Friday May 31, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Confidence comes from not always being right, but from not fearing to be wrong-

2-The only one who can limit your possibilities is you-

3-Accept modestly, surrender gracefully-

4-He who establishes his argument by noise and command shows that his reason is weak-

5-What is right with America is the willingness to discuss what's wrong with America-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-A telephone greeting you hope you never get-"Thank you for calling the incontinence hotline.  Can you please hold?"

 

I'VE LEARNED-One sin makes a mockery of Jesus' sacrifice-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Reindeer like to eat bananas-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Were Jesus' mother and siblings present with the waiting 120 believers in the upper room?

2-If Jesus' mother and siblings were in the upper room when the Holy Spirit came, did they speak in unknown languages?

3-Were only Jewish believers a part of the 120 people waiting for the Holy Spirit to come on the upper room?

4-Why did the Holy Spirit come to the 120 people on the day of Pentecost?

5-Didn't Jesus' mother and others have the Holy Spirit with them prior to the upper room experience?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What priest of Baal was killed in Jerusalem when a reform movement threw out all the idols?

Yesterday's answer-Jehoiada   2 Kings 11:17-20

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 5:27-32

²⁷ The soldiers brought the apostles to the meeting and made them stand before the leaders. The high priest questioned them, ²⁸ saying, “We gave you strict orders not to continue teaching in that name. But look, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are trying to make us responsible for this man’s death.”
²⁹ Peter and the other apostles answered, “We must obey God, not human authority! ³⁰ You killed Jesus by hanging him on a cross. But God, the God of our ancestors, raised Jesus up from the dead! ³¹ Jesus is the One whom God raised to be on his right side, as Leader and Savior. Through him, all people could change their hearts and lives and have their sins forgiven. ³² We saw all these things happen. The Holy Spirit, whom God has given to all who obey him, also proves these things are true.”

PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, You supply us with many opportunities to be a witness for Your kingdom. We must make the most of these opportunities to be light and salt in this darkened world. Since our lives are the “only Bible that some people read” we must be careful of what we say and do. May our attitudes reflect that of Christ and our words bring truth, hope and guidance to those traveling on the broad road that leads to destruction. By the power of Your Holy Spirit we can make a difference to those whose path we cross today. Amen.

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

Thursday May 30, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-A bad attitude is like a flat tire, if you don't change it you won't go anywhere-

2-Enjoy the little things.  One day you will look back and realize they were the big things-

3-In order to be a realist you must believe in miracles-

4-You have never really learned to live until you've done something for someone who can never repay you-

5-Hope-holding on, praying earnestly-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Something you will never hear your mother say-Don't bother wearing a jacket, the wind chill is bound to improve-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Cheap grace comes from misunderstanding the enormity of Jesus' sacrifice-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Reindeer have scent glands between their hind toes which help them leave scent trails for the herd-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-How did Luke become a believer in Jesus?

2-Jesus told his followers to spread the good news about him and his teaching in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and to the ends of the earth.  Was this just the known civilization (Roman Empire)?

3-How did Luke, a gentile, get connected with Paul?

4-How do we know for sure that Luke wrote the books of Luke and Acts?

5-Besides being a physician, what other things do we know about Luke?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What priest led a reform movement in Judah, so that the people tore down their Baal temple and idols?

Yesterday's answer-  Micah  Judges 17:5

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 5:25-26

²⁵ Then someone came and told them, “Listen! The men you put in jail are standing in the Temple teaching the people.” ²⁶ Then the captain and his men went out and brought the apostles back. But the soldiers did not use force, because they were afraid the people would stone them to death.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY

 Father, we thank You for the great deliverance and transfer that took place when we surrendered our hearts to You. You delivered us from the dominion of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of Your Son in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.  Now we walk in the light of Jesus and His kingdom which is filled with righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Help us never to lose perspective of the great rescue and the changes You brought into our lives, otherwise we may be swayed back to our old way of life and return to the darkness from which we escaped. We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

 

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

Wednesday May 29, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Everyone wants and needs more love-

2-Without freedom of thought, there can be no such thing as wisdom-

3-The distance is not the problem, it is the first step that is difficult-

4-Being truly successful means having the time and freedom to be able to enjoy the company of the people you care about-

5-The lesson is in the struggle, not in the victory-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Something you will never hear your mother say-I don't have a tissue with me so just wipe your nose on your sleeve-

 

I'VE LEARNED-God's grace is his gift to each of us, more than we deserve, greater than we can imagine-

 

DID YOU KNOW-The small red deer is the only one found in Africa-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-What is the "sinful nature"?

2-We have to be taught to eat, sleep, etc, but why do we sin without being taught?

3-Does the Christian have a tendency to sin, all their life?

4-What are "living sacrifices"?

5-Jesus told his followers "you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you."  What was the power and how was it to be used?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-In the time of the judges, what man was brassy enough to set up one of his sons as priest, though he had no authority to do so?

Yesterday's answer-Jeroboam    1 Kings 13:33

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 5:21-24

When the high priest and his friends arrived, they called a meeting of the leaders and all the important elders. They sent some men to the jail to bring the apostles to them. ²² But, upon arriving, the officers could not find the apostles. So they went back and reported to the leaders. ²³ They said, “The jail was closed and locked, and the guards were standing at the doors. But when we opened the doors, the jail was empty!” ²⁴ Hearing this, the captain of the Temple guards and the leading priests were confused and wondered what was happening.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY

 Father, we are at peace because You are in control. We thank You for the Word of God which prepares our hearts for whatever time period You have ordained for us to live. Above all, we must be diligent and faithful, serving You all the days of our life and all the while “testifying to the gospel of Your grace.” How blessed we are! Amen.

 

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

Tuesday May 28, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Jesus, let us not deny your death by the way we live-

2-The "good life" is not about what you have but what you appreciate-

3-Life is not about what you are born with but what you do with what you have-

4-Life is not about how well you speak but about what you are really saying-

5-Never assume the obvious is true-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Something you will never hear your mother say-"Well, if Timmy's mother says it is okay, that is good enough for me"-

 

I'VE LEARNED-God's grace didn't just happen (past tense), it is happening (present tense)-

 

DID YOU KNOW-There are no wild deer of any kind in Australia-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Which are greater and should be most desired, spiritual gifts or character traits?

2-What did Paul mean saying "people being baptized for those who are dead"?

3-For how many years was Paul a missionary?

4-Is it hypocritical to judge and condemn others?

5-Why did God accept the death of animals as a sacrificial system substitute for sinful human beings?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What king of Israel sinned by appointing priests that had not been chosen by God?

Yesterday's answer-Passhur  Jeremiah 20:6

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 5:17-21

¹⁷ The high priest and all his friends (a group called the Sadducees) became very jealous. ¹⁸ They took the apostles and put them in jail. ¹⁹ But during the night, an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and led the apostles outside. The angel said, ²⁰ “Go stand in the Temple and tell the people everything about this new life.” ²¹ When the apostles heard this, they obeyed and went into the Temple early in the morning and continued teaching.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, the teaching of Your Word is like a hammer that breaks away the clumps of hardness in our hearts; our stubbornness, pride, and rebellion. When we read and apply Your principles they open our blinded eyes, guide us out of darkness into light and put a fire in our spirit; a fire that doesn’t burn out but empowers us to live for You all the days of our life. We thank You for the fire of Your Spirit. It is in Jesus’ name that we pray. Amen.


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

Monday May 27, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-There is no chance, coincidence or accident in a world ruled by divine order-

2-If we prayed and trusted as much as we worried we'd have a lot less to worry about-

3-Sometimes, blessings come in the form of problems-

4-Gratitude is the healthiest emotion you can have-

5-You worship God through prayer when you give him your love, your life and your worries-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-You will never hear your mother say-Let me smell that shirt.  Yeah, that is good enough for another week-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Though the work of Jesus is finished for the sinner, it is not finished in the sinner-

 

DID YOU KNOW-In 1978 more deer were killed by Connecticut automobile drivers than by Connecticut hunters-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-On what basis was Paul made an apostle?

2-Did anyone appoint Paul an apostle or did he appoint himself?

3-Is there a ranking of spiritual gifts?

4-Why wasn't love listed as a spiritual gift by Paul?

5-What is the purpose of spiritual gifts?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What priest was told by Jeremiah that he would be taken to Babylon as a prisoner?

Yesterday's answer-Annas     Acts 4:6

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY     Acts 5:12-16

¹² The apostles did many signs and miracles among the people. And they would all meet together on Solomon’s Porch. ¹³ None of the others dared to join them, but all the people respected them. ¹⁴ More and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to the group of believers. ¹⁵ The people placed their sick on beds and mats in the streets, hoping that when Peter passed by at least his shadow might fall on them. ¹⁶ Crowds came from all the towns around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those who were bothered by evil spirits, and all of them were healed.

PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, Your Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. The radiant light of Your Scripture goes before us dispelling the darkness of the enemy. It is living and active; therefore, it is always relevant, right up to date, and a foundation for our soul. Help us not to turn to the right nor to the left, but to keep our eyes fixed on Your Holy Word and our hearts tuned to the Holy Spirit so that we will be faithful to the very end of this life as we know it. Eradicate both visible and hidden sin that would stand in the way of our hearing Your words of commendation on the other side, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” Amen.

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

Sunday May 26, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-When life is hard, give more-

2-When Jesus said to count the cost of following him, it meant we must surrender our all to him-

3-What matters most is how we use what we have been given, not how much we make or do compared to someone else-

4-"Godliness with contentment is great gain"-

5-We are like God's jewels.  He exhibits his jewels on a dark background so they will shine more brightly-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Something you will never hear your mother say-Just leave all the lights on.  We have extra money this month for the bill-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Where there is genuine acceptance of Jesus, there is eternal salvation-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Deer can not eat hay-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Did Paul speak in tongues publicly?

2-Why did Paul tell women to be silent during church meetings and yet earlier told them to wear a head covering if she prays or prophesies-

3-What is an apostle?

4-Are all Christians apostles as well as disciples?

5-Who of the original twelve disciples did Paul ever meet?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What high priest had John and Peter arrested after the two disciples had healed a lame man?

Yesterday's answer-Abiathar   1 Kings 1:7

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 5:7-11

About three hours later his wife came in, but she did not know what had happened. ⁸ Peter said to her, “Tell me, was the money you got for your field this much?”

Sapphira answered, “Yes, that was the price.”
⁹ Peter said to her, “Why did you and your husband agree to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look! The men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” ¹⁰ At that moment Sapphira fell down by his feet and died. When the young men came in and saw that she was dead, they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. ¹¹ The whole church and all the others who heard about these things were filled with fear.

PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, like the Psalmist I pray that You will show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation. I’m indebted to Your loving grace that keeps me traveling the good path. There are many other paths that vie for my attention but I know instinctively through the Spirit and also by experience, that they are treacherous leading me to danger, a dead end, and leaving me with a spirit of unrest. I want to walk on the good path and find rest for my soul even in the midst of the dark valley experiences of my travels here on earth. I’m so grateful that You walk beside me on the path that leads to righteousness and eternal life. Amen.

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

Saturday May 25, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Giving that is not motivated by love is worth nothing-

2-It is impossible to please God in any other way than in complete surrender-

3-Having faith often means doing what others see as crazy-

4-If we truly desire to please God, we cannot "play it safe"-

5-We show tangible love for God in how we care for the poor and the desperate as if they were Jesus himself-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Something you probably will never hear your mother say, "Sure you can miss school today.  I used to skip a lot of school too-"

 

I'VE LEARNED-If you think that you can do whatever you want because God will forgive you, you don't understand grace-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Dinosaurs were among the most sophisticated animals that ever lived on earth-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Is speaking in tongues the greatest of the gifts of the Spirit as some people maintain?

2-For the Christian, will their physical body be resurrected from the dead or will they be transformed into new heavenly bodies?

3-What does it mean "Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit"?

4-Why did Paul tell men to remove their hats in church but for the women to wear head coverings?

5-Why was it considered immodest for a woman to remove their head scarves in public?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-When Adonijah tried to grab  the throne of Israel, what priest took his side?

Yesterday's answer-Hilkiah   2 Kings 22:8

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 45:1-6

 But a man named Ananias and his wife Sapphira sold some land. ² He kept back part of the money for himself; his wife knew about this and agreed to it. But he brought the rest of the money and gave it to the apostles. ³ Peter said, “Ananias, why did you let Satan rule your thoughts to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep for yourself part of the money you received for the land? ⁴ Before you sold the land, it belonged to you. And even after you sold it, you could have used the money any way you wanted. Why did you think of doing this? You lied to God, not to us!” ^5-6 When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. Some young men came in, wrapped up his body, carried it out, and buried it. And everyone who heard about this was filled with fear.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY

 Father, Your Word assures us that if we are walking in the Spirit we will not fulfill the desires of the flesh but instead we will want to fulfill the desires that are in accordance with the Holy Spirit that resides within the believer’s heart. Help us to be at peace with others, as far as it is possible. There are those, who like the robin attacking its own image, who live in self-conflict. No matter how much we reach out or respond in love or forbearance toward them we still have conflict. Give us peace when we cannot improve the circumstances and a prayerful heart for endurance toward that which we cannot change. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

 

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

Friday May 24, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-To God we are not worthless, we are priceless-

2-There are times I need to silence my intellect and simply trust Jesus-

3-God does not ask you to make a promise you cannot keep.  He asks you to believe a  promise that only he can keep-

4-The most meaningful worship always comes with a price-the whole of our lives placed at his altar-

5-"Let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and truth"-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-You'll never hear your mother say, "How can you see the TV sitting so far back"

 

I'VE LEARNED-Grace creates a resolve to do good, not permission to do bad (sin)-

DID YOU KNOW-Bats always turn left when exiting a cave-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Were there false self appointed apostles in Paul's day just as there is now?

2-We're there any books/scrolls used by the early church leaders that didn't make it into canonized scripture-

3-Does unity in the church mean no disagreements?

4-What should the church do with one of it's members who is living in sin?

5-As Christians do we need to be aware of how our attitude and behavior affect other people?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What priest found the Book of the Law in the temple during Josiah's reign?

Yesterday's answer-Abiathar   1 Samuel 22:20

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY  Acts 4:32-37

³² The group of believers were united in their hearts and spirit. All those in the group acted as though their private property belonged to everyone in the group. In fact, they shared everything. ³³ With great power the apostles were telling people that the Lord Jesus was truly raised from the dead. And God blessed all the believers very much. ³⁴ There were no needy people among them. From time to time those who owned fields or houses sold them, brought the money, ³⁵ and gave it to the apostles. Then the money was given to anyone who needed it.
³⁶ One of the believers was named Joseph, a Levite born in Cyprus. The apostles called him Barnabas (which means “one who encourages”). ³⁷ Joseph owned a field, sold it, brought the money, and gave it to the apostles.

PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, Your principles teach me that time spent reading the Word, meditating upon it and applying it to my life makes a vital difference in my Christian walk. Spending time with other believers and learning from their examples, as well as their testimony, is another way You’ve brought positive change into my life. Hearing sermons that cause me to think and often move me to more fully surrender my heart to You has brought about foundational growth in my life. I’m grateful for those who love me enough to keep me accountable to the commitment I’ve made to live a godly life. Thank You for the spiritual health and vitality You provide as I graze on the bounty of Your abundant life-giving “green pastures.” It is in the name of Jesus that we pray. Amen.

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

Thursday May 23, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-We often try to fix our problems with duct tape and WD-40.  God did it with 3 nails-

2-Without thorns, roses could not survive.  So it is without hardships, Christians cannot bloom-

3-Jesus didn't tell us to judge one another but to love one another-

4-Giving is true having-

5-Grace is free but it is not cheap for it cost Jesus his life-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-If you have a lot of tension and you get a headache, do what it says on the aspirin bottle, "take two aspirin and keep away from children"-

 

I'VE LEARNED-God's grace fosters obedience-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Bats are the only mammals that can fly-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why is there doubt that the book of Ephesians was written to the church at Ephesus or even written by Paul?

2-How do you judge the maturity of your faith?

3-On Paul's revisit to Corinth, who was the member that verbally and viciously attacks him?

4-How many times did Paul visit each of the churches he started?

5-Could the thorn in Paul's side have been the Corinthian church or possibly the Jews who followed him around to stir up the locals against him, rather than a physical ailment?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who was the only priest to escape when Saul slaughtered the eighty five priests of Nob?

Yesterday's answerSaul   1 Samuel 22:18

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 4:27-31

⁷ These things really happened when Herod, Pontius Pilate, and some Jews and non-Jews all came together against Jesus here in Jerusalem. Jesus is your holy servant, the One you made to be the Christ. ²⁸ These people made your plan happen because of your power and your will. ²⁹ And now, Lord, listen to their threats. Lord, help us, your servants, to speak your word without fear. ³⁰ Show us your power to heal. Give proofs and make miracles happen by the power of Jesus, your holy servant.”

³¹ After they had prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke God’s word without fear.

PRAYER FOR TODAY
Jesus, we thank you for that we can be certain of. It will take my entire life on earth and all of eternity to express my love and devotion to You. In Your great love and compassion You saw my need for redemption and paid the ultimate sacrifice by dying on the Cross in my place. You paid in full the sin debt You did not owe so that I could receive complete forgiveness which I did not deserve and could never earn. What indescribable peace this brings to my heart on this earthly pilgrimage. Because You gave Your all for me, I receive in full Your gift of salvation today!  Amen.

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

Wednesday May 22, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-God didn't need a family, he desired one-

2-Everyone was created by God but not everyone is a child of God-

3-Baptism signifies your inclusion in God's family-

4-Your baptism is a physical picture of a spiritual truth-

5-Don't be troubled by trouble-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-When dieting, remember, what is on the table eventually becomes what is on the chair-

 

I'VE LEARNED-We never outgrow our need for a father's love-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Pigs have been taught to accomplish almost any feat a dog can master,and usually in a shorter period of time-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-How do we live in trying to live a "Christ like life"?

2-Should it be a privilege to "suffer for Christ"?

3-Why was Paul so happy and upbeat when he was in prison?

4-Isn't it hard to understand that Jesus was God and yet took on the role of a servant?

5-Isn't it hard to understand that Jesus died on a cross which was usually reserved for the worst of criminals?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What king ordered the execution of Ahimelech and other priests because they had conspired with David?

Yesterday's answer-Aaron and his sons Nadab, Abihu, Eleazaar, and Ithamar    Exodus  28:1

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 4:23-26

²³ After Peter and John left the meeting of leaders, they went to their own group and told them everything the leading priests and the elders had said to them. ²⁴ When the believers heard this, they prayed to God together, “Lord, you are the One who made the sky, the earth, the sea, and everything in them. ²⁵ By the Holy Spirit, through our father David your servant, you said:

‘Why are the nations so angry?
    Why are the people making useless plans?
²⁶ The kings of the earth prepare to fight,
    And their leaders make plans together
Against the Lord
    And his Christ.’ Psalm 2:1–2

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, Your grace has no measure and it was graciously extended to me the hour I first believed and started my spiritual race. You not only prepared the way but You also run alongside me and enable me to throw off those things that hinder or weigh me down. You’ve given me an enduring spirit to stay on course during the desirable and undesirable starts of new chapters in my life. It’s not the one who runs the swiftest, nor the one who runs for a day, but it’s the one who endures to the end that will be saved. I want to be among that number, and by Your grace, I will receive the eternal rewards that come to those who finish well. And then I start the next chapter that never has an ending; that of living in heaven and praising You for all eternity. I can hardly wait. Amen.

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

Tuesday May 21, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Jesus could have saved himself, but then he could not have saved you and me-

2-Jesus gave up everything so we could have everything-

3-Jesus died so we could live forever-

4-Through salvation Jesus made you to be apart of God's family-

5-The Trinity is God relationship to himself-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Is it really just an accident that "stressed" is "desserts" spelled backward-

 

I'VE LEARNED-God saves all who accept his gift of salvation-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Scientists say that pigs, unlike all other domestic animals, arrive at solutions by thinking  them through-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-What is spiritual circumcision?

2-Is fasting that causes damage to the body advisable to do?   

3-How long can someone fast without food and not damage the body?

4-Does self denial earn us any favors with God?

5-How many of the churches which Paul started supported him with donations?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What five men were called to be the first priests of Israel?

Yesterday's answer-Phinehas    1 Samuel 4:21

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 4:18-22

¹⁸ So they called Peter and John in again and told them not to speak or to teach at all in the name of Jesus. ¹⁹ But Peter and John answered them, “You decide what God would want. Should we obey you or God? ²⁰ We cannot keep quiet. We must speak about what we have seen and heard.” ²¹ The leaders warned the apostles again and let them go free. They could not find a way to punish them, because all the people were praising God for what had been done. ²² The man who received the miracle of healing was more than forty years old.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, Your Word tells us that Jesus suffered for us, leaving us an example, that we might also suffer indignity and injustice just as the disciples did, many of them giving their lives for the Gospel. But when we consider all that You have set before us; redemption, forgiveness, a clear conscience, a pure heart, a satisfied mind, virtuous gifts that increase over a lifetime, unconditional love, grace beyond measure and a home prepared for me in heaven, things suffered in this life pale in comparison. May the lives we live, the words we speak, and the love we generously pour out to others “amaze” those who see it so that they might declare, “We recognize them as having been with Jesus.” In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

 

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

Sunday May 19, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Never doubt in the dark what God has shown you in the light-

2-A friendship based on emotion is a shallow one-

3-Don't be troubled by trouble-

4-Circumstances don't change the character of God-

5-Familiarity breeds complacency-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-The easiest way to lose weight is to check it as airline baggage-

 

I'VE LEARNED-God's grace is exceedingly abundant and indescribable-

 

DID YOU KNOW-It is physically impossible for pigs to look up at the sky-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW-

1-Living in what way pleases God?

2-Can following traditions or rituals make you holy?

3-Why did Paul say that celibacy gives Christians more time to serve God?

4-Did Paul firmly believe that he would see Jesus' second coming?

5-What does it mean to "pray without ceasing"?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What priest had a son named Ichabod, a name meaning "the glory has departed"?

Yesterday's answer-Zechariah    2 Chronicles 24:21

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY  Acts 4:13-17

¹³ The leaders saw that Peter and John were not afraid to speak, and they understood that these men had no special training or education. So they were amazed. Then they realized that Peter and John had been with Jesus. ¹⁴ Because they saw the healed man standing there beside the two apostles, they could say nothing against them. ¹⁵ After the leaders ordered them to leave the meeting, they began to talk to each other. ¹⁶ They said, “What shall we do with these men? Everyone in Jerusalem knows they have done a great miracle, and we cannot say it is not true. ¹⁷ But to keep it from spreading among the people, we must warn them not to talk to people anymore using that name.”

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, we ask You to help us apply Your teachings to our lives so that our foundation will be unshakable and storm-proof when the howling winds and surging rains beat against us. The foundation of this world is temporal and growing more and more decadent, so we choose instead to build our lives on the eternal foundation of Your Holy Word, as You teach us all throughout Scripture. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.


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

Saturday May 11, 2013 thought for the day

just a quick note to let eveeryone know that i will be off my computer until Sunday May 19th for a little vacation.  no, i don't have a lap top or an i pad..  i'm so old fashioned.--jasper

Friday May 10, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-The times Jesus feels absent from your faith is intended for the development of your faith-

2-Seeking a feeling of closeness to God is not worship-

3-A mistake we make is seeking an experience with rather than seeking God-

4-God is always present even when you don't feel him-

5-Faith in, not feeling for, pleases God-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-The perfect couple-he is a hypochondriac and she is a pill-

 

I'VE LEARNED-God is rich in kindness, patience and forgiveness-

 

DID YOU KNOW-To warn off other males, the orangutans of Southeast Asia burp loudly to declare their territory-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Is it possible to live a completely sin free life?

2-How are we to be "perfect" even as our father in heaven is perfect?

3-Can "sinless perfection" ever be attained in this life?

4-In it's simplest form, what is "holiness"?

5-Can people as well as things be holy?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What reform priest was killed by the orders of King Joash, a pupil of his father?

Yesterday's answer-Hophni and Phinehas   1 Samuel 2:17

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 4:5-12

⁵ The next day the rulers, the elders, and the teachers of the law met in Jerusalem. ⁶ Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, and Alexander were there, as well as everyone from the high priest’s family. ⁷ They made Peter and John stand before them and then asked them, “By what power or authority did you do this?”
⁸ Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and you elders, ⁹ are you questioning us about a good thing that was done to a crippled man? Are you asking us who made him well? ¹⁰ We want all of you and all the people to know that this man was made well by the power of Jesus Christ from Nazareth. You crucified him, but God raised him from the dead. This man was crippled, but he is now well and able to stand here before you because of the power of Jesus. ¹¹ Jesus is

‘the stone^[a] that you builders rejected,
    Which has become the cornerstone.’ Psalm 118:22

¹² Jesus is the only One who can save people. No one else in the world is able to save us.”

Footnotes:

1. 4:11 stone A symbol meaning Jesus.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

 

Father, You never tried to pull the wool over our eyes, but clearly presented the harsh reality that we will have troubles in this life. This resounding message was spoken through the many prophets, the disciples, by Jesus Himself and was portrayed plentifully in the lives of those who walked in Your ways. Help us not to be surprised or frightened when trouble comes knocking at our door, for it is evidence that Your Word is truth and it gives us opportunity to trust and rely upon You in the good and the bad, in that which is known and that which is uncertain. Faith that is not tested is faith that cannot be trusted, so we pray that we will remain faithful in the testing of our faith, in Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

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

Thursday May 9, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-The crucified life is the expected life of every believer-

2-Jesus willingly choose the cross-

3-God is real no matter how you feel-

4-In your relationship with God, you won't always feel close to him-

5-The deepest level of worship is praising God in spite of your difficult situation-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-God loves everyone but probably prefers "fruits of the spirit" over "religious nuts"-

 

I'VE LEARNED-When grace happens, generosity and kindness happen-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Orangutan infants cling almost continually to their mothers until they are one year old-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-In Bible days, how could peoples bodies take walking hundred of miles from one place to another.  How did they eat and where did they sleep?  Did they have money to do this?

2-Paul often traveled great distances by ship.  Did he buy passage or would he have been a working traveler?

3-Do old traditions have any value to the Christian today?

4-Can you find holiness by separating yourself from a sinful world and live a monk lifestyle?

5-Does being "holy" signify sinlessness or forgiveness?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What two gluttonous priests were notorious for keeping the sacrificial meat for themselves?

Yesterday's answer-The names of the tribes of Israel     Exodus 28:21

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 4:1-4

While Peter and John were speaking to the people, priests, the captain of the soldiers that guarded the Temple, and Sadducees came up to them. ² They were upset because the two apostles were teaching the people and were preaching that people will rise from the dead through the power of Jesus. ³ The older leaders grabbed Peter and John and put them in jail. Since it was already night, they kept them in jail until the next day. ⁴ But many of those who had heard Peter and John preach believed the things they said. There were now about five thousand in the group of believers.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY

 

 Father, You sent Jesus to be the Light of the world, and He now sends us out as redeemed messengers in the places where we live. Some of those places are very dark and we’re afraid to share the message of light and truth because we feel inadequate, unworthy, and unprepared to convey such a wondrous message. But in holding back we fail to introduce others to You whose searchlight from the Holy Spirit guides us into all truths, delivers us from the evil one, and sets our feet upon a rock to stay. We know that it is not by our might or power that we are able to shine like stars in the universe, but it is through Your Spirit that we can lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. Amen.

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

Wednesday May 8, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-The most desired gift to receive is focused attention-

2-You can give without loving but you can't love without giving-

3-If you want to express love, do it now-

4-The best use of life is love, the best expression of love is time, the best time to love is now-

5-You can't have a Christian life without the cross-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Repressing, what you'll be doing to your pants after a 12 hour car trip-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Grace is not given because we have done good works but in order that we may be able to do them-

 

DID YOU KNOW-The scientific name for gorilla is Gorillagorillagorilla-(aren't you glad to know that?)

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Should living off of welfare be an acceptable lifestyle for Christians?

2-Are the signs of Jesus' return understandable to the Christian?

3-Some scripture say that Jesus will return unexpectedly while others say certain events must happen first.  Is this a conflict?

4-Which was the most troubled plagued church of the New Testament?

5-What happens to Christians who die before Jesus returns?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What was engraved on the twelve stones in the high priest's breastplate?

Yesterday's answer-Eli, who scolded Hannah, future mother of Samuel

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 3:24-26

²⁴ Samuel, and all the other prophets who spoke for God after Samuel, told about this time now. ²⁵ You are descendants of the prophets. You have received the agreement God made with your ancestors. He said to your father Abraham, ‘Through your descendants all the nations on the earth will be blessed.’^{[a] 26} God has raised up his servant Jesus and sent him to you first to bless you by turning each of you away from doing evil.”

Footnotes:

1. 3:25 ‘Through . . . Blessed.’ Quotation from Genesis 22:18; 26:4.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

 Father, we thank You for making us joint heirs together with the family of believers in this wonderful eternal inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade kept in heaven for us. We claim this future inheritance and await the appointed date when we will experience in full the blessings it provides for us. Troubles in this life diminish our hope, but rejoicing in the life yet to be revealed gives us a living hope! Help us to fix our present hope on the future return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in whose name we pray. Amen.

 

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

Tuesday May 7, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Time is your most precious gift because you only have so much of it-

2-The gift of time is a gift of love-

3-The greatest gift you can give someone is your time-

4-The best way to spell love is t-i-m-e-

5-The essence of love is how much we give of ourselves-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Bonding-what chewing gum does between your shoe and the pavement-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Grace must find expression in life, otherwise it is not grace-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Gorillas often sleep for up to fourteen hours a day-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Who is the "Man of Lawlessness" Paul refers to?

2-How does Paul know the sequence of Jesus' return?

3-Jesus said "the good news about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world so that all nations will hear it, and then the end will come."  Has this happened yet?

4-If Jesus' return is near, why keep on working?

5-If you can work but don't want to, yet want welfare, should you be able to get it?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What priest scolded a distressed woman because he thought she had been drinking at the tabernacle?

Yesterday's answer-Jehoiada   2 Kings11:9-16

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 3:21-23

¹ But Jesus must stay in heaven until the time comes when all things will be made right again. God told about this time long ago when he spoke through his holy prophets. ²² Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will give you a prophet like me, who is one of your own people. You must listen to everything he tells you. ²³ Anyone who does not listen to that prophet will die, cut off from God’s people.’^[a]

Footnotes:

1. 3:22–23 ‘The Lord . . . People.’ Quotation from Deuteronomy 18:15, 19.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

 

Daily prayer: Father, You speak to us through the prophet Isaiah, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.“ Though this passage is somewhat general we know that You deal with the specifics in our lives as we encounter personal difficulties and quandaries. How comforting it is to know that You are alive forevermore and not only go before us, but You walk alongside us in our times of pain, confusion, loss, and when we’re uncertain what direction You want us to take. Ever-faithful and ever-loving God, we praise You for Your presence in our lives. It is through Jesus that we come to You in prayer. Amen     .Isaiah 41:10

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

May 6, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY

1-Life minus love is nothing-

2-It is not what you do, but how much love you put into it that matters-

3-Don't wait until you are on your death bed to figure out there is nothing more important than relationships-

4-The importance of things is measured by how much time we invest in them-

5-If you want to know a person's priority, look at how they spend their time-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Clinical depression is the print your behind makes on the doctor's examination table-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Grace promises not the absence of struggle but the presence of God-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Gorillas beat their chest when they get nervous-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why did Paul in 1 Timothy say that women should not have braided hair?

2-Why did Paul tell women in Ephesus and Corinth to take a submissive role in church worship services?

3-Does God have different roles for men and women in church leadership?

4-If Paul says that women should be silent in church why does he compliment women leadership in other places?

5-Should Christians be obsessed with Jesus' second coming?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What priest had the boy Jehoash proclaimed king, causing the death of a wicked Queen Athaliah?

Yesterday's answer-Eleazar   Joshua 17:4

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 3:17-21

¹⁷ “Brothers and sisters, I know you did those things to Jesus because neither you nor your leaders understood what you were doing. ¹⁸ God said through the prophets that his Christ would suffer and die. And now God has made these things come true in this way. ¹⁹ So you must change your hearts and lives! Come back to God, and he will forgive your sins. Then the Lord will send the time of rest. ²⁰ And he will send Jesus, the One he chose to be the Christ. ²¹ But Jesus must stay in heaven until the time comes when all things will be made right again. God told about this time long ago when he spoke through his holy prophets.
PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, we’re reminded through the writings of the Apostle Paul that our lives are observed by those who see us day in and day out. What a wonderful change comes into our lives as we surrender our hearts to You, the living and true God. And yet we must be on guard so that worthless idols do not win our affections; otherwise the light of Your Son Jesus will be diminished in our hearts and thereby, our witness. No person or object is of greater worth than that of Your Holy Spirit Who resides in our hearts and prompts us to lift our eyes toward our heavenly redemption that is drawing closer every hour. Thank You for saving us from the coming wrath when Your judgment is poured out on those who do not believe. In the name of Jesus we pray.  Amen.

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