Sunday May 31, 2009 thought for the day

FRIENDS

Here are my thoughts for today
1-The true measure of God's love is that he loves without measure-
2-God does not love us because we are valuable, we are valuable because God lives us-
3-Let all your words be kind and you will always hear kind echoes-
4-You can make more friends with your ears than with your mouth-
5-True love is a gift on which no return is demanded-

Strange thought-How is time represented by the brain?

I've learned-The word enthusiasm is derived from 2 Greek words-"en" meaning in and "theos" meaning God-

5 things I want to know
1-Does poverty or wealth have anything to do with spirituality?
2-Is greed idolatry?
3-Does love have to prove itself?
4-In the Lord's prayer, why is asking for our daily bread ahead of asking for forgiveness?
5-Can you be a secret disciple?

Scripture for today Psalms 14
1 Fools say to themselves, "There is no God." Fools are evil and do terrible things; there is no one who does anything good.
2 The Lord looked down from heaven on all people to see if anyone understood, if anyone was looking to God for help.
3 But all have turned away. Together, everyone has become evil. There is no one who does anything good, not even one.
4 Don't the wicked understand? They destroy my people as if they were eating bread. They do not ask the Lord for help.
5 But the wicked are filled with terror, because God is with those who do what is right.
6 The wicked upset the plans of the poor, but the Lord will protect them.
7 I pray that victory will come to Israel from Mount Zion! May the Lord bring them back. Then the people of Jacob will rejoice, and the people of Israel will be glad.

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

Saturday May 30, 2009 thought for the day

FRIENDS

Here are my thoughts for today
1-Enthusiasm and persistence can make an average person superior, indifference and lethargy can make a superior person average-
2-If it is not worth putting everything you've got into it, it is not worth doing-
3-Nothing is more stimulating than friends who speak the truth in love-
4-There is no better exercise for the heart than reaching down and helping someone up-
5-To ease another's heartache is to forget one's own-

Strange thought-Do animals have intelligence to solve open ended problems?

I've learned-When you can no longer see, you can still remember!

5 things I want to know
1-Should we work for rewards in heaven?
2-Should a Christian desire to get wealthy?
3-What is a greedy or a selfish person?
4-Why do people desire great wealth?
5-Is the gospel of Jesus a gospel of the poor?

Scripture for today Psalms 13
1 How long will you forget me Lord? Forever? How long will you hide from me?
2 How long must I worry and feel sad in my heart all day? How long will my enemy win over me?
3 Lord, look at me. Answer me, my God; tell me, or I will die.
4 Otherwise my enemy will say, "I have won!" Those against me will rejoice that I've been defeated.
5 I trust in your love. My heart is happy because you saved me.
6 I sing to the Lord because he has taken care of me.

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

Friday May 29, 2009 thought for the day

FRIENDS!!

Here are my thoughts for today
1-The arrows of grace always go outward-
2-God welcomes you with open arms, not clenched fists-
3-Who is above knows what is below, but who is below does not know what is above-
4-There is always a good crop of food for thought, what we need is enough enthusiasm to harvest it-
5-Enthusiasm is the force necessary for climbing the ladder of success-

Strange thought-What is abstract thinking?

I've learned-Today's thorn could be tomorrows flower-

5 things I want to know
1-Are we to take literally what Jesus said "Whatever you ask in my name I will do it"?
2-Is the Bible basically a chronicle of events or a guidebook of principals and systematic theology?
3-Why do we call going to a church service a worship service?
4-What kind of life does God bless?
5-How does God bless believers and non believers?

Scripture for today Psalms 12
1 Save me, Lord, because the good people are all gone; no true believers are left on earth.
2 Everyone lies to his neighbors; they say one thing and mean another.
3 The Lord will stop those flattering lips and cut off those bragging tongues.
4 They say, "Ours tongues will help us win. We can say what we wish; no one is our master."
5 But the Lord says, "I will now rise up, because the poor are being hurt. Because of the moans of the helpless, I will give them the help they want."
6 The Lord's words are pure, like silver purified by fire, like silver purified seven times over.
7 Lord, you will keep us safe; you will always protect us from such people.
8 But the wicked are all around us; everyone lives what is wrong.

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

Thursday May 28, 2009 thought for the day

FRIENDS!!

Here are my thoughts for today
1-You cannot "get" grace, you can only give it-
2-Everyday for the Christian is a grace period-
3-Grace has nothing to do about fairness, it is about God's goodness-
4-If we got what we deserve, we could not stand in God's presence-
5-Trying to understand God's grace is overwhelming-

Strange thought-What is intelligence and are we born with it or develop it?

I've learned-It is possible to change-

5 things I want to know
1-What are "sinful desires"?
2-Is serving others serving God?
3-Can we love someone without feeling love for them?
4-What risks are involved in having faith?
5-When we pray, why do we say "Thy will be done"?

Scripture for today Psalms 11
1 I trust in the Lord for protection. So why do you say to me, "fly like a bird to your mountain.
2 Like hunters, the wicked string their bows; they set their arrows on the bowstrings. They shoot from dark places at those who are honest.
3 When all that is good falls apart, what can good people do?"
4 The Lord is in his holy temple; the Lord sits on his throne in heaven. He sees what people do; he keeps his eye on them.
5 The Lord tests those who do right, but he hates the wicked and those who love to hurt others.
6 He will send hot coals and burning sulfur on the wicked. A whirlwind is what they will get.
7 The Lord does what is right, and he love justice, so honest people will see his face.

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

Wednesday May 27, 2009 thought for the day

FRIENDS

Here are my thoughts for today-
1-If you can't be thankful for what you received, be thankful for what you escape-
2-Anyone who does not believe in miracles is not a realist-
3-Pity just feels sorry, compassion does something about it-
4-Grace is given as a gift to those who don't deserve it-
5-God's grace is given to us not because of who we are but because of who God is-

Strange thought-Is there such a thing as real artificial intelligence?

I've learned-The ultimate way to conquer our past hurts is to allow God to make us better on account of it-

5 things I want to know
1-Why was Jesus so critical of the disciples not understanding many of his teachings and parables?
2-Why did Jesus say "As lightening comes from the east and flashes to the west" when our storms come from a westerly direction?
3-Will the human race exterminate itself?
4-Since Jesus is divine, every time we do not tell someone about him, have we not sinned?
5-What does it mean "God gave them over.."?

Scripture for today Psalms 10:12-18
12 Lord, rise up and punish the wicked. Don't forget those who need help.
13 Why do wicked people hate God? They say to themselves, "God won't punish us."
14 Lord, surely you see these cruel and evil things; look at them and do something. People in trouble look to you for help. You are the one who helps the orphans.
15 Break the power of wicked people. Punish them for the evil they have done.
16 The Lord is king forever and ever. Destroy from your land those nations that do not worship you.
17 Lord, you have heard what the poor people want. Do what they ask, and listen to them.
18 Protect the orphans and put an end to suffering so they will no longer be afraid of evil people.

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

Tuesday May 26, 2009 thought for the day

FRIENDS

Here are my thoughts for today
1-The church needs to be the conscience of society-
2-If anyone is to see Jesus, he is to be seen in his followers-
3-Jesus died once for our sin but lived all his life in obedience to this father-
4-Suffering for Jesus is a place where God's power can be shown-
5-I purposely, intentionally, decisively chose to life for Jesus-

Strange thought-How do brain neurons work together to manipulate knowledge and erase inconsequential information?

I've learned-Jesus draws people, not drives them-

5 things I want to know
1-Were the disciples disappointed or jealous that they could not cast out demons?
2-Should Christians be called disciples or servants?
3-Is there any difference in the Holy Spirit coming on you and the Holy Spirit infilling you?
4-Have all the prophecies about the time preceding Jesus returning been fulfilled?
5-Why don't we today hear any preaching today about hell or the 2nd coming of Jesus?

Scripture for today Psalms 10:1-11
1 Lord, why are you so far away? Why do you hide when there is trouble?
2 Proudly the wicked chase down those who suffer. Let them be caught in their own traps.
3 They brag about the things they want. They bless the greedy but hate the Lord.
4 The wicked people are too proud. They do not look for God; there is no room for God in their thoughts.
5 They always succeed. They are far from keeping your laws; they make fun of their enemies.
6 They say to themselves, "nothing bad will ever happen to me; I will never be ruined."
7 Their mouths are full of curses, lies, and threats; they use their tongues for sin and evil.
8 They hide near the villages. They look for innocent people to kill; they watch in secret for the helpless.
9 They wait in hiding like a lion. They wait to catch poor people; they catch the poor in nets.
10 The poor are thrown down and crushed; they are defeated because the others are stronger.
11 The wicked think, "God has forgotten us. He doesn't see what is happening."

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

Monday May 25, 2009 thought for the day

LET'S NOT FORGET THOSE WHO GAVE SO MUCH!!

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY
1-Because God forgives me, I can forgive you-
2-Sacrificial love is not based on a feeling but a determined act of the will-
3-When Satan reminds you of your past, remind him of his future-
4-It is not so much what you say as it is how you live-
5-Christians should be the leven of society-

Strange thought-Can you predict the future by the past?

I've learned-Finding the good in a bad situation isn't just a "glad game" experience or a good idea, it is vital to our spiritual health-

5 things I want to know
1-Why would the disciples argue amongst themselves who was the greatest?
2-What is a servant?
3-Can a leader be a servant?
4-Should fear have anyplace in the believers life?
5-How can you be first if you are the last?

Scripture for today Psalms 9:11-20
11 Sing praises to the Lord who is king on Mount Zion. Tell the nations what he has done.
12 He remembers who the murderers are; he will not forget the cries of those who suffer.
13 Lord, have mercy on me. See how my enemies hurt me. Do not let me go through the gates of death.
14 Then, at the gates of Jerusalem, I will praise you; I will rejoice because you saved me.
15 The nations have fallen into the pit they dug. Their feet are caught in the nets they laid.
16 The Lord has made himself known by his fair decisions; the wicked get trapped by what they do.
17 Wicked people will go to the grave, and so will all those who forget God.
18 But those who have troubles will not be forgotten. The hopes of the poor will never die.
19 Lord, rise up and judge the nations. Don't let people think they are strong.
20 Teach them to fear you, Lord. The nations must learn that they are only human.

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

May 24, 2009 thought for the day

MEMORIAL DAY 2009

Here are my thoughts for today
1-It is easier to debate the bible than to believe it-
2-Unforgiveness-wanting the situation of hurt to continue to control you-
3-To forgive is letting go of the situation as if it had never happened-
4-Forgiveness is given, trust is earned-
5-The lack of forgiveness imprisons you-

Strange thought-How does the brain process the "unknown" when it never was in it's memory bank?

I've learned-it is possible to change-

5 things I want to know
1-How do you win an unwinnable argument?
2-Does God give you strength for the battle or strength in the battle?
3-If David was sure of success against Goliath, why did he choose 5 stones?
4-Could a woman divorce her husband in Jesus's day?
5-Why did Jesus chose exactly 12 disciples?

Scripture for today Psalms 9:1-10
1 I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart. I will tell all the miracles you have done.
2 I will be happy because of you; God Most High, I will sing praises to your name.
3 My enemies turn back; they are overwhelmed and die because of you.
4 You have heard my complaint; you sat on your throne and judged by what was right.
5 You spoke strongly against the foreign nations and destroyed the wicked; you wiped out their names forever and ever.
6 The enemy is gone forever. You destroyed their cities; no one even remembers them.
7 But the Lord rules forever. He sits on his throne to judge,
8 and he will judge the world in fairness; he will decide what is fair for the nations.
9 The Lord defends those who suffer; he defends them in times of trouble.
10 Those who know the Lord trust him, because he will not leave those who come to him.

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

Saturday May 23, 2009 thought for the day

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

Here are my thoughts for the day
1-God gives us many gifts, the most important being that of the Holy Spirit-
2-There is a direct relationship between holiness and human relationships-
3-God saves us because of his mercy, not our efforts-
4-Without validation of a Godly walk, preaching is in vain-
5-The world is not in need of more programs, events, books or seminars, rather it needs the church to be Jesus-

Strange thought-Do brain cells replenish?

I've learned-God never plays games with us-

5 things I want to know
1-How can death and Hades be cast into a lake of fire?-is it symbolic or literal?
2-Is there a "shadow of death" for the Christian?
3-Is the fear of death removed for the Christian?
4-What is dying grace?
5-Do we really believe what we say we believe?

Scripture for today Psalms 8
1 Lord our Lord, your name is the most wonderful name in all the earth! It brings you praise in heaven above.
2 You have taught children and babies to sing praises to you because of your enemies. And so you silence your enemies and destroy those who try to get even.
3 I look at your heavens, which you made with your fingers. I see the moon and stars, which you created.
4 But why are people important to you? Why do you take care of human beings?
5 You made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor.
6 You put them in charge of everything you made. You put all things under their control:
7 all the sheep, the cattle, and the wild animals,
8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea, and everything that lives under the water.
9 Lord our Lord, your name is the most wonderful name in all the earth!

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

Friday May 22, thought for the day

REMEMBERING OUR COUNTRY'S HEROS

Here are my thoughts for today
1-Rather than cursing the darkness around us, we are to speak blessings to our world and become God's instrument of light-
2-Spread love everywhere you go, first of all in your own home-
3-The future is your friend for God is already there-
4-Wisdom is always proved right by it's actions-
5-God is holy, He hates sin--God is just, He condemns sin--God is sovereign, he punishes sin--God is gracious, He forgives sin-

Strange thought-How does the brain process emotion-love, hate, happy sad, lonely, etc?

I've learned-Arrogance is a downward descent-

5 things I want to know
1-Do you always receive back in kind what you give away?
2-How did Adam/Eve disobedience bring death for mankind?
3-What did Jesus mean when He said, "our God is a consuming fire"?
4-Could the word fire as used in connection with hell mean a thirst for God that is never quenched?
5-What is the lake of fire in Revelations-is it symbolic or literal?

Scripture for today Psalms 7:9-17
9 God, you do what is right. You know our thoughts and feelings. Stop those wicked actions done by evil people, and help those who do what is right-
10 God protects me like a shield; he saves those whose hearts are right.
11 God judges by what is right, and God is always ready to punish the wicked.
12 If they do not change their lives, God will sharpen his sword; he will string his bow and take aim.
13 He has prepared his deadly weapons; he has made his flaming arrows.
14 There are people who think up evil and plan trouble and tell lies.
15 They dig a hole to trap others, but they will fall into it themselves.
16 They will get themselves into trouble; the violence they cause will hurt only themselves.
17 I praise the Lord because he does what is right. I sing praises to the Lord Most High.

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

Thursday May 21, 2009 thought for the day

PRETTY FLOWERING TREES

Here are my thoughts for today
1-God never promised us that our journey would be easy but that He would never abandon us in the journey-
2-To love people is simply to hear God call and faithfully join HIm in what He is doing in the world-
3-In the journey with God, there is no final retirement but simply new chapters-
4-It is tragic to be so blinded by the past or the future that we never see God among us in the present-
5-The way to anticipate a hope filled tomorrow is by stepping into life today and living it-

Strange thought-Why do we remember certain things better than others?

5 things I want to know
1-Should we be embarrassed by our material blessings when so many have little or nothing?
2-What responsibility do Christians have toward the destitute in other areas of the world?
3-Has anyone other than Jesus kept the 10 commandments all their life?
4-What does it take for us to be free with our wealth and resources?
5-Will you always receive back more than you give away?

Scripture for today Psalms 7:1-8
1 Lord my God, I trust in you for protection. Save me and rescue me from those who are chasing me.
2 Otherwise, like a lion they will tear me apart. They will rip me to pieces, and no one can save me.
3 Lord, what have I done? Have my hands done something wrong?
4 Have I done wrong to my friend or stolen without reason from my enemy?
5 If I have, let my enemy chase me and capture me. Let him trample me into the dust and bury me in the ground.
6 Lord, rise up in your anger; stand up against my enemies anger. Get up and demand fairness.
7 Gather the nations around you and rule them from above.
8 Lord, judge the people. Lord, defend me because I am right, because I have done no wrong, God Most High.

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

Wednesday May 20, 2009 thought for the day

AN UMBRELLA FOR THE SPRING RAINS

Here are my thoughts for today-
1-Be thankful not only for God's truth but also for his truth givers-
2-Holiness is being molded into Christ likeness-
3-We are warned by God's justice and warmed by His mercy-
4-Isn't it good to know that God's grace is deeper than the depth of our sins-
5-Age doesn't make us wiser if we seek our own way over God's way-

Strange thought-How does our brain store and retrieve memories?

I've learned-A person's actions reflect their character-

5 things I want to know
1-Does the bible teach that we should be concerned about both the soul and body or the soul only?
2-Will the heavens and earth be totally destroyed by a cataclysmic event or by a man made destructive capability?
3-Why doesn't Jesus bless the food today like he did the loaves and fishes and feed the world's hungry?
4-Are all things in the book of Revelations to be taken literally or symbolically?
5-Why did Jesus offer forgiveness of sin to the man with palsy in Capernum when he didn't ask for it?

Scripture for today Psalms 6
1 Lord, don't correct me when you are angry; don't punish me when you are very angry.
2 Lord, have mercy on me because I am weak. Heal me Lord, because my bones ache.
3 I am very upset. Lord, how long will it be?
4 Lord, return and save me; save me because of your kindness.
5 Dead people don't remember you; those in the grave don't praise you.
6 I am tired of crying to you. Every night my bed is wet with tears; my bed is soaked from my crying.
7 My eyes are weak from so much crying; they are weak from crying about my enemies.
8 Get away from me, all you who do evil, because the Lord has heard my crying.
9 The Lord has heard my cry for help; the Lord will answer my prayer.
10 All my enemies will be ashamed and troubled. They will turn and suddenly leave in shame.

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

Tuesday May 19, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY SPRING BLOSSOM

Here are my thoughts for today
1-God always draws and encourages, Satan pushes and condemns.
2-Sin dims the hope of bright promises-
3-The only way I can experience God's forgiveness is to acknowledge my sin-
4-God's mercy covers our past in a blanket of love, and then He advises us not to kick the covers off-
5-I refuse to remember what God has already forgotten-

Strange thought-What color does a smurf turn when you chock it?

I've learned-Treat other people the way you wish they would treat you, no matter how they actually behave toward you-

5 things I want to know
1-What is the "sword of the Lord"?
2-Why do some think that the mother's right to choose is more important than the unborn's right to live?
3-Is the second coming of Jesus tied to the success of world evangelization?
4-Will only a minority of humanity accept God's offer of salvation?
5-Did prehistoric man have a soul?

Scripture for today Psalms 5:7-12
7 Because of your great love, I can come into your Temple. Because I fear and respect you, I can worship in your holy Temple.
8 Lord, since I have many enemies, show me the right thing to do. Show me clearly how you want me to live.
9 My enemies mouths do not tell the truth; in their hearts they want to destroy others. Their throats are like open graves; they use their tongues for telling lies.
10 God, declare them guilty! Let them fall into their own traps. Send them away because their sins are many; they have turned against you.
11 But let everyone who trusts you be happy; let them sing glad songs forever. Protect those who love you and who are happy because of you.
12 Lord, you bless those who do what is right; you protect them like a soldier's shield.

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

Monday May 18, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY SPRING SCENE

Here are my thoughts for today
1-Correct anger cannot be sin because Jesus displayed it-
2-Since Jesus had siblings, he would have had an extended family-
3-Whenever trouble comes your way, consider it an opportunity-
4-God never intended for us to be solo Christians-
5-God never tempts anyone, only satan does and it is always in your area of weakness-

Strange thought-Does light or sound pick up anything traveling through space?

I've learned-Deception causes you to hide the truth from yourself and lose sight of who you really are.

5 things I want to know
1-Why do Americans act like we have priority on the worlds resources?
2-Should Christians be leaders in social welfare programs?
3-Should Christians be leaders in preserving our environment?
4-Is hades and hell the same place?
5-What is the "second death"?

Scripture for today Psalms 5:1-6
1 Lord, listen to my words. Understand my sadness.
2 Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, because I pray to you.
3 Lord, every morning you hear my voice. Every morning, I tell you what I need, and I wait for your answer.
4 You are not a God who is pleased with the wicked; you do not live with those who do evil.
5 Those people who make fun of you cannot stand before you. You hate all those who do evil.
6 You destroy liars; the Lord hates those who kill and trick others.

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

Sunday May 17, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY SPRING PICTURE

Here are my thoughts for today
1-We need to practice the presence of God-
2-It is impossible to love Jesus and not love the church-
3-The greatest need the church has is integrity--to be what it's people say they are-
4-The church is an assembly of committed believers in Jesus--not a building-
5-It is in the silence of the heart that God speaks-

Strange thought-How does a black cow eat green grass and give white milk?

I've learned-Sarcasm will only cause others to have contempt for you, while respect will bring you adoration-

5 things I want to know
1-How is it that the righteous will "scarcely be saved"?
2-Why was spit used in healing the blind person?
3-Why didn't Jesus explain to the disciples what the "yeast of the pharisees" was?
4-What is the "social gospel"?
5-Is there anything wrong or immoral in having wealth?

Scripture for today Psalm 4
1 Answer me when I pray to you, my God who does what is right. Make things easier for me when I am in trouble.
2 People, how long will you turn my honor into shame? How long will you love what is false and look for new lies?
3 You know that the Lord has chosen for himself those who are loyal to him. The Lord listens when I pray to him.
4 When you are angry, do not sin. Think about these things quietly as you go to bed.
5 Do what is right as a sacrifice to the Lord and trust the Lord.
6 Many people ask, "Who will give us anything good?" Lord, be kind to us.
7 But you have made me very happy, happier than they are, even with all their grain and new wine.
8 I go to bed and sleep in peace, because, Lord, only you keep me safe.

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

Saturday May 16, 2009 thought for the day

BEAUTIFUL RED TULIPS

Here are my thoughts for today
1-Just as one drop of ink clouds a glass of water, sin darkens our souls-
2-Discipline is very important, but it should never be applied in anger-
3-Christian meditation is about filling the mind, not emptying it-
4-The Bible is central to the practice of Christian meditation-
5-The Bible is not an end in itself, but a means to bring men into an intimate and redemptive knowledge of God-

Strange thought-How does light and sound travel over wires or through the air?

I've learned-If you choose friends because you are smarter than they, you will diminish your knowledge, for who will fertilize your growth?

5 things I want to know
1-How much is a Christian to feed the hungry and clothe the naked?
2-Has the fear of God been lost in the love of God?
3-Why did Jesus wait 3 days to feed the 4000?
4-What is the "yeast of the Pharisees"?
5-Why is yeast in scripture a symbol of evil?

Scripture for today Psalms 3
1 Lord, I have many enemies! Many people have turned against me.
2 Many are saying about me, "God won't rescue him."
3 But, Lord, you are my shield, my wonderful God who gives me courage.
4 I will pray to the Lord, and he will answer me from his holy mountain.
5 I can lie down and go to sleep and I will wake up again, because the Lord gives me strength.
6 Thousands of troops may surround me, but I am not afraid.
7 Lord, rise up! My God come save me! You have struck my enemies on the cheek, you have broken the teeth of the wicked.
8 The Lord can save his people. Lord, bless your people!

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

Friday May 15, 2009 thought for the day

A FIELD OF BEAUTIFUL TULIPS

Here are my thoughts for today-
1-Jesus came not for the strong but for the weak, not for the righteous but for sinners-
2-Jesus offers an invitation in which He works and we trust, He dies and we live, He invites and we believe-
3-Jesus made a one of a kind way to God-
4-Don't confuse costume jewelry with God's diamond-
5-Jesus talks less about life's duration and more about it's fulfillment-

Strange thought-How is it possible the universe can still be expanding?

I've learned-If accumulating things is your aim in life, you will never have enough things to satisfy that need-

5 things I want to know
1-What is the "fear of the Lord" that gives us wisdom?
2-What did Jesus mean by saying "I did not come to bring peace but a sword"? I thought He was a God of love?
3-Can you succeed apart from God?
4-Will you always succeed with God?
5-What does prayer really change?

Scripture for today Psalms 2:7-12
7 Now I will tell you what the Lord has declared: He said to me, "You are my son. Today I have become your father.
8 If you ask me, I will give you the nations; all the people on earth will be yours.
9You will rule over them with an iron rod. You will break them into pieces like pottery."
10 So kings, be wise; rulers, learn this lesson.
11 Obey the Lord with great fear. Be happy, but tremble.
12 Show that you are loyal to his son, or you will be destroyed by his anger, because he can quickly become angry. But happy are those who trust him for protection.

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

Thursday May 14, 2009 thought for the day

A BEAUTIFUL FIELD OF TULIPS

Here are my thoughts for today
1-Christians are more than pardoned, they are declared innocent-
2-When Jesus forgives us, it is as if we had never sinned-
3-We regularly trust power we cannot see and do a work we cannot accomplish--Jesus wants us to do the same with him-
4-Jesus didn't say "I know the way" or "I'll show the way" but "I am the way"-
5-We enter the Christian way upon confession of our need, not completion of our deeds-

Strange thought-Is Einstein"s theory of relativity absolutely correct?

I've learned-Without public morality, secular laws have less meaning-

5 things I want to know
1-Is the "beast" the "anti-Christ"?
2-What will our resurrected body look like?
3-Will the anti-Christ take control of the world through the united nations?
4-The 2nd horseman in Revelations has the power to take peace from the earth--does that mean there will be a total global war?
5-Why does evil have a natural progression of getting worse and worse?

Scripture for today- Psalms 2:1-6
1 Why are the nations so angry? Why are the people making useless plans?
2 The kings of the earth prepare to fight, and their leader makes plans together against the Lord and his appointed one.
3 They say, "Let's break the chains that hold us back and throw off the ropes that tie us down."
4 But the one who sits in heaven laughs; the Lord makes fun of them.
5 Then the Lord warns them and frightens them with this anger.
6 He says, "I have appointed my own king to rule in Jerusalem on my holy mountain, Zion."

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

Wednesday May 13, 2009 thought for the day

A FIELD OF BEAUTIFUL RED TULIPS

Here are my thoughts for today
1-Sin is always pleasureable for awhile but then comes payday-
2-Sin enslaves you, salvation frees you from sin-
3-God didn't love us to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us-
4-Your goodness can't win God's love nor can your badness lose it, but we can and do resist it-
5-Jesus placed our sin in himself and invited God to punish him.

Strange thought-What happens to a spacecraft when it is so deep in outer space that we can no longer track it?

I've learned-If you want to find Jesus, read the gospels.

5 things I want to know
1-If Satan can turn himself into an angel of light, how can we know if we are being deceived?
2-Will Israel ever be destroyed again as a nation?
3-Why did God give Jesus only 3 years of ministry?
4-Will the earth come to an end or will human history come to an end?
5-Has the gospel been preached to the whole world yet?

Scripture for today Psalms 1
1 Happy are those who don't listen to the wicked, who don't go where sinners go, who don't do what evil people do.
2 They love the Lord's teachings, and they think about those teaching day and night.
3 They are strong, like a tree planted by a river. The tree produces fruit in season, and its leaves don't die. Everything they do will succeed.
4 But wicked people are not like that. They are like chaff that the wind blows away.
5 So the wicked will not escape God's punishment. Sinners will not worship with God's people.
6 This is because the Lord takes care of his people. But the wicked will be destroyed.`

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

vacation notice

Just to let you all know that we will be on vacation from today through next Friday May 15. My computer will of course still be taking inbound e mails but I will not be sending any out until we return-I hope I survive being gone from my computer for that long-I definitely will have withdrawal pains-blessing on you all-jasper

Friday May 8, 2009 thought for the day

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY
1-Jesus turned his grave into a changing closet and offers to do the same for us-
2-Jesus is the only secure thing we really have-
3-To be a Christian is to be absolutely convinced that Jesus is the Christ, the savior and the son of God-
4-We chose to not love someone when we ignore their needs and could do something about them-
5-Jesus chose to die in obedience to God his Father-

Strange thought-Do spacecraft pick up speed the farther they go into outer space?

I've learned-Others will not love us if we do not love ourselves-

5 things I want to know
1-Whenever Christians sin, do we crucify Jesus over again?
2-How do you renew your mind?
3-What is your "heart"?
4-How is your heart, mind,and soul connected?
5-What is the "spirit of power, love and sound mind" that God gives to us?

Scripture for today Proverbs 31:24-31
24 She makes linen clothes and sells them and provides belts to the merchants.
25 She is strong and is respected by the people. She looks forward to the future with joy.
26 She speaks wise words and teaches others to be kind.
27 She watches over her family and never wastes her time.
28 Her children speak well of her. Her husband also praises her,
29 saying, "There are many fine women, but you are better than all of them".
30 Charm can fool you, and beauty can trick you, but a woman who respects the Lord should be praised.
31 Give her the reward she has earned; she should be praised in public for what she has done.

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

Thursday May 7, 2009 thought for the day

I LOVE YOU MOTHER!!

Here are my thoughts for today
1-There is a difference in owning a bible and believing it-
2-Humanity longs to restore what Adam and Eve lost-
3-John 3:16 is a personal check from God to you to deposit in the bank of eternal life with daily interest earned-
4-Jesus has the answer to the question, "Why on earth are we on this earth?"
5-Our age of information to many people is an age of confusion-

Strange thought-What holds matter together?

I've learned-Happiness comes from joy within instead of from things we can hold in our hands-

5 things I want to know
1-What responsibility do Christians have to those who don't have much of life's things (poor and needy)?
2-How do you discern what good causes to give to?
3-Why do we want to reclassify our sins as mistakes?
4-Why do some children seem to have a natural inclination toward violence and evil as compared to "good" children?
5-When Paul told timothy that "all scripture is given by inspiration of God", what scripture was he talking about?

Scripture for today Proverbs 31:17-23
17 She does her work with energy, and her arms are strong.
18 She knows that what she makes is good. Her lamp burns late into the night.
19 She makes thread with her hands and weaves her own cloth.
20 She welcomes the poor and helps the needy.
21 She does not worry about her family when it snows, because they all have fine clothes to keep them warm.
22 She makes coverings for herself; her clothes are made of linen and other expensive material.
23 Her husband is known at the city meetings, where he makes decisions as one of the leaders of the land.

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

Wednesday May 6, 2009 thought for the day

MOTHER!
Here are my thoughts for today
1-The spotless perfect house will never take the place of a slightly soiled happy home-
2-Going to bed angry poisons relationships, not speaking instead of communicating erodes understanding-
3-Belittling someone only shows insecurity in yourself, complaining all the time shows discontent within-
4-Always wanting to spend money to get something you want shows that there is a deep seeded need that money will never satisfy-
5-Blaming everyone for your own failures will ensure you shred another person's self esteem and bury yourself in the shredding-

Strange thought-How can you travel so fast in outer space and not feel like you are moving?

I've learned-If you leave clutter unattended, it multiplies-

5 things I want to know
1-Is it okay for Christians to have nice and costly things?
2-Does a Christian ever have too much stuff?
3-If a Christian can afford it, should they have the best that money can buy?
4-Should a Christian have more or less "stuff"?
5-Should Christians have more of life's things than non Christians?

Scripture for today Proverbs 31:10-16
10 It is hard to find a good wife, because she is worth more than rubies.
11 Her husband trusts her completely. With her, he has everything he needs.
12 She does him good and not harm for as long as she lives.
13 She looks for wool and flax and likes to work with her hands.
14 She is like a trader's ship, bringing food from far away.
15 She gets up while it is still dark and prepares food for her family and feeds her servant girls.
16 She inspects a field and buys it. With money she earned, she plants a vineyard.

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

Tuesday May 5, 2009 thought for the day

BEAUTIFUL FIELDS OF FLOWERS

Here are my thoughts for today
1-The earlier it is understood that love is more about giving than receiving the sooner the true meaning of love will be found-
2-It's effortless to work everyday when you enjoy what you do-
3-Things that fill up your home will only require dusting and take away from you the important things you could be doing-
4-Achieving that coveted anorexic model look is not healthy and doesn't accomplish beauty within-
5-No matter how many flaws or sins you are capable of hiding from family or friends, God knows all of your transgressions and will forgive you if you ask-

Strange thought-Why is there no gravity in outer space?

I've learned-Don't raise your voice, improve your argument-

5 things I want to know
1-Does the blood of Jesus cleanse us one time or does it do so continually?
2-Is repentance a one time act?
3-Is conversion the end or just the beginning of life's struggles to know and live for God?
4-Is church membership of any significance?
5-What is "materialism"?

Scripture for today Proverbs 31:1-9
1 These are the words of King Lemuel, the message his mother taught him.
2 My son, I gave birth to you. You are the son I prayed for.
3 Don't waist your strength on women or your time on those who ruin kings.
4 Kings should not drink wine, Lemuel, and rulers should not desire beer.
5-If they drink, they might forget the law and keep the needy from getting their rights.
6 Give beer to people who are dying and wine to those who are sad.
7 Let them drink and forget their need and remember their misery no more.
8 Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; defend the rights of all those who have nothing-
9 Speak up and judge fairly, and defend the rights of the poor and needy.

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

Monday May 4, 2009 thought for the day

BEAUTIFUL SPRING FLOWERS

Here are my thoughts for today
1-You can't say you love God and not do what he says-
2-God never said the journey would be easy but that the destination would be worth the trip-
3-Sin will take you to places you never wanted to go, will keep you there longer than you wanted to stay and will cost you more than you wanted to pay-
4-If you believe Jesus is who he said he was, then follow him with everything you are and have-
5-You are as close to God as you really want to be-

Strange thought-Why don't planets fall out of orbit?

I've learned-Teachers open the door, but you must enter by yourself-

5 things I want to know
1-If Jesus was alone in the desert for 40 days and nights, who did he tell his experience to?
2-What did Jesus write on the ground before the Pharisees and the shamed woman. Could it have been the names of those there that had had an improper relationship with her?
3-Why did Jesus not chose a family member to be one of his disciples?
4-Why do Christians emphasize certain sins as wrong while approving or ignoring others?
5-Does the best Christian living ever live without times of sin and failure?

Scripture for today Proverbs 30:29-33
29 There are three things that strut proudly, really four that walk as if they were important:
30 a lion, the proudest animal, which is strong and runs from nothing,
31 a rooster, a male goat, and a king when his army is around him.
32 If you have been foolish and proud, or if you have planned evil, shut your mouth.
33 Just as stirring milk makes butter, and twisting noses makes them bleed, so stirring up anger causes trouble.

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

Sunday May 3, 2009 thought for the day

A PRETTY SPRING SCENE

Here are my thoughts for today
1-Christians should be in the business of sales, not management-
2-Energy flows from enthusiasm rooted in optimism-
3-God in some way, in some fashion does make the broken whole-
4-The world's greatest plus sign is the cross-
5-Quitting on a God given dream is never a God approved option-

Strange thought-Does anything exist in a black hole?

I've learned-You lie the loudest when you lie to yourself-

5 things I want to know
1-Did Judas expect something more than the 30 pieces of silver in betraying Jesus?
2-Were the other 11 disciples surprised by Judas's actions?
3-Did Judas think that maybe the other 11 disciples would follow his lead?
4-Did God the father ask Jesus the son if he would become a sin sacrifice before sending him to earth?
5-Did Jesus choose Judas as a disciple just so he would fulfill his role as a betrayer?

Scripture for today Proverbs 30:21-28
21 There are three things that make the earth tremble, really four it cannot stand:
22 a servant who becomes a king, a foolish person who has plenty to eat,
23 a hated woman who gets married, and a maid who replaces her mistress.
24 There are four things on earth that are small, but they are very wise:
25 Ants are not very strong, but they store up food in the summer.
26 Rock Badgers are not very powerful but they can live among the rocks.
27 Locusts have no king but they all go forward in formation.
28 Lizards can be caught in the hand, but they are found even in king's palaces.

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