Saturday November 30, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-If it is not the right thing to do, never do it-if it is not the truth, never say it-

2-Sandwich every bit of criticism between two layers of praise-

3-If nothing ever changed, there would be no butterflies-

4-Fear of failure is the greatest barrier to success-

5-It is better to look ahead and prepare than to look back and regret-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Why is the time of day with the slowest traffic called rush hour?

 

I'VE LEARNED-Kindness is one of the hardest things to give away for it is nearly always returned-

 

DID YOU KNOW-The elephant seal is the heaviest seal in the world; males can reach twenty feet in length and eighty eight hundred

pounds-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Will there be only one universal language in heaven?

2-Will we maintain our current language in heaven?

3-Will ancient cultures be resurrected on the new heaven?

4-Will there be animals on the new earth-both wild and domesticated?

5-How did God make the original animals on the earth?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-On what Greek island did Titus supervise the churches?

Answer for today-Crete    Titus 1:5

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY     Acts 26:12-18

¹² “One time the leading priests gave me permission and the power to go to Damascus. ¹³ On the way there, at noon, I saw a light from heaven. It was brighter than the sun and flashed all around me and those who were traveling with me. ¹⁴ We all fell to the ground. Then I heard a voice speaking to me in the Hebrew language,^[a] saying, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? You are only hurting yourself by fighting me.’ ¹⁵ I said, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ The Lord said, ‘I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting. ¹⁶ Stand up! I have chosen you to be my servant and my witness—you will tell people the things that you have seen and the things that I will show you. This is why I have come to you today. ¹⁷ I will keep you safe from your own people and also from the others. I am sending you to them ¹⁸ to open their eyes so that they may turn away from darkness to the light, away from the power of Satan and to God. Then their sins can be forgiven, and they can have a place with those people who have been made holy by believing in me.’

Footnotes:

1. 26:14 Hebrew language Or Aramaic, the languages of many people in this region in the first century.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

 

Father, we honor our military veterans who gave their all that we might enjoy our freedoms. Some of them bear visible reminders of their service such as a missing limb, or a jagged scar. Others carry less visible signs such as a pin holding a bone together, shrapnel buried beneath their skin, tortuous physical and mental images that cannot be erased from their minds, causing many of them deep disturbance in their mental health. Many have been deployed to the Philippines following the indescribable loss of life and property from the recent typhoon. Help them to make a powerful difference to those who are left to sort out life in a way they could never have imagined. We pray that You will encourage the veteran’s families, provide physical, financial and emotional services, and place godly people in their paths who will build relationships with them giving them an opportunity to share their faith. We pray for those serving today who are being denied their expression of faith due to the politically motivated changes within the military. We consider the chaplains who uphold the teachings of the Bible rather than the philosophies of our day that redefine what is right and what is wrong. Fortify them with courage, wisdom and the resolve to stay firm in the days ahead to hold to what is true no matter what they endure as a result. And, lastly, we pray for our spiritual veterans who have forged the straight and narrow path before us that leads to eternal life. We follow behind and don’t look back to the broad path that leads to destruction and eternal doom. 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 November 29, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-It It is easy to find reasons why others should be patient-

2-Success is how high you bounce when you hit bottom-

3-Miracles happen only to those who believe in them-

4-You don't lose until you stop trying-

5-Joy is the feeling of grinning on the inside-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-It takes a long time to grow an old friend-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Kindness is a language everyone understands-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Whale blubber can reach up to twenty inches thick-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Is there private ownership in heaven?

2-What is the inheritance God will give Christians in heaven?

3-Does private ownership bring jealousy and envy?

4-In heaven will we renew or regain lost relational opportunities?

5-Was the risen Jesus Jewish?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What church took up a large love offering for the needy believers in Jerusalem?

Answer for today-Antioch  Acts 11:30

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 26:9-11

⁹ “I, too, thought I ought to do many things against Jesus from Nazareth. ¹⁰ And that is what I did in Jerusalem. The leading priests gave me the power to put many of God’s people in jail, and when they were being killed, I agreed it was a good thing. ¹¹ In every synagogue, I often punished them and tried to make them speak against Jesus. I was so angry against them I even went to other cities to find them and punish them.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY 

Father, many times Scripture that speaks of waiting on You is followed by the directive of being courageous. Indeed it does take courage for me to trust You and not take matters into my own hands since that comes so naturally to my way of thinking and doing things. But as a loving, protecting and omnipotent Father You tenderly care for me as I commit my concerns to You. My unbelief and impatience leads to fearsome worry and unwise behavior. Getting ahead of Your divine plan and perfect timing only leads to more frustration and difficulty. Help me to remember that waiting coupled with prayer brings about growing courage and dependence on You rather than myself. Amen.


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

Thursday November 28, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-When you smile you make life more beautiful-

2-We are shaped and destined by what we love-

3-Look for and welcome the joys of today-

4-Forgiveness doesn't change the past, it opens the future-

5-Love is the triumph of imagination over intelligence-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-My computer beat me at checkers, but I beat it at kick boxing-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Your spiritual gifts are not for your own benefit but are given to you to help other people-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Seals and whales keep warm in the icy polar water thanks to a layer of fat called blubber under the skin-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Can a Christian's belief be accurate yet be incomplete?

2-Can angels in heaven have differing opinions?

3-If Christians see things differently, could they still use wise Godly counsel?

4-Will people in heaven need or have privacy?

5-Will God give us a new name in heaven?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What church received from Paul an epistle that has never been found?

Answer for today    Laodicea   Colossians 4:16

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 26:4-8

⁴ “All my people know about my whole life, how I lived from the beginning in my own country and later in Jerusalem. ⁵ They have known me for a long time. If they want to, they can tell you that I was a good Pharisee. And the Pharisees obey the laws of my tradition more carefully than any other group. ⁶ Now I am on trial because I hope for the promise that God made to our ancestors. ⁷ This is the promise that the twelve tribes of our people hope to receive as they serve God day and night. My king, they have accused me because I hope for this same promise! ⁸ Why do any of you people think it is impossible for God to raise people from the dead?

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY 

Father, many times Scripture that speaks of waiting on You is followed by the directive of being courageous. Indeed it does take courage for me to trust You and not take matters into my own hands since that comes so naturally to my way of thinking and doing things. But as a loving, protecting and omnipotent Father You tenderly care for me as I commit my concerns to You. My unbelief and impatience leads to fearsome worry and unwise behavior. Getting ahead of Your divine plan and perfect timing only leads to more frustration and difficulty. Help me to remember that waiting coupled with prayer brings about growing courage and dependence on You rather than myself. Amen.


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

Wednesday November 27, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Hearing the truth is not enough-

2-God's blessings almost always follow obedience-

3-The end of life reveals more than it's beginning-

4-After achieving public success in ministry, God considered Eli a failure at home and judged him for it-

5-"If you continue in my word, then you truly are my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free"-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Why is the person who handles your money called a broker?

 

I'VE LEARNED-A wonderful gift may not be wrapped as you expect-

 

DID YOU KNOW-There once was more sea lions on earth than people-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-If children go to heaven directly when they die, why doesn't the Bible teach us that directly?

2-Will inhabitants of heaven be able to talk to anyone they want to ?

3-Will we have "best friend" in heaven?

4-Will the inhabitants of heaven know there is a hell somewhere?

5-How will we be able to enjoy heaven knowing we have family and friends who are not there?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What is the most commended church in Revelations?

Answer for today-Philadelphia   Revelation 3:7-13

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 26:1-3

26 Agrippa said to Paul, “You may now speak to defend yourself.”Then Paul raised his hand and began to speak. ² He said, “King Agrippa, I am very blessed to stand before you and will answer all the charges the evil people make against me. ³ You know so much about all the customs and the things they argue about, so please listen to me patiently.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY 

Father, as Your new creation we have crucified our sinful selves and found new life through Your indwelling Holy Spirit. We have given up our old selfish desires and sin no longer masters our thoughts and actions. We deny our sinful nature so that Your will may be accomplished in our lives as we reflect Your glory day by day. Your deliverance power gives us the strength we need to deal with ongoing temptation to yield to our old sinful nature. Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world. It is through Christ that we resist the enemy and yield to the Spirit. Amen.



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

Tuesday November 26, 2013 thought for today

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-God's remedy for incidental spiritual failure as well as long term rebellion is repentance-

2-No where in scripture is there anything to suggest that an action has to hurt someone else in order for God to consider it sin-

3-Sin, to some degree, always affects others-

4-If we hold ourselves accountable for sin no one else needs to-

5-Complacency is the enemy of obedience-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Why is lemon juice made with artificial flavors and dish washing liquid is made with real lemons?

I'VE LEARNED-Life is a gift, freedom is a responsibility-

DID YOU KNOW-The largest white shark ever caught measured thirty seven feet and weighed twenty four thousand pounds-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-How will people in heaven relate to each other?

2-What will fill the void of sexual intimacy in heaven?

3-Why do we believe in "the age of accountability" when we say mankind is born in sin?

4-Can a person be filled with the Holy Spirit before they are born?

5-Is the Christian doctrine that God welcomes children to heaven implied or Biblically taught?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What church had fallen prey to the legalistic Judaizers?

Answer for today-Galatia       Galatians   1:6-9

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 25:22-27

²² Agrippa said to Festus, “I would also like to hear this man myself.”

Festus said, “Tomorrow you will hear him.”²³ The next day Agrippa and Bernice appeared with great show, acting like very important people. They went into the judgment room with the army leaders and the important men of Caesarea. Then Festus ordered the soldiers to bring Paul in. ²⁴ Festus said, “King Agrippa and all who are gathered here with us, you see this man. All the people, here and in Jerusalem, have complained to me about him, shouting that he should not live any longer. ²⁵ When I judged him, I found no reason to order his death. But since he asked to be judged by Caesar, I decided to send him. ²⁶ But I have nothing definite to write the emperor about him. So I have brought him before all of you—especially you, King Agrippa. I hope you can question him and give me something to write. ²⁷ I think it is foolish to send a prisoner to Caesar without telling what charges are against him.”

PRAYER FOR TODAY 

Father, You’ve called us to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily and follow You. Each day has its own set of challenges and flow of blessings. Each is ordained by You, for it is in the testing that we are given opportunity to grow, mature, increase our faith and develop our character. Your presence is with us on days that are bright and sunny as well as those that are dark and stormy. Help us to watch for Your blessings because sometimes they’re hidden in the dark clouds of a trial. Nevertheless You are with us and unfolding a blessing that will strengthen, encourage and guide us as we travel here below. We thank You for Your every provision through Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.


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

Monday November 25, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Children rarely out grow the damage done to them by parents who deliberately play favorite-

2-Never confuse having a life with having a career-

3-Be unstoppable-

4-There is no shame in not knowing, only in not finding out-

5-Once we have accepted the grace of God, we have no excuse for playing with sin,

 For it is no less damaging and speaks volumes about the quality of our relationship with God-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Why is "abbreviated" such a long word?

 

I'VE LEARNED-Whenever we doubt God's love and wisdom, we always get into trouble-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Some sharks swim in a figure eight when frightened-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Will people in heaven need rest and sleep?

2-Will people in heaven be assigned work to do?

3-Will people in heaven own their own home (living space)?

4-Will there be different kinds of friendship in heaven?

5-What will people in heaven remember?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What church tolerated the heresy of the Nicolaitans?

Answer for today     Pergamos     Revelation 2:12-17

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 25:13-21

¹³ A few days later King Agrippa and Bernice came to Caesarea to visit Festus. ¹⁴ They stayed there for some time, and Festus told the king about Paul’s case. Festus said, “There is a man that Felix left in prison. ¹⁵ When I went to Jerusalem, the leading priests and the elders there made charges against him, asking me to sentence him to death. ¹⁶ But I answered, ‘When a man is accused of a crime, Romans do not hand him over until he has been allowed to face his accusers and defend himself against their charges.’ ¹⁷ So when these people came here to Caesarea for the trial, I did not waste time. The next day I sat on the judge’s seat and commanded that the man be brought in. ¹⁸ They stood up and accused him, but not of any serious crime as I thought they would. ¹⁹ The things they said were about their own religion and about a man named Jesus who died. But Paul said that he is still alive. ²⁰ Not knowing how to find out about these questions, I asked Paul, ‘Do you want to go to Jerusalem and be judged there?’ ²¹ But he asked to be kept in Caesarea. He wants a decision from the emperor.^[a] So I ordered that he be held until I could send him to Caesar.”

Footnotes:

1. 25:21 emperor The ruler of the Roman Empire, which was almost all the known world.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY 

Father, those whom You call You also equip to do that which we cannot do in ourselves. Some of us come up against extremely difficult odds, whether it’s due to our family history, physical limitations from birth, an accident, disease or aging. Any or all of these negatives have a way of consuming us and can contribute to a victim’s outlook. But You don’t victimize us, Father, You make us Victors as You give us helps along the way, provide caregivers who support and cheer us on. You perform small and big miracles within us to accomplish Your intended will for our lives. You assured a frightened Moses with these words, “I will be with you” and You assure our spirits with the very same message, “I will be with you” no matter how hard the test, how long it endures, or the timing of its appearance. Faithful God, You never change, but are always the same and we’re assured the victory just like Abraham, Moses, Job, Daniel and all the other common, ordinary people of the Bible who became heroes in our eyes. We walk in victory because You are the great I AM and You are with us. We love You and look to You in the name of Jesus. Amen.


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

Sunday November 24, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Esau despised something significant (birthright) for the fleeting satisfaction of his physical needs (hunger)-

2-Never underestimate the impact of your character on your children-

3-Everyone is born into a set of circumstances that they never can change-

4-Beware of making decisions out of desperation-

5-Listen closely to wise counsel-people who love you enough to tell you what you don't want to hear-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Why don't you ever see the headline "psychic wins lottery"?

 

I'VE LEARNED-Ability is what you are capable of doing, motivation determines what you do, attitude determines how you do it-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Sharks and rays are the only animals know to man that cannot succumb to cancer.  Scientists believe this is related to the fact that they have no bone, only cartilage-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Will our new heavenly bodies have any kind limits?

2-Will the mind of our heavenly bodies know everything there is to know?

3-Will we learn in heaven?

4-Will some people in heaven have greater knowledge and specialized abilities than others?

5-What books will be in heaven?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who helped Paul establish the church in Corinth?

Answer for today  Priscilla and Aquila   Acts 18:2

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 25:9-12

⁹ But Festus wanted to please the people. So he asked Paul, “Do you want to go to Jerusalem for me to judge you there on these charges?”

¹⁰ Paul said, “I am standing at Caesar’s judgment seat now, where I should be judged. I have done nothing wrong to them; you know this is true. ¹¹ If I have done something wrong and the law says I must die, I do not ask to be saved from death. But if these charges are not true, then no one can give me to them. I want Caesar to hear my case!”
¹² Festus talked about this with his advisers. Then he said, “You have asked to see Caesar, so you will go to Caesar!”

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, since we have been raised to new life with Christ Jesus, we set our sights on the joyous realities of our future home up in heaven. Focusing our attention and affection there cushions the painful realities we experience or see in other lives down here.  We do not lose heart or allow sin to have dominion over us if we fix our eyes on Jesus, His promises, and our future home in heaven. We do not divert our attention to the world but devote our heart to You, dear Father, so that all will be well with our soul, even when trouble surrounds us. Many need that same hope today, so we must go to this world that is dying and tell of Your salvation to all who will hear this glorious message. 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 november 23, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Anything we hold dear we must hold loosely-

2-The decision to hold anyone or anything loosely is an act of faith-

3-There is no better way to teach our children about God than by modeling our trust in him daily-

4-As long as we are owned by whatever we are clutching, we'll never be given over completely to God-

5-Personalities influence our decisions and our decisions determine our future-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Why can't women put on mascara with their mouth closed?

 

I'VE LEARNED-You are what you think but you are not always what you think you are-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Sharks can travel up to forty miles per hour-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Is food and drink that is addictive inherently sinful?

2-Is there any possibility there could be any sin appear in heaven as there was as shown by satan before his fall or as shown in the Garden of Eden?

3-Will people in heaven have "freewill" as we know it to be?

4-Will every relationship in heaven be holy?

5-Will anyone in heaven have annoying characteristics?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What was the first church to appoint deacons?

Answer for today-Jerusalem   Acts 6:1-7

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 25:6-8

⁶ Festus stayed in Jerusalem another eight or ten days and then went back to Caesarea. The next day he told the soldiers to bring Paul before him. Festus was seated on the judge’s seat ⁷ when Paul came into the room. The people who had come from Jerusalem stood around him, making serious charges against him, which they could not prove. ⁸ This is what Paul said to defend himself: “I have done nothing wrong against the law, against the Temple, or against Caesar.”

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY 

Father of creation, when I consider the infinite variety of Your handiwork I stand in awe at Your unlimited power, Your incredible creativity, and Your attention to detail.  How amazing that You care for the birds, animals, insects, water and plant life and You have a purpose for each of these creations.  How much more amazing that You created human life for Your good pleasure and for fulfilling Your purpose to redeem mankind.  By the testimony of my life may I bring You glory and honor as I, with exuberant and victorious joy, proclaim with the twenty four elders in heaven, “You are worthy to receive glory and honor and power!”  In the glorious name of Jesus I 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 november 22, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Unaddressed anger doesn't vanish-

2-Anger is not a sin, it is an emotion and sometimes justified.  How you respond to it determines whether or not it becomes sin-

3-A horrible tragedy is never a cruel, merciless act on God's part-

4-God does not find delight in your grief-

5-Death is the will of a world gone wrong.  Resurrection is God's final triumph over evil-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Why does the sun lighten our hair but darken our skin?

 

I'VE LEARNED-If you hold your tongue, you can't be misquoted-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Dolphins jump out of the water to conserve energy.  It is easier to move through thin air than through water-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Will there be meat eating animals in heaven?

2-Would God call "very good" a realm in which animals suffered, died and devoured each other?

3-Were all people vegetarians prior to the Great Flood?

4-Was the animal food chain a part of God's original design for living creatures?

5-Is coffee, alcohol, drugs, sweets, etc included in the statement "everything God created is good"?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Which church had a demon possessed girl as a member?

Answer for today-Philippi    Acts 16:18

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 25:1-5

25 Three days after Festus became governor, he went from Caesarea to Jerusalem. ² There the leading priests and the important leaders made charges against Paul before Festus. ³ They asked Festus to do them a favor. They wanted him to send Paul back to Jerusalem, because they had a plan to kill him on the way. ⁴ But Festus answered that Paul would be kept in Caesarea and that he himself was returning there soon. ⁵ He said, “Some of your leaders should go with me. They can accuse the man there in Caesarea, if he has really done something wrong.”

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY 

Father, we the redeemed declare that praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength belong to You, our God, forever and ever.  Never again will there be hunger, never again will there be thirst.  You will wipe away every tear from the eyes of those who have suffered making us long for that glorious eternal event that will take place in our lives. It is in the name of Jesus that we come to You in prayer. Amen!



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

Thursday November 21, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-There are times when we dislike certain people so much that murder would begin to build up in our heart if we didn't forgive them-

2-If you nurture your resentment it will grow into anger, which will grow into hatred, which will grow into murder, either physical or emotional-

3-Whatever we may try to hide on earth is fully known to God-

4-God doesn't waste words so when he gives clear instructions our response must be obedience-

5-Instead of harboring resentment, rejoice with those who receive praise or privilege-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-How do we sit in front of the TV and behind the computer-

 

I'VE LEARNED-It is the relationships that you build over the years that is the most Important thing in life.  Everything else is just an illusion-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Dolphins swim in circles while they sleep, with the eye on the outside of the circle open to keep watch for predators-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Will our heavenly bodies experience hunger and thirst?

2-Will everything eaten in heaven be healthy for our body?

3-Will meat from animals be eaten in heaven?

4-When did humans start eating animal meat?

5-Did Adam and Eve eat animal meat.  If so, was it raw?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-At what church did Paul preach his first recorded sermon?

Answer for todayAntioch of Pisidia     Acts 13:16

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 24:24-27

²⁴ After some days Felix came with his wife, Drusilla, who was Jewish, and asked for Paul to be brought to him. He listened to Paul talk about believing in Christ Jesus. ²⁵ But Felix became afraid when Paul spoke about living right, self-control, and the time when God will judge the world. He said, “Go away now. When I have more time, I will call for you.” ²⁶ At the same time Felix hoped that Paul would give him some money, so he often sent for Paul and talked with him.

²⁷ But after two years, Felix was replaced by Porcius Festus as governor. But Felix had left Paul in prison to please the Jews.

PRAYER FOR TODAY 

Father, thank You for making the gift of salvation available to whosoever believes. You break every fetter and set our souls free from the sin laden chains that bound and enslaved us. We are no longer held captive to sin but we are now joint heirs with Christ. Our pilgrimage is long and the way is rugged; there are times when we become discouraged and even want to give up. But we press on by keeping our eyes on the prize of the high calling we have in Christ Jesus. We don’t go by feelings nor are we swayed by other’s opinions or their failings. Keep us hungering and thirsting for more of You so that we remain steady in our Christian walk and undeterred by the daily temptations and hindrances the devil hurls at us. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.


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

Wednesday november 20, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Sin is a cowardly opportunist waiting for us to be at our weakest so that it can devour us with the least amount of risk-

2-We master potential sin by repenting of past sin quickly and resolving to do what is right from then on-

3-Your opportunity to do right isn't over just because you failed to do right earlier-

4-It is never too late to start doing what is right-

5-Some people spend their time reviewing past grievances, relishing the rush of righteous indignation-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-If the love of money is the root of all evil, why do churches ask for it?

 

I'VE LEARNED-If you spend time praying for people instead of talking about them, you'll get better results-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Dolphins do not breathe automatically as humans do and they do not sleep as humans do.  If they became unconscious, they would sink to the bottom of the sea.  Without oxygen they need to take in periodically, they would die-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Will our heavenly bodies be male and female?

2-Will our heavenly bodies be clothed?

3-Will those in heaven be the age they were when they died or will they be ageless.  (What would that look like?0

4-Is all scripture to be taken literally or are some scriptures figures of speech?

5-How do we "glorify God in our body"?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What church received epistles from two different apostles?

Answer for today-Ephesus---The letter to the ephesians from Paul and Revelations 2:1-7 from John

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 24:22+23

²² Felix already understood much about the Way of Jesus. He stopped the trial and said, “When commander Lysias comes here, I will decide your case.” ²³ Felix told the officer to keep Paul guarded but to give him some freedom and to let his friends bring what he needed.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY 

Father, You have set eternity in the hearts of Your people though it is impossible for us to comprehend all that You have done from eternity past to eternity future. Your existence spans eternity for You always have been and always will be. As Your children, we await the next really big event of Christ’s return and joyfully anticipate His appearing where He invites us to take our first step inside the pearly gates where we will view the home He has prepared for us and the New Jerusalem He has prepared for the saints of all ages. Ten million years later we’ll still be singing Your praise and giving thanks that there is no end to our days nor to our unbounding joy. It is through Jesus that we have this unending access to heaven and it is in His name that we pray. Amen.


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

Tuesday November 19, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-There is no one to take the responsibility for the consequences of our own disobedience-

2-Truth without love is cruel-

3-Love without truth is deceptive-

4-We must always speak the truth in love-

5-Leaving a sin unresolved makes us vulnerable to more sin-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Be really nice to your family and friends for you never know when you might need them to empty your bedpan-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Unmet expectations are the root of all anger-

 

DID YOU KNOW-You can cut up a starfish into pieces, and each piece will grow into a completely new starfish-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Will the inhabitants of heaven have duties?

2-Will the inhabitants of heaven know each other as they did on earth?

3-Will becoming like Jesus mean obliteration of self?

4-Will our heavenly bodies need calories?

5-Will our heavenly bodies have our five human senses,or more or less?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What member of the Colossian church received a letter from Paul?

Answer for today-Philemon

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 24:17-21

¹⁷ “After being away from Jerusalem for several years, I went back to bring money to my people and to offer sacrifices. ¹⁸ I was doing this when they found me in the Temple. I had finished the cleansing ceremony and had not made any trouble; no people were gathering around me. ¹⁹ But there were some people from Asia who should be here, standing before you. If I have really done anything wrong, they are the ones who should accuse me. ²⁰ Or ask these people here if they found any wrong in me when I stood before the council in Jerusalem. ²¹ But I did shout one thing when I stood before them: ‘You are judging me today because I believe that people will rise from the dead!’”

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY 

Father, You are the Father of Truth for You authored its meaning and revealed it fully in the person of Jesus Christ who was without sin. We live in a world full of impostors that have gone from bad to worse; those who use trickery, deceit, and distortion to mislead and gain the allegiance of others. Help us to be wise, discerning, and honest so that we will be people of integrity and sterling character leading people to faith in Jesus where they will find forgiveness for their sins, truth as revealed in Scripture, and life everlasting. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

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

Monday November 18, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-God is loving and kind but he is also just-

2-God provides a free gift of salvation leaving us no requirement but one-receiving his gift (Jesus)-

3-True faith is marked by obedience-

4-If you are not right with God, you'll find yourself at odds with everyone else, including yourself-

5-Jealousy is a common response to one person's receiving something that another feels they deserve-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Ideas are funny little things that don't work unless you do-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Lobsters, like grasshoppers, feel no pain--(How do we know that?)

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-If satan's servants can masquerade as angels, how can we know when we are being deceived?

2-Are angels emotional created beings?

3-Will there be tears of joy in heaven?

4-Will inhabitants of heaven have any kind of human desires?

5-Are there any rules in heaven?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What church suffered because of the "synagogue of Satan"?

Answer for today-Smyrna  Revelation 2:8-11

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 24:10-16

¹⁰ When the governor made a sign for Paul to speak, Paul said, “Governor Felix, I know you have been a judge over this nation for a long time. So I am happy to defend myself before you. ¹¹ You can learn for yourself that I went to worship in Jerusalem only twelve days ago. ¹² Those who are accusing me did not find me arguing with anyone in the Temple or stirring up the people in the synagogues or in the city. ¹³ They cannot prove the things they are saying against me now. ¹⁴ But I will tell you this: I worship the God of our ancestors as a follower of the Way of Jesus. The others say that the Way of Jesus is not the right way. But I believe everything that is taught in the law of Moses and that is written in the books of the Prophets. ¹⁵ I have the same hope in God that they have—the hope that all people, good and bad, will surely be raised from the dead. ¹⁶ This is why I always try to do what I believe is right before God and people.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY 

Father, we could be driven to despair in the midst of the evil that surrounds us if we didn’t walk in the light of Your truth. We walk in the true wisdom that comes from heaven, not in the flawed wisdom that comes from the world. Help us to make the most of every opportunity to stand up for divine truth in our minds, our speech and in our actions. Help us to be faithful in passing on the faith to the next generation. We want to be the light that shines forth in the creeping darkness of our land so that we can show others the way to eternal life. In the name of Your dear Son, Jesus, we pray.  Amen.


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

Sunday November 17, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-A person of significance doesn't care about who gets the credit-

2-A person of significance doesn't waste time pursing things that don't matter-

3-Joy is a choice and can be the most attractive quality in a person-

4-Making a positive difference is the Christian's responsibility.  God will see to it who gets the credit or fame-

5-Murder is not a weapon problem, it is a heart problem-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-If you try to fail and succeed, which have you done?

 

I'VE LEARNED-Where God is, hope is-

 

DID YOU KNOW-It can take a deep sea clam up to one hundred years to reach a third of an inch in length.  The clam is among the slowest growing yet longest living species on the planet-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Will the animal species of our earth inhabit the new earth.  If so, what about extinct species?

2-Will we be ourselves in heaven?

3-What are the angels primary function?

4-Does God ever create new additional angels?

5-Will humans and angels interact in heaven?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who visited the church in Babylon?

Answer for today-Peter   1 Peter 5:13

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    Acts 24:1-9

24 Five days later Ananias, the high priest, went to the city of Caesarea with some of the elders and a lawyer named Tertullus. They had come to make charges against Paul before the governor. ² Paul was called into the meeting, and Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, “Most Excellent Felix! Our people enjoy much peace because of you, and many wrong things in our country are being made right through your wise help. ³ We accept these things always and in every place, and we are thankful for them. ⁴ But not wanting to take any more of your time, I beg you to be kind and listen to our few words. ⁵ We have found this man to be a troublemaker, stirring up his people everywhere in the world. He is a leader of the Nazarene group. ⁶ Also, he was trying to make the Temple unclean, but we stopped him. [And we wanted to judge him by our own law. ⁷ But the officer Lysias came and used much force to take him from us. ⁸ And Lysias commanded those who wanted to accuse Paul to come to you.]^[a] By asking him questions yourself, you can decide if all these things are true.” ⁹ The others agreed and said that all of this was true.

Footnotes:

1. 24:6–8 And . . . You. Some Greek copies do not contain the bracketed text.

PRAYER FOR TODAY 

Father, we are very grateful for the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives; thankful especially for the convicting work of the Spirit that enables us to see our need for salvation. You provide guidance, comfort, correction, and strength through the work of the Spirit that resides within our hearts. Not only are we prompted and led by Your Spirit, but we consider those who are sensitive to the Spirit’s leading, who have come to us in our time of need and helped to restore our strength or helped clarify Your leading in our lives. May we also be willing messengers of Your Holy Spirit as we serve You day in and day out. 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!!!

November 16, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-God is known for taking the ordinary and making it extraordinary-

2-Talent and ability are not prerequisites to being used by God-

3-Success in the kingdom of God and in any local church depends on faithful people of whom the general public is unaware-

4-A person isn't significant because of fame, stature or publicity makes them so.  Each is significant because God has said so-

5-How much Impact we have, whether positive or negative depends pretty much on the choices we make-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Why is there an expiration date on sour cream?

 

I'VE LEARNED-Nothing disappoints worse than false hope-

 

DID YOU KNOW-No pearls of value are ever found in North American oysters-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Will the inhabitants of the new earth have the sun for daylight or will the glory of God over shine the sun?

2-Will the new earth have daylight and nighttime, sunrises and sunsets?

3-How will our heavenly bodies eyes be able to tolerate the bright light of the New Jerusalem?

4-Where does the "river of the water of life" flow to?

5-Will the new earth have any large bodies of water, fresh or salt water?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What church had a false prophetess named Jezebel as a member?

Answer for today-Thyatira    Revelation 2:18-29

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   Acts 23:31-35

³¹ So the soldiers did what they were told and took Paul and brought him to the city of Antipatris that night. ³² The next day the horsemen went with Paul to Caesarea, but the other soldiers went back to the army building in Jerusalem. ³³ When the horsemen came to Caesarea and gave the letter to the governor, they turned Paul over to him. ³⁴ The governor read the letter and asked Paul, “What area are you from?” When he learned that Paul was from Cilicia, ³⁵ he said, “I will hear your case when those who are against you come here, too.” Then the governor gave orders for Paul to be kept under guard in Herod’s palace.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY 

Father, as we become one with Christ we become a new creation. The old order of things has passed away and all things become new because You are sanctifying our hearts and thus aligning our outlook to be a reflection of Yours. And furthermore we are issued the command to deny our own willful desires, take up our cross every day, and follow You wholeheartedly. May we be careful to make a checklist daily to see that we live in accordance to Your commands, that we might reach others for Christ and find reward in our daily obedience to You. 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.