Saturday February 18, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-The person with a fiery temper never sets the world on fire-

2-Wisdom is knowing what is worth knowing and doing what is worth doing-

3-Life's greatest blessing is a loving friend-

4-The person with an imagination is never alone-

5-In matters of style swim with the current but in matters of principle stand like a rock-

STRANGE THOUGHT-How can the universe be constantly expanding-

I'VE LEARNED-Don't waste your sufferings-

DID YOU KNOW-Each anchor link on the Titanic was about 175 pounds-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Jesus said the Holy Spirit would lead the disciples "into all truth". What was he saying?

2-Were the disciples praying for or just waiting for the Holy Spirit in the upper room?

3-Are all the signs displayed at Pentecost for Christians today?

4-After their Pentecostal experience what did the disciples do with their gift of speaking in tongues?

5-Did all of Jesus' disciples speak in tongues?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who called herself Marah, a name meaning bitter?

Yesterday's answer-Priscilla Acts 18:2, 24-26

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 2:15-16

¹⁵ We were not born as non-Jewish "sinners," but as Jews.¹⁶ Yet we know that a person is made right with God not by following the law, but by trusting in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus, that we might be made right with God because we trusted in Christ. It is not because we followed the law, because no one can be made right with God by following the law.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, Your Word indicates the way we interact with those outside the faith will have a positive or a negative influence on whether they choose to follow You. There appears to be no neutral mode in our lives, for we do not live unto ourselves, but regularly give account for our actions and attitudes daily. Inconsistency and double standards have long been a trap Satan has set so that the world will point their accusatory finger and cry, “Hypocrite!” Sadly, it is often a true characterization. May we, as Your disciples, be faithful in our walk and consistent in our talk as we serve You at home, in the workplace, in our churches, and in our sphere of influence. We do not want to bring disgrace on the holy name of Jesus, but we want to honor His name as we glorify You in all we do. It is in Jesus’ holy name that we pray. Amen.

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

Friday February 17, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-We don't inherit the land from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children-

2-One person with faith is a mountain mover-

3-We do not see things as they are, we see things as we are-

4-Generosity is doing something nice for someone who will never find out about it or cannot return the favor-

5-When you are good at making excuses you are seldom good at anything else-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Is it possible to determine the center of the universe?

I'VE LEARNED-Debt helps you appreciate wealth-

DID YOU KNOW-A B-25 bomber airplane crashed into the seventy ninth floor of the Empire Sate Building in July 28, 1945-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Is there any connection to Peter denying Jesus 3 times and later Jesus asking Peter 3 times if he loves him?

2-After Jesus' crucifixion, where did the disciples go?

3-Did Jesus give his disciples his own power to forgive sins?

4-How would Jesus have "breathed" the Holy Spirit on his disciples?

5-How could Jesus have sent the Holy Spirit to earth after his departure from the earth?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What Jewish Christian woman had lived at Rome, Corinth, and Ephesus?

Yesterday's answer - Jehosheba, Joash's aunt 2 Kings 11:2-3

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 2:11-14

¹¹ When Peter came to Antioch, I challenged him to his face, because he was wrong.¹² Peter ate with the non-Jewish people until some Jewish people sent from James came to Antioch. When they arrived, Peter stopped eating with those who weren't Jewish, and he separated himself from them. He was afraid of the Jews.¹³ So Peter was a hypocrite, as were the other Jewish believers who joined with him. Even Barnabas was influenced by what these Jewish believers did.¹⁴ When I saw they were not following the truth of the Good News, I spoke to Peter in front of them all. I said, "Peter, you are a Jew, but you are not living like a Jew. You are living like those who are not Jewish. So why do you now try to force those who are not Jewish to live like Jews?"

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, when we examine the Scriptures we see how good you are. Just as we engage our physical senses in tasting food we engage our spiritual senses in learning who You are and how You guide us by Your Spirit. Though we cannot see You, our spirit senses the work You’re doing in our life. Though we cannot hear You, You lead us through Your commands in Scripture. Though we cannot feel You, we are warmed by Your loving words expressed in the Bible. Though we cannot touch You we feel the extension of Your love as You work on our behalf. Your scent is present in the very air that we breathe and the beauty of Your creation that surrounds us everyday. Your words are sweet to our taste as we hunger for your goodness. May we in turn offer up a sweet smelling sacrifice that is pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

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

Thursday February 16, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-The US constitution guarantees the pursuit of happiness but you have to catch it yourself-

2-Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned-

3-Those who are the quickest to make a promise are often the least faithful in keeping it-

4-One person with courage is a majority-

5-We find comfort from those who agree with us and growth from those who don't-

STRANGE THOUGHT- A clear conscience is sometimes the product of a clouded memory-

I'VE LEARNED-Failure helps you appreciate success-

DID YOU KNOW -Hershey bars were used overseas during WW II as currency-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why are the Gospel's story of the empty tomb all different?

2-What is "Hades", "sheol"?

3-Is Hades different from hell?

4-If upon death Jesus went into "Hades" what was it for?

5-If Jesus evangelized the dead in Hades, does that mean the dead have another chance to salvation?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What courageous woman risked her life to keep her royal nephew alive?

Yesterday's answer-Jedidah 2 Kings 22:1

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 2:6-10

⁶ Those leaders who seemed to be important did not change the Good News that I preach. (It doesn't matter to me if they were "important" or not. To God everyone is the same.)⁷ But these leaders saw that I had been given the work of telling the Good News to those who are not Jewish, just as Peter had the work of telling the Jews.⁸ God gave Peter the power to work as an apostle for the Jewish people. But he also gave me the power to work as an apostle for those who are not Jews.⁹ James, Peter, and John, who seemed to be the leaders, understood that God had given me this special grace, so they accepted Barnabas and me. They agreed that they would go to the Jewish people and that we should go to those who are not Jewish.¹⁰ The only thing they asked us was to remember to help the poor—something I really wanted to do.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, Your love for us is most visible in the great sacrifice You made in giving us Your only Son to die for our sins. John writes, “God is love” and it is Your love for us that shows us how to love one another. The love we have for our spouse doesn’t always bring about a warm, fuzzy feeling but at times is costly requiring great sacrifice. Help us to take our vows seriously and carry out that which we promise so that our tested love becomes an enduring love. As we do so, we honor the sacrament of marriage that You ordained, we honor our spouse, we are an example to others especially our children, and we fulfill the Scriptural command to be faithful to our mate.

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

Wednesday February 15, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Hold yourself to a higher standard than anyone else expects of you-

2-Admitting you are wrong is saying you are wiser today than you were yesterday-

3-Don't judge those who try and fail, those who fail to try are judged already-

4-Don't count the days, make the days count-

5-Courage is doing what you are afraid to do-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Is it possible to determine the center of the earth?

I'VE LEARNED-Sickness helps you appreciate health-

DID YOU KNOW-During WW II, the Navaho language was used successfully as a code by the United States-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-What was Judas Iscariot's motive for betraying Jesus?

2-What does "synoptic gospels" mean and what are they?

3-Why did God chose to reveal himself among the least of men?

4-Why did Jesus chose to reappear after his resurrection first to the women among his followers?

5-Was Jesus' tomb more like a cave than a grave?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What woman, wife of the wicked king Amon, gave birth to the future godly king Josiah?

Yesterday's answer-Lois 2 Timothy 1:5

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 2:1-5

¹ After fourteen years I went to Jerusalem again, this time with Barnabas. I also took Titus with me.² I went because God showed me I should go. I met with the believers there, and in private I told their leaders the Good News that I preach to the non-Jewish people. I did not want my past work and the work I am now doing to be wasted.³ Titus was with me, but he was not forced to be circumcised, even though he was a Greek.⁴ We talked about this problem because some false believers had come into our group secretly. They came in like spies to overturn the freedom we have in Christ Jesus. They wanted to make us slaves.⁵ But we did not give in to those false believers for a minute. We wanted the truth of the Good News to continue for you.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, in the midst of our trials may the problem at hand not be the single focus of our prayers. Help us to seek You for godly understanding and patient endurance, so that our lives are spiritually maturing in the process of waiting upon You to answer our prayers. May seeking You be our primary focus in fulfillment of Christ’s command in Matthew 6:33, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto You.” In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

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

Tuesday February 14, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-You don't stop smiling when you grow old, you grow old when you stop smiling-

2-Trouble often starts out being fun-

3-To teach is to learn again-

4-The problem with doing nothing is that you cannot stop to rest-

5-Many problems could be solved in the time spent worrying about them-

STRANGE THOUGHT-How deep into the earth's crust is it possible it go?

I'VE LEARNED-It is the bad days that help you appreciate the good days!

DID YOU KNOW-Prior to WW2, when guards were posted at the fence,

anyone could wander right up to the front door of the White House-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Are all of God's promises conditional?

2-How do we grow "the fruit of the spirit"?

3-What is "Shekhinah Glory"?

4-Did Jesus ever refer to himself as the "Messiah"?

5-Why did the Jews believe the Messiah would be a national liberator?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who was Timothy's devout grandmother?

Yesterday's answer-Delilah Judges 16:4

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 1:11-24

Paul's Authority Is from God

¹¹ Brothers and sisters, I want you to know that the Good News I preached to you was not made up by human beings. ¹² I did not get it from humans, nor did anyone teach it to me, but Jesus Christ showed it to me.

¹³ You have heard about my past life in the Jewish religion. I attacked the church of God and tried to destroy it.¹⁴ I was becoming a leader in the Jewish religion, doing better than most other Jews of my age. I tried harder than anyone else to follow the teachings handed down by our ancestors.

¹⁵ But God had special plans for me and set me apart for his work even before I was born. He called me through his grace¹⁶ and showed his son to me so that I might tell the Good News about him to those who are not Jewish. When God called me, I did not get advice or help from any person.¹⁷ I did not go to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was. But, without waiting, I went away to Arabia and later went back to Damascus.

¹⁸ After three years I went to Jerusalem to meet Peter and stayed with him for fifteen days.¹⁹ I met no other apostles, except James, the brother of the Lord.²⁰ God knows that these things I write are not lies.²¹ Later, I went to the areas of Syria and Cilicia.

²² In Judea the churches in Christ had never met me.²³ They had only heard it said, "This man who was attacking us is now preaching the same faith that he once tried to destroy."²⁴ And these believers praised God because of me.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, I want to find out what pleases You and make it my goal to honor You with my life. I want the affections of my heart, the thoughts of my mind, the expression of my emotions, the words voiced from my lips and my actions to please you. May my understanding grow as I read and apply Your written revelation and as I learn from my brothers and sisters in Christ. Since my life may be the only Bible that some people read, may it reflect the person of Christ and that which You teach about Your people being set apart for holy living. I love You, Father, with all my heart and I want to show it with all my life. Amen.

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

Monday February 13, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Some people are like blotters, they quickly soak it all in but get it backwards-

2-Problems are opportunities disguised in work clothes-

3-Tomorrow is often the busiest day of the year-

4-A smile is just as contagious as a yawn and remembered more fondly when it is gone-

5-Praise loudly and blame softly-

STRANGE THOUGHT-This would be a wonderful world if people showed as much patience

in all things as they do waiting for the fish to bite-

I'VE LEARNED-It can't be sunshine all the time or the flowers wouldn't grow for lack of rain-

DID YOU KNOW-There is enough stone in the Great wall to build an eight foot wall encircling

the globe at the equator-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-If angels fell from their heavenly status, what will keep resurrected Christians from doing so also?

2-How do you measure love?

3-How quickly should we forgive someone for a transgression against us?

4-Can you ask forgiveness on behalf of another person?

5-Why doesn't the book of Mark mention the appearance of the resurrected Jesus?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What evil woman lived in the valley of Sorek?

Yesterday's answer-Asenath, the wife of Joseph Genesis 41:45

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 1:6-10

⁶ God, by his grace through Christ, called you to become his people. So I am amazed that you are turning away so quickly and believing something different than the Good News.⁷ Really, there is no other Good News. But some people are confusing you; they want to change the Good News of Christ.⁸ We preached to you the Good News. So if we ourselves, or even an angel from heaven, should preach to you something different, we should be judged guilty! ⁹ I said this before, and now I say it again: You have already accepted the Good News. If anyone is preaching something different to you, let that person be judged guilty!

¹⁰ Do you think I am trying to make people accept me? No, God is the One I am trying to please. Am I trying to please people? If I still wanted to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, Your Scriptures teach us that we’re not home yet; we’re just passing through. This world is all we’ve physically known so it is only through our spiritual transformation of salvation that we are able to transport our affections to our future home where we’ve never been. Fix our hearts and our minds upon that which is imperishable, that which satisfies the soul and lifts us above the allurement to this world along with the troubles it brings. There is nothing in this world that is of greater worth or has more lasting value than our salvation in Christ, and it is in His name that we pray. Amen.

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

Sunday February 12, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom-

2-Love finds a way, indifference finds an excuse-

3-No one is rich enough to do without a friend-

4-The best exercise is to bend down and help someone up-

5-Always put off till tomorrow what you should not do at all-

STRANGE THOUGHT-When your electric goes out you are powerless to do anything about it-

I'VE LEARNED-If you are going to do it, do it right-

DID YOU KNOW-The great wall of China is more than 4,000 miles long and took more than 1,700 years to build-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why is there no record of all the people the resurrected Jesus appeared to?

2-Why is there no record of Pilot's reaction when he learned that Jesus had returned to life?

3-Was anyone a new believer in Jesus because of his appearance with a resurrected body?

4-Was Jesus' burial place in a general burial site or in a place all by itself?

5-Did the disciples and Mary got to the burial place along with the body of Jesus?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who was given by her Egyptian father as a reward to a Hebrew servant?

Yesterday's answer -Abishag 1 Kings 1:15

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY Galatians 1:1-5

Christians Are Saved by Grace

¹ From Paul, an apostle. I was not chosen to be an apostle by human beings, nor was I sent from human beings. I was made an apostle through Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised Jesus from the dead.² This letter is also from all those of God's family who are with me.

To the churches in Galatia:

³ Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.⁴ Jesus gave himself for our sins to free us from this evil world we live in, as God the Father planned.⁵ The glory belongs to God forever and ever. Amen.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Jesus, we proclaim You to be the King of Kings and Lord of lords. Help us to boldly declare this glorious message, not only in a setting where we find receptive listeners, but also to a hostile world that is building its perishable kingdom here on earth. May we be full of conviction and infused with Your power as we courageously tell others “There is another King, one called Jesus.” You’ve called us to be light in a world full of darkness. You’ve also enjoined us to be peacemakers. Sometimes when we take a stand for righteousness it does not bring peaceful resolution, but instead further conflict arises. Then we go through a surge of emotions and doubts begin to arise regarding our stand. Would You help us to be diligent in our study, prayerful about our stand, and immersed in Your Holy Word. May we not stand in our own strength or be led by aimless ambition. Lord, as we take a position against the evil tide of our land help us to be unapologetic in our stand, consistent in our Christian walk, and loving in our approach. May we, by example and word, say to the fallen world that we serve not the god of this age, but we serve a King who is ageless and eternal. In Your strength alone we stand. Amen.

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

Saturday February 11, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Frustration is not having anyone to blame but yourself-

2-By the time most people learn that money doesn't grow on trees they are already way out on a limb-

3-Nothing is more frequently opened by mistake than your own mouth-

4-Don't judge a book by it's cover when you don't have time to read it-

5-In order to grow you must try to do something beyond what you have already mastered-

STRANGE THOUGHT-The worst kind of recycling is having to eat your own words-

I'VE LEARNED-Only those who try succeed-

DID YOU KNOW-In ancient Greece, women counted their age from the date they were married-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why doesn't the Bible describe the actual return to life process of the crucified Jesus?

2-Did the resurrected Jesus have his old or new body?

3-Why did the resurrected Jesus appear to those he did?

4-Why didn't the resurrected Jesus appear to religious and or political leaders?

5-Did the resurrected Jesus appear only to believers in him?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who was with David when Bathsheba and Nathan pleaded with him to designate Solomon as his successor?

Yesterday's answer-Timothy 2 Timothy 1:5

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY 2 Corinthians 13:11-14

¹¹ Now, brothers and sisters, I say good-bye. Live in harmony. Do what I have asked you to do. Agree with each other, and live in peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you.

¹² Greet each other with a holy kiss.¹³ All of God's holy people send greetings to you.

¹⁴ The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, help us to contend with those obstacles that are a part of our strict training so that we will receive an everlasting crown. Help us to patiently endure and prayerfully endear the important truths You teach us in our spiritual training. We want to hold on to Your unchanging hand as we build our lives not on the shifting sands of time, but on that which will never perish! Amen.

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

Friday February 10, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Character is not made in a crises, it is only exhibited-

2-The facts of our loss do not change, what changes are the stories we make out of the loss-

3-When you die, will your life have made any difference?

4-Grievers adjust to loss by believing that God is at work in their life-

5-A journey of many miles begins with your first step-

STRANGE THOUGHT-If the mountain was smooth you couldn't climb it-

I'VE LEARNED-Forgiveness is a transformative act, a path to spiritual contentment-

DID YOU KNOW-In 290 B.C., Aristarchus was the first Greek astronomer to suggest that the sun was the center of the solar system-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why does God allow the horrible killing of unborn babies?

2-If God has a reason for everything, is there an explanation for all the cruel suffering by the innocent?

3-Since we don't have an answer to all the suffering, what should our response be to it?

4-What is the most puzzling mystery of the Christian faith?

5-Was Jesus the only person to rise from the dead? If not, how many are there recorded in scripture?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What pastor was the son of the devout Eunice?

Yesterday's answer-Phoebe Romans 16:1-2

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY 2 Corinthians 13:5-10

⁵ Look closely at yourselves. Test yourselves to see if you are living in the faith. You know that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you fail the test.⁶ But I hope you will see that we ourselves have not failed the test.⁷ We pray to God that you will not do anything wrong. It is not important to see that we have passed the test, but it is important that you do what is right, even if it seems we have failed.⁸ We cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth.⁹ We are happy to be weak, if you are strong, and we pray that you will become complete.¹⁰ I am writing this while I am away from you so that when I come I will not have to be harsh in my use of authority. The Lord gave me this authority to build you up, not to tear you down.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, we recognize that we are over comers because we are children of God. The battles we conquer and the ultimate victory we attain in our lifetime is wholly because of the power of Christ at work in us. We are more than conquerors through Jesus who loves us and gave His life for our sins. Thank you for the inexhaustible supply of Your grace, power, and provision for our salvation and our steadfast walk with You in the ensuing battles of daily life.

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

Thurday February 9, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-God doesn't have a junior varsity-

2-Your service reflects your worship-

3-Just because you have nice things does not mean you are blessed-

4-A half truth is a whole lie-

5-Break the chain of gossip by not being a link-

STRANGE THOUGHT-When no one seems to measure up it is time to check your yardstick-

I'VE LEARNED-Forgiveness doesn't make you immune to emotions-

DID YOU KNOW-The ruins of Troy are located in Turkey-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Does God's anger need to be appeased by proper sacrifice?

2-Does Isaiah 53 talk about the coming messiah?

3-Is "freewill" an adequate reason for all the suffering in the world?

4-Why is there suffering in cases where it has nothing to do with "freewill" of anyone?

5-Why does God allow evil people to do horrible things to innocent people and children?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who was probably the carrier of Paul's letter to the Romans?

Yesterday's answer-Priscilla Acts 18:26

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY 2 Corinthians 13:1-4

¹ I will come to you for the third time. "Every case must be proved by two or three witnesses."² When I was with you the second time, I gave a warning to those who had sinned. Now I am away from you, and I give a warning to all the others. When I come to you again, I will not be easy with them.³ You want proof that Christ is speaking through me. My proof is that he is not weak among you, but he is powerful.⁴ It is true that he was weak when he was killed on the cross, but he lives now by God's power. It is true that we are weak in Christ, but for you we will be alive in Christ by God's power.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Jesus, though Satan’s temptations swirl about me in many forms and in various venues I resist the enemy’s desire to reside in my life. Even as the devil seeks to wrap his noxious tentacles around my heart, I stand firm against him because You, Jesus, are the Protector of my soul, who stands guard at all times. I am grateful for the warning signals often repeated throughout the Bible that teach me about Satan’s strategy. Thank You for Your still, small voice regularly reminding me that I am a child of God purchased by Your life-giving blood. May everything that passes before my eyes and all activities I engage in reflect the light of Your redeeming love within me. It is through Your power that I resist the devil and stand firm in the faith. Amen.

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

Wednesday February 8, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Any fool can criticize, condemn and complain, and most do-

2-Some folks don't like thinking because it means less talking-

3-Most people don't recognize opportunities because they are usually disguised as hard work-

4-Though life is short, there is always time for courtesy, kindness and love-

5-God doesn't heal you so you will shut up and stop bothering him, but to help others-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Keep on your toes and you won't get run down at the heels-

I'VE LEARNED-Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity-

DID YOU KNOW-Cleopatra married two of her brothers-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Are our cultural notions of love really applicable to God?

2-If God is in control, can we assume that all our suffering is in his plan for us?

3-What kind of God wants his children to suffer through things not of their own making or choices?

4-Does God always do what he wants?

5-Is suffering God's way of getting you to behave in ways that are better for your own interest?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What woman was capable enough to instruct the brilliant Apollos in theology?

Yesterday's answer -Keren-happuch Job 42:14

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY 2 Corinthians 12:19-21

¹⁹ Do you think we have been defending ourselves to you all this time? We have been speaking in Christ and before God. You are our dear friends, and everything we do is to make you stronger.²⁰ I am afraid that when I come, you will not be what I want you to be, and I will not be what you want me to be. I am afraid that among you there may be arguing, jealousy, anger, selfish fighting, evil talk, gossip, pride, and confusion.²¹ I am afraid that when I come to you again, my God will make me ashamed before you. I may be saddened by many of those who have sinned because they have not changed their hearts or turned from their sexual sins and the shameful things they have done.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, may the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart overflow through the works of my hands, the causes that I support, and the spiritual encouragement that I give to others. As I meditate upon Scripture and apply it to my life, it gives me a firm foundation upon which I remain steady when the surges of doubt and fear soar upon me and it is from this firm foundation that I draw wisdom and biblical experience to share with others and challenge them in their faith walk to follow you wholeheartedly. I have been given so much because of Your benevolent kindness, therefore I have much to give in turn to those who observe my life. I want to leave plenty of evidence that You have done a great work in me. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

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

Tuesday February 7, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Trouble is usually produced by those who produce nothing else-

2-A saint is someone who appears to make it easy to believe in God-

3-Become victors over, not victims of adversity-

4-Joy has to be shared to be enjoyed-

5-If you find a dream inside your heart don't ever let it go, for dreams can be the seeds from which tomorrows grow-

STRANGE THOUGHT-If at first you don't succeed, you are about average-

I'VE LEARNED-You can't address a problem you won't acknowledge-

DID YOU KNOW-The Egyptian hieroglyph for one hundred thousand is a tadpole-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Is God all loving or does he also have an anger side?

2-Could God stop all suffering?

3-Is it God's will for some people to suffer?

4-Are there limits on God alleviating suffering?

5-If we want God's will for our lives, and it includes suffering, should we pray asking God to remove it?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What daughter of Job had a twelve letter name?

Yesterday's answer-Lydia Acts 16:14

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY 2 Corinthians 12:14-18

¹⁴ I am now ready to visit you the third time, and I will not be a burden to you. I want nothing from you, except you. Children should not have to save up to give to their parents. Parents should save to give to their children.¹⁵ So I am happy to give everything I have for you, even myself. If I love you more, will you love me less?

¹⁶ It is clear I was not a burden to you, but you think I was tricky and lied to catch you.¹⁷ Did I cheat you by using any of the messengers I sent to you? No, you know I did not.¹⁸ I asked Titus to go to you, and I sent our brother with him. Titus did not cheat you, did he? No, you know that Titus and I did the same thing and with the same spirit.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father help us to have the kind of faith prescribed in Hebrews 11:1 where “Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” It is the kind of faith that is triumphant in the worst of circumstances because our faith in Christ is the victory that overcomes the world. We will not be overcome by life’s circumstances but we will overcome by the blood of the Lamb. Praise God! Amen.

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

Monday February 6, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-To encourage is to pour in courage-

2-Our faults irritate us the most when we see them in others-

3-Laziness may seem attractive but only work brings satisfaction-

4-When a person won't listen to their conscience it is usually because they don't want advice from a stranger-

5-It is not how many hours you put in, it is what you put in those hours-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Every ice cream cone has its last lick-

I'VE LEARNED-Fall in love with someone who deserves your best, not someone who plays with it-

DID YOU KNOW-The Egyptian city of Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-What is the most difficult thing to accept by faith?

2-Does the Bible give an answer for why we suffer?

3-Is God all powerful?

4-Has God placed limits on his power?

5-Can God do anything?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What woman had the same name as an old kingdom of Asia?

Yesterday's answer-Dorcas Acts 9:36, 39

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY 2 Corinthians 12:11-13

¹¹ I have been talking like a fool, but you made me do it. You are the ones who should say good things about me. I am worth nothing, but those "great apostles" are not worth any more than I am!

¹² When I was with you, I patiently did the things that prove I am an apostle—signs, wonders, and miracles.¹³ So you received everything that the other churches have received. Only one thing was different: I was not a burden to you. Forgive me for this!

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, the philosophies, trends, and mind-set of the world stands in great contrast to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Your Word tells us that those who are not for You are against You. We can’t walk on both sides of the fence so we are faced with a choice we must make; the same kind of choice Joshua gave to the Israelites thousands of years ago. We must choose whether to follow after the gods of this world and forsake You or we must forsake the world and devote ourselves to You. Father, I choose to follow after You; You who reconciled me to Yourself through Jesus. You have proven Yourself trustworthy for Your promises are true. You provide the power and presence of Your Holy Spirit to lead me and direct my every path. Your Word illumines my every thought. I choose You today, exclusively and eternally! Amen.

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

Saturday February 4, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Live your life as an exclamation not an explanation-

2-The greatest thing you can do when you fall is to get right back up-

3-Don't miss the beautiful colors of the rainbow while you're looking for your pot of gold-

4-Don't lose your temper, someone else may find it-

5-Success is getting what you want, happiness is liking what you get-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Everyone is like a moon and has a dark side never shown to anyone-

I'VE LEARNED-In the middle of difficulty is opportunity-

DID YOU KNOW-If a surgeon in ancient Egypt lost a patient while performing an operation, his hands were cut off-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why didn't Jesus leave writing of his own?

2-Did the disciples always get along?

3-Who were the strong personalities in the 12 disciples?

4-Did the apostle Paul ever have any contact with any of the 12 disciples?

5-Do most of the bible books written by Paul have to deal with local crises?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What woman had Tabitha as a pet name?

Yesterday's answer-Sapphira, wife of Ananias Acts 5

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY 2 Corinthians 12:7-10

⁷ So that I would not become too proud of the wonderful things that were shown to me, a painful physical problem was given to me. This problem was a messenger from Satan, sent to beat me and keep me from being too proud.⁸ I begged the Lord three times to take this problem away from me. ⁹ But he said to me, "My grace is enough for you. When you are weak, my power is made perfect in you." So I am very happy to brag about my weaknesses. Then Christ's power can live in me. ¹⁰ For this reason I am happy when I have weaknesses, insults, hard times, sufferings, and all kinds of troubles for Christ. Because when I am weak, then I am truly strong.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, when we’re tempted to be halfhearted in our vocational work or find ourselves bored by monotonous repetition help us to find creative means that will make us even more productive and content in our work assignments. May our conduct and attitude reflect values set forth in Scripture. Make us a blessing so that we bring joy to our co-workers, supervisors, and to the workplace in general. During times of personality conflict or when disagreements arise bring to our memory the Scripture that reminds us our primary motivation for being a good worker is that we are serving You when we are diligent in our work. Not only in our service do we want to do our best but we also ask You to keep our attitudes in check and our words uplifting in the work place. Help us to be quick to see another co-worker’s need and respond accordingly. May we be slow to judge and finding fault with others. Prompt us to be faithful in prayer for our employers, supervisors, co-workers, and the business in which we serve. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

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

Friday February 3, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Think big thoughts and enjoy small pleasures-

2-Most people believe in law and order as long as they can lay down the law and give the orders-

3-Don't sip from the fount of knowledge, drink from it-

4-Advice is often headed least when need most-

5-A wise man gets more from his enemies than a fool does from his friends-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Bravery cannot exist without fear-

I'VE LEARNED-Contented people save more and go into debt less-

DID YOU KNOW-In Egypt around 1500 B.C., a shaved head was considered the ultimate in feminine beauty-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why is there no record of each of the 12 disciples writing something that became one of the books of the Bible?

2-Most or all of the Gospels were written 50 or more years after Jesus' life, so how could they be considered totally accurate, especially the spoken words of Jesus?

3-Why do we know so little about the personal lives of the Gospel writers?

4-Did any of the disciples have any personal interaction with Jesus before he started his ministry?

5-If Judaism had accepted Jesus as the messiah, would gentiles ever have been accepted into it?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who was the first woman to go against Jesus, words "You cannot serve God and mammon"?

Yesterday's answer-Six

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY 2 Corinthians 12:1-6

¹ I must continue to brag. It will do no good, but I will talk now about visions and revelations from the Lord.² I know a man in Christ who was taken up to the third heaven fourteen years ago. I do not know whether the man was in his body or out of his body, but God knows.^3-4 And I know that this man was taken up to paradise. I don't know if he was in his body or away from his body, but God knows. He heard things he is not able to explain, things that no human is allowed to tell.⁵ I will brag about a man like that, but I will not brag about myself, except about my weaknesses.⁶ But if I wanted to brag about myself, I would not be a fool, because I would be telling the truth. But I will not brag about myself. I do not want people to think more of me than what they see me do or hear me say.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, as You do awesome works in my life I can’t help but tell of the splendor of Your majesty or proclaim Your great deeds. May my children and my children’s children rise up and call You blessed as they see the effects of Your work in my life. I don’t want to limit the transmission of the gospel to my own blood relations for I want it to spill over to all who are in my sphere of influence. As You give me opportunity to use my gifts and apply my skills, may the work of Your Holy Spirit be seen through me and draw others into a relationship with You. Amen.

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

Thurday February 2, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-The only thing faster than the speed of light is the word of mouth-

2-The young want to change the world and the old want to change the young-

3-Good examples are better than good advice-

4-Doing is better than stewing-

5-Out of the mouths of babes come things parents never should have said-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Do pie making companies have a lot of turnovers?

I'VE LEARNED-Discontent is all about comparing-

DID YOU KNOW-According to Greek historian Herodotus, Egyptian men never became bald-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW-

1-Is it possible that Jesus had a Pharisee education like Paul did?

2-Would there have been anything relevant happened in Jesus' life in his teens and twenties?

3-Would Jesus have observed all the Jewish customs and religious practices of his day?

4-What part of Judaism did Joseph and Mary follow?

5-Did all of the disciples write about their 3 years with Jesus?

BIBLE TRIVIA-How many Marys are there in the New Testament?

Yesterday's answer-Mary Magdalene Mark 16:9

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY 2 Corinthians 11:30-33

³⁰ If I must brag, I will brag about the things that show I am weak.³¹ God knows I am not lying. He is the God and Father of the Lord Jesus Christ, and he is to be praised forever.³² When I was in Damascus, the governor under King Aretas wanted to arrest me, so he put guards around the city.³³ But my friends lowered me in a basket through a hole in the city wall. So I escaped from the governor.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, there is much that we don’t understand on this side; why some go through life seemingly with ease and little trouble, and others seem to be born with trouble that never goes away. It is not for us to understand Your ways for You are a God of mystery with greater purpose than we can comprehend, and yet You have made clear to us through Scripture that which we are to understand. Some of the very trouble we seek to avoid is what brings us to faith and causes us to live a life that is honoring to You and purposeful to others. Keep our hearts sensitive and compassionate toward those who are undervalued by the world’s standards. When we put ourselves in their place, we identify with their struggles and feel the deep hurt they experience when looked down upon and rejected by others. May we be Your tender arm of compassion and Your gentle voice of acceptance and unconditional love. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

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

Wednesday February 1, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Many of life's failure are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up-

2-Just because everything has changed does not mean anything has changed-

3-Today is worth many tomorrows-

4-Use it as often as you wish but a happy memory never wears out-

5-They who have lived well, laughed often and loved much have achieved success-

STRANGE THOUGHT-If you go to school on the equator, when does your summer vacation end?

I'VE LEARNED-We make our selves either happy or miserable-

DID YOU KNOW-About 3 hundred years ago, most Egyptians died by the time they were thirty-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Did God create satan or did satan create himself by his own choices?

2-What is the highest order of angels?

3-Do angels have wings,and if so, what is their purpose?

4-Did Jesus need to learn scripture as a boy or did he already know it?

5-What kind of education did Jesus receive as a boy or young man?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What woman had been healed of 7 demons by Jesus?

Yesterday's answer-The widow of Zarephath 1 Kings 17:18

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY 2 Corinthians 11:22-29

²² Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they from Abraham's family? So am I.²³ Are they serving Christ? I am serving him more. (I am crazy to talk like this.) I have worked much harder than they. I have been in prison more often. I have been hurt more in beatings. I have been near death many times.²⁴ Five times the Jews have given me their punishment of thirty-nine lashes with a whip.²⁵ Three different times I was beaten with rods. One time I was almost stoned to death. Three times I was in ships that wrecked, and one of those times I spent a night and a day in the sea.²⁶ I have gone on many travels and have been in danger from rivers, thieves, my own people, the Jews, and those who are not Jews. I have been in danger in cities, in places where no one lives, and on the sea. And I have been in danger with false Christians.²⁷ I have done hard and tiring work, and many times I did not sleep. I have been hungry and thirsty, and many times I have been without food. I have been cold and without clothes.²⁸ Besides all this, there is on me every day the load of my concern for all the churches.²⁹ I feel weak every time someone is weak, and I feel upset every time someone is led into sin.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, we thank You for the courageous girls and women who, in the most difficult of circumstances, choose to give life over choosing to dispense of their “problem.” We thank You for the vast groups of men and women who lend support to crises pregnancies, to those who take in and raise children who are given up for adoption. We thank You for those who have dedicated their lives to this tremendous cause, keeping it very much alive, so that those who accept it as a viable option due to its legalization in 1973 will come to realize that Your Word is the first and final authority on life, not the legislation of our day.

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