11 If you punish those who make fun of wisdom, a foolish person may gain some wisdom. But if you teach the wise, they will get knowledge.
12 God, who is always right, watches the house of the wicked and brings ruin on every evil person.
13 Whoever ignores the poor when they cry for help will also cry for help and not be answered.
14 A secret gift will calm an angry person: a present given in secrecy will quiet great anger.
15 When justice is done, good people are happy, but evil people are ruined.
16 Whoever does not use good sense will end up among the dead.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Thursday March 19, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Clouds in our life are sent to bring showers of blessings-
2-People have a way of becoming what you encourage them to be, not what you nag them to be-
3-Other people don't make you what you are, they only reveal what you already are-
4-To reach the port of heaven, we need sometimes to sail with the wind, sometimes against it, but we must sail, not drift or lye at anchor-
5-To realize the worth of the anchor, we need to feel the storm-

Strange thought-a friends eye is a good mirror-

I've learned-The next time satan reminds you of your past, remind him of his future-

5 things I want to know
1-Whatever happened to the roman guards guarding Jesus's tomb?
2-What do you think Barabbas thoughts were on being freed?
3-Whatever happened to Barabbas after being freed?
4-Is the reason the Jews have been so mistreated over the years because they told Pilate "let his blood be on us and on our children"?
5-Is Pilate remembered for the evil he did or the courage he didn't show?

Scripture for today Proverbs 21:1-8
1 The Lord can control a king's mind as he controls a river; he can direct it as he pleases.
2 You may believe you are doing right, but the Lord judges your reasons.
3 Doing what is right and fair is more important to the Lord than sacrifices.
4 Proud looks, proud thoughts, and evil actions are sin.
5 The plans of hard working people earn a profit, but those who act too quickly become poor.
6 Wealth that comes form telling lies vanishes like a mist and leads to death.
7 The violence of the wicked will destroy them, because they refuse to do what is right-
8 Guilty people live dishonest lives, but honest people do right.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Wednesday March 18, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-"There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment"-
2-If I don't love God enough to let go of my fears, then I keep on handling them myself-
3-Only those who can say "the Lord is the strength of my life" can say "of whom then shall I be afraid"-
4-Christians aren't made, they are in the making-
5-God uses Christians who stay cool in a hot place, sweet in a sour place and little in a big place-

Strange thought-You never know how soon it will be too late-

I've learned-If you don't have charity in your heart, you have the worst kind of heart trouble-

5 things I want to know
1-Was Judas's sin beyond God's grace?
2-Was Judas predestined to be the betrayer of Jesus without any choice in the matter?
3-Was Pilate's role in the crucifixion predestined?
4-Whatever happened to Pilate after sentencing Jesus?
5-Would Pilate have heard about Jesus's resurrection?

Scripture for today Proverbs 20:25-30
25 It's dangerous to promise something to God too quickly. After you've thought about it, it may be too late.
26 A wise king sorts out the evil people, and he punishes them as they deserve.
27 The Lord looks deep inside people and searches through their thoughts.
28 Loyalty and truth keep a king in power, he continues to rule if he is loyal.
29 Young men glory in their strength, and old men are honored for their gray hair.
30 Hard punishment will get rid or evil, and whippings can change an evil heart.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Tuesday March 17, 2009 thought for the day

HAPPY ST PATRICK'S DAY
Here are my thoughts for today
1-By refusing grace we play God and punish ourselves-
2-You never find yourself until you face the truth-
3-Worship does not satisfy our hunger for God, it wets our appetite-
4-God doesn't ask us true or false questions, he asks us yes or no questions-
5-What is faith unless you believe what you do not see-

Strange thought-it is no use carrying an umbrella if your shoes are leaking-

I've learned-You can't make grace happen-

5 things I want to know
1-Was Judas ever a true follower of Jesus?
2-How can Satan enter a follower of Jesus as he did with Judas and they not know it?
3-Who was the first person in the Bible brought back to life?
4-Did Judas ever realize Jesus was who he said he was?
5-Is Judas remembered for what he did or for what he was?

Scripture for today Proverbs 20:19-24
19 Gossips can't keep secrets, so avoid people who talk too much.
20 Those who curse their father or mother will be like a light going out in darkness.
21 Wealth inherited quickly in the beginning will do you no good in the end.
22 Don't say "I'll pay you back for the wrong you did." Wait for the Lord, and he will make things right.
23 The Lord hates dishonest weights, and dishonest scales do not please him.
24 The Lord decides what a person will do; no one understands what his life is all about.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Monday March 16, 2009 thought for the day

PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Questions are the pump that makes answers flow-
2-The face is the mirror of the soul-
3-There is nothing that elicits response from people more than to feel they are dealing with someone who is on their level-
4-God comes in where your helplessness begins-
5-We can't perform to earn God's grace-God's grace gives us the freedom to respond by doing good-

Strange thought-Even a small thorn causes festering-

I've learned-Without ambition nothing gets done-

5 things I want to know
1-The apostles creed says that Jesus was in hell sometime between his crucifixion and resurrection, so did it's occupants know who Jesus was?
2-What was Jesus's purpose in entering hell?
3-What really caused Judas to betray Jesus?
4-Why did Jesus not talk about his time between his death and his resurrection?
5-Was Judas different from the other 11 disciples?

Scripture for today Proverbs 20:13-18
13 If you love to sleep you will be poor. If you stay awake, you will have plenty of food.
14 Buyers say, "This is bad. It is no good." Then they go away and brag about what they bought.
15 There is gold and plenty of rubies, but only a few people speak with knowledge.
16 Take the coat of someone who promises to pay a stranger's debts, and keep it until he pays what the stranger owes.
17 Stolen food may taste sweet at first, but later it will feel like a mouth full of gravel.
18 Get advice if you want your plans to work. If you go to war, get the advice of others.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Sunday March 15, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Hope is stronger than memory, the open tomb stronger than the bloodied cross, the risen Lord stronger than the dead Jesus, Easter stronger than Good Friday, the resurrection stronger than the crucifixion-
2-Joy is a condition we are in because of a decision we've made-
3-What soap is for the body, tears are for the soul-
4-Chastity is the most unpopular of all the Christian values-
5-The greatest use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it-

Strange thought-every dog is brave on it's own doorstep-

I've learned-Without ambition, nothing gets done-

5 things I want to know
1-Why could God not look at Jesus while he hung on a cross?
2-Had God abandoned Jesus during all of the good Friday proceedings?
3-Did Jesus know what faced him in death in hell?
4-What would hell have been like when Jesus went there upon dying before his resurrection?
5-Did Jesus suffer in hell like human sinners do?

Scripture for today Proverbs 20:7-12
7 The good people who live honest lives will be a blessing to their children.
8 When a king sits on his throne to judge, he knows evil when he sees it.
9 No one can ever say "I am innocent, I have never done anything wrong."
10 The Lord hates both of these things: dishonest weights and dishonest measures.
11 Even children are know by their behavior; their actions show if they are innocent and good.
12 The Lord has made both these things; ears to hear and eyes to see.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Saturday March 14, 2009 thought for the day

A BEAUTIFUL SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Coping with difficult people is always a problem, especially if that person happens to be yourself-
2-If we put our work any place higher than third place we have our priorities mixed up-
3-No Christian is meant to be a self sufficient hero in spiritual battles-
4-Striving for excellence is a worthy goal but perfection is impossible-
5-Progress is more important than perfectionism-

Strange thought-You'll never plow a field by turning it over in your mind-

I've learned-While you can't avoid conflict, you can grow through it-

5 things I want to know
1-Why is the fourth commandment all but ignored by Christians today?
2-Do we desecrate our places of worship by dressing so skimpily?
3-How can you love someone when you don't like them?
4-Was Jesus's mother Mary a widow at the time of Jesus's death?
5-Did Mary the mother of Jesus ever see her resurrected son?

Scripture for today Proverbs 20:1-6
1 Wine and beer make people loud and uncontrolled; it is not wise to get drunk on them.
2 An angry king is like a roaring lion. Making him angry may cost you your life.
3 Foolish people are always fighting, but avoiding quarrels will bring you honor.
4 Lazy farmers don't plow when they should, they expect a harvest, but there is none.
5 People's thoughts can be like a deep well, but someone with understanding can find the wisdom there.
6 Many people claim to be loyal, but it hard to find a trustworthy person.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Friday March 13, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Perseverance is a great element of success-
2-God loves you not for what you do but simply because you belong to him-
3-You can't save yourself by pulling on your own bootstraps even when they are made of the finest religious leather-
4-The church is at its best when people with nothing in common are united in Jesus-
5-When a person treats with contempt a person of another race they are revealing weaknesses in their own character-

Strange thought-Why isn't there mouse flavored cat food?

I've learned-A man is rich according to what he is, not what he has.

5 things I want to know
1-Why are so many parts of the Bible not clear and difficult to understand?
2-Why weren't the words that Jesus spoke recorded immediately by the disciples?
3-Does it matter in which order the books of the Bible are listed in?
4-How can I be sure that what I take to be the Holy Spirits enlightenment is not just self delusion?
5-What subject did Jesus talk about the most?

Scripture for today Proverbs 19:23-29
23 Those who respect the Lord will live and be satisfied, unbothered by trouble.
24 Though the lazy person puts his hand in the dish, he won't lift the food to his mouth.
25 Whip those who make fun of wisdom, and perhaps foolish people will gain some wisdom. Correct those with understanding and they will gain knowledge.
26 A son who robs his father and sends away his mother brings shame and disgrace on himself.
27 Don't stop listening to correction, my child, or you will forget what you have already learned.
28 An evil witness makes fun of fairness, and wicked people love what is evil.
29 People who make fun of wisdom will be punished, and the backs of foolish people will be beaten.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Thursday March 12, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Always believe the best of everybody--it will save you so much trouble-
2-There is a big difference between the joy of optimism and the joy that comes with knowing you're in God's will.
3-Heaven is seen more clearly through the prism of tears-
4-Spiritual maturity is built on consistent faithfulness, even when we don't see dramatic evidence of God working in our lives.
5-"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up..."

Strange thought-He who can't endure the bad will not live to see the good-

I've learned-God uses our weaknesses to further his purpose-

5 things I want to know
1-How does freedom of choice and God's grace work together?
2-Does God suffer pain as we know it?
3-Did the bible writer know they were writing for posterity?
4-How can we know if every translation of the bible from the Greek and Hebrew is without error?
5-Why are there so many conflicting interpretations of the bible?

Scripture for today Proverbs 19:15-22
15 Lazy people sleep a lot, and idle people will go hungry.
16 Those who obey the commands protect themselves, but those who are careless will die.
17 Being kind to the poor is like lending to the Lord; he will reward you for what you have done.
18 Correct your children while there is still hope; do not let then destroy themselves.
19 People with quick tempers will have to pay for it. If you help them out once, you will have to do it again.
20 Listen to advice and accept correction, and in the end you will be wise.
21 People make all kinds of plans, but only the Lord's plan will happen.
22 People want others to be loyal, so it is better to be poor than to be a liar.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Wednesday March 11, 2009 thought for the day

HOW DID THEY GET HERE?
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Faithfulness is our part, results are God's-
2-Diversity is essential to unity-
3-If a person honors Jesus, then that person is a brother or sister in Christ and we can have fellowship regardless of other differences-
4-If two people agree on everything, you can be sure that one of them is doing all the thinking-
5-There are more who know how to win than those who know how to make proper use of their victories-

Strange thought-Why is the word dictionary in the dictionary?

I've learned-Failure in people is caused more by lack of determination than lack of talent-

5 things I want to know
1-Was Jesus human after the resurrection?
2-Does hell last forever or does it just seem like it?
3-Since Christianity is the only real answer to life's question, why aren't people drawn to the churches?
4-Did Jesus struggle with doing God's will at calvary?
5-Have we made the gospel too difficult or too easy for some to believe it?

Scripture for today Proverbs 19:8-14
8 Those who get wisdom do themselves a favor, and those who love learning will succeed.
9 A witness who lies will not go free, liars will die.
10 A fool should not live in luxury. A slave should not rule over princes.
11 Smart people are patient; they will be honored if they ignore insults.
12 An angry king is like a roaring lion, but his kindness is like the dew on the grass.
13 A foolish son will ruin his father, and a quarreling wife is like dripping water.
14 Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a wise wife is a gift from the Lord.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-from jasper

Tuesday March 10, 2009 thought for the day

JESUS IS WITH YOU IN YOUR DARKEST HOUR
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Nothing is as offensive as answers perceived to be mere uncaring words-
2-Wherever you are, God wants you to tell others about him-
3-To the business person, customer relationship development is as important as product development-
4-Three helping one another will do as much as six men singly-
5-Common looking people are the best in the world and that is why God makes so many of them-

Strange thought-You've got to do your own growing no matter how tall your grandfather was-

I've learned-Image is nothing, character is everything-

5 things I want to know
1-How could the disciples see God the father when they looked at Jesus?
2-Jesus said "I and the father are one!"-why didn't Jesus include the holy spirt in this comment?
3-Will Jesus give us everything we ask for in the father's name?
4-Does God work in our lives only in answer to prayer?
5-Is it correct to call God a person?

Scripture for today Proverbs 19:1-7
1-It is better to be poor and honest than to be foolish and tell lies.
2-Enthusiasm without knowledge is not good. If you act too quickly, you might make a mistake.
3-People's own foolishness ruins their lives, but in their minds they blame the Lord.
4-Wealthy people are always finding more friends, but the poor lose all theirs.
5-A witness who lies will not go free; liars will never escape.
6-Many people want to please a leader, and everyone is friends with those who give gifts.
7 Poor people's relatives avoid them. Even their friends stay far away. They run after them, begging but they are gone.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Monday March 9,2009 thought for the day

PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-The art of decision making is the skill of choosing between two goods-
2-Nothing fails quite so totally as success without God-
3-Life seldom works like it its supposed to-
4-Hope that is seen is no hope at all-
5-Hope is the physician of every misery-

Strange thought-Why is it that when you are driving and looking for an address you turn down the volume on the radio?

I've learned-Success in marriage is more than finding the right person, it is becoming the right person-

5 things I want to know
1-Do Christians tend to become narrow minded and intolerant of those different from them?
2-Why is the church affected by our culture?
3-Do many Christians display spiritual power in their lives?
4-Will the suffering that some Christians endure become greater or lessor as time nears an end?
5-Why does the church seem to be adopting the worlds morality?

Scripture for today Proverbs 18:19-24
19 A brother who has been insulted is harder to win back than a walled city, and arguments separate people like the barred gates of a palace.
20 People will be rewarded for what they say, they will be rewarded by how they speak.
21 What you say can mean life or death. Those who speak with care will be rewarded.
22 When a man finds a wife, he finds something good. It shows that the Lord is pleased with him.
23 The poor beg for mercy, but the rich give rude answers.
24 Some friends may ruin you, but a real friend will be more loyal than a brother.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

"THIS OLD HOUSE"
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Jesus said "it is finished"-it was and it is-
2-Humility is unconscious but expressed through actions by putting others ahead of yourself-
3-The deepest need in human nature is to be loved and appreciated-
4-God moves people who are already moving-
5-Our destination is not so much to find the perfect plan for our life, it's getting to know God along the way-

Strange thought-Why is it to stop windows 95 or 98 you have to click start?

I've learned-A man is never in worse company than when he flies into a rage and is beside himself-

Scripture for today Proverbs 18: 13-18
13 Anyone who answers without listening is foolish and confused.
14 The will to live can get you through sickness, but no one can live with a broken spirit.
15 The mind of a person with understanding gets knowledge, the wise person listens to learn more.
16 Taking a gift to an important man will help get you in to see him.
17 The person who tells one side of a story seems right until someone else comes and asks questions.
18 Throwing lots can settle arguments and keep the two sides from fighting.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Saturday March 7, 2009 thought for the day

PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Our culture defines us by what we do but scripture places"being" before "doing"-
2-Character is that which can do without success-
3-In today's culture "intolerance" seems to have been named the greatest sin-
4-"Do not let your hearts be troubled, believe in God, believe also in me."
5-Most of the intellectual "elite" of our society completely disavow the idea of absolute truth-

Strange thought-Why is it that rain drops and snow falls?

I've learned-Sorrow looks back, worry looks around, faith looks up!

5 things I want to know
1-Does surrender and submission mean the same in spiritual terms?
2-Why do we place so much importance on things that are so temporary?
3-How much like Jesus can we become?
4-Is there purpose to life outside of God?
5-What is it that God gives you to handle your testings?

Scripture for today Proverbs 18:7-12
7 The words of fools will ruin them, their own words will trap them.
8 The words of a gossip are like tasty bits of food. People like to gobble them up.
9 A person who doesn't work hard is just like someone who destroys things.
10 The Lord is like a strong tower, those who do right can run to him for safety.
11 Rich people trust their wealth to protect them. They think it is like the high walls of a city.
12 Proud people will be ruined, but the humble will be honored.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Friday March 6, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-What is truly most important often takes a back seat to what is urgent-
2-Solitude is simply creating space for God-
3-Every person of great spiritual development in scripture is marked by solitude-
4-Our position in society is much less important than our actions toward others-
5-Let my heart be broken by the things that break the heart of God-

Strange thought-Why is it called lipstick if you can still move your lips?

I've learned-It is good to be a Christian and know it, but it is better to be a Christian and show it-

5 things I want to know
1-Is anything out of control as far as God is concerned?
2-How is it possible to do everything to the glory of God?
3-Why did God have to destroy all the animals in the great flood since they had nothing to do with sin?
4-Are there animals and vegetation that exist now that weren't on the earth prior to the great flood?
5-When God created us , did he also create our weaknesses and limitations

Scripture for today? Proverbs 18:1-6
1 Unfriendly people are selfish and hate all good sense.
2 Fools do not want to understand anything. They only want to tell others what they think.
3 Do something evil and people won't like you. Do something shameful and they will make fun of you.
4 Spoken words can be like deep water, but wisdom is like a flowing stream.
5 It is not good to honor the wicked or to be unfair to the innocent.
6 The words of fools start quarrels. They make people want to beat them.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Thursday March 5, 2009 thought for today

PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-God did not write solo parts for very many of us for he expects us to be participants in the great symphony of life-
2-"Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly and whoever sows generously will also reap generously"-
3-For many wealthy people, giving a tenth is a way of robbing God, their tithe becomes a tip-
4-From a biblical perspective, the amount or percentage we give to God is nod the real issue, it is the givers attitude-
5-Our faith becomes practical when it is expressed in two books-the date book and the check book-

Strange thought-No one ever says "oh, it's just a game!" when they are winning-

I've learned-It is good to remember that the tea kettle, although it is up to it's neck in hot water, continues to sing-

5 things I want to know
1-Why are Christians not afraid to commit the sin of worry?
2-Is it ever too late to do what is right?
3-When was Jesus's actual birthday?
4-Can evil exist without the cooperation of good people?
5-Is there anything that cannot be forgiven?

Scripture for today Proverbs 17:22-28
22 A happy heart is like good medicine, but a broken spirit drains your strength.
23 When the wicked accept money to do wrong there can be no justice.
24 The person with understanding is always looking for wisdom, bud the mind of a fool wanders everywhere.
25 A foolish son makes his father sad and causes his mother great sorrow.
26 It is not good to punish the innocent or to beat leaders for being honest.
27 The smart person says very little, and one with understanding stays calm.
28 Even fools seem to be wise if they keep quiet, if they don't speak, they appear to understand.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Wednesday March 4, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-The integrity of a person is shown in the stand they take for right against mistaken popular concepts-
2-Courage faces fear and thereby masters it while cowardice represses fear and is mastered by it-
3-Trust is the basic bond of relationships-
4-There are long stretches of darkness and invisibility and silence between planting and reaping-
5-The temptation in managing people is to use them rather than developing them-

Strange thought-Today is army day! Think about it. March 4th.

I've learned-No work is small if God is in it-

5 things I want to know
1-Why is laughter good for your heart and soul?
2-Does our soil today need a biblical rest every 7 years?
3-Why does the church seem to be coming irrelevant in our society today?
4-Why were gold, frankincense and myrrh chosen as gifts to be given to baby Jesus?
5-Does hope produce faith or does faith produce hope?

Scripture for today Proverbs 17:15-21
15 The Lord hates both of these things: freeing the guilty and punishing the innocent.
16 It won't do a fool any good to try to buy wisdom, because he doesn't have the ability to be wise.
17 A friend loves you all the time, and a brother helps in time of trouble.
18 It is not wise to promise to pay what your neighbor owes.
19 Whoever loves to argue loves to sin. Whoever brags a lot is asking for trouble.
20 A person with an evil heart will find no success, and the person whose words are evil will get
into trouble.
21 It is sad to have a foolish child; there is no joy in being the parent of a fool.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Tuesday March 3, 2009 thought for today

PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-Jesus offers us more than happiness, as it is defined in the culture we live in-
2-God promised that blessedness will accompany discipleship-
3-"Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom or the strong man of his strength or the rich man of his riches.."
4-Our only business in this life is to please God-
5-There are many ways to speak up for Jesus other than talking-

Strange thought-The smallest package ever seen is a person wrapped up in himself-

I've learned-Even the good things in life can become bad-

5 things I want to know?
1-Did Jesus plan his own funeral?
2-Will God treat you any better than you treat others?
3-Is anyone beyond God's grace?
4-How do we know if we are being tested or tempted?
5-Is it possible to love God as much as He loves us?

Scripture for today -Proverbs 17:8-14
8 Some people think they can pay others to do anything they ask. They think it will work every time.
9 Whoever forgives someone's sin makes a friend, but gossiping about the sin breaks up friendships.
10 A wise person will learn more from a warning than a fool will learn from a hundred lashings.
11 Disobedient people look only for trouble, so a cruel messenger will be sent against them.
12 It is better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than to meet a fool doing foolish things.
13 Whoever gives evil in return for good will always have trouble at home.
14 Starting a quarrel is like a leak in a dam, so stop it before a fight breaks out.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Monday March 2, 2009 thought for the day

BEAUTIFUL SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-....."His eyes were not content with his wealth...."
2-The test of friendship is that you can share the great things that have happened as well as the disappointing ones-
3-We love those who know the worst of us and don't turn away from us-
4-God isn't offering us a life of ease for he knows when we are stretched and challenged we grow.
5-The job of a coach is to make people do what they don't want to do in order to achieve what they've always wanted to be-

Strange thought-People say you can't buy happiness--maybe they just don't know where to shop!

I've learned-The best bridge between hope and despair is often a good nights sleep-

5 things I want to know
1-Can you become a Christian without repentance?
2-Does repentance and confession mean the same thing?
3- Is wealth compatible with a holy life?
4-What should we be trusting God for that we cannot do ourselves?
5-Do we Christians really believe that all promises of God are true as stated in the Bible?

Scripture for today Proverbs 17:1`-7
1 It is better to eat a dry crust of bread in peace than to have a feast where there is quarreling.
2 A wise servant will rule over the master's disgraceful child and will even inherit a share of what the master leaves his children.
3 A hot furnace tests silver and gold, but the Lord tests hearts.
4-Evil people listen to evil words. Liars pay attention to cruel words.
5-Whoever mistreats the poor insults their maker; whoever enjoys someone's trouble will be punished.
6 Old people are proud of their grandchildren, and children are proud of their parents.
7 Fools should not be proud and rulers should not be liars.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper

Sunday March 1, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY SCENE
Here are my thoughts for today
1-God wants us to find satisfaction in our work because it is His gift to us-
2-"There is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live"
3-God can transform any task into something meaningful-
4-Vocational contentment is a happy match between what you have to do and what you enjoy doing-
5-Contentment is letting God transform your situation-

Strange thought-Some push the envelope, some just lick it, and some can't find the flap-

I've learned-If you want a gallon of milk you should not sit on a stool in the middle of the pasture expecting the cow to back up to you-

5 things I want to know
1-Does a fruit bearing Christian need pruning on a regular basis?
2-Did Jesus always offer forgiveness without being asked for it?
3-How do we become salty Christians?
4-Spiritually speaking, do we do better under adversity or prosperity?
5-Why is it that God often has to speak to us through adversity?

Scripture for today-Proverbs 16:28-33
28 A useless person causes trouble and a gossip ruins friendships.
29 Cruel people trick their neighbors and lead them to do wrong.
30 Someone who winks is planning evil, and the one who grins is planning something wrong.
31 Gray hair is like a crown of honor, it is earned by living a good life.
32 Patience is better than strength. Controlling your temper is better than capturing a city.
33 People throw lots to make a decision, but the answer comes form the Lord.

I wish you a day filled with love, laughter, forgiveness and thanksgiving-jasper