Friday September 30, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Even the unlovable need a loving touch-

2-In the Christian life, healing comes through brokenness, victory comes in surrender, finding yourself by losing yourself-

3-Peace, joy, love do not come from emotions, they come from a mindset-

4-With joy we are to lift his name in praise-

5-Be at peace my child for I am with you-Jesus-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Foosball is a combination of soccer and shish kabobs-

I'VE LEARNED-My mouth doesn't have a backspace key-

DID YOU KNOW-If it takes just a second to pick up a penny you find lying on the ground, a person could make $36 per hour just picking up pennies-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Are we guilty sometimes for worshiping God for what we can get from him?

2-Was all that God allowed satan to take from Job more or less important than his life?

3-Is satan a being or a spirit?

4-Is it true that nothing touches your life that has not passed through the will of God for you?

5-Does God need your help to get his will done?

BIBLE TRIVIA-According to Psalms, what trees are broken by the power of God's voice?

Yesterday's answer-John the Baptist John 3:29

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 16:21-27

²¹ Timothy, a worker together with me, sends greetings, as well as Lucius, Jason, and Sosipater, my relatives.

²² I am Tertius, and I am writing this letter from Paul. I send greetings to you in the Lord.

²³ Gaius is letting me and the whole church here use his home. He also sends greetings to you, as do Erastus, the city treasurer, and our brother Quartus. [ ²⁴ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you. Amen.]

²⁵ Glory to God who can make you strong in faith by the Good News that I tell people and by the message about Jesus Christ. The message about Christ is the secret that was hidden for long ages past but is now made known.²⁶ It has been made clear through the writings of the prophets. And by the command of the eternal God it is made known to all nations that they might believe and obey.

²⁷ To the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, You promise to give us all things that we have need of as we seek You and Your Kingdom above all. May Your light shine in our hearts to give us the light of Your glory in the face of our Lord Jesus Christ. Remind us continually through the presence of the Holy Spirit and through reading the Scriptures to trust You for that which weighs heavy on our hearts this day. We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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

Thursday September 29, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Even the right person can go wrong under the right set of circumstances-

2-God requires faithfulness and rewards with fruitfulness-

3-Adversity breeds toughness-

4-To identify with is greater than to have sympathy for or to be sorry for-

5-God will assume full responsibility for the life wholly yielded to him-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Patience is the ability to count down before the blast off-

I'VE LEARNED-Any government that is capable of giving you everything you need is also powerful enough to take away everything you have-

DID YOU KNOW-The ridges on the side of a coin are called reeding or milling. A dime has 118 ridges around the edge and a quarter has 119 ridges-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Does satan have foreknowledge of the future?

2-Did satan really believe what he said to God about Job?

3-Did Job's wealth come from his obedience to God or from God's favoritism?

4-What is the best thing God could say about you?

5-Does God always return to you (make it up to you) what he has allowed to be taken from you?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who said that the bridegroom's friend is happy when he hears the bridegroom's voice?

Yesterday's answer-The heavens Psalm 19:4

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 16:17-20

¹⁷ Brothers and sisters, I ask you to look out for those who cause people to be against each other and who upset other people's faith. They are against the true teaching you learned, so stay away from them.¹⁸ Such people are not serving our Lord Christ but are only doing what pleases themselves. They use fancy talk and fine words to fool the minds of those who do not know about evil.¹⁹ All the believers have heard that you obey, so I am very happy because of you. But I want you to be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil.

²⁰ The God who brings peace will soon defeat Satan and give you power over him.

The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, I boldly declare that You are the living God whom I serve. Only a God like You can turn evil into good, exchange sorrow for joy, or offer life beyond the grave. May I fearlessly proclaim You to be the Lord and Savior of my life and tell of all Your wondrous deeds. I join with the apostle Paul in asking that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel to those who have not yet heard or comprehended its meaning for their lives. Amen.

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

Wednesday September 28, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Opportunity favors the prepared-

2-Thoughtlessly spending money is as senseless as overeating-

3-It is not how much money you make that matters, rather what you do with it-

4-He who thinks he has no faults has one-

5-Many people are like medicine bottles, they have a label but nothing inside-

STRANGE THOUGHT-If you could have everything, where would you put it?

I'VE LEARNED-Cherish all your happy moments for they make a soft cushion for old age-

DID YOU KNOW-Playing cards in India are round-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-When I am led astray, is it by satan or demonic forces?

2-Does satan know what his end will be?

3-Does satan have intellect and emotions?

4-What was Satan's ultimate purpose in trying to destroy Job and family?

5-Did satan know ahead of time that Job would not betray his God?

BIBLE TRIVIA-According to Psalm 19, what has a voice that goes out to all the world?

Yesterday's answer-An eagle Revelation 8:13

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY

⁵ Greetings to my dear friend Epenetus, who was the first person in Asia to follow Christ. ⁶ Greetings to Mary, who worked very hard for you.⁷ Greetings to Andronicus and Junia, my relatives, who were in prison with me. They are very important apostles. They were believers in Christ before I was.⁸ Greetings to Ampliatus, my dear friend in the Lord.⁹ Greetings to Urbanus, a worker together with me for Christ. And greetings to my dear friend Stachys.¹⁰ Greetings to Apelles, who was tested and proved that he truly loves Christ. Greetings to all those who are in the family of Aristobulus.¹¹ Greetings to Herodion, my fellow citizen. Greetings to all those in the family of Narcissus who belong to the Lord.¹² Greetings to Tryphena and Tryphosa, women who work very hard for the Lord. Greetings to my dear friend Persis, who also has worked very hard for the Lord.¹³ Greetings to Rufus, who is a special person in the Lord, and to his mother, who has been like a mother to me also. ¹⁴ Greetings to Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and all the brothers and sisters who are with them. ¹⁵ Greetings to Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and to all God's people with them.¹⁶ Greet each other with a holy kiss. All of Christ's churches send greetings to you.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Daily prayer: Father, deep in my soul I have peace and reassurance as I “chew” on a particular Scripture verse throughout my day. You speak to me through Your Word and it refreshes and often challenges me as it lingers on my mind. It helps me to focus not just on the here and now. Sometimes You use the words of a Christian song and it’s recurring tune to fill my thoughts as I go about my work. At times You bring to mind the words of a Christian friend or a written message that draws me from indifference or complacency and inspires me to meditate on the Living Word. You satisfy my hungry heart and fill my thirsty soul with Your living water. Your words are a sweet savor to my soul as I walk in obedience to Your Holy Word. Amen.

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

Tuesday September 27, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-A couple should never bring their conflicts into the sanctuary of their bedroom-

2-Love is as much a matter of the will as it is of emotion-

3-Failure is not succeeding, it is not tying again-

4-Ageing is beneficial only if you are a wine or a cheese-

5-Wealth is what you accumulate, not what you spend-

STRANGE THOUGHT-You never know what is enough until you know what is more than enough-

I'VE LEARNED-When you think differently, you act differently-

DID YOU KNOW-Playing cards became the first paper currency of Canada in 1685 when the French governor used them to pay off some war debts-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Does satan ever tell the truth?

2-Is satan omni present?

3-Does satan have supernatural powers?

4-Is satan ever visible?

5-Which name is more correct to use-satan or devil?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What bird did John hear crying in a loud voice, "Woe, woe to the inhabiters of the earth"?

Yesterday's answer-Job Job 38:1

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 16:1-5

Greetings to the Christians

¹ I recommend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a helper in the church in Cenchrea.² I ask you to accept her in the Lord in the way God's people should. Help her with anything she needs, because she has helped me and many other people also.

³ Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, who work together with me in Christ Jesus⁴ and who risked their own lives to save my life. I am thankful to them, and all the non-Jewish churches are thankful as well. ⁵ Also, greet for me the church that meets at their house.

Greetings to my dear friend Epenetus, who was the first person in Asia to follow Christ.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, from the Biblical story of Job’s unequaled sufferings emerges one of the most radiant and hopeful promises that I can apply to my life, “I know that my Redeemer lives!” Though my heart and my flesh may fail, You are my strength and my portion forever. The troubles that seem larger than life itself lose their magnitude in comparison to knowing that in the end I will see You myself with my own eyes. What glorious anticipation fills my heart as Your overcoming Spirit leads me through the trials of this day, the road marked by suffering! It is not by my might, nor by my power but by Your Spirit that I find You to be the anchor in the storms that assail me. Amen.

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

Monday September 26, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-God uses what you have, not what you had-

2-You are not going to succeed unless you try-

3-There are no degrees of integrity-

4-Happiness held is the seed, happiness shared is the flower-

5-Part of the thrill of success is the struggle in the journey-

STRANGE THOUGHT-It is very strange when the life you never had flashes before your eyes-

I'VE LEARNED-Sometimes questions are more important than the answers-

DID YOU KNOW-For a deck of cards to be mixed up enough to play with properly, it should be shuffled at least 7 times-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Did God create satan?

2-Were all angels created with "wills"?

3-Why is satan so successful in deceiving and betraying people?

4-What is satan's main function?

5-Did God need to create a satan in his master plan for his creation?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who heard God speaking out of a whirlwind?

Yesterday's answer-Barabbas Luke 23:18

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 15:30-33

³⁰ Brothers and sisters, I beg you to help me in my work by praying to God for me. Do this because of our Lord Jesus and the love that the Holy Spirit gives us.³¹ Pray that I will be saved from the nonbelievers in Judea and that this help I bring to Jerusalem will please God's people there.³² Then, if God wants me to, I will come to you with joy, and together you and I will have a time of rest.³³ The God who gives peace be with you all. Amen.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, keep our hearts open to those who are in need of a compassionate touch, a charitable act, or a kind word. Let it come naturally from our hearts that are in tune with the heart of Jesus. May I view others through the eyes of Christ, walking in His compassion and His benevolent ways. We thank you for the scores of people like Dorcas and Naomi who have served you in local churches all through the church age. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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

Sunday September 25, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY-

1-Letting go is surrendering that which you can't control and honoring that which you can-yourself-

2-Letting go does not mean giving up-

3-Just because you can doesn't mean that you should-

4-Faith is not faith until you do something-

5-Miracles start with a need and faith-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly-

I'VE LEARNED-Be more concerned with your character than your reputation for character is what you are while reputation is what others think you are-

DID YOU KNOW-The fat molecules in goat's milk are five times smaller than those found in cow's milk-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW-

1-What does it mean to "pick up your cross and follow me"?

2-Can we become like Jesus in every way?

3-Does satan still roam the earth today?

4-Does satan have access to every place on earth today?

5-Is satan a beautiful or ugly being?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What criminal did the people of Jerusalem cry out for in a loud voice?

Yesterday's answer-Elijah 1 Kings 19:12

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 15:22-33

Paul's Plan to Visit Rome

²² This is the reason I was stopped many times from coming to you.²³ Now I have finished my work here. Since for many years I have wanted to come to you,²⁴ I hope to visit you on my way to Spain. After I enjoy being with you for a while, I hope you can help me on my trip.²⁵ Now I am going to Jerusalem to help God's people.²⁶ The believers in Macedonia and Southern Greece were happy to give their money to help the poor among God's people at Jerusalem.²⁷ They were happy to do this, and really they owe it to them. These who are not Jews have shared in the Jews' spiritual blessings, so they should use their material possessions to help the Jews.²⁸ After I am sure the poor in Jerusalem get the money that has been given for them, I will leave for Spain and stop and visit you.²⁹ I know that when I come to you I will bring Christ's full blessing.

³⁰ Brothers and sisters, I beg you to help me in my work by praying to God for me. Do this because of our Lord Jesus and the love that the Holy Spirit gives us.³¹ Pray that I will be saved from the nonbelievers in Judea and that this help I bring to Jerusalem will please God's people there.³² Then, if God wants me to, I will come to you with joy, and together you and I will have a time of rest.³³ The God who gives peace be with you all. Amen.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, we are deeply grateful for the inner work of the Holy Spirit in our lives that is changing us from a sinful self-serving people to a holy, compassionate, and generous people. It is Your almighty power released in us that can accomplish such miraculous change for the betterment of here and now and for the Kingdom of heaven as well. As we relate to others may the working power of the Holy Spirit be evident in our attitudes, actions, and ambitions of life. We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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

Saturday September 24, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-It is okay to sit on your pity pot every now and again, just be sure to flush when you are done-

2-God wants spiritual fruit not religious nuts-

3-Feed your faith and your doubts will starve to death-

4-When you say you can't you are setting yourself up for failure-

5-Letting go is releasing what was or is for what can be-

STRANGE THOUGHT-You have to wonder about humans, they think God is dead and Elvis is alive-

I'VE LEARNED-Virtue is not abstaining from vice, but in not desiring it-

DID YOU KNOW-Sheep's milk is used to produce Roquefort cheese-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Is it possible to always love your neighbor?

2-Does the admonition to love your neighbor mean feelings or behavior?

3-From a Biblical perspective, where do our "neighbors" live?

4-Does loving our neighbors mean random acts of kindness?

5-What does it mean "they will know we are Christians by our love"?

BIBLICAL TRIVIA-Who heard the "still small voice of God"?

Yesterday's answer-Leprosy Luke 17:13

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 15:17-21

¹⁷ So I am proud of what I have done for God in Christ Jesus.¹⁸ I will not talk about anything except what Christ has done through me in leading those who are not Jews to obey God. They have obeyed God because of what I have said and done,¹⁹ because of the power of miracles and the great things they saw, and because of the power of the Holy Spirit. I preached the Good News from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, and so I have finished that part of my work.²⁰ I always want to preach the Good News in places where people have never heard of Christ, because I do not want to build on the work someone else has already started. ²¹ But it is written in the Scriptures:
"Those who were not told about him will see,
And those who have not heard about him will understand." — Isaiah 52:15

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father God, help each of us to understand the wiles of the devil and to be steadfast in our determination to resist temptation at each step. We readily acknowledge the tyranny of the forbidden and want to be self-controlled and alert, standing firm in the faith as we resist the devil who prowls around like a roaring lion seeking for someone to devour. Thank you for the power of the Holy Spirit to resist and to overcome. In Jesus Name, Amen.

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

Friday September 23, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-You cannot save time, you can only spend it-

2-It is more productive to get 10 men to work for you than for you to do the work of 10 men-

3-The atmosphere you permit decides the product you produce-

4-Those who do not know your worth are disqualified from a relationship with you-

5-You can get less for less but not the best for less-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Life can be a superb banquet. Savor every bite, but never bite off more than you can chew-

I'VE LEARNED-The evening news is when they begin with "good evening"-

DID YOU KNOW-Reindeer's milk has more fat than cow's milk-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW-

1-What is "the Lord's day" as used in scripture?

2-What does discipleship mean?

3-Is theology just about God or also about us?

4-Did Jesus replace the commandments with just one?

5-Is loving God and loving neighbors two sides to the same coin?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What was the problem of the ten men who called to Jesus in loud voices ,begging him for mercy?

Yesterday's answer-Hezekiah 2 Kings 19:22

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 15:14-16

Paul Talks About His Work

¹⁴ My brothers and sisters, I am sure that you are full of goodness. I know that you have all the knowledge you need and that you are able to teach each other.¹⁵ But I have written to you very openly about some things I wanted you to remember. I did this because God gave me this special gift:¹⁶ to be a minister of Christ Jesus to those who are not Jews. I served God by teaching his Good News, so that the non-Jewish people could be an offering that God would accept—an offering made holy by the Holy Spirit.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, far too many live in a state of discontent where we find ourselves loving things and using people. It distorts our priorities and gives us temporary excitement with things, but leaves us with long-term dissatisfaction in ourselves and our relationships. Help us to enjoy material things but to place a higher value on greater pursuits such as growing friendships, solid marriage relations, growing godly character, giving without receiving and other worthy goals. We will be content as we rejoice in the fact that whether we are in want or whether we have plenty You have promised that You will never leave us nor forsake us. What a treasured promise for the believer both in times of need and in times of prosperity. We are content when we realize our all-sufficiency is in You, Lord. You will meet all our needs according to Your riches in glory. Amen.

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

Thursday September 22, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Forgiveness makes a future possible-

2-Your joy is determined by what you love-

3-What would you do with your life if money was not a factor-

4-Tell the truth and you will never have to try to remember what you said-

5-Information is the difference between your present and your future-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Nothing bad ever happens at an opportune time-

I'VE LEARNED-An optimist finds the positive in the negative, and a pessimist can only find the negative in the positive-

DID YOU KNOW-Pound for pound, hamburgers cost more than a new car-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Is it okay to choose which day is your Sabbath?

2-Does the word "Sabbath" apply to us today?

3-Does God require any legalism from us today?

4-What does "Jesus is our Sabbath" mean?

5-What correctly defines a day-a 24 hour clock or sunup to sunup?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What king was told by Isaiah that the kin of Assyria had raised his voice up against God?

Yesterday's answer-The Gerasene demoniac Mark 5:7

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 15:8-13

⁸ I tell you that Christ became a servant of the Jews to show that God's promises to the Jewish ancestors are true. ⁹ And he also did this so that those who are not Jews could give glory to God for the mercy he gives to them. It is written in the Scriptures:
"So I will praise you among the non-Jewish people.
I will sing praises to your name." — Psalm 18:49
¹⁰ The Scripture also says,
"Be happy, you who are not Jews, together with his people." — Deuteronomy 32:43
¹¹ Again the Scripture says,
"All you who are not Jews, praise the Lord.
All you people, sing praises to him." — Psalm 117:1
¹² And Isaiah says,
"A new king will come from the family of Jesse.
He will come to rule over the non-Jewish people,
And they will have hope because of him." — Isaiah 11:10

¹³ I pray that the God who gives hope will fill you with much joy and peace while you trust in him. Then your hope will overflow by the power of the Holy Spirit.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Jesus, You know the very intention of all that I say and do. As I invite You to examine my heart, I lay before You the people and pursuits that drive me further away from a heart of worship. You have not removed me bodily from this world, but You have raised me up spiritually to abide in Your presence even as I carry out my daily duties. As Your presence overshadows me it is there that Your love and faithfulness sustains me and gives me a true heart of worship. Even as a vehicle needs fuel to properly function, I need prayer to uphold and equip me for the day that lies ahead. Amen.

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

Wednesday September 21, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-People don't respect and follow anyone they are capable of intimidating, dominating or manipulating-

2-Never complain about what you permit-

3-Familiarity often breeds disrespect-

4-You will never correct what you are unwilling to confront-

5-The first step to success is a willingness to listen-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Unless you accept your faults you will most certainly doubt your virtues-

I'VE LEARNED-How we treat others says a lot about how we think of others as a gift from God-

DID YOU KNOW-The number 57 on a Heinz ketchup bottle represents the number of varieties of pickle the company once had-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why would God have "rested" on the seventh day?

2-Did Jesus obey the Old Testament law of not doing any work on the Sabbath?

3-Was the Sabbath more of a day of rest than a day of worship?

4-Are we still by obligation under law to keep the commandments?

5-Since Jesus came to "fulfill the law" is it still a requirement to keep it?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who screamed in a loud voice, asking Jesus not to punish him?

Yesterday's answer-Elijah 1 Kings 19:13

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 15:1-7

¹ We who are strong in faith should help the weak with their weaknesses, and not please only ourselves. ² Let each of us please our neighbors for their good, to help them be stronger in faith.³ Even Christ did not live to please himself. It was as the Scriptures said: "When people insult you, it hurts me."⁴ Everything that was written in the past was written to teach us. The Scriptures give us patience and encouragement so that we can have hope. ⁵ May the patience and encouragement that come from God allow you to live in harmony with each other the way Christ Jesus wants. ⁶ Then you will all be joined together, and you will give glory to God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.⁷ Christ accepted you, so you should accept each other, which will bring glory to God.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, You have placed Your children in a world where people push and shove to be first. Because of their self-importance they may stop at nothing until they get what they want in life, no matter who gets hurt. But You’ve called us to view life from a perspective that considers others as important or even more important than ourselves. We need humble hearts that put You first, others second and ourselves last in everything we do. In our humanity this is impossible, but as we are being transformed into the likeness of Your Son, Jesus, we become more like Him. Our love and consideration for others grow and we apply the golden rule to our lives when we do to others as we would have them do to us. May this relationship rule guide us as we make decisions that affect others and ourselves. Help us to have the mind of Christ in all that we do. Amen.

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

Tuesday September 20, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Faith living is not ignoring what appears to be the obvious-

2-The secret of your future is determined by the choices you make today-

3-Giving is the only proof you have conquered greed-

4-Seed faith is using what you have to create what you need-

5-Seed faith is using what you have been given to create something you have been promised-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Bad weather is always worse when you are in it-

I'VE LEARNED-Your children will not always appreciate what you do for them-

DID YOU KNOW-Worcestershire sauce is basically anchovy ketchup-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Should churches be "popular" in their community?

2-Why did Jesus do most of his ministry out of doors?

3-Why would Jesus command the demons to be silent about him?

4-The commandment "Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy" (on it you shall not do any work). How would it be possible to do nothing on that day? The people taking care of animals had to work?

5-How was the word work defined for the people of the day the commandments were given?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who heard God's voice after running away fro Queen Jezebel?

Yesterday's answer-John Revelations 6:10

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 14:19-23

¹⁹ So let us try to do what makes peace and helps one another.²⁰ Do not let the eating of food destroy the work of God. All foods are all right to eat, but it is wrong to eat food that causes someone else to sin.²¹ It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that will cause your brother or sister to sin.

²² Your beliefs about these things should be kept secret between you and God. People are happy if they can do what they think is right without feeling guilty.²³ But those who eat something without being sure it is right are wrong because they did not believe it was right. Anything that is done without believing it is right is a sin.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, we thank You for Jesus who willingly laid down His life to become our “Ram in the thicket”. He became a living sacrifice that we might receive forgiveness of sins; His death in exchange for our forgiveness, and thereby inheriting eternal life. We greatly rejoice in the fact that You did not spare Your own Son but delivered Him over for us all, that we might receive salvation, and that we might take up residence in the Kingdom of God. We thank You in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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

Monday September 19, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Happiness-liking yourself-

2-You need to chose friendships that help build the faith life in you-

3-If you are always reaching for something else to make you happy, you will miss out on the "now" happiness-

4-We must stop looking at the failure photos which satan shows us of our past-

5-You must admit something exits before you can confront it successfully-

STRANGE THOUGHT-A champion needs a motivation beyond that of winning-

I'VE LEARNED-God is willing to let his children make mistakes and even sin but allows them to face the consequences of their actions-

DID YOU KNOW-Tabasco sauce is made by fermenting vinegar and hot peppers in a French oak barrel that has three inches of salt on top and is aged for three years until all the salt is diffused through the barrel-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-What did the man who had a deformed hand do after Jesus healed it?

2-Do Christians tend to stay in their "holy" circles?

3-Was the law against working on the Sabbath a burden or a blessing?

4-Was Jesus healing the deformed hand by speaking, a breach of the Sabbath?

5-Did Jesus try to draw large crowds?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who heard the voice of those who had been killed for proclaiming God's word?

Yesterday's answer-David 2 Samuel 22:7

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 14:13-18

Do Not Cause Others to Sin

¹³ For that reason we should stop judging each other. We must make up our minds not to do anything that will make another Christian sin.¹⁴ I am in the Lord Jesus, and I know that there is no food that is wrong to eat. But if a person believes something is wrong, that thing is wrong for him.¹⁵ If you hurt your brother's or sister's faith because of something you eat, you are not really following the way of love. Do not destroy someone's faith by eating food he thinks is wrong, because Christ died for him.¹⁶ Do not allow what you think is good to become what others say is evil.¹⁷ In the kingdom of God, eating and drinking are not important. The important things are living right with God, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.¹⁸ Anyone who serves Christ by living this way is pleasing God and will be accepted by other people.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, You know the thoughts and intents of our heart even before we think or speak them aloud. Yet You direct us to be faithful in prayer so that we are in holy communion with You. You speak to us primarily through the Holy Scriptures, through Your creation, through the divine appointments You schedule in our lives, and through those You use as messengers of the Gospel. May our minds be alert and our hearts attentive to that which You reveal to us, that we may give proper response. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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

Monday September 19, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Abraham was called a friend of God because he was obedient-

2-Stop giving to God the responsibility for all your situations-

3-The Christian is to keep fishing regardless of the weather-

4-Our choices create and control the majority of our circumstances-

5-God's blessings are not only for the Holy but also for the hungry-

STRANGE THOUGHT-You don't drown by falling into water but by not getting out-

I'VE LEARNED-No matter what your children do, never stop loving them-

DID YOU KNOW-Table salt is the only commodity that hasn't risen dramatically in price in the last one hundred fifty years-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why have we made the cross a thing of beauty instead of a thing of shame and painful death?

2-If the Pharisees and the Herodians hated each other, how could they plot with each other to do away with Jesus?

3-Why did Jesus heal the man with a deformed hand on the Sabbath day?

4-What is permissible to do on the Sabbath day?

5-How do we honor the Sabbath day?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What king heard he voice of God in the temple although there was no temple at the time?

Yesterday's answer-On the mount of transfiguration Matthew 17:5

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 14:9-12

⁹ The reason Christ died and rose from the dead to live again was so he would be Lord over both the dead and the living.¹⁰ So why do you judge your brothers or sisters in Christ? And why do you think you are better than they are? We will all stand before God to be judged, ¹¹ because it is written in the Scriptures:
" 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord,
'Everyone will bow before me;
Everyone will say that I am God.' " — Isaiah 45:23
¹² So each of us will have to answer to God.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Loving Father, when our earthly fathers discipline us, it is intended for immediate correction and future application. At the time it is painful and a humiliation of sorts. And with You, Father, Your discipline is not pleasant at the time but painful. We stand upon Your promise that later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those of us who are trained by it. It transforms our thinking, shapes our values, and adapts our behavior so that we become more and more like Christ who teaches us to forsake this world and embrace the eternal kingdom of righteousness, peace and joy through the Holy Spirit. Amen.

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

Saturday September 17, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-It is better to be a voice than an echo-

2-Nothing is easy if you are unwilling-

3-If you have time to worry, you have time to pray-

4-Be an organ donor-give your heart to Jesus-

5-We want resolutions to our problems and turbulence to end, but God wants control of our lives-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Every problem is a possibility in disguise-

I'VE LEARNED-See your child as God's gift to you-

DID YOU KNOW-Salt is one of the few spices that is all taste and no smell-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-To who are you a hero?

2-How can we lovingly tell others about Jesus?

3-How are we sure Jesus was and is the Son of God?

4-What does "son of man" mean?

5-Is all sin the result of sin or the acts of sin?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Where was Jesus when the divine voice said, "this is my beloved Son...hear ye him"?

Yesterdays answer-1 Samuel 3:3-14

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 14:5-8

⁵ Some think that one day is more important than another, and others think that every day is the same. Let all be sure in their own mind.⁶ Those who think one day is more important than other days are doing that for the Lord. And those who eat all kinds of food are doing that for the Lord, and they give thanks to God. Others who refuse to eat some foods do that for the Lord, and they give thanks to God.⁷ We do not live or die for ourselves.⁸ If we live, we are living for the Lord, and if we die, we are dying for the Lord. So living or dying, we belong to the Lord.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, we continually remember the work of our fellow believers that is produced by their faith in Jesus, their labor that is prompted by love, and their endurance that is inspired by the hope they have in the Lord Jesus Christ. How grateful we are for the love and fellowship we enjoy with our brothers and sisters who serve You all throughout the world. We lift up those who are presently enduring matters that weigh heavy on their hearts. May the hope they have in the Lord Jesus Christ inspire confidence that You will give them victory as they stand firm in You. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.

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

Friday September 16, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Set backs are the seeds of comebacks-

2-Don't put others in their place, put yourself in their place-

3-Give God creative opportunities to work significant ways in your life-

4-Giving is an abstract principle until it emerges in action-

5-Helping others keeps me from focusing on myself-

STRANGE THOUGHT-The best way to start to make a dream come true is to wake up and get going-

I'VE LEARNED-It is easier to forgive and love than it is to harbor hate-

DID YOU KNOW-Only 5% of salt produced ends up on the dinner table-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-How far is it from the Lordship of the universe to the cross-

2-Can a person be a Christian and live outside the will of God for them?

3-What is the evidence of real love?

4-To what degree is love a commitment?

5-How much courage does it take to face the challenges of life?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What boy was sleeping near the ark of the covenant when he heard God's voice calling to him?

Yesterday's answer-Jesus' baptism Matthew 3:17

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 14:1-4

Do Not Criticize Other People

¹ Accept into your group someone who is weak in faith, and do not argue about opinions.² One person believes it is right to eat all kinds of food. But another, who is weak, believes it is right to eat only vegetables.³ The one who knows that it is right to eat any kind of food must not reject the one who eats only vegetables. And the person who eats only vegetables must not think that the one who eats all foods is wrong, because God has accepted that person.⁴ You cannot judge another person's servant. The master decides if the servant is doing well or not. And the Lord's servant will do well because the Lord helps him do well.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Jesus, You are the pure and blameless Lamb of God. Though you were tempted in every way, just as we are, You stood the test. While fasting in the wilderness each time Satan tried to lure You into his trap, You stood firm as You quoted the Word of God. Increase my desire to read, memorize and meditate upon the Scriptures that I might not sin against You. Help me not to set anything vile before my eyes, Lord. May the words of my mouth, the meditations of my heart, and my outward appearance please You and be a testimony of Your saving grace in my life. In Your Name I pray, Amen.

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

Thursday September 15, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-I know not what the future holds, but I know who holds the future-

2-The opportunity to do better next time lies just before me-

3-Find the thing you are meant to do and give it your best-

4-Do more of what you want to do, stop doing what you don't want to do and give up worrying about those things over which you have no control-

5-Don't look forward or backward, look up-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Everyone who got where they are had to begin where they were-

I'VE LEARNED-Life is sweeter with chocolate-

DID YOU KNOW-Salt is the only rock that humans can eat-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Is waiting on the Lord a time of inactivity?

2-Does being reconciled with someone mean you now have to like them or be friends with them?

3-Can/should we ask God to enable us to do something beyond our own power or ability?

4-Do Christians often try to play the role of the Holy Spirit?

5-How far is the distance between the throne room of Heaven and a stable in Bethlehem?

BIBLE TRIVIA-At what event did a voice from heaven say, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased"?

Yesterday's answer-The witch of Endor 1 Samuel 28:12

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 13:8-14

Loving Others

⁸ Do not owe people anything, except always owe love to each other, because the person who loves others has obeyed all the law. ⁹ The law says, "You must not be guilty of adultery. You must not murder anyone. You must not steal. You must not want to take your neighbor's things." All these commands and all others are really only one rule: "Love your neighbor as you love yourself." ¹⁰ Love never hurts a neighbor, so loving is obeying all the law.

¹¹ Do this because we live in an important time. It is now time for you to wake up from your sleep, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.¹² The "night" is almost finished, and the "day" is almost here. So we should stop doing things that belong to darkness and take up the weapons used for fighting in the light.¹³ Let us live in a right way, like people who belong to the day. We should not have wild parties or GEt drunk. There should be no sexual sins of any kind, no fighting or jealousy.¹⁴ But clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ and forget about satisfying your sinful self.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, I choose the way of truth, for it is also the way of light, for Jesus Himself said, “I am the Light.” The Word declares that you hate “a lying tongue”. Darkness lurks where deception and falsehood exists and becomes the breeding ground for all sorts of evil. Father, I ask You to shine Your searchlight on the contents of my heart and reveal the motive for my actions. Help me to purge all that dishonors Your name. I invite Your light to dispel the darkness of my soul. Amen.

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

Wednesday September 14, 2011 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY

1-Life is like a mirror, it reflects back what you give it-

2-Happiness is not the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, it is the journey getting there-

3-A smile is a curved line that sets things straight-

4-Making a life is more important than making a living-

5-Take care of the minutes and the hours will take care of themselves-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Greatness is nothing unless it is lasting-

I'VE LEARNED-Don't take the advice of someone who has not had your kind of trouble-

DID YOU KNOW-Just like snowflakes, no two cornflakes look the same-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-When we "take up our cross" are we headed for a "Golgotha"?

2-What would you say if Jesus said to you "What do you want me to do for you?"

3-When Jesus told his disciples "If you have faith, nothing will be impossible for you", did it also apply to his followers today?

4-Should God's presence in a believers life be obvious?

5-Do most of us fear people more than we fear God?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who cried out at the top of her voice when she saw Samuel raised from the dead?

Yesterday's answer-Peter Acts 2:14

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Romans 13:1-7

Christians Should Obey the Law

¹ All of you must yield to the government rulers. No one rules unless God has given him the power to rule, and no one rules now without that power from God.² So those who are against the government are really against what God has commanded. And they will bring punishment on themselves.³ Those who do right do not have to fear the rulers; only those who do wrong fear them. Do you want to be unafraid of the rulers? Then do what is right, and they will praise you.⁴ The ruler is God's servant to help you. But if you do wrong, then be afraid. He has the power to punish; he is God's servant to punish those who do wrong.⁵ So you must yield to the government, not only because you might be punished, but because you know it is right.

⁶ This is also why you pay taxes. Rulers are working for God and give their time to their work.⁷ Pay everyone, then, what you owe. If you owe any kind of tax, pay it. Show respect and honor to them all.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, You’ve appointed us to live in a decadent age where the hearts of men are turned away from the true living God and live instead by the world’s principles. But we who have the indwelling Holy Spirit must continue to build our lives on the foundation of our holy faith as we spread the gospel message, “Jesus is the first and final answer to all of life’s problems.” We seek to be directed by Your Spirit and live in such a way that we honor You even as scoffers ridicule us. May we show mercy to those whose faith is wavering and rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. In the process of daily living, as we reach out to the lost and dying, help us not to stumble so that on Your appointed day we will be brought into Your glorious presence innocent of sin.

(Prayer prompted by Jude 22,23)

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