Monday January 14, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-When the pharisees credited satan for the work of God, they were calling good evil-

2-Grief is healed by hope-

3-We must come to hate sin in our lives or else we will never give it up-

4-God, speak to me in a way I can understand-

5-Sin is man saying to God, go away and leave me alone.  Hell is simply God saying to man, you may have your wish-

STRANGE THOUGHT-The energizer bunny was arrested and charged with battery-

I'VE LEARNED-It is a sign of great strength to need God-

DID YOU KNOW-Because of the speed at which the earth moves around the sun, it is impossible for a solar eclipse to last more than 7 minutes 58 seconds-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Does God deal with nations as he does with individuals?

2-Does every nation have a God plan for it's existence?

3-Is there any direct reference in the Bible that America has a purpose in God's redemptive plan?

4-Who was Cain's wife and where did she come from?

5-Was Cain's wife a descendant of Adam and Eve?

BIBLE TRIVIA-In God's covenant with Abraham, what ceremonial rite was made mandatory for all Abraham's male descendants?

Yesterday's answer-a rainbow    Genesis 9:23

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 10:39-42

³⁹ They tried to take Jesus again, but he escaped from them.
⁴⁰ Then he went back across the Jordan River to the place where John had first baptized. Jesus stayed there, ⁴¹ and many people came to him and said, “John never did a miracle, but everything John said about this man is true.” ⁴² And in that place many believed in Jesus.

PRAYER FOR TODAY
  Father, we thank You for Your Son Jesus, who, by His coming to earth and dying on the cross, made it possible for us to be saved for all eternity. He came for the lowly shepherd on the hillside, the king who sits on the throne, the influential, the lesser known, and the unknown – all can be saved because of Your provision through Jesus. We are grateful for the birth of Jesus and with gladsome tidings we celebrate His birthday. Amen.

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

Sunday January 13, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Worrying doesn't add a single hour to your life-

2-When you criticize others without first considering your own problems, you are a hypocrite-

3-The wisdom of what a person says is proved right or wrong by their actions-

4-Mouths speak what flows out of the heart-

5-Skeptics wouldn't believe when John the Baptist preached repentance with austerity and they wouldn't believe when Jesus preached faith and joy-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-The Mona Lisa has no eyebrows.  In the renaissance era, it was fashionable to shave them off-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Give your family the bulk of your time, energy and love, and you will be happy-

 

DID YOU KNOW-A cesium atom in an atomic clock beats 9,192,631,770 times a second-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Does the Holy Spirit reside anywhere on earth besides in believers?

2-When the rapture takes place, will the Holy Spirit be gone from the earth?

3-Will most if not all the events of the tribulation period be from natural calamities?

4-Is the degree to which we are longing for Jesus' return a measure of our spiritual condition?

5-Was Columbus discovering America an accident?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-The covenant after the great flood was made not only between God and man, but also between God and the animals and the earth.  What did God give as the sign of this covenant?

Yesterday's answer-Jehoshaphat    2 Chronicles  20:22

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 10:34-38

³⁴ Jesus answered, “It is written in your law that God said, ‘I said, you are gods.’^{[a] 35} This Scripture called those people gods who received God’s message, and Scripture is always true. ³⁶ So why do you say that I speak against God because I said, ‘I am God’s Son’? I am the one God chose and sent into the world. ³⁷ If I don’t do what my Father does, then don’t believe me. ³⁸ But if I do what my Father does, even though you don’t believe in me, believe what I do. Then you will know and understand that the Father is in me and I am in the Father.”

Footnotes:

1. John 10:34 ‘I . . . Gods.’ Quotation from Psalm 82:6.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

  Jesus, You came to earth from heaven to take on flesh and dwell among us as You became the supreme example of God in the flesh, pouring out Your grace upon grace. In Your humanness You were victorious in the raging battle against the spiritual forces of evil when faced with temptations and trials common to all people. We stand in glorious victory as we follow Your example and hold to Your unchanging truths. We come alongside those who are grieving loss and enduring heartache in the midst of this glorious season, for it is in keeping with the season of giving, that we give ourselves in faithful prayer toward these in grief. It is in the loving name of Jesus that we pray. Amen.

 

 

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

Saturday January 12, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Put your valuables where you want your heart to be because that is what is going to happen anyway-

2-Our hearts and our treasures usually stick together-

3-Focus your life on generosity not on stinginess-

4-You have to chose either loyalty to possessions or to God-

5-No one can serve both God and money, it is either one or the other-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Astronauts can't belch for there is no gravity to separate liquid from gas in their stomach-

I'VE LEARNED-Be the most enthusiastic person you know-

DID YOU KNOW-One ragweed plant can release as many as one billion grains of pollen-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-How are we to wait, work and watch till Jesus returns?

2-Are there any events that must yet take place before the rapture occurs-

3-What is the next major event to happen on the prophetic calendar?

4-Does every believer in and follower of Jesus have the Holy Spirit living in them?

5-When does the Christian receive the Holy Spirit?

BIBLE TRIVIA-What king led the people in singing and praising God, leading God to destroy the armies of the Ammonites,Moabites and Edomites?

Yesterday's answer-Israel  2 Chronicles 13:15-16

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 10:31-33

³¹ Again some of the people picked up stones to kill Jesus. ³² But he said to them, “I have done many good works from the Father. Which of these good works are you killing me for?”
³³ They answered, “We are not killing you because of any good work you did, but because you speak against God. You are only a human, but you say you are the same as God!”

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, our hearts are heavy today as we continue to see the disastrous results of a country that has turned away from its original purpose for existence. Our current laws have dictated that Your Ten Commandments have no place in the discourse of public education. The government has stripped itself of the right to pray and seek Your approval when establishing the laws that govern our lives. Many cry out, “Where was God?” when the gunman killed 20 young children along with six courageous instructors. Yet, all that Scripture teaches us about how to live and show love one to another is referred to as old-fashioned, irrelevant, a thing of the past. Experts come from every direction to discuss their thoughts, but we know the only lasting answer to our need is provided for us in the arrival of Your Son, Jesus, who came to deliver us from our sins. How we pray for a mighty revival to sweep our land, revive our hearts and turn people away from their sins.

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

Friday January 11, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Living for Jesus does not mean we are always right or that we will always win-

2-Foolish hopes lead to foolish behavior-

3-God will win even when it appears he has lost-

4-There is more to life than food, clothing and housing-

5-If you worry about things, you are transferring tomorrow's problems into today-

STRANGE THOUGHT-Tourists visiting Iceland should know that tipping at a restaurant is considered an insult-

I'VE LEARNED-If you plant consideration, you will reap perspective-

DID YOU KNOW-Heroin is the brand name of morphine once marketed by "Bayer"-

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-When will the Jews possess all the land promised them by God?

2-Has God ever turned his back on his people the Jews?

3-Has God's covenant with Abraham been totally fulfilled?

4-What part does Jesus play in God's covenant with Israel?

5-Why is God's covenant with the Jews still in effect when they as a people rejected Jesus as their Messiah?

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who were the Judeans fighting when God helped them slaughter a half million soldiers?

Yesterday's answer-God made a sound like a thundering army   2 Kings 7:6-7

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 10:22-30

²² The time came for the Feast of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, ²³ and Jesus was walking in the Temple in Solomon’s Porch. ²⁴ Some people gathered around him and said, “How long will you make us wonder about you? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.”
²⁵ Jesus answered, “I told you already, but you did not believe. The miracles I do in my Father’s name show who I am. ²⁶ But you don’t believe, because you are not my sheep. ²⁷ My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. ²⁸ I give them eternal life, and they will never die, and no one can steal them out of my hand. ²⁹ My Father gave my sheep to me. He is greater than all, and no person can steal my sheep out of my Father’s hand. ³⁰ The Father and I are one.”

PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, there is so much to contemplate and ponder concerning the birth of Your Son, Jesus. Mary is a tremendous example of one who was unable to fully comprehend or understand Your plan, but trusted You even before the answer was revealed. Help us to follow in her steps and trust You to work out Your will and plan in our lives even in the mysterious workings of our daily circumstances. Your humble and obedient servant, Mary, fulfilled your plan for her life and we receive the Christ Child; the Savior, the Messiah, our Lord! Thank You. Amen.

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

Thursday January 10, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Sometimes God's greatest sign of love and kindness is to not give us what we ask for-

2-Education may clarify but it does not transform-

3-Sometimes a mirror is the best remedy for sin-

4-There is always a danger to think that God is on our side-

5-Our life with God is all about grace-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-To make a half kilo of honey, bees must collect nectar from over 2 million individual flowers-

 

I'VE LEARNED-If you plant perseverance, you will reap contentment-

 

DID YOU KNOW-It takes one fifteen to twenty year old tree to produce seven hundred paper grocery bags-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Was polygamy ever acceptable in old testament times?

2-Why does God often allow our situation to become so desperate before he answers our prayers?

3-Is loving God ever hard?

4-Is it frustrating to not fully understand God?

5-Does anyone really know us and who we are?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What made the Syrians flee, thinking the Israelites had joined forces with the Egyptians and Hittites?

Yesterday's answer-An earthquake    1 Samuel 14:11-15

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 10:19-21

¹⁹ Again the leaders did not agree with each other because of these words of Jesus. ²⁰ Many of them said, “A demon has come into him and made him crazy. Why listen to him?”
²¹ But others said, “A man who is crazy with a demon does not say things like this. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”

PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, just as the shepherds spread the word concerning what had been told them about the Child we too want to spread the word regarding all that we learn about the Christ Child through the revelation of Scripture and the Holy Spirit. Thank You for sending Jesus not only to royalty but also to the peasant, not only to the influential but also to the unknown. We do not hesitate but joyfully and openly bring Him glory and honor; the Babe, the Son of Mary. It is in His name that we pray. Amen.

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

Wednesday January 9, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-What ever your eyes are focused on, that is what your body will see-

2-Whether you focus on generosity or stingyness , that is how your life will be lived-

3-You have to choose which is most important to you, loyalty to your possessions or to God for you can't serve both at the same time.

4-All freedoms cost someone something-

5-Sometimes God will give us what we ask for even if it is at our own peril-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-If you are right handed you will tend to chew your food on the right side of your mouth.  If you are left handed you will tend to chew your food on the left side of your mouth.

 

I'VE LEARNED-If you plant humility, you will reap greatness-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Orchids are grown from seeds so small it would take thirty thousand to weigh as much as one grain of wheat.

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Was Jonah's preaching of judgement so powerful that the Ninevites repented on the first day or was it something else?

2-Would Jonah's appearance have been strange looking after being in the great fish for 3 days?

3-Did the sailors on Jonah's ship to Tarshish remain believers in Jonah's God?

4-Did the sailors on Jonah's ship ever hear the outcome of throwing him overboard?

5-What is a hopeless situation?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What occurred when Jonathan and his armor bearer attacked the philistines?

Yesterday's answer-It thundered from heaven   1 Samuel 7:10

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 10:17-18

¹⁷ The Father loves me because I give my life so that I can take it back again. ¹⁸ No one takes it away from me; I give my own life freely. I have the right to give my life, and I have the right to take it back. This is what my Father commanded me to do.”

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Jesus, though You were God, You did not cling to Your rights as God. Instead You made Yourself nothing, taking the humble position of a slave You appeared in human form. Though innocent You died a criminal’s death on a cross. Because of Your loving, sacrificial obedience our Father gave You the name that is above every other name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. I gratefully declare and confess You, Jesus Christ, to be my Lord and Savior right now and forevermore!  Amen.

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

Tuesday January 8, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-God knows what you need even before you pray-

2-If you really forgive those who sin against you, God will forgive you, but if you won't then don't expect God's forgiveness-

3-God sees and knows both your attitude and behavior-

4-Christians, put your treasures where you want you heart to be-

5-Our hearts and our treasures usually stick together-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-If you don't learn to laugh at trouble, you won't have anything to laugh at when you are old-

 

I'VE LEARNED-If you plant goodness you will reap friends-

 

DID YOU KNOW-The bark of a redwood tree is fireproof.  Fires that occur in a redwood forest take place inside the trees-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Jonah told God he wanted to die, so why didn't he?

2-Why did Jonah want to sit in the shade of the vine when he had already made a shelter which had given him shade?

3-What did God mean saying the people of Ninevah could not tell their right hand from their left?

4-God asked Jonah, "Should I not be concerned with that great city of Ninevah."  Were there other cities and peoples that God was equally concerned with?

5-Was Ninevah the only city that God sent a prophet to preach repentance to?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-When Samuel was offering a sacrifice, what did the Lord do to rattle the Philistines?

Yesterday's answer-Assyria's    2 Kings 19:35

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 10:14-16

¹⁴ “I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep, and my sheep know me, ¹⁵ just as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. I give my life for the sheep. ¹⁶ I have other sheep that are not in this flock, and I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock and one shepherd.

PRAYER FOR TODAY
 Father, we thank You for Jesus who was born that man no more may die. The grave is not the end for the believer, but simply the passage way into an eternal dwelling with You, the celestial beings, our Lord Jesus Christ, and the saints whom we join there. The last enemy to be destroyed is death, but the lights of glory will welcome us into our eternal home where we will reunite with our dear loved ones who’ve gone before us.  Grant special grace to those who’ve experienced recent loss and encourage their hearts this day. We pray for this through Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.

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

Monday January 7, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-It is hypocritical to pretend you are getting God like and then draw attention to yourself and seek praise-

2-Christians should keep their good deeds a secret and thrust God for the results-

3-Don't pray for human recognition-

4-Trust God to hear your secret prayers and to reward you in his own way at the right place and time-

5-A long prayer is not more sincere than a short one for God doesn't need a prayer with a long word count-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Being young is beautiful but being old is comfortable-

 

I'VE LEARNED-If you plant honesty, you will develop trust-

 

DID YOU KNOW-The leaves of the Victorian water lily are sometimes more than six feet in diameter-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Isn't it strange that Jonah appreciated God's compassion on him but was angry at God for the same compassion on the Ninevites?

2-After repenting and turning to God, did the Ninevites remain with their hearts toward God?

3-Why did Jonah think he should die when God didn't bring judgement on the Ninevites as he had predicted?

4-Was Jonah more concerned about his own reputation than with God's reaction to sinners who repent?

5-Was Jonah showing hostility to God when he was angry toward him and his treatment of the Ninevites?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What army was defeated when an angel of the Lord struck down 185,000 soldiers?

Yesterday's answer-Large hailstones   Joshua 10:6-13

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 10:11-13

¹¹ “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep. ¹² The worker who is paid to keep the sheep is different from the shepherd who owns them. When the worker sees a wolf coming, he runs away and leaves the sheep alone. Then the wolf attacks the sheep and scatters them. ¹³ The man runs away because he is only a paid worker and does not really care about the sheep.

PRAYER FOR TODAY
 Father, how glorious it is to enjoy freedom from sin, thanks to the sacrifice of Your Son on my behalf.  My life, once enslaved to sin, now enjoys the freedom from that which once held me captive to Satan’s bondage.  I live in victory because You have set me free and I am now free indeed.  Thank You, Father, for delivering me from the dominion of darkness and transferring me into the kingdom of Your beloved Son in whom I have redemption, the forgiveness of sin!  Amen

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

Sunday January 6, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-All three tests of Jesus by satan in the wilderness were self serving-

2-Forgiving sin is a greater supernatural power than physical healing-

3-The sermon on the mount was a lesson on how to live as a loyal follower and believer in Jesus-not primarily by laws but by love-

4-Don't make promises you don't intend to keep-

5-God is kind and loving even to those who are ungrateful and evil-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-You have to wait until evening to see how splendid the day has been-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Time never travels faster than one day at a time-

 

DID YOU KNOW-The Saguaro Cactus, found in the southwestern United States, doesn't grow branches until it is seventy five years old-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Why was Jonah so distraught at God not judging the Ninevites after they repented of their evil ways?

2-Why did Jonah hate the Ninevites so much?

3-Jonah proclaimed God's judgement on the Ninevites in 40 days.  Is 40 days of any particular significance?

4-Was Jonah a bigot?

5-How long did the Ninevites fast after repenting of their evil ways?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What weather phenomenon did the Lord use to defeat the Amorites when Joshua and his men were fighting them?

Yesterday's answer-Amalek   Exodus 17:11

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 10:7-10

 So Jesus said again, “I tell you the truth, I am the door for the sheep. ⁸ All the people who came before me were thieves and robbers. The sheep did not listen to them. ⁹ I am the door, and the person who enters through me will be saved and will be able to come in and go out and find pasture. ¹⁰ A thief comes to steal and kill and destroy, but I came to give life—life in all its fullness.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY

 

Father, You have entrusted the gospel message to all who have chosen to believe. Some are called to preach it in a public forum, others share it one on one day in and day out, through our lifestyle and through our words. We give careful attention to the Scriptures so that we can explain to others the simple yet mysterious Gospel message. We want to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God so that we can be faithful  ambassadors for Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.

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

Saturday January 5, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Christians lack of faith is directly related to the neglect of reading and meditating on scripture-

2-Worship must be an acknowledgement of his presence, and his presence is brought about by worship-

3-Listen closely as those around your speak, for great truths are revealed in jest-

4-We often think on how bad the crucifixion time was for Jesus but do we ever consider how hard the wilderness experience was for him?

5-To give allegiance to satan is a guaranteed path to disaster-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-One of the many things no one tells you about aging is that it is such a nice change from being young-

 

I'VE LEARNED-I can choose to let regrets define me, confine me, refine me, outshine me or I can choose to move on and leave them behind me-

 

DID YOU KNOW-The Sitka spruce is Britain's most commonly planted tree-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Was Jonah in sea water inside the great fish?

2-Was Jonah ever in any fear of drowning?

3-How could Jonah have prayed inside the great fish?

4-What day inside the great fish did Jonah pray to God?

5-At Jonah's preaching, the Ninevites repented and God relented his plan of judgement.  Does God today remove his judgement when we repent and turn to him?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What nation was Israel fighting when Moses' arms, held aloft, caused Israel to win?

Yesterday's answer-Egypt's   Exodus 14:13-31

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 10:1-6

Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, the person who does not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbs in some other way, is a thief and a robber. ² The one who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. ³ The one who guards the door opens it for him. And the sheep listen to the voice of the shepherd. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. ⁴ When he brings all his sheep out, he goes ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. ⁵ But they will never follow a stranger. They will run away from him because they don’t know his voice.” ⁶ Jesus told the people this story, but they did not understand what it meant.

 

PRAYER FOR TODAY

 

Jesus, Prince of Peace, thank You for calming the raging storm in my soul when You took up residency within my heart, as You removed my sins and replaced them with Your righteousness. This eternal exchange has brought me countless joy, abiding peace, and a home in heaven. It is once and for all established in the heavens and serves as an anchor to provide unwavering hope even while the torrential waves of world tragedies, wars, fears, strife, and personal difficulties attempt to shatter my peaceful state of mind. We raise to You our Ebenezer whereby our help has come. You have overcome the world and You will also help me to overcome my troubles. 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 January 4, 2013 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Jesus is not made after the image of God or in the image of God, he is the image of God-

2-A sensitive heart to God is an absolutely needed thing for spiritual growth-

3-The key to successful aging is to pay as little attention to it as possible-

4-Some Christians have fallen into the trap of believing they can manipulate God by demanding something by simply quoting scripture-

5-"In Jesus name" has become for some people a slogan of demand rather than an awareness of divine authority given to believers by God

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-I don't know how I got over the hill without getting to the top-

 

I'VE LEARNED-All endings are also beginnings, we just don't know it at the time-

 

DID YOU KNOW-The Siberian larch accounts for more than 20 percent of all the world's trees-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Should the Christian ever give up hope in seemingly impossible situations?

2-When does a Christian give up hope for a miracle and accept the facts of the desperate situation?

3-What was Jonah's greatest fear?

4-In the story of Jonah, how many miracles are there?

5-Was Jonah ever in total darkness?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What nations army was destroyed in the Red Sea?

 

Yesterday's answer-Elisha's  2 Kings 6:18-23

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY     John 9:39-41

³⁹ Jesus said, “I came into this world so that the world could be judged. I came so that the blind^[a] would see and so that those who see will become blind.”
⁴⁰ Some of the Pharisees who were nearby heard Jesus say this and asked, “Are you saying we are blind, too?”
⁴¹ Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin. But since you keep saying you see, your guilt remains.”

Footnotes:

1. John 9:39 blind Jesus is talking about people who are spiritually blind, not physically blind.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

 

Father, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, to walk on this earth and show us the way to You. Through His death and resurrection we have forgiveness and hope of eternal life. You replace our heart of stone with a heart of flesh born of the Spirit. We confess our sins and ask You to cleanse us of all unrighteousness. Show us through Scripture and godly teaching how to turn away from the ever-changing values and principles of this world where the prince of darkness reigns. Endear our hearts instead to building an eternal spiritual foundation while we look upward to that great City whose Maker and Builder is the Lord Jesus Christ. Our minds cannot conceive what is in store for us but it will far surpass anything we might possibly hope to find in this life. Keep us faithful until that eventful transfer. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

January 3, 2013 thought for the day

Thank you to all of you who have been patient with me about posting to my blog.  As you already know, my father passed away on Christmas eve and I as the executer of his estate  have been busy trying to settle things up and it does go at a slow pace.
Then on New Years day my residential phone line went dead and along with it went my internet connection.  Yes I do things the old fashion way and have dsl by telephone lines.  Here it is now Thursday evening and it was put back in service by a very friendly and knowlegeable repairman about an hour ago  (yes it was dark outside).  I hope tomorrow to be back on line with my postings.   Jasper

Wednesday December 26, 2012 thought for the day

This is just a quick update to the events enfolding at my home. My father died Christmas eve around 10:45pm.  The whole family had spent time with him early in the afternoon where he was in a semi consciousness.  My daughter and family from Virginia arrived around 5:30pm so was able to spend time with him for a couple hours.  We were all able to tell him we loved him and that it was okay to go to his new heavenly home where mother has been waiting for him for the past 3 1/2 years.  His passing was very quick and peaceful with my brother and his wife at his side.  By the time they could call me to come, he had already passed on.  We are saddened at our loss and feel the grief very sharply but we are so glad he has made it safely home.  He stated many times he was ready to go if the Lord would call him home--and so he did.  He was a good man, a good husband, a good father and a good friend!  Here I am 73 years old and this is only the second day  have lived my life without a living father.
The picture I have in my head is that mom and dad have their Dutch wooden shoes on and are clogging on heaven's streets of gold.  That may not be Biblical but it brings peace to my hurting heart.
Thanks to all who have given caring thoughts and also prayed for us-----jasper

PS-I will not be back on until after 1-1-13.  Thank you for your understanding--

December 24, 2012 thought for the day

For those of you that may be wondering why there hasn't been any postings from me--I have been spending most of my time with my dad who is in the process of going to his new heavenly home.   The time could be yet today or in a few days.  It is such a sad gut renching thing to watch him go. Not because he is going home but because of the process and the time it takes for his body to shut down.  My brother from Austin, Texas and his wife have been staying with him every night and day for the last 9 days.

Because of what is going on and the fact we will have all our family with us till new years day I am not going to make any postings till after 1/1.

I hope you all will have a happy and blessed christmas....jasper

Saturday December 22, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Stored up anger eventually unleashes a tragic ripple effect-

2-Christians don't always try to rescue their wounded but they should-

3-Love pays attention-

4-The second commandment is the only one where God says those who break it hate him-

5-Prejudice is hatred-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Some people try to turn back their odometers.  No me.  I want people to know why I look this way.  I've traveled a long way and some of the roads weren't paved-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Give of yourself-prayerfully-

 

DID YOU KNOW-It takes the insect eating Venus flytrap only half a second to shut its trap on its prey-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-How could Jonah have been so soundly asleep on board the ship when such a violent storm was raging?

2-Is Jonah a story of backsliding from God and then being given a chance of repentance and restitution?

3-At what point in the story of Jonah did he repent of his actions?

4-Was the great fish that swallowed Jonah a whale?

5-Was the great fish of Jonah's story common in the Mediterranean?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What prophet's word caused the Syrian soldiers to be struck blind?

Yesterday's answer-John the Baptist  Luke 3:14

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY    John 9:35-38

³⁵ When Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, Jesus found him and said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”

³⁶ He asked, “Who is the Son of Man, sir, so that I can believe in him?”

³⁷ Jesus said to him, “You have seen him. The Son of Man is the one talking with you.”

³⁸ He said, “Lord, I believe!” Then the man worshiped Jesus.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, any gift under the Christmas tree pales in comparison to the unending gift of Your pure love given to us in the person of Jesus Christ, Your only begotten Son. We are so grateful that He willingly laid down His life that we might inherit eternal life if we only believe. Not only do we receive a future eternal inheritance but we have the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome the daily struggles of this life and any baggage that weighs us down from our past. Thank You for Your redeeming grace that was provided to us through the birth of Jesus, our Redeemer. 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.

Thursday December 20, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-When you haven't forgiven those who hurt you, you turn your back against your future-

2-Be more concerned with your character than your reputation-

3-God is love, and every time you demonstrate love, you demonstrate your connection to him-

4-It is possible that God could lead you into a wilderness and allow you to thirst-

5-A home without love may be a castle or a palace but it is not a home-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-When you are dissatisfied and would like to go back to your youth, remember algebra-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Empower yourself-prayerfully-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Bamboo (the world's tallest grass) can grow up to 90 centimeters in a day-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Did Jonah tell the Ninevites about his fish experience?

2-Why did the Ninevites believe that Jonah was a prophet from God?

3-Why didn't Jonah want the Ninevites to repent of it's evil?

4-What was God's primary purpose for Israel?

5-Why was Jonah willing to die to save the sailors lives on board the ship?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who told Roman soldiers to be content with their pay and to avoid taking money by force?

Yesterday's answer-Abishai   1 Chronicles  11:20

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 9:26-34

²⁶ They asked, “What did he do to you? How did he make you see again?”

²⁷ He answered, “I already told you, and you didn’t listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his followers, too?”

²⁸ Then they insulted him and said, “You are his follower, but we are followers of Moses. ²⁹ We know that God spoke to Moses, but we don’t even know where this man comes from.”

³⁰ The man answered, “This is a very strange thing. You don’t know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. ³¹ We all know that God does not listen to sinners, but he listens to anyone who worships and obeys him. ³² Nobody has ever heard of anyone giving sight to a man born blind. ³³ If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.”

³⁴ They answered, “You were born full of sin! Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, we thank You for our five senses of seeing, tasting, touching, hearing, and smelling that are essential to our lives as we gather and disseminate information from our sensory glands. As we interact with others today we want to release the aroma of Christ as the Holy Spirit makes us adequate for the task before us. We choose to focus on what You can do through us, not on what we do in our own strength. May others look beyond our physical inadequacies as they breathe in the spiritual fragrance of Christ, as His sweet presence is released through our endeavors. It is in Jesus’ name that we pray. Amen.

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

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-When you haven't forgiven those who hurt you, you turn your back against your future-

2-Be more concerned with your character than your reputation-

3-God is love, and every time you demonstrate love, you demonstrate your connection to him-

4-It is possible that God could lead you into a wilderness and allow you to thirst-

5-A home without love may be a castle or a palace but it is not a home-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-When you are dissatisfied and would like to go back to your youth, remember algebra-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Empower yourself-prayerfully-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Bamboo (the world's tallest grass) can grow up to 90 centimeters in a day-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Did Jonah tell the Ninevites about his fish experience?

2-Why did the Ninevites believe that Jonah was a prophet from God?

3-Why didn't Jonah want the Ninevites to repent of it's evil?

4-What was God's primary purpose for Israel?

5-Why was Jonah willing to die to save the sailors lives on board the ship?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who told Roman soldiers to be content with their pay and to avoid taking money by force?

Yesterday's answer-Abishai   1 Chronicles  11:20

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 9:26-34

²⁶ They asked, “What did he do to you? How did he make you see again?”

²⁷ He answered, “I already told you, and you didn’t listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his followers, too?”

²⁸ Then they insulted him and said, “You are his follower, but we are followers of Moses. ²⁹ We know that God spoke to Moses, but we don’t even know where this man comes from.”

³⁰ The man answered, “This is a very strange thing. You don’t know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. ³¹ We all know that God does not listen to sinners, but he listens to anyone who worships and obeys him. ³² Nobody has ever heard of anyone giving sight to a man born blind. ³³ If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.”

³⁴ They answered, “You were born full of sin! Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, we thank You for our five senses of seeing, tasting, touching, hearing, and smelling that are essential to our lives as we gather and disseminate information from our sensory glands. As we interact with others today we want to release the aroma of Christ as the Holy Spirit makes us adequate for the task before us. We choose to focus on what You can do through us, not on what we do in our own strength. May others look beyond our physical inadequacies as they breathe in the spiritual fragrance of Christ, as His sweet presence is released through our endeavors. It is in Jesus’ name that we pray. Amen.

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

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-When you haven't forgiven those who hurt you, you turn your back against your future-

2-Be more concerned with your character than your reputation-

3-God is love, and every time you demonstrate love, you demonstrate your connection to him-

4-It is possible that God could lead you into a wilderness and allow you to thirst-

5-A home without love may be a castle or a palace but it is not a home-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-When you are dissatisfied and would like to go back to your youth, remember algebra-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Empower yourself-prayerfully-

 

DID YOU KNOW-Bamboo (the world's tallest grass) can grow up to 90 centimeters in a day-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Did Jonah tell the Ninevites about his fish experience?

2-Why did the Ninevites believe that Jonah was a prophet from God?

3-Why didn't Jonah want the Ninevites to repent of it's evil?

4-What was God's primary purpose for Israel?

5-Why was Jonah willing to die to save the sailors lives on board the ship?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-Who told Roman soldiers to be content with their pay and to avoid taking money by force?

Yesterday's answer-Abishai   1 Chronicles  11:20

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 9:26-34

²⁶ They asked, “What did he do to you? How did he make you see again?”

²⁷ He answered, “I already told you, and you didn’t listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his followers, too?”

²⁸ Then they insulted him and said, “You are his follower, but we are followers of Moses. ²⁹ We know that God spoke to Moses, but we don’t even know where this man comes from.”

³⁰ The man answered, “This is a very strange thing. You don’t know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. ³¹ We all know that God does not listen to sinners, but he listens to anyone who worships and obeys him. ³² Nobody has ever heard of anyone giving sight to a man born blind. ³³ If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.”

³⁴ They answered, “You were born full of sin! Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out.

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, we thank You for our five senses of seeing, tasting, touching, hearing, and smelling that are essential to our lives as we gather and disseminate information from our sensory glands. As we interact with others today we want to release the aroma of Christ as the Holy Spirit makes us adequate for the task before us. We choose to focus on what You can do through us, not on what we do in our own strength. May others look beyond our physical inadequacies as they breathe in the spiritual fragrance of Christ, as His sweet presence is released through our endeavors. It is in Jesus’ name that we pray. Amen.

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

Wednesday December 19, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Awards are on the outside, rewards are on the inside-

2-Wealth isn't always measured in dollar signs-

3-Share your blessings in whatever form they come and to whatever level you have been blessed-

4-True happiness is when the love that is within us finds expression in eternal activities-

5-Prayer is love on it's knees-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-The older we get the fewer things seem worth waiting in line for-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Love yourself-wholeheartedly-

 

DID YOU KNOW-The company Kodak was the largest user of silver-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Who was the first prophet that God sent to a pagan nation?

2-When in the Bible is the first clear message that God's saving grace is for gentiles as well as the Jews?

3-Did anyone witness Jonah being vomited back onto dry land?

4-Is there any connection to the "3 days" of Jonah and Jesus?

5-Had Jesus as a boy been taught the story of Jonah or did he just know it?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What brother of Joab was famous for having killed 300 enemy soldiers in battle?

Yesterday's answer-Eliab   1 Samuel 17:28

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 9:24-25

²⁴ So for the second time, they called the man who had been blind. They said, “You should give God the glory by telling the truth. We know that this man is a sinner.”

²⁵ He answered, “I don’t know if he is a sinner. One thing I do know: I was blind, and now I see.”

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, as I live out my time here on this earth, I’m so glad that I belong to You. You hold my right hand and guide me with Your continuous presence and daily bread which is leading me to a glorious destiny. Whom have I in heaven but You and I desire You more than anything on earth. My health may fail and my spirit may even grow weak, but Father, You remain the strength of my heart and You are my portion forever. My Refuge, my Fortress and my Deliverer, I will joyfully tell of Your mighty works until You call me to my eternal home. Amen.

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

Tuesday December 18, 2012 thought for the day

HERE ARE MY THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

1-Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments-

2-When you learn from your mistakes, hindsight becomes foresight-

3-Whatever you do, don't do it out of obligation, do it because it is the way to live a genuine successful life-

4-Sometimes listening is the greatest act of love-

5-There is a difference in thankfulness and praise-

 

STRANGE THOUGHT-Eventually you will reach a point when you stop lying about your age and start bragging about it-

 

I'VE LEARNED-Trust yourself-confidently

 

DID YOU KNOW-Up until 1896,  India was the only source of diamonds in the world-

 

5 THINGS I WANT TO KNOW

1-Are there true prophets today or were they only in Old Testament times?

2-Why did Jonah choose to go to Tarshish instead of another city?

3-Did Jonah really think he could run away and hide from God?

4-Why were the sailors on the ship to Tarshish willing to believe Jonah and throw him overboard as he told them to do?

5-Today, is God's grace available to everyone?

 

BIBLE TRIVIA-What soldier, David's oldest brother, picked on David for coming to the battle lines?

Yesterday's answer-Arioch    Daniel 2:14

 

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY   John 9:18-23

¹⁸ These leaders did not believe that he had been blind and could now see again. So they sent for the man’s parents ¹⁹ and asked them, “Is this your son who you say was born blind? Then how does he now see?”

²⁰ His parents answered, “We know that this is our son and that he was born blind. ²¹ But we don’t know how he can now see. We don’t know who opened his eyes. Ask him. He is old enough to speak for himself.” ²² His parents said this because they were afraid of the elders, who had already decided that anyone who said Jesus was the Christ would be avoided.²³ That is why his parents said, “He is old enough. Ask him.”

PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, I pray that You will capture our minds and draw our hearts to that which has been prepared for us. May we, with child-like anticipation, keep our attention drawn to the eternal truths of Your Word that remind us of our future inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade.  It will lift our face toward heaven; our future home where we will enjoy a sinless atmosphere, never-ending fellowship with our brothers and sisters and the majesty of Your presence forever. Amen.

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