Stories of Blessings

FAITH - Anchored in the Unseen by Bill Johnson

2009-08-12T16:02:00.000-07:00

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things

Faith is the mirror of the heart that reflects the realities of an unseen world—the actual substance of His Kingdom.Through the prayer of faith we are able to pull the reality of His world into this one. That is the function of faith.

Faith has its anchor in the unseen realm. It lives from the invisible toward the visible. Faith actualizes what it realizes. The Scriptures contrast the life of faith with the limitations of natural sight. Faith provides eyes for the heart.

Jesus expects people to see from the heart. He once called a group of religious leaders hypocrites because they could discern the weather but couldn’t discern the times. It’s obvious why Jesus would prefer people to recognize the times (spiritual climate and seasons) over natural weather conditions, but it’s not quite so apparent why He would consider them hypocrites if they didn’t.

Many of us have thought that the ability to see into the spiritual realm is more the result of a special gift than an unused potential of everyone. I remind you that Jesus addresses this charge to the Pharisees and Sadducees. The very fact that they, of all people, were required to see is evidence that everyone has been given this ability. They became blind to His dominion because of their own corrupted hearts and were judged for their unfulfilled potential.

We are born again by grace through faith. The born again experience enables us to see from the heart. A heart that doesn’t see is a hard heart. Faith was never intended only to get us into the family. Rather, it is the nature of life in this family. Faith sees. It brings His Kingdom into focus. All of the Father’s resources, all of His benefits, are accessible through faith.

To encourage us in our capacity to see, Jesus gave specific instruction, “Seek first the kingdom of God….” Paul taught us, “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” He also stated, “For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” The Bible instructs us to turn our attention toward the invisible. This theme is repeated enough in Scripture to make those of us bound by the logic of this Western culture quite nervous.

Herein lies the secret to the supernatural realm that we want restored to the Church. Jesus told us that He only did what He saw His Father do. Such an insight is vital for those who want more. The power of His actions, for instance, the mud in the eye of the blind, is rooted in His ability to see.

WORSHIP AND THE SCHOOL OF FAITH
God is very committed to teaching us how to see. To make this possible He gave us the Holy Spirit as a tutor. The curriculum that He uses is quite varied. But the one class we all qualify for is the greatest of all Christian privileges—worship. Learning how to see is not the purpose for our worship, but it is a wonderful by-product.

Those who worship in spirit and truth, as mentioned in John 4:23-24, learn to follow the Holy Spirit’s lead. His realm is called the kingdom of God. The throne of God, which becomes established upon the praises of His people, is the center of that Kingdom. It’s in the environment of worship that we learn things that go way beyond what our intellect can grasp—and the greatest of these lessons is the value of His Presence. David was so affected by this that all his other exploits pale in comparison to his abandoned heart for God. We know that he learned to see into God’s realm because of statements like, “I have set the Lord always before me; because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.” The Presence of God affected his seeing. He would constantly practice recognizing the Presence of God. He saw God daily, not with the natural eyes, but with the eyes of faith. That priceless revelation was given to a worshiper.

The privilege of worship is a good beginning place for those unaccustomed to addressing some of these kinds of themes found in Scripture. It’s in that wonderful ministry that we can learn to pay attention to this God-given gift: the ability to see with the heart. As we learn to worship with purity of heart, our eyes will continue to open. And we can expect to see what He wants us to see.

SEEING THE INVISIBLE
The invisible realm is superior to the natural. The reality of that invisible world dominates the natural world we live in…both positively and negatively. Because the invisible is superior to the natural, faith is anchored in the unseen.

Faith lives within the revealed will of God. When I have misconceptions of who He is and what He is like, my faith is restricted by those misconceptions. For example, if I believe that God allows sickness in order to build character, I’ll not have confidence praying in most situations where healing is needed. But, if I believe that sickness is to the body what sin is to the soul, then no disease will intimidate me. Faith is much more free to develop when we truly see the heart of God as good.

The same misconceptions of God affect those who need to have faith for their own miracle. A woman who needed a miracle once told me that she felt God had allowed her sickness for a purpose. I told her that if I treated my children that way I’d be arrested for child abuse. She agreed and eventually allowed me to pray for her. After truth came into her heart, her healing came minutes later.

Unbelief is anchored in what is visible or reasonable apart from God. It honors the natural realm as superior to the invisible. The apostle Paul states that what you can see is temporal, and what you can’t see is eternal. Unbelief is faith in the inferior.

The natural realm is the anchor of unbelief. But that realm is not to be considered as evil. Rather the humble of heart recognize the hand of God through what is seen. God has created all things to speak of Him—whether it is rivers and trees, or angels and heaven. The natural realm carries the witness of His greatness…for those with eyes to see and ears to hear.

REALIST/MATERIALIST
Most all of the people that I’ve known who are filled with unbelief have called themselves realists. This is an honest evaluation, but not one to be proud of. Those kinds of realists believe more in what is visible than they do in what they can’t see. Put another way, they believe the material world rules over the spiritual world.

Materialism has been thought simply to be the accumulation of goods. Although it includes that, it is much more. I can own nothing and still be materialistic. I can want nothing and be materialistic because materialism is faith in the natural as the superior reality.

We are a sensual society with a culture shaped by what is picked up through the senses. We’re trained to believe only in what we see. Real faith is not living in denial of the natural realm. If the doctor says you have a tumor, it’s silly to pretend that it’s not there. That’s not faith. However, faith is founded on a reality that is superior to that tumor. I can acknowledge the existence of a tumor and still have faith in the provision of His stripes for my healing…I was provisionally healed 2,000 years ago. It is the product of the kingdom of heaven—a superior reality. There are no tumors in heaven, and faith brings that reality into this one.

Would satan like to inflict heaven with cancer? Of course he would. But he has no dominion there. He only has dominion here when and where man has come into agreement.

LIVING IN DENIAL
Fear of appearing to live in denial is what keeps many from faith. Why is what anyone thinks so important to you that you’d not be willing to risk all to trust God? The fear of man is very strongly associated with unbelief. Conversely, the fear of God and faith are very closely related.

People of faith are also realists. They just have their foundation in a superior reality.

Unbelief is actually faith in something other than God. He is jealous over our hearts. The one whose primary trust is in another grieves the Holy Spirit.

IT’S NOT IN THE HEAD
Faith is born of the Spirit in the hearts of mankind. Faith is neither intellectual nor anti-intellectual. It is superior to the intellect. The Bible does not say, with the mind man believes!

Through faith, man is able to come into agreement with the mind of God.

When we submit the things of God to the mind of man, unbelief and religion are the results. When we submit the mind of man to the things of God, we end up with faith and a renewed mind. The mind makes a wonderful servant, but a terrible master.

Much of the opposition to revival comes from soul-driven Christians. The apostle Paul calls them carnal. They have not learned how to be led by the Spirit. Anything that doesn’t make sense to their rational mind is automatically in conflict with Scripture. This way of thinking is accepted all throughout the Church in Western civilization, which should explain why our God so often looks just like us.

Most of the goals of the modern church can be accomplished without God. All we need is people, money, and a common objective. Determination can achieve great things. But success is not necessarily a sign that the goal was from God. Little exists in church life to ensure that we are being directed and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Returning to the ministry of Jesus is the only insurance we have of accomplishing such a goal.

FAITH FROM A RELATIONSHIP
The Holy Spirit lives in my spirit. That is the place of communion with God. As we learn to receive from our spirits we learn how to be Spirit led.

“By faith, we understand.” Faith is the foundation for all true intellectualism. When we learn to learn that way, we open ourselves up to grow in true faith because faith does not require understanding to function.

I’m sure that most of you have had this experience—you’ve been reading the Bible, and a verse jumps out at you. There is great excitement over this verse that seems to give so much life and encouragement to you. Yet initially you couldn’t teach or explain that verse if your life depended on it. What happened is this: Your spirit received the life-giving power of the word from the Holy Spirit. When we learn to receive from our spirit, our mind becomes the student and is therefore subject to the Holy Spirit. Through the process of revelation and experience our mind eventually obtains understanding. That is biblical learning—the spirit giving influence to the mind.

FAITH IS BOTH SUBSTANCE AND EVIDENCE

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

Faith is the mirror of the heart that reflects the realities of His world into ours. It is the substance of the unseen realm. This wonderful gift from God is the initial earthly manifestation of what exists in His Kingdom. It is a testimony of an invisible realm called the Kingdom of God. Through prayer we are able to pull that reality into this one—that is how faith functions.

If I go into the local pizza parlor and order a pizza, they will give me a number and a receipt. I am to place that number in a conspicuous place on the table. Someone may walk in off the street and come to my table and announce that they won’t give me any pizza. I’ll just point to the number and tell him, When pizza number 52 is done, it’s mine! That number is the substance of the pizza hoped for. If that guy tells me that my number isn’t any good, I’ll point to my receipt. It verifies the value of the number. When my pizza is done, the waiter will walk around looking for my number. How does the product of heaven know where to land? He looks for the substance…the number. If a question comes up over the validity of my number, my receipt, which is contained in the Bible, verifies my right to both the number and the pizza.

Heaven is not moved simply by the needs of man. It’s not that God doesn’t care. It was out of His great compassion that He sent Jesus. When God is moved by human need He seldom fixes the problem outright; instead, He provides Kingdom principles that when embraced correct the problems. If God was moved solely by human need then countries like India and Haiti would become the wealthiest nations in the world. It doesn’t work like that. Heaven is moved by faith. Faith is the currency of heaven.

THE SOURCE OF FAITH
“Faith comes by hearing….” It does not say that it comes from having heard. It is the listening heart, in the present tense, that is ready for heaven’s deposit of faith. Abraham heard God tell him to sacrifice his son Isaac. When he drew back the sword to slay his son the Lord spoke again. This time He told Abraham that the test was over and that he passed—he was not to sacrifice his son. Had he only done what God had said he would have killed his son. Hearing now is a key to faith.

The apostle Paul was driven by the command, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel….” However, when he was ready to preach the gospel in Asia, God said no. What God had said appeared to be in conflict with what God was saying. Paul then prepared to go to Bithynia. Again, God said no. Following this Paul had a dream of a man calling out to him from Macedonia. This was recognized as the will of God, and they went.

Even though we may know the will of God from Scripture, we still need the Holy Spirit to help us with the interpretation, application, and empowerment to perform His will.

FEARFULNESS
The biblical command repeated most often is: Do not fear. Why? Fear attacks the foundation of our relationship with God…our faith. Fear is faith in the devil; it is also called unbelief. Jesus would ask His fearful disciples, “Why are you so faithless?” because fearfulness is the same as faithlessness. Fear and faith cannot coexist—they work against each other.

The devil is called Beelzebub, which means, lord of the flies. He and his hosts are attracted to decay. We once had a freezer in a building detached from our house. One Sunday we came home from church only to be hit with a wall of smell that is unfortunately hard to forget. I realized in an instant what had happened. Our freezer had died. I thought the stench I had smelled for days was because my boys forgot to take all of the trash to the dump. Instead it was the ever-rotting meat and bear hide in the freezer.

From the front seat of my car I looked at the window of the shop about 40 feet away. It was black with flies…a number that is still hard to imagine these many years later. The freezer was filled with all sorts of meat. Flies found a happy breeding ground in spoiled flesh and were multiplying in unbelievable numbers. Both the meat and the freezer were taken to the dump.

Issues such as bitterness, jealousy, and hatred qualify as the decay of the heart that invites the devil to come and give influence—yes, even to Christians. Remember Paul’s admonition to the church of Ephesus, “Neither give place to the devil.” Fear is also a decay of the heart. It attracts the demonic in the same way as bitterness and hatred. How did the flies know where my freezer was? Through the scent of decaying meat. Fear gives off a similar scent. Like faith, fear is substance in the spiritual realm. Satan has no power except through our agreement. Fear becomes our heart’s response when we come into agreement with his intimidating suggestions.

REACT OR RESPOND
Many who have feared the excesses made by others in the name of faith have ironically embraced unbelief. Reaction to error usually produces error. Response to truth always wins out over those who react to error. Some people would have no belief system were it not for the error of others. Their thoughts and teachings are the antithesis of what others believe and practice. As a result those who strive for balance become anemic. The word balance has come to mean middle of the road—of no threat to people or the devil, with little risk, and above all…the best way to keep our nice image intact.

The Church warns its members about the great sin of presumption. God warns us of the sin of unbelief. Jesus didn’t say, When I return will I find people who are excessive and presumptuous? He was concerned about finding people with faith, the kind He displayed. While we often huddle in groups of like-minded people, those with faith blaze a trail that threatens all of our comfort zones. Faith offends the stationary.

People of great faith are hard to live with. Their reasoning is otherworldly. My grandfather, a pastor, sat under the ministry of several great men and women of God of the early 1900s. He used to tell me how not everyone liked Smith Wigglesworth. His faith made other people feel uncomfortable. We either become like them or we avoid them. We find their lifestyle either contagious or offensive with little neutral ground. Smith is well loved today…but it’s only because he’s dead. Israel loved their dead prophets too.

There’s something amazing about unbelief—it is able to fulfill its own expectations. Unbelief is safe because it takes no risk and almost always gets what it expects. Then, after a person gets the answer for their unbelief, they can say, I told you so.

A SUPERIOR REALITY
My faith is not just an abiding faith; it is active. It is aggressive by nature. It has focus and purpose. Faith grabs hold of the reality of the Kingdom and forcefully and violently brings it into a collision with this natural one. An inferior kingdom cannot stand.

One of the more common things people tell me when I’m about to pray for their healing is, “I know God can do it.” So does the devil. At best that is hope…not faith. Faith knows He will.

For one who has faith, there is nothing impossible. There are no impossibilities when there is faith…and there are no exceptions.

Sheri, for instance, came forward for prayer after a wonderful meeting just outside of Nashville, Tennessee. She had suffered with Lupus for 24 years, the last four of which had gone into Pulmonary Hypertension. It had gotten so bad that she had to have an aluminum shunt placed into her heart. To this a pump was attached, which supplied the needed medication to keep her alive. Her doctor told her that without this medication she could live for only three minutes.

When she walked up to me, I actually felt a presence of something I had never felt in that measure before. It was faith. I actually stood back and stared at her for a few moments realizing that I was seeing something completely new for me. As she received prayer, she fell to the ground under the power of God. When she got up I asked her how she was doing. She described a heat that was on her chest. (Heat often accompanies God’s healing touch.) As she left I told her, your faith got you this one!

That was Saturday night. At 7 a.m. that following morning the Lord spoke to her saying she didn’t need the medication any more. So she removed it. She showed up 14 hours later giving testimony of God’s wonderful healing power.

She has since had the aluminum shunt removed—she doesn’t need it anymore!

EARS TO HEAR
“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Notice it does not say, faith comes from having heard. The whole nature of faith implies a relationship with God that is current. The emphasis is on hearing…in the now! In Genesis God told Abraham to sacrifice Isaac. As Abraham raised the knife to slay his son God spoke again. This time He told him not to slay his son, as he had passed the test of being willing to do anything for God. It’s a good thing that Abraham’s only connection with God was not just over what was said, but was based upon what He was saying!

ANSWERS FOR LIFE’S IMPOSSIBILITIES
What this world needs is for the Church to return to a show and tell message on the kingdom of God. They need an anchor that is greater than everything they can see. The world system has no answers to the world’s increasing problems—every solution is only temporary.

Dale came to my office to confess sin. He lived quite some distance from my city, but because he had deceived us out of some money, he felt the need to come and confess in person. After I expressed both God’s and my forgiveness, I asked him about his back. He had walked into my office with difficulty and was obviously in great pain. He lifted his shirt to show me two scars that ran on each side of the spine the full length. He had broken his back some years earlier and had recently been in a car accident that further aggravated his injury. He then told me that God would probably like to heal him, but that he just got in His way. I told him he wasn’t big enough. All I could picture was the greatness of God and the puny condition of man. He looked at me with a stunned look on his face. I went on to explain that God was really big and could pretty much do as He pleased. Although Dale didn’t move into great faith, he did begin to doubt his doubt. That was all it took. I laid hands on his back and invited the Holy Spirit to come and give His gift of healing. I then commanded it to be healed. He bent over, placing his hands flat on the floor, saying, “I can’t do that!” He proceeded to do it over and over again, each time declaring, “I can’t do that!” He left pain-free with full movement and a heart full of praise. This was a man who could barely walk only moments before.

Faith is not the absence of doubt; it’s the presence of belief. I may not always feel that I have great faith. But I can always obey, laying my hands on someone and praying. It’s a mistake for me to ever examine my faith. I seldom find it. It’s better for me to obey quickly. After it’s over I can look back and see that my obedience came from faith.

THE CLUSTER BOMB EFFECT
When the corporate level of faith grows, it has what I call a cluster bomb effect, where innocent bystanders get touched by the miracle-working power of God.

Francis is a woman who had esophagus cancer. One Sunday morning during worship she leaned over to her husband and said, “I was just healed!” She felt the fire of God touch her hands and concluded that it represented God’s healing touch. When she went to the doctor she told him of her experience. His response was, “This kind does not go away.” After examining her he stated, “Not only do you not have cancer, you have a new esophagus!”

Corporate faith pulls on heaven in marvelous ways. His world becomes manifest all around us.

Sharon had suffered an accident many years ago in which she had destroyed a tendon that ran down her leg. It left her with restricted movement and partial numbness in her foot. I was giving an altar call for people to get right with God during one of our Saturday night meetings. She began to make all kinds of noise. I stopped the altar call and asked her what happened. She told us of the tingling feeling that ran down her leg and the subsequent restoration of all movement and feeling to her foot. A creative miracle happened without anyone praying.

The crowd at this particular meeting was quite small. But power is not in the number of people in attendance. It’s the number of people in agreement. Exponential power is the product of the unity of faith.

In some meetings it’s easy to mistake enthusiasm for faith. In that setting I emphasize the use of testimonies to stir peoples’ hearts to believe for the impossible so He might invade.

MORE THAN BEING LOUD
Just as fear is a tangible element in the spirit world, so faith is tangible there. In the natural a loud voice may intimidate another man. But devils know the difference between the one who is truly bold and aggressive because of their faith, and the one who is simply covering his fears with aggressive behavior. Christians often use this tactic when casting out devils. Many of us have yelled threats, called on angels for help, promised to make it harder on the demons on Judgment Day, and other foolish things only to try and cover immature fear. Real faith is anchored in the invisible realm and is connected to the authority given in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The authority to cast out demons is found in rest. Rest is the climate that faith grows in. It comes out of the peace of God. And it is the Prince of Peace who will soon crush satan underneath our feet! What is restful for us is violent to the powers of hell. That is the violent nature of faith.

This is not to be a soulish attempt at self-confidence or self-determination. Instead it is a moving of the heart into a place of surrender…a place of rest. A surrendered heart is a heart of faith. And faith must be present to please God.

VIOLENCE AND FAITH
“Until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.”

Two blind men who sat by the road called out to Jesus. People told them to be quiet. That only hardened their determination. They became more desperate and cried out all the louder. He called them forth and healed them saying, “The kingdom has come near you.” He attributed their miracle to their faith.

A woman who had hemorrhaged for 12 years pressed through a crowd. When she was finally able to touch the garment of Jesus, she was healed. He attributed it to her faith.

The stories of this kind are many, all with similar endings—they were healed or delivered because of their faith. Faith may quietly press in, or it may cry out very loudly, but it is always violent in the spirit world. It grabs hold of an invisible reality and won’t let go. Taking the Kingdom by faith is the violent act that is necessary to come into what God has made available.

FAITH EMPOWERS
An automobile may have several hundred horsepower. But the car will go nowhere until the clutch is released, connecting the power contained in the running motor and transferring that power to the wheels. So it is with faith. We have all the power of heaven behind us. But it is our faith that connects what is available to the circumstances at hand. Faith takes what is available and makes it actual.

It’s not illegal to try to grow in faith. It’s not wrong to seek for signs and the increase of miracles. Those are all within the rights of the believer. But learning how to pray is the task at hand. It is the only thing the disciples asked Jesus to teach them. And so we will examine His Model Prayer for insights on His view of prayer and the release of His dominion.

Our Thought Life

2009-06-11T16:55:00.000-07:00

1 Corinthians 2:11-16
For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man's spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us. This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words. The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual man makes judgments about all things, but he himself is not subject to any man's judgment: "For who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct him?"But we have the mind of Christ.

God calls His children to live holy lives (1 Pet. 1:15-16). This requires both the Holy Spirit's help and our cooperation. We should begin with our thought life because our actions are based upon what we believe.

The first step is to acknowledge that our thoughts need changing. Selfishness, jealousy, and other unrighteous behavior come from ungodly thinking. Examining ourselves (2 Cor. 13:5) will reveal impure thoughts. Our Father wants these replaced with thinking bent toward forgiveness and kindness (Eph. 4:30-32). This will happen as we cooperate with the Holy Spirit in renewing our minds (Rom. 12:2).

Next, we make a commitment to the Lord that we will pursue godliness. This promise is much more than a New Year's resolution. It encompasses our entire being and is expressed as a desire to love God with our whole heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30). It means dedicating ourselves to become like our Savior.

Daily time in the Word will keep our resolve strong. Through Scripture, the Holy Spirit will transform our mind and strengthen our inner being to bring about any needed changes. If we neglect Bible study, we leave ourselves open to the influence of the world and our "flesh," neither of which cares about godliness.

Becoming holy is a lifelong process that requires understanding of God's ways, plans, and priorities--and adopting them as our own. It means letting the Spirit develop within us the mind of Christ. If we try to change our behavior without adjusting our thinking, we'll find ourselves doing precisely what we want to avoid (Rom. 7:15).

God Makes It Grow

2009-06-11T16:33:00.000-07:00

Paul wrote his first letter to the Corinthian church to correct several problems. The Corinthian's needed instruction in marriage, Christian freedom, worship, and various issues which tended to cause division. He rebuked the church for quarreling about whom they followed: "You are still worldly... For when one says, 'I follow Paul,' and another, 'I follow Apollos,' are you not mere men?" (1 Corinthians 3:3,4).

Apollos was a good teacher, but Paul reminds us that all ministers of the Gospel - all preachers, teachers, parents, and anyone else who desires to share Biblical truths - are simply servants through whom God accomplishes His work. We become worldly and fail to live according to the Spirit of God any time we become followers of a specific minister or feel personally responsible for someone's growth and maturity.

1 Corinthians 3:5-6"What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe - as the Lord has assigned to each his task. I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow."

We must always remain exclusive followers of Jesus Christ! Though He may use many others to assist in the process, God must receive ALL the credit and glory for our growth. In the same manner, God uses each of us to ASSIST in the growth of others. We can teach truth with our words and demonstrate truth with our lives, but we can never cause someone to accept the truth or even grow to a deeper understanding. Our instructions are to plant the seed of His Word and water with discipleship, prayer, and encouragement at every opportunity; "We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us" (2 Corinthians 5:20).

As we plant and water, it's normal to want to see some growth. We may desire to see blossoms overnight, but God is growing a mighty shade tree with deep roots and wide branches that will not break in the wind - and this kind of growth takes time. We may NEVER see the eternal results of our effort, but we must patiently continue to plant and water, and trust God to accomplish His work; "{My Word} will not return to Me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I have sent it" (Isaiah 55:11).

Each of us knows someone who needs to know our Heavenly Father in a more personal way. There are great ministry opportunities placed in our path every day. Let's obediently follow by being well nourished and casting forth the seed and water of His Word without becoming discouraged. Let's remember we are the servants through whom He works, but let's ALWAYS remember that God makes it grow!

Source: http://starlightmbc.org/blog1/2009/04/god_makes_it_grow.html

Developing Godly Thinking

2009-06-11T16:28:00.000-07:00

Philippians 4:8-9
Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

At salvation, we were set free from the power of sin and given the ability to think and live as Jesus did. To make that potential a reality requires diligent effort on our part--and surrender to the Holy Spirit.

After acknowledging a need for changed thinking, our first step is a commitment to pursue godliness. Then we must measure our opinions and choices against God's Word, regularly asking ourselves, Is my thinking, attitude, or behavior in line with the character of God and the truths of Scripture? Also, we should take note of what is absorbing our attention. It is not healthy to fill our minds with media reports, Web sites, or television programs that do not reflect God's values. The apostle Paul gave us a measuring stick to use in deciding what is worthy of our attention: he said to dwell on those things that are true, honorable, and worthy of praise (Phil. 4:8).

Finally, we must discipline our mind to reject ungodly thought patterns. Those who battle addictions can testify about the mind's power to overcome good intentions. Unhealthy, repetitious desires cause us to feel guilty, keep us from connecting with God, and make us a poor witness to others. Through the Holy Spirit's power, we must learn to reject such thought patterns and embrace what God says.

Developing a lifestyle of righteous living begins with what we believe. As our minds become in tune with Christ's, we will know what is right, good, and wise. Our lives will reflect His more closely, and we will effectively live out our calling as His ambassadors (2 Cor. 5:20)

Can the song “Healer” be healed?

2008-08-21T18:41:00.000-07:00

I got this from Steph's blog called the The Red Clay Diaries. I really like her last paragraph. You can click on the title to link to the original posting...

I’ve just read news that is heartbreaking to consider. A song called “Healer”, which has swept the Internet and been picked up by Hillsong, and was sung at my church only two weeks ago, was written by a man who claimed to be suffering from terminal cancer. But he has recently admitted that he does not have cancer at all, and the song was based on a lie. I’ll link to the story at the end of this post. But first, I have a story of my own.

[This story is true, but some details have been changed to protect the subject's identity.]
A few years ago, a close friend of mine got baptized in front of the entire congregation. She’d been growing in a renewed faith for awhile, and she felt it was time to make a public statement. All of her friends and family celebrated her public profession of faith that day. I remember what I prayed for her: that God would use her in new and amazing ways in her future.

This friend was asked to apprentice as a small group leader and gladly accepted. She faithfully attended the training and worked to develop her leadership ability. Everyone believed that she would be an excellent small-group leader. I rejoiced in what seemed to be an answer to my prayer for God to use her.

But right before she started her new group, many circumstances conspired to reveal to those closest to her that she was struggling with a serious addiction. It turned out that she’d been addicted for her entire adult life, and no one around her knew. Obviously, she’d been deceiving a lot of people. And we had to deal with the truth that she’d been living a double life.

This woman’s friends and family were crushed. But she immediately acknowledged the seriousness of her actions. She took some steps that she’d never taken before. She went into counseling and threw herself into 12-step programs, attending a group every night of the week.

Her husband, the only other person who had known about the addiction, almost took the kids and left. The pattern of lies and exposure and renewed promises to stop had taken a huge toll on him. In the end, he decided to stay, go into his own 12-step group for loved-ones of addicts, and see how the rehabilitation went.

Since that revelation, my friend has fought for her life, her marriage, and her family. We have watched her get sober, relapse, recommit, and finally achieve a lasting sobriety. She would tell you that her sobriety is a daily thing, and that what ultimately keeps her sober is the knowledge that she would lose everything that matters to her if she goes back to her old life.

I believe her recovery is real. She has made her life an open book. She is different from the person I knew before. She continues to be involved in 12-step ministry, but now she’s also a leader and sponsor for others facing the same addiction.

Not long after my friend’s battle began, I remembered her baptism, and my prayer that God would use her. I felt like I’d been duped. I simply couldn’t reconcile the apparently-sincere person in the water one summer morning with the woman in crisis only a few months later. I concluded that her baptism had been just one more act of deception.

I held that belief for quite awhile. But one day, months after she’d begun leading and serving in her recovery group, I had an epiphany. First, I realized that God WAS using her. Not only through service in a small group, but also through how far she had traveled in her recovery.

My second realization was more surprising. I began to believe that her baptism had been sincere. Before she went under the water, she had proclaimed that through this baptism she was taking a new step of surrender to God. As I said, after the scandal, I’d considered that a flat-out lie. Now, I wondered if it was the opening of the door that allowed God to begin his current work in her.

I doubt she believed that the house of cards she had constructed would fall as a result of her baptism, because if she had I suspect she might not have gone through with it. But I do believe she sincerely wanted to follow God. So she might not have known HOW God was going to receive her offer of her heart, but I believe she acted on the knowledge and faith that she had at the time.

My friend and her family have since moved away from here. We keep in touch, though. And God continues to use her in recovery ministries.

Now back to today’s news about the writer of “Healer,” Michael Guglielmucci. Of course, I only know what I’ve read about his situation HERE. But I wonder what will happen if he does get the help he needs. Will we look at his song, written with apparent deception, and see it the way I now see my friend’s baptism?

I think I tend to put God in a box. I believe he’s not able to use the words or actions of a sinner. But if I spend any time thinking about it, I remember that, oh yeah, I’M a sinner. And MY evil actions and thoughts and intentions are just as horrible as my friend’s or Guglielmucci’s.

I hope the song “Healer” doesn’t fade away. I hope churches continue to use it in worship, because I do believe it’s anointed. My prayer is that a few years from now, we’ll see Michael singing it on the stage again, testifying to an even greater healing.

Faith is a Verb

2008-08-06T06:44:00.000-07:00

Matthew 13:54-58 "Where did this man get this wisdom and these mighty works? Is not this the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?" And they took offense at him... And he did not do many mighty works there, because of their unbelief.

One time in the Gospels it says that Jesus couldn't do much in the town "because of their unbelief" (Matthew 13:58). Wouldn't that be an awful thing to have said about your home, about your family, about you? Jesus couldn't do much in or through you because of you just didn't believe Him. "Lord, why don't You do more in our church?" Could it be because of people's unbelief?

Faith is the key. God's promises are activated by faith. Faith is not passive-it's an action verb. Don't say, "Well, I'm just waiting here. Maybe God will work; maybe He won't." What are you doing about it? Well, not much.

It's like the sick guy who needs to get better, but he doesn't go to the doctor. That's foolishness. You've got to do what you can.

Like the girl who is looking for a husband, but never goes to the Young Adult meetings at church. She just sits down in her basement. "My husband will have to find me here." Yeah, that's not a great plan. Do what you can!

Like the person who's filled with concerns and wants to have hope, but has never read the Bible.
It's God promises that give us hope. How many Scriptural promises do you know? How many promises have you memorized? How many are on the tip of your tongue? Well, no wonder you're filled with anxiety! No wonder you don't have any hope! You're not holding onto anything.

Get your heart around some of the exceedingly great and precious promises of God! Hold on to what God has said in His Word. Someday you're going to be in a difficult situation and the enemy will be try to pull you down but you've got God's Word hidden in your heart. His words will flood you with courage and fill your life with faith.

"God helps those who help themselves" is not in the Bible but it is a biblical concept. Faith has to be active to be real. Remember the guy in 2 Kings 5 who had leprosy and Gold told him he had to go dip in the river? In faith, he had to do what he could. Like the woman in poverty in 2 Kings 4 who had to collect containers to hold all that oil God was giving her - she did what she could. Like a warrior heading into battle, he has to pick up his weapon.

Put some action behind what you believe and watch God work. --James MacDonald

Lord, I never want there to be a day that You can't do Your work in me because I just don't believe You. Increase my faith today, Lord. I believe that You are able to make all things are possible. Amen.

Prayer

2008-08-05T16:58:00.000-07:00

A basketball in my hands is worth about $19.
A basketball in Michael Jordan's hands is worth about $33 million.
It depends whose hands it's in.

A baseball in my hands is worth about $6.
A baseball in Roger Clemens' hands is worth $4.75 million.
It depends on whose hands it's in

A tennis racket is useless in my hands.
A tennis racket in Andre Agassi's hands is worth millions.
It depends whose hands it's in.

A rod in my hands will keep away an angry dog.
A rod in Moses' hands will part the mighty sea.
It depends whose hands it's in.

A slingshot in my hands is a kid's toy.
A slingshot in David's hand is a mighty weapon.
It depends whose hands it's in.

Two fish and 5 loaves of bread in my hands is a couple of fish sandwiches.
Two fish and 5 loaves of bread in Jesus' hands will feed thousands.
It depends whose hands it's in.

Nails in my hands might produce a birdhouse.
Nails in Jesus Christ's hands will produce salvation for the entire world.
It depends whose hands it's in.

As you see now , it depends whose hands it's in.
So put your concerns, your worries, your fears, your hopes, your dreams, your families and your relationships in God's hands because... It depends whose hands it's in

Prayer is not asking. Prayer is putting oneself in the hands of God, at His disposition, and listening to His voice in the depths of our hearts.

Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta (1919-1997)

Freedom in the name of Jesus!

2008-08-05T06:16:00.000-07:00

Matthew 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.

I know that God does not want me to worry about tomorrow. He wants me to know that He gives me all the help I need for today, and when tomorrow comes, so will fresh help from Him.

This is God’s principle even in the Old Testament. When the children of Israel were in the desert, God gave them fresh manna from heaven every morning. (Exodus 16:13–16, 31) They did not have to worry about tomorrow because when tomorrow came, there was fresh manna again. He was their provision every day.

Today, God’s manna is the grace He gives me every day. Even though I might be worried about a situation tomorrow, I know that there will be sufficient grace for that situation when it comes. God wants me to simply rest in His ability to heal, deliver, protect and provide for me every day.

I know that God wants me to live a stress-free life, not one filled with worries about tomorrow’s problems. When tomorrow comes, His grace will be there for me as my help, protection, favor and enabling coz there is FREEDOM IN THE NAME OF JESUS!

Last Day of Internship (Official)

2008-07-29T23:19:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of my internship (officially!) and I won't be allowed into the Wednesday mornings internship dicipleship anymore. Boo... Hoo... Last night I was doing my devotions and I realised that my journal was at its last two pages too and I was asking myself what should I write on the last entry that I have to make on the book and I decided to list down the significant events and the blessings I have recieved from God over the past months during internship...

Here's a few of them...

- Having the revelation of Ps Matt's surmon on "The Talents" at planetUNI camp which the Holy Spirit keeps reminding me about often whenever I feel like bitching/complaining about doing God's work. "Attitude Check Christine!" the Holy Spirit will tell me.

- Having the Holy Spirit speak to me at Ps Debbie's session on "Prayer". That session was so good! I remember I was crying away and the Holy Spirit was speaking so fast that I wasn't writing fast enought to catch up with His speech and at the end of the session when I went back and read the pages I was like "WOW" blown away!

- Not ever doubting how beautiful I am and how wonderfully I have been made by God. Beautiful Woman 2008 event was so awesome. I remember I was responding to an altar call for something and when I was standing there waiting for someone to pray for me, I heard this voice that said "Christine, you have so many gifts and talents and you are so pretty and you've got such a kind heart, how can you say you are not beautiful? I created you to be so gifted, how can you say that I make junk?" that was a "ta-dah" moment for me where the veil was lifted and I saw the REAL self for the first time. I AM WHO I AM IN CHRIST!

- Having an UrbanLife that loves me so much that they would spell my name across the balcony at my Internship Graduation. Best part was that I thought they were only joking about it. I didn't event see it untill Ps Russell told me and the production crew dimmed the lights so that I saw the cards across the row. It was really nice coz the YPM and AMP members were in town for WYD DIDO8 and they came for service too!

- Getting a placement at the "Perfect" Christian enviroment. I started my placement at CityLife Community Care two weeks ago and I am loving it! I think doing counselling and welfare in a Christian enviroment vs a Non-Christian enviroment can be worlds apart coz God's way of loving people is quite different from the worldly way and I am really so blessed to be able to work in a edifying, nurtring, God-centered enviroment. What more can I wish for?

- Still getting distinctions at the end of the semester even though life was a crazy 6 months! I hardly had any time to study, do my assigements or anything that sort, the past six months had just been rushing from one place to another, doing this and doing that, meetings, serving, classes, eat, shower and sleep if I had any time left for that at all so its really amazing how I can still get my distinctions when honestly, I dont even know what happened...

God you are so good to me and I love you so much!

Nothing But The Blood of Jesus

2008-05-12T15:54:00.000-07:00

What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus;

What can make me whole again?Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Refrain

Oh! precious is the flow That makes me white as snow;

No other fount I know,Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

For my pardon, this I see,Nothing but the blood of Jesus;

For my cleansing this my plea,Nothing but the blood of Jesus. (Refrain)

Nothing can for sin atone,Nothing but the blood of Jesus;

Naught of good that I have done,Nothing but the blood of Jesus. (Refrain)

This is all my hope and peace,Nothing but the blood of Jesus;

This is all my righteousness,Nothing but the blood of Jesus.(Refrain)

Now by this I’ll overcome—Nothing but the blood of Jesus,

Now by this I’ll reach my home—Nothing but the blood of Jesus. (Refrain)

Glory! Glory! This I sing—Nothing but the blood of Jesus,

All my praise for this I bring—Nothing but the blood of Jesus.(Refrain)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wej1jHtiH-M&feature=related

Don't Just Know But Believe!

2008-01-22T21:36:00.000-08:00

1 John 4:16 And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him.

You may have heard and know that God cares for you and loves you, and that He demonstrated His love for you by dying on the cross for you. But it’s one thing to know this; it’s another thing to believe the love that God has for you.

For example, it’s one thing to know that the sun shines on us during the day. But it’s another thing to believe that the sun is still shining even though you don’t feel its warmth and all you see are cloudy skies.

Sometimes we are slow in believing God’s love for us when we are going through a bad patch. Today, God wants you to know and believe that He loves you in the midst of the deal falling through, when that job is slow in coming, when the boss is fault-finding, when your child still refuses to come home.

In the midst of the pain, He wants you to know and believe that He is wholly for you, on your side and defending you. And if God, the most powerful being in the universe, is for you, can anyone or anything come against you successfully?

Perhaps you feel like you have messed up big time. God wants you to know and believe that though others may be angry with you, He will never be angry with you. Neither will He condemn you. The sum total of His anger against your sins fell upon Jesus at the cross. So He wants you to know and believe that He will never punish you because Jesus was punished in your place.

When you feel unworthy because you have just blown it for the hundredth time, know and believe that your heavenly Father still offers you the gift of no condemnation. So come boldly to His throne of grace to receive mercy and grace. (Hebrews 4:16)

My friend, know and believe that since He loved you and died for you while you were still a sinner, at your worst and ugliest (Romans 5:8), how much more is His love for you now that you are His beloved child and the righteousness of God in Christ! (2 Corinthians 5:21)

A Thankful Heart

2007-11-26T14:39:00.000-08:00

1 Thessalonians 5:16
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

Look around you and take notice of all that you observe. What are you truly thankful for? I give thanks to the Lord for the air that we breathe, the sun, the stars that shine in the night sky, the trees, flowers, plants, shrubs, especially for the richness of the earth and soil, for without that richness and the mineral content of the soil, we would not have the abundant crops growing that help sustain us every single day. I am so thankful for the animals that in turn feed us. I am thankful as well for the oceans, rivers, lakes, streams and other bodies of water which give us the most important fluid, water, to keep us alive, healthy and clean. I am thankful for my job, for my family, for my children, for education, for health, for the people that I have known all my life, for the friends that I have met along the way and for the ones who lift me up in prayer.

I am even thankful for the problems that come up, as they help to strengthen my relationship with my heavenly Father. I am most thankful for Jesus Christ, for He died on the cross for me. I am thankful for salvation and the promise of an eternal life in heaven with Him. I am also thankful that as I sit down at my Thanksgiving table, heavily laden with food, that I know Jesus loves me and has given to me and to you, my brothers and sisters in Christ, all of this and so much more. "Give thanks with a grateful heart."

Lord, stop us in our tracks and make us open wide our eyes to all that You have so graciously provided and given for our enjoyment. Make us truly grateful to You. Thank you, Lord, for the most precious gift of our salvation. In all that we have, let us lift Your name in praise and thanksgiving.

The Believer's War Cry

2007-11-26T14:26:00.000-08:00

Ephesians 6:10-15
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace.

A righteous believer is Satan's enemy. The greater our impact for God's kingdom, the harder he works to stir up frustration, doubt, and anxiety. The apostle Paul wrote a letter to the Ephesian believers, warning them that the Devil would scheme against a successful Christian life.

Satan loathes those who please the Lord with their lifestyle, and he rallies the "spiritual forces of wickedness" to attack believers in mind, body, and spirit (Ephesians 6:12). His primary goal is to divert our attention from the Lord so that our relationship suffers and our witness is weakened or ruined. The Devil cannot snatch our eternal spirit from God's hand (John 10:29), but he will settle for leading us to make a mess of this present life.

Paul counseled the saints to "be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might" (Ephesians 6:10). Fending off a satanic attack is not done in our own strength. No man or woman can match wits with the Adversary. He is smarter and stronger than even the most intelligent people. Instead, we are continually empowered by God through the Holy Spirit, who is far greater than Satan (1 John 4:4).

Believers have God's strength and His orders, which are to stand firm. That means we're to trust the Lord and wait patiently for Him to intervene. We are to be like a soldier on the battlefield, who digs his heels into the ground, puts up his shield, and stands ready for the oncoming enemy. The war is already won--our soul belongs to God--but the battle for our testimony on earth rages on. Stand firm.

Changing People Through Prayer

2007-11-26T14:19:00.000-08:00

Colossians 1:9-14
For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Look around, and you'll find people who need to make changes in their lives. Maybe you have a sister who does not know Christ or a believing neighbor who struggles to tame a gossiping tongue. The most powerful way to effect change in another person's life--or your own--is by praying. God, through the apostle Paul, has given us a prayer pattern that is Christ-centered and specific.

Too often, believers are lazy in prayer. We say, "Lord, bless so-and-so" without giving any thought to what form the blessing should take. God doesn't work in generalities; He moves deliberately in people's lives. And He's pleased when we use His Word in communicating with Him. The prayer from Colossians chapter one includes God's greatest desires for His children. When we go before Him and read the name of a friend or family member-- or our own--into this passage, we are praying His specific will for that person.

When you pray these Colossians verses, watch for transformation. The Lord delights in responding to requests that someone be filled with knowledge of His will and a desire to please Him!

Results may not be instantaneous. We could wait weeks or even years before we see a loved one turn to Christ or finally witness that gossipy neighbor bear loving fruit instead of rotten. But behind the scenes, the Lord is working to build that person's spiritual understanding and impress on him or her a desire to choose a faithful lifestyle. Our responsibility is to keep praying in a Christ-centered and specific manner.

Solving Problems through Prayer

2007-11-26T14:18:00.001-08:00

Problems are an inevitable part of life whether or not a person is saved. The difference is that once a man or woman becomes a believer, the Father strengthens His child to face every difficulty.

Our omniscient and all-powerful God is greater than any problem. He knows our future circumstances and prepares our hearts and minds to withstand coming trials. The moment we encounter a problem, we can tap into His omnipotence. He promised to meet believers’ needs; therefore, He is under His own divine obligation to give guidance and direction.

Our first response should always be to call out, “Father!” Instantly, two things take place: the problem’s growth is stunted, and God’s child is reminded of the unique position given those who trust in the sovereign Lord.

God always provides a solution to the problem. However, we don’t simply sit back and wait for Him to work out the details. The Lord usually requires an act of faith from His children to jump-start the process. Experience and trust should tell us that His solutions are always best, but human strength may falter when we hear what He asks of us. Thankfully, the One who gives us endurance also offers courage to act at the right moment.

Long before a crisis arises or any solution is needed, the wise believer will be consistently seeking God. In trouble-free times, we can build a foundation of trust and communion with Him that can withstand any hardship. Problems are unavoidable, but the Father is faithful to solve our difficulties through prayer.

God Is Not Out To Get You But To Bless You

2007-11-19T13:19:00.000-08:00

2 Corinthians 5:19 God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them…

On which two ancient cities did God rain brimstone and fire?

If your answer is Sodom and Gomorrah, you are right. But if you think that God was all eager to destroy the two cities, you are wrong!

God wasn’t willing at all. In fact, God was on a righteousness hunt so that He could spare the cities. (Genesis 18:23–32) And I believe that if Abraham had asked God, “What if You can find just one righteous man?” God’s answer would have been the same: “I will not destroy the place for the sake of one righteous man.”

Today, the righteousness of one Man has come. His name is Jesus. He died for our sins and rose again for our justification. And God was in Christ, reconciling the world to Himself, not counting our sins against us!

Therefore, no judgment will fall on you today because it fell on Jesus 2,000 years ago at Calvary. And if God was gracious enough to remove Lot and his family before the judgment fell (Genesis 19:12–22), how much more will He do for you who are no longer under judgment!

And because God does not judge you, do not be like Lot’s wife, who turned back to look at the brimstone and fire, and became a pillar of salt. (Genesis 19:24–26) She wanted to see God’s judgment, even though the angels had warned, “Don’t look back, lest you be destroyed.” (Genesis 19:17)

So do not be judgment-focused. God is not against you. God is for you. God is on your side. God remembers that He judged and punished your sins in the body of His Son. God is faithful to His Son and to what His Son has done, so He will never judge or punish you.

Any trouble you might have is not from God. But He will always show you a way of escape because He is on your side. God loves you. He has your and your family’s best interests at heart. Today, God is not out to get you, He is out to bless you. And He wants you blessed more than you can ever know!

How Jesus Meets the Deepest Longings of Your Heart by Dr. Jack Graham

2007-11-19T13:00:00.000-08:00

More than likely, you've heard the story out of the New Testament of the chief tax collector, a man named Zacchaeus. As I have read his story over and over, I have come to realize that Zacchaeus' story is everyone's story-including yours and mine. As you read his story, you come to realize that Zacchaeus illustrates the four basic weaknesses and needs of every human heart: the feeling of emptiness, the feeling of loneliness, the weight of guilt, and the fear of death.

There really are some great life-lessons you and I can learn as we look at this man. Let's pick up his story in Luke 19:1-9:

Then Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. Now behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus who was a chief tax collector, and he was rich. And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not because of the crowd, for he was of short stature. So he ran ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Him, for He was going to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and saw him, and said to him, "Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house." So he made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully. But when they saw it, they all complained, saying, "He has gone to be a guest with a man who is a sinner." Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, "Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold." And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham; for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."

Zacchaeus was a wealthy man in his day, but he was empty inside. His story is a great reminder that it doesn't matter how well off you are financially or physically, there is a need deep within every human heart to be filled with something that will last...something that will fill that emptiness we feel in souls.

Friend, you and I were made to know God, to love God, to experience grace, and to know true, saving faith in Him. It doesn't matter how much money you have...how much status you achieve...or how many things you have. You need God because you were made to know Him...just like Zacchaeus was. But Zacchaeus had another problem. He was lonely. He was a Jew working for the Romans to collect taxes, one of the most hated professions of that day. He was skimming off the top, swindling and scandalizing his friends. Zacchaeus was a man who seemingly had no conscience-and no friends. He was an outcast of society!

As a result, he was a very lonely man...just like so many people today. We were made to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, so we naturally feel lonely without Him. And this is how Zacchaeus felt. Along with that loneliness, Zacchaeus carried around a huge weight of guilt...a feeling everyone experiences.

Some people try to numb the pain of guilt with excessive alcohol consumption, illicit drug use, or unhealthy relationships. But no matter how you try to hide it...no matter how far you may try to run, you will never be able to dissolve that sense of guilt apart from a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Finally, just like anyone who doesn't have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ, Zacchaeus was afraid to die. And while most people don't admit this fact, it's true. Even though many considered Zacchaeus a waste case, Jesus knew that he was empty and lonely...Jesus knew that he felt guilty...and Jesus knew that he was afraid to die. And that's why Jesus stopped!

I don't know where you may be in life today, my friend. Maybe you can relate to one or more of Zacchaeus' weaknesses. Whatever your station may be today...good, bad, rich or poor...I hope you have come to realize all that God is offering you through Jesus Christ...the Friend of the wounded heart. Because through Jesus you can indeed know fullness for your emptiness, forgiveness for your guilt, and intimacy with God for your loneliness. And through Him you have the ultimate victory, the victory over death.

God is in Control

2007-11-13T14:02:00.000-08:00

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Nothing that happens is beyond God's control. Ultimately, whatever comes into our life is either sent by our Father or permitted by Him, and that which does not enter is withheld according to His will. But believers sometimes get so caught up in the moment that they forget about the Lord's omnipotence. Then when life is challenging or uncomfortable, the temptation is to react against whatever seems to be causing them trouble. Fired? Blame the boss. Single? Blame the opposite sex.

To illustrate this idea, think about a child who has to swallow a nasty-tasting antibiotic. In a fit of frustration, he slaps away the bottle from his mother's hand, even though the container is only a "secondary agent." Mom is the one who dispenses the medicine, but since he cannot slap her, he turns his irritation against the vessel.

When we "slap away the bottle," we take out our anger and resentment on the vessel the Lord is using instead of accepting that His will is at work. God does assure us He is working out the details of our life for good, but we cannot assume this means everything will turn out to our liking.

Sometimes it's easier to turn our wrath against an earthly agent than to be honest with our Father about frustration over our circumstances. But God welcomes honesty. Both Jesus and the apostle Paul cried out to Him in anguish (Matthew 26:39; 2 Corinthians 12:7-9). If we recognize that God is in control and guiding our future for good, then we will not stay discouraged for long.

God is in Control by Avalon

You Got To Work This Thing by Pastor Deborah

2007-11-12T16:52:00.000-08:00

Philippians 2:12-13 Wherefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God that worketh in you, both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

When your body is out of shape, isn't it up to you to work your own body back in shape? Nobody works out for you, right? Well, in the same sense, the Bible tells you to work out your own salvation. Nobody can do it for you. You cannot depend on ministers, your family or friends to do it for you. It is your salvation. You have to work this thing.

You work out your own salvation by working God's word into your life, and by personalizing and making His word real to you. When you do this, God can complete His plans for you, and then you will see success in your life. Not a smidgen of s uccess every now and again, but the everyday success that God has for you.

Now, here's the good news! God is not asking you to work it out all by yourself. But God is, all the while, effectively at work in you, energizing and creating in you the power and desire to do His will. So, while you are working it out, you are giving God control to do His will in your life. There is no excuse for you to not work out your own salvation when God is the source of your strength. Yes, problems may come against you, but if you allow them to keep you from working out your salvation, then those same problems will stop you from doing what God has called you to do. God didn't say to work out your own salvation as long as no one talks about you, bothers you, or hurts you. He said to work it out everyday.

If you need help working out your salvation, go to God. He's the only One who can help you. Give God every area of your life. Don't pick and choose what God can handle! He can handle all your problems. Do it God's way and you will have victory every time.

Scripture References: Hebrews 2:1-3; 13:20-21

"The Heart of Worship" Video by Louie Giglio

2007-11-12T16:29:00.000-08:00

For those who missed out on Hillsong Conference 2007 or those who want to relive those indescrible moments again. Here’s the link to Louie’s morning rally session on “The Heart of Worship”

Ps: it’s the one that got everyone singing “Pass it on”

Enjoy!
http://268generation.com/videoplayer/player.php?videoid=hillsongworship&quality=hi

God Is A Giver, Not A Taker

2007-10-25T19:11:00.000-07:00

Romans 8:32 He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?

Some Christians mistakenly believe that God gives and also takes away. At funerals, we sometimes hear the minister say, “The Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh. Blessed be the name of the Lord.”

Job displayed this very same attitude when he received the news that he had lost his property and children. Thinking that God was the source of his problems and not knowing that it was actually Satan who had come against him, he said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” (Job 1:21) Such a statement seems to honour God, but in reality, it reveals an erroneous view of our heavenly Father.

As children of God, we know what the Father’s will is for us. He is a giver, not a taker! Jesus said, “Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12:32) It is the devil who is the thief. He comes to steal, kill and destroy. But Jesus came to give us life more abundant. (John 10:10)

Jesus met every need and healed every sickness brought before Him, and at the cross, He gave His own life. Never once did He take anything away from the people who came to Him. And the Bible says that whoever has seen Jesus has seen the Father. (John 14:9)

Beloved, your heavenly Father wants you to know today that He is the one who gives you all good things. If He has already given us heaven’s best — Jesus — “how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things”?

Keep the Faith!

2007-10-25T18:59:00.000-07:00

by Dr. Creflo A. Dollar

Evidence is defined as "something that indicates" or "an outward sign. "In a court of law, the evidence you present to a judge can mean the difference between prison and freedom, or in some cases, life and death. In the kingdom of God, the evidence you present to your heavenly Father will determine whether or not you receive from Him the things you desire. When it comes to proving to God that you are ready to receive all that He has predestined for you, faith is the most compelling evidence you can present to Him.

The term faith is sometimes used as if it means "belief" or "hope." But faith is really much more than either of these words suggest. According to Hebrews 11:1, "...faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." In other words, faith is knowing that the things you hope for are available to you, even when you don't see any outward signs that they exist. Believers often sincerely "hope" that God will help them— they even pray for hours— but nothing happens without faith. If you don't understand faith, you won't know how to operate in God's system.

Imagine that you need money to pay your car. You've tried several options, but they've all failed. Now you're desperate and you need God to "work a miracle" on your behalf. What are your options? You could cry, feel sorry for yourself and say, "I'm a good person. Why doesn't God just help me?" If you take this approach, God will see you crying and sympathize with you, but His Word says,"Without faith it is impossible to please him..." (Hebrews 11:6), so your emotional expression is unlikely to change anything.

To get God to act on your behalf, you could choose to pray a traditional "religious" prayer: "Lord, You work in mysterious ways. Please stop by my house, God. Please! Please, Father. Please don't pass me by...." This is the way many people pray, but this type of prayer doesn't express faith. It has the form of a prayer, but it lacks the power to produce results. James 1:6 (AMP) says that we must ask in faith without wavering or doubting. As a Believer, you have the right to receive answers to every one of your prayers.

But the key to getting answers is faith. Whenever you pray or call upon God to help you, you must present evidence of your faith. For example, if you want God to show you how to get your car paid, you have to petition Him correctly: "Father, your Word says that You will supply all of my needs according to Your riches in heaven. I ask you, Father, to show me how to pay my car note. I surrender this problem to you, and I know that it is already resolved. I thank You, Father, for answering my prayer."

A faith–filled prayer that is firmly rooted in God's Word will get answers! Faith comes by hearing the Word of God, so build your faith by spending time reading and studying the Word. God's Word (His book of promises) is the evidence you must present to receive the answers you need. His Word is your confession. It is the thing you say to Him in prayer, thereby increasing your faith. Pick up your Bible and find scriptures to match the things you're petitioning God for.

Using His Word assures your response. When you know what the Word says about the things you are entitled to receive, you can pray for those things and receive the answers you need. You never have to beg, plead or bargain with God to have Him answer your prayers. He is moved by your faith in His Word.

Show God your faith, and He will show you His love by pouring out His blessings in your life and fulfilling all of the promises He made in His Word.

Praise Your Way to a Breakthrough!

2007-10-25T18:46:00.000-07:00

by Dr. Creflo A. Dollar

Do you need God to make a way out of no way? The swiftness and surety of your deliverance starts with how you respond to hard times and difficult situations. Hear me when I say that it is not just enough to thank God and honor Him only when you've received a blessing. God wants you to show the extent of your faithfulness and trust in Him even in the midst of going through a challenge. The power of your praise will determine the magnitude of your breakthrough.

Praise is not just clapping your hands or applauding God. It is showing respect, honor, and gratefulness using your whole heart, mind, spirit and body despite your circumstances. Paul and Silas didn't wait until they experienced a breakthrough to praise and thank God. In the midst of difficult circumstances, they praised God and received the breakthrough they desired.

Acts 16:25, 26 (New Living Translation) reveals, "Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening. Suddenly, there was a massive earthquake, and the prison was shaken to its foundations. All the doors immediately flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off!"

Paul and Silas praised God even when their backs were bleeding and their feet and hands were in chains. Despite the pain and suffering they were going through, they praised God anyway; and as a result, God shook the very foundations of the prison, setting them free. God will shake the foundation of your prison; your bondage, your problem...if you make a decision to praise and give Him thanks, no matter what.

Praising God should become second-nature for all Believers. "This shall be written for the generation to come: and the people which shall be created shall praise the Lord" (Psalm 102:18). We were created to praise God, and it becomes a natural expression of your love for the Father when you spend time in the Word and meditate on His goodness.

When you have a heart for God and you know He loves you, your confidence in His ability to deliver you soars. You know help is on the way and you eagerly anticipate it. First Thessalonians 5:16-18 encourages, "Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus" (NLT). God doesn't tell you to thank Him for negative circumstances; He says to thank Him while you're in the midst of them. Doing this shows that you trust Him to bring you out.

The storms of life are going to come; but don't let them disturb your peace and affect your thoughts and emotions. This will only move you into self-pity and frustration. Instead, maintain an attitude of praise.
Your first line of defense is the Word of God. Meditate on it and give it life by speaking it over your circumstances. If you need healing meditate on scriptures that reveal God's ability to heal. Receive that Word in your spirit and begin praising God for your healing.

The Word of God declares, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:4-7, NIV).

When you are in a situation and there seems to be no way out, open your mouth and praise the Lord-and don't stop. Instead of crying and complaining, give God praise because you know He has a plan for you that includes deliverance, restoration and peace. Thank Him for His goodness because your praise will stop the enemy and move the hand of God

When your deliverance comes, continue to praise Him because He has more in store for you. Thank Him for breakthrough in your home, on your job and with your children. Through your authority in Jesus, place a demand on your breakthrough and watch God show up in your life in ways you would have never imagined.

Our moments of Pain - Read Romans 8:18-31

2007-10-05T18:29:00.000-07:00

Future Glory
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God.

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.

More Than Conquerors
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.

What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?

A Real Life Walking Miracle

2007-10-05T17:21:00.000-07:00

Life has been dealing me a couple of hard cards lately and I've been praying to God for help and strength and the faithfulness of our God is just so AWESOME. He always answers my cries for help... A random email came into my email with a video link and it was all I needed to hear...

Guys... if you think you're having a hard season at the moment, watch the videos, your strength will be renewed... They really spoke in my heart. Thank you Jesus for never giving up on me...

"The reason why God has not rescued you from your suffereing is so that He can strengthen your heart and preparing your heart for something more. The joy of the Lord is knowing that no matter what happens, He will never leave you or forsake you. There are times in your life and there are storms that will come in your way and they might not be in your control as often they are. He might not stop the storm but He will embrace you and keep you warm till the storm passes..."

Nick Vujicic - Life Without Limbs

His surmon

His interview with another Pastor

A Revelation of Prayer by Bishop Eddie L. Long

2007-09-27T18:19:00.000-07:00

I challenge you to eliminate everything from prayer that has nothing to do with God. Many of us are mad with God because He has not answered our prayer, and half the time we have not even prayed. It is not as complicated as we make it.

It appears that we pray only when we are at our wits end, when we run out of ourselves. You are not really praying, because you do not know what prayer is until you come to your wits end, then you cry out. That's prayer, because at that moment you have no agenda. Prayer is really not a part of our natural life. It is not ordinary. To worldly-minded people, it's not sensible. Prayer is actually an interruption of our personal goals. You are telling God, "I interrupt my personal goals and ambitions to submit myself to yours." Most folks pray according to their desire and are actually asking God to fall in line with what will personally satisfy them. Unless you understand that prayer is an interruption in your plans, I propose to you that you are not talking to God.

Prayer is not a way of developing us; what God is doing through prayer is waking up Him in you. Most folks pray to improve their program or their self-image. God says, "I'm telling you to commune with Me because I'm in you, so My character and nature can come through you."

We look at prayer as a means of getting things for ourselves. God's idea of prayer is for His holiness, purpose, and wise order to come into our lives. We must remember that there is a difference between God's order and His permissive will. His order is His character and His permissive will is what He will permit. It is His order that there should be no sin, but in His permissive will, He allows it. The only way you get into God's order is by prayer.

The bible says, if you ask in His name, you will get it, and so you think, "I don't care if it is His will or not. It's in the name." No, it's not! I'm sorry. It's not in His name, it's in His nature. God is saying, "If you don't know Me and you use My name, you still don't get access." When a king walks in a room, he doesn't have to say it. If you don't carry God's spirit, you can say "Jesus" and "hail Mary" all you want in prayer. The bible says His nature is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit when we are born from above. It has to be nourished. Jesus promised to only be at those prayer meetings where two or three are gathered together "in My name," meaning, "in My nature."

I've sat in prayer meetings where folks trip out on the way people pray, "God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The one who brought something out of nothing...The one who flung all the stars..." God isn't listening to that. When you pray, use not vain repetitions as the heathens do....God is not deaf. So volume doesn't make Him hear any better than speaking softly. The only reason you can talk to God is because of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. His blood bought and empowered you. If you don't understand that it is the blood of Jesus, then words and volume can easily impress you. When you pray, you don't have to put on a show. Just talk to Him. The church is so messed up because we want somebody that can stand before us and tickle our ears. These persons in turn begin to think they are the ones getting you to the throne, but it is Christ.

You have to have the knowledge in prayer that God is "Master." Here is the problem: We like "Savior"; we like "healer"; and we like "our provider." We like anything that keeps God as a "supernatural buddy." If He is our provider, then we are only going to call Him when we need something and base the prayer on the need and not the cost and who paid it. If we just look at Him as healer, then we will only get in tune with Him when we are sick. Once you dance about your healing, you forget what it cost you to get it. If we just know Him as "my deliverer," then we only get serious about it when we need to be delivered. When you get down to pray, God says He is not responding because you are hurting or sorrowful, but rather because "My Son went through the agony, pain, crucifixion, death and burial, and I raised Him up." When you pray, understand this, and then pray, submitting your agenda to His, and pray in His name.

The Power of Praying with Faith

2007-09-15T18:18:00.000-07:00

by Dr. Frederick K.C. Price

The prayer of faith, also known as petition prayer, is the prayer that most people think of when they use the term prayer. Petition prayer is between you and God. It is you asking God for a particular outcome, whether it's a job, money, a lifetime mate, or whatever. The key verse for the prayer of faith is Mark 11:24, where Jesus says: "Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them."

The rule to consider here is when you pray-not after you pray...not when you feel something...not when you see something. When you pray (the moment that you pray) you must believe that you receive what you asked for.

This is a difficult concept for some people. God is a present tense God. He doesn't operate in the past or in the future, but in the now. Whenever you pray, at that moment you are in the present. At that precise time, you must believe that you receive what you are praying for. Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Your faith is substance-it is something real, something tangible. It is the evidence of things you cannot see.

Think of a court of law. The jury was not at the scene of a crime, but the attorney introduces a photo of the crime scene that shows blood. That photo takes the place of the "thing" itself, the crime scene. The evidence is proof of something the juror cannot see but knows nonetheless. Your faith is proof of something that you have received...but can't yet see. The Amplified Bible says it this way: "Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses]."

Notice that Mark 11:24 does not say when you will actually see the result of your prayer. It does not tell you how long it will take for that prayer result to appear, and this is where many Christians get hung up. God lives in one eternal now. There is no past or present for Him. But in the natural world, due to a number of factors, it may take time for the answer to manifest itself. As an example, when you make a stock market transaction and tell your broker to sell $100 of stock, he sells it right then. But you do not possess the actual money until he sends it to you through the mail or transmits it electronically to your account. Even then, you will likely get a check, and that check does you no good until you endorse it and put it in your account. We do not have a problem understanding these processes that we have to go through in the natural world. We know they are required to bring something you have into a reality you can use.

Part of the faith required to make a prayer transaction, to activate your faith request, is that you can only pray one time for something-because if you believe you have already receive it, why would you ask for it again? Imagine I'm standing in front of you, and I say, "Please give me your Bible."

You reach down, pull out your Bible, and hand it to me. Then I say, "Please give me your Bible."

What? You would rightly say, "Are you crazy? I just gave you my Bible." If you have asked God for something once, you must have faith enough to believe that He heard you and that He has answered your prayer. That's what Jesus meant when He said, "Believe that you receive them" (referring to the things you prayer for).

God answers prayers, and He will answer your specific prayer in line with His Word, but it is your faith that brings that answer out of the spiritual world and into the physical world. How many times in Scripture does Jesus say to someone, "According to your faith...," or "Daughter, you faith has made you whole"? He referred to people's faith constantly, and even though it was His power that healed them, He always credited their faith with being the catalyst. In fact, when Jesus went to His hometown, we are told: "Now He did not do many mighty works there because of their unbelief" (Matt. 13:58). Well, I have a question for you: Did Jesus suddenly lose His power on that visit to Nazareth? No! His power never changed. What changed? It was the people's level of faith mixed with His power.

There is a simple spiritual explanation for this. God will not do something against your will. God will not violate free will. If you don't have faith to do something, He won't violate your will. When the blind men came to Jesus and asked that He restore their sight, He asked them, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" (Matt. 9:28). They said, "Yes," and He said, "According to your faith let it be to you" (v. 29). The Bible actually indicates that they received their sight. Just as the air you breathe is already there-but you must inhale it, so your healing is already here to be taken by faith.

We Inherited Power

2007-09-15T18:08:00.000-07:00

Ephesians 1:19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power.

We have power. Its about the strength that progressively increases. Its about that vigor, that dominion, and that manifested power that can be seen. This is all part of the inheritance of the saints.

You inherit His power, to us "...and what is the exceeding greatness of his power who believe..." This inheritance belongs to the believers. An inheritance is something you don't earn; it's something that was left to you.

When Jesus died on the cross, He left you some power, some anointing, some blessings, and some ability. Jesus understood that when it was time for Him to leave the earth, believers would need weapons that were beyond their thinking ability, speaking ability, and beyond their natural education in order for God's will to be done. Without these, they were not going to be able to get the job done.

So, He said that he would not leave us comfortless. "I will send you another comforter, and he will teach you all things and remind you of what I said unto you." That comforter is the Holy Ghost. And the Holy Ghost is active, energizing, and effective. He is the power, He is the might, and He performs where you can see it.

Verse 19 tells us this power works "according to the working of his mighty power." The word mighty here means force-His force, His ability. In other words, God wants us to increase in that which is in the Lord, increase in His dominion and in the manifested power of His force and His ability.

Jesus knew we would need power to defeat the enemy. He knew we would need power to perform miracles when necessary, to have supernatural strength when necessary, and to be able to flow and function when everything else was going contrary, so He prayed the Father to send us the Holy Ghost.

Walk in the inheritance that was given to you, it's the power of the Holy Ghost.

The Church Tablecloth That Reunited A Husband and Wife Separated by War

2007-09-15T03:48:00.000-07:00

This is an amazing story that I came across doing one of my reads....

THE TABLECLOTH

The brand new pastor and his wife, newly assigned to their first ministry, to reopen a church in suburban Brooklyn, arrived in early October excited about their opportunities.

When they saw their church, it was very run down and needed much work. They set a goal to have everything done in time to have their first service on Christmas Eve. They worked hard, repairing pews, plastering walls, painting, etc. and on Dec 18 were ahead of schedule and just about finished. On Dec 19 a terrible tempest - a driving rainstorm - hit the area and lasted for two days. On the 21st, the pastor went over to the church. His heart sank when he saw that the roof had leaked, causing a large area of plaster about 20 feet by 8 feet to fall off the front wall of the sanctuary just behind the pulpit, beginning about head high. The pastor cleaned up the mess on the floor, and not knowing what else to do but postpone the Christmas Eve service, headed home.

On the way he noticed that a local business was having a flea market type sale for charity so he stopped in. One of the items was a beautiful, handmade, ivory colored, crocheted tablecloth with exquisite work, fine colors and a Cross embroidered right in the center. It was just the right size to cover up the hole in the front wall. He bought it and headed back to the church. By this time it had started to snow. An older woman running from the opposite direction was trying to catch the bus. She missed it. The pastor invited her to wait in the warm church for the next bus 45 minutes later. She sat in a pew and paid no attention to the pastor while he got a ladder, hangers, etc., to put up the tablecloth as a wall tapestry.The pastor could hardly believe how beautiful it looked and it covered up the entire problem area. Then he noticed the woman walking down the center aisle. Her face was like a sheet. "Pastor," she asked, "where did you get that tablecloth?"

The pastor explained. The woman asked him to check the lower right corner to see if the initials, EBG were crocheted into it there. They were. These were the initials of the woman, and she had made this tablecloth 35 years before, in Austria. The woman could hardly believe it as the pastor told how he had just gotten the Tablecloth. The woman explained that before the war she and her husband were well-to-do people in Austria. When the Nazis came, she was forced to leave. Her husband was going to follow her the next week. She was captured, sent to prison and never saw her husband or her home again. The pastor wanted to give her the tablecloth; but she made the pastor keep it for the church.The pastor insisted on driving her home, that was the least he could do. She lived on the other side of Staten Island and was only in Brooklyn for the day for a housecleaning job.

What a wonderful service they had on Christmas Eve. The church was almost full. The music and the spirit were great. At the end of the service, the pastor and his wife greeted everyoneat the door and many said that they would return. One older man, whom the pastor recognized from the neighborhood, continued to sit in one of the pews and stare, and the pastor wondered why he wasn’t leaving. The man asked him where he got the tablecloth on the front wall because it was identical to one that his wife had made years ago when they lived in Austria before the war and how could there be two tablecloths so much alike? He told the pastor how the Nazis came, how he forced his wife to flee for her safety, and he was supposed to follow her, but he was arrested and put in a prison. He never saw his wife or his home again all the 35years in between.

The pastor asked him if he would allow him to take him for a little ride. They drove to Staten Island and to the same house where the pastor had taken the woman three days earlier. He helped the man climb the three flights of stairs to the woman’s apartment, knocked on the door and he saw the greatest Christmas reunion he could ever imagine.

True Story - submitted by Pastor Rob Reid Who says God does not work in mysterious ways.

Cast your cares on Him

2007-09-15T02:37:00.000-07:00

Psalm 127:2 It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows; for so He gives His beloved sleep.

“I was up the whole night — my boy was running a high fever.”

“I slept only for two hours — I was trying to improve my assigment.”

“I couldn’t sleep at all — I was worried about the bills that are piling up.”

The Bible says that God “gives His beloved sleep”. Who are His beloved? You and I! Because we are in Christ, we are His beloved. (Ephesians 1:6; 2 Thessalonians 2:13)

God says, “It is vain for you to rise up early; to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows…” In other words, it is pointless to worry and lose sleep because the truth is, “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labour in vain who build it; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.” (Psalm 127:1)

You see, God is the one who builds your career and guards your marriage. He is the one who watches over your children and future. He is the one who guards your bank account, and watches over your financial investments and business ventures. You are not the one!

So don’t worry and stay up late as if you are the source of the increase or the one who has the power to make things happen and save the situation. God is the one and He says to you, “My beloved child, throw that care, that burden, to Me and go to sleep.” For when you are sleeping, He is working on your situation. He, who neither slumbers nor sleeps (Psalm 121:3–4), works the night shift for you as you sleep!

But because we are such doers and performers, it is hard for us to let go and let God take over. But when we actually do, casting all our cares, anxieties, worries and concerns once and for all into His hands, we will see how He cares for us affectionately and watchfully. (1 Peter 5:7) We will see Him taking care of our problems and working things out for our good. (Romans 8:28)

Trust your Father’s love for you. Cast your cares on Him and have no more sleepless nights!

See The Work Accomplished

2007-09-04T16:06:00.000-07:00

John 19:30 So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.

What do you see when it comes to healing for your sick body, restoration for your failing marriage or breakthroughs for your financial woes? Do you see a finished work or a work that is yet to be completed?

God wants you to know that what you desperately need Him to do for you has already been done! Jesus’ finished work at the cross so satisfied the Father’s heart that from heaven’s throne came the pronouncement, “It is done!” (Revelation 16:17) in response to Jesus’ cry on earth, “It is finished!” So God wants you to have this revelation that whatever you need Him to do for you has been done because Jesus has accomplished it all for you.

You are not waiting to be healed — your healing has been accomplished. You are not going to receive restoration for your marriage or a breakthrough in your finances — your restoration and breakthrough have been accomplished. You are not going to die from any lack — you have been abundantly supplied. All these things have been accomplished, not by you, but by Christ alone!

If you are bothered by a pain in your body, God wants you to see your healing finished or accomplished for you by His Son’s death on the cross. If it is a loss or debt you face, or a certain sin you are struggling with, my friend, believe that your provision, restoration and deliverance have been accomplished or done for you.

Don’t worry about what you see or feel, or the presence of contradicting reports. These are lying symptoms and though they may seem very real, they are temporal and not the truth. God’s Word is the truth and it will remain because it is eternal. And when you believe that only what God’s Word says about your situation is the truth, all the lying symptoms will eventually line up with His Word.

God the Son says, “It is finished!”

God the Father says, “It is done!”

What do you say?

Thanking God At All Times

2007-08-30T17:01:00.000-07:00

Hebrews 13:15 Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.

Lifting up your hands and thanking God is spontaneous and easy when you have just received a wonderful blessing. Perhaps you came so close to being killed, but God protected you and plucked you out of danger just in time. Or your grandmother, an unbeliever for many years, finally received Jesus as her Saviour and got healed of a long-term disease.

But there are times when you don’t feel like lifting up your hands to thank and praise God — yet you do it!

Perhaps you feel very discouraged lately. Perhaps everything is going wrong for you and you feel like you are not in control of your life. You can’t even control your tears. Still, you make a conscious decision to lift your hands and thank God for being in the situation with you. You open your mouth and begin to praise Him even though you really don’t feel like doing it.

In the midst of the trial that you are going through, you praise Him that He is your righteousness in spite of all the mistakes you have made. You thank Him that He is your Prince of Peace, and that He will bring His peace into you and His calm into your chaotic world.

God sees and appreciates such times when, despite feeling so discouraged and depressed, you offer a freewill thanksgiving offering to Him. In fact, your thanksgiving during such times is more highly prized by Him than your thanksgiving during those times you are feeling joyful because you have just been blessed.

And when you choose to thank Him for His unfailing love and His faithfulness to deliver, protect and provide for you even when you don’t see it yet, before long, you will find yourself experiencing and enjoying the blessings! So lift your hands and praise the Lord, for He is good, and His mercy endures forever! (Psalm 106:1)

God Is Not Punishing You For Some Sin

2007-08-25T17:07:00.000-07:00

Ephesians 1:77 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.

Some Christians believe that although you have forgiveness of sins, you are not free from the penalties of your sins. In other words, you can still expect punishment from God.

For example, some married Christian couples have been told by ministers that they are childless because God is punishing them for having had pre-marital sex. So although God has forgiven them of that sin, He still has to punish them for it.

I am not encouraging pre-marital sex, but I want you to know that God, who is the only one who can fully appreciate the full value of His Son’s blood and who is completely satisfied by His Son’s sacrifice, is at rest in His heart today concerning your sins! That is why He is not against you when you sin. Neither is He out to punish you when you sin. No, He still loves you, is for you and wants to help you overcome that sin. In the Old Testament, the blood of bulls and goats could only “cover” sins and not take them away. (Hebrews 10:4) But the blood of Jesus is not like the blood of animals! For by one sacrifice, the eternal blood of the Son of God has forever removed your sins (Hebrews 8:12) and cleansed you of all unrighteousness! (1 John 1:9). In fact, God is so satisfied with His Son’s perfect work that He says to you today, “Your sins and lawless deeds I will by no means remember!” (Hebrews 10:17) And if God does not remember them, why should He punish you for them? Beloved, you “have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace”. Because Jesus’ work is complete, all your sins have been completely forgiven. And complete forgiveness means that the penalties for your sins can no longer fall on you because they already fell on Jesus at the cross. (Isaiah 53:5)

So should something bad happen to you, don’t think for one moment that God is punishing you for some sin. Look to the cross, instead, and know that all your sins have already been fully punished in the body of Christ!

From :Pastor Joseph Prince, New Creation Church.

Amazing Grace: Let us never fail to fight for social injustic, for those who cannot fight for themselves...

2007-08-21T04:51:00.000-07:00

Those who have not watched the movie Amazing Grace should go borrow the DVD...

"Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me." Those familiar words open perhaps the most famous and beloved hymn of all time. There's no doubt that this powerful hymn has helped save countless souls. But few of us are aware of the pivotal role it played in saving countless lives from the cruel bonds of slavery. The movie, Amazing Grace, is a powerfully inspiring account of the life of English parliamentarian and abolitionist William Wilberforce and his lifelong struggle to end the British slave trade-a mission inspired and urged on by John Newton, a redeemed "wretch," and the amazing hymn he wrote.

Great Britain banned the slave trade a generation before America did, and then abolished slavery altogether. More than anyone else, William Wilberforce was the driving force behind this legislation. The son of a wealthy merchant, the naturally kind-hearted "Wilber" gravitated towards social causes, inviting beggars in for lunch and advocating kindness to animals. At 21 he was elected to the House of Commons, along with school friend William Pitt, who was destined to become Britain's youngest Prime Minister. Ioan Gruffudd and Benedict Cumberbatch shine as Wilberforce and Pitt, two political firebrands old enough to know what they want to accomplish, but young enough to still believe they can change the world. Young Wilber passionately believes that the odious institution of slavery must be abolished.

Spurred on by the Christian conviction that God "created all men as equals," Wilber made it his life's work to convince Parliament to abolish slavery. The film begins in 1797, at which time 11 million black men, women and children had been snatched from their homes in Africa and the West Indies and forced into slave labor, mostly on the sugarcane plantations in the Caribbean. The sea passage was particularly inhumane. Slaves were chained into coffin-sized wooden compartments with little food or water and no sanitation. Half of those captured died before reaching shore and, we are told, the chains were used to keep them from ending their suffering by jumping overboard.

Directed by seasoned pro Michael Apted (Coal Miner's Daughter), Amazing Grace is anything but a stuffy period piece. He coaxes dynamic performance from his two leads—particularly Gruffudd as the driven, but fragile Wilberforce—and a veteran British cast that includes Michael Gambon, Toby Jones and the towering Albert Finney as John Newton the ex-slave ship captain, who repented, turned to the ministry and wrote, among many other hymns, "Amazing Grace." The action shuttles adroitly between Wilber's early struggles against an intransigent Parliament and his later success in ending slave trafficking and slavery itself with decisive laws in 1807 and finally 1833, just days before his death.

Amazing Grace is a portrait of faith and persistence of the highest order. It boldly tackles the debate between principle and practicality. Pitt, as Prime Minister, must consider political survival, balancing the complex economic impact of abolition and the art of "the possible." Wilberforce's single-minded devotion to the abolitionist cause at the exclusion of almost everything else—including his own health—caused him to be described by friends as "all spirit and no body."

Perhaps most stirring and enlightening is the film's depiction of the relationship between Wilberforce and John Newton, his childhood friend and adult mentor. Only the saving, redeeming grace of God sustains Newton who admits to being "haunted by 20,000 ghosts" from his slaver days. Though forgiven, he remains so overwhelmed by the depth of his past sin that he chooses to live out the remainder of his days as a simple pastor in service to the church. When Wilber comes to him for guidance following his own religious reawakening, Newton urges him not to seek spiritual solitude, but to put his convictions into action and work to abolish the inhumanity of slavery. Their scenes together are electric and grapple with the dynamic between faith and action, social responsibility and monk-like piety. As Newton wisely reminds him, Christianity "leads to action, as well as reflection."

2007 marks the 200th anniversary of the passing of Wilberforce's most critical anti-slavery legislation, and I could give you 200 reasons to see this inspiring film. Instead I'll give you just one: You will leave the theatre feeling renewed. Amazing Grace will recharge you with a positive message about the power of faith, the belief that good people can change a nation, the conviction that God's grace is indeed so amazing that anyone can be saved, and—just as the song says—the assurance that grace will, in the end, "lead us home." Only one question remains: 200 years later, slavery still persists in many parts of the world, including Cambodia, India and Peru. Will grace inspire a new generation of "Wilberforces" to take a stand and end slavery once and for all? That would indeed be the result of amazing Grace.

Amazing Grace MTV by Chris Tomlin

I saw a dead man walking...

2007-08-18T10:03:00.000-07:00

Melbourne just had their Youth Alive Rally at the Rod Laver Arena this evening and I was kindly invited by my classmate to attend it with some of her friends. The beginning parts were too noisy for my liking. It sounded like KISS or Metallica was in the house and I couldn’t hear a word the band was singing or actually more like screaming. I took out my MP3 player in an attempt that my Hillsongs will block out the music but even when my earphones on at max volume, it still failed miserably. I still couldn’t hear Darlene or JD at all. It was THAT loud… anyways, that’s not what this blog entry is about…

There were many singing performances, many dance items, a few sermons but what really blew my mind away was this Tuesday I was having brunch with my Planetshakers caregroup leader Juni, we were talking about our Youth Pastor Michael Guglielmucci (one of the most sought after Youth Pastor in Australia) how he contracted bone cancer or some sort, how he became so sick suddenly, how he broke about 10 of his bones just attempting to speak at this year’s Planetshakers Conference in the early part of 2007. How he’s just been keeping such a low profile and how sad it is for us to see and illness strike such a wonderful man of God down.

Guess what…?

This evening he walked up unto the stage well and healthy, saying that he had a dream, he and a vision that he went to a particular Pastor’s service (so sorry I can’t remember the name of the Pastor he mentioned) and got healed. He woke up from the dream and told himself, what has he got to lose but to go attend that one service and see what God will do? What’s the worst that can happen? Break some more bones? Pastor Michael Guglielmucci was already so broken and in so much pain that it really didn’t seem to matter that if he suffered more… so he followed his heart and had the faith in God that his dream will become a reality and faithful as our God is, He received his healing and let me show you his words from his “MySpace”…

HEY GUYS!!!! INCREDIBLE NEWS!!!! THE HEALING PROCESS HAS BEGUN!!!! ON MONDAY I WENT TO JOHN WESLEYS CHAPEL IN BRISTOL. AS I STOOD IN WESLEYS PULPIT GODS POWER TOUCHED MY BODY!!!! TO CUT A LONG STORY SHORT. I LEFT MY WHEELCHAIR THERE!!!! MY BACK IS HEALED, MY HIPS ARE HEALED, MY LEGS ARE HEALED!!!! I STILL HAVE PAIN IN MY UPPER BODY BUT IT HAS STARTED!!!! PRAISE AND GLORY TO THE KING OF ALL KINGS!!!! MY SAVIOUR, MY PORTION, MY FREEDOM, MY HEALER!!!!!

I rest my case… what more need I say other than

HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD !

The best week of my life...

2007-08-09T23:02:00.000-07:00

Its been a really long time since I had a week like that, 5 days of basking in the presence of God. What more can a gal ask. Looking back its been amazing the things that had happened leading up to this day and how the 5 days was God's assurance and confirmation on the things He wants me to do for Him in my life. Now that I've started on my counselling programme. I'm just really really excited about the many day, week, months, years to come just doing His work.

Here's some highlights from the best week of my life... Enjoy... :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ie-Rp9gT2GM

God's Purposes for Our Work by Steve Scalici

2007-06-26T01:32:00.000-07:00

We know that work is God-ordained. We read in Genesis 2:2 - "On the seventh day, having finished his task, God rested from all his work.." Genesis 2:15 says "The LORD God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and care for it." Work is normal. It's part of God's created order for humanity. Everything that we bring to work (skills, intelligence, experience, and reputation) is a gift from God that He allows us to use. God's original intention for work was to bless us. I feel sorry for the many people who view their work as simply a job: something to be performed for a wage and nothing else. We spend more time at work than doing any single activity except for sleep and some of us work more than we sleep. I would like to take a look at three areas where the world's view of work differs from God's view.

My Work and the Income I Earn from it Define My Self-Worth

As Christians, we must remember that it is not our work that defines us, but the attitude with which we do our work that pleases God the most. Sometimes the work we do earns a significant income. Unfortunately, some Chistians have guilt issues related to this. But, there’s never any reason to feel guilty as long as you have earned the money honestly and ethically. Proverbs 14:23 (NKJV) says, "In all labor there is profit, but idle chatter leads only to poverty."

In his book The Treasure Principle, Randy Alcorn says: "God does not raise our income so that we can increase our standard of living, but rather our standard of giving." One of the great remedies to having a large income is giving the money away. The more you give, the less you have to manage. In fact, this attitude of stewardship is one of the great ways for a believer to distinguish his world view from the secular worldview. In the end, we must remember that while God may choose to bless us financially through our occupation, we are defined neither by our work nor by the income we earn from it. What defines us in God’s eyes is the manner in which our work is done in honor of Him.

Work is a Necessary Evil

For the Christian, work is not a necessary evil, but a mission field for which we can be an example of Christ’s love and spiritual integrity. Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:6: "Work hard, but not just to please your masters when they are watching. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart." Each of us has a conscience. Your conscience is God's built-in warning system. By following it we can build Godly character. Building character takes focus and patience, with attention to detail and an ability to be consistent over time.

While God is ultimately our Potter, we also play the role of potter in forming our own character. Christians would be horrified to be accused of stealing from their employers, but there are many small ways in which employees do it everyday. If someone is paid for 40 hours per week but really only worked 30 hours, they’ve stolen 10 hours worth of salary. If someone takes supplies from work and doesn't replace them or pay for them, their integrity is shot. Patrick Morley (Man in the Mirror Ministries) says that when we limit our thinking to major matters, we miss the point that to be trustworthy with much, we must first prove trustworthy with little.

One thing that has not changed even in our fast-paced society is that relationships are built on trust. The fragile thread of trust upon which relationships depend can be easily broken. Integrity is priceless. It's one of the few things that can't be taken from you. You can only lose it.

My Job Should Always Make Me Happy

There are all sorts of clichés that deal with being satisfied: "the grass is always greener on the other side" is the one that comes to mind first. But, as the pessimist said, it's only greener because they're laying more fertilizer over there. The point is, contentment isn't found in always getting what we want but in always being satisfied with what we have. Sometimes, it isn't your position that makes you happy or unhappy, it's your disposition.

That’s not to say that we should never find or take a new job. But, before I ever tell anyone to find a new job, I encourage them to earnestly pray about any decision before they make it. They need to discover what it is that God wants them to do. I remind them that they are at their current job for a reason. They may not know what that reason is, but there is a reason. Of course, God may be directing them elsewhere and that is fine, but they need to spend time seeking God's will before making a move.

Sometimes I meet people who simply work for awful people and they probably should leave, but I'm a big fan of praying for the people you are working for. More importantly, pray for yourself that you would be the person God wants you to be. Positive people are much more likely to turn their ideas into positive behavior. Positive behavior, in turn, does change circumstances, and nearly always for the better.

Steve Scalici is the Vice President of Treasure Coast Financial, a financial planning firm in Stuart, FL. He is co-host of God's Money which can be heard weekdays at www.oneplace.com . He can also be reached at his website www.tcfin.com.

You Are Already Blessed

2007-06-25T02:00:00.000-07:00

Joshua 24:13 ‘I have given you a land for which you did not labour, and cities which you did not build, and you dwell in them; you eat of the vineyards and olive groves which you did not plant.’

God is more eager to prosper you than you are willing to be prospered! In fact, He is so keen for you to enjoy His prosperity that in His mind, giving you a multiplication of wealth and assets is already a settled matter.

God has already promised: “I have given you a land for which you did not labour, and cities which you did not build, and you dwell in them; you eat of the vineyards and olive groves which you did not plant.”

He did not say, “I may give,” which means that it may or may not happen, but He said, “I have given,” which means that it has already happened. It is only a matter of time before your revelation of what you have through the work of Christ brings forth the prosperity He has already blessed you with.

My friend, expect prosperity in your life because you are already rich in Christ. Jesus took your place of poverty at the cross — “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.” (2 Corinthians 8:9) In Him, you are poor no more.

So stop looking at the lack in your natural resources. Look to the cross and say, “Yes, Christ has made me rich. It is a matter of time before I will see His prosperity in my life!”

Let Your Heart Be Established By Grace

2007-06-19T20:22:00.000-07:00

Hebrews 13:99 It is good that the heart be established by grace…

God does not want your heart full of worries and fears, tossed and turned by every challenge that comes your way. He wants your heart at rest and established by His grace towards you.

But when you think that the breakthroughs to your challenges depend on your ability to obey God, then your heart will never be at rest. It will be full of worries and anxieties. Why? Because you can never obey God perfectly.

But when you depend on God’s grace, that is, His undeserved, unmerited favour, the opposite happens — your heart becomes established. When you know that the only thing that qualifies you to receive God’s blessings is faith in the finished work of Christ, your heart becomes established. Then, you will walk without fear of your troubles swallowing you up. You will walk with full assurance that His blessings will be manifested in your life.

My friend, God wants your heart established, knowing that His righteousness, healing, protection and prosperity are yours — all paid for by Jesus’ finished work at the cross. God’s blessings are sure in your life because they are not dependent on your ability to keep His laws.

You see, under the old covenant, you receive God’s blessings only if you keep all His laws. (Deuteronomy 28:1–2) If you sin and fail to keep even one law, you are disqualified from receiving His blessings. But today, under the new covenant, your sins no longer disqualify you because God Himself has said, “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.” (Hebrews 8:12)

So let your heart be established by God’s grace. Because of His grace, you have full access to His blessings. You no longer have to worry about whether you are good enough. You can stand firm on the promises made in His Word and enjoy His blessings today because Jesus has paid the price. Your part is only to believe and receive!

'I Will Be Your God'

2007-05-27T15:10:00.000-07:00

Hebrews 8:10 “… and I will be their God, and they shall be My people...”

When God says, “I will be your God,” that is a declaration that He will work miracles in your life. So if it is a miracle you need, it is a miracle you will get!

If there is a huge sea blocking the way to your blessing and God says, “I will be your God,” it means that He will open the sea for you so that you can receive your blessing.

If you are poor and God says, “I will be your God,” it means that you will be well-provided for. Since God fed nearly three million Israelites in the wilderness every single day for 40 years, you can be sure that God will provide for you too.

If you are sick and God says, “I will be your God,” it means that He is going to be “the Lord who heals you” (Exodus 15:26), and you will be healthy.

If you have incurred a huge debt and God says to you, “I will be your God,” it means that He will bring about a supernatural cancellation of your debt.

But not only does God say, “I will be their God,” He also says, “they shall be My people”.
To be God’s people means to be the protected ones. Not all on earth are God’s people — only you and I who are redeemed by the blood of Christ. During times of uncertainties, God says to you, “You shall be My people.” This means that you are protected from all pestilences, plagues, attacks and destruction.

Even when you hear people say that the economic crisis is coming, God says to you, “You shall be My people.” This means that you don’t have to worry or be anxious. The crisis will not affect you. Regardless of the situation in the world, you are protected and you will walk in the blessings of God.

God’s power comes into every challenge you face when He says to you, “I will be your God and you shall be My people.” You will experience the supernatural life. Your part is to believe what He declares and act like it is so!

You Already Are, You Already Have...

2007-04-18T17:17:00.001-07:00

Mark 11:24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.

God’s Word tells us that we can have what we ask for in prayer — by simply believing that we already have it!

As you are praying, know that you already have your answer, miracle or breakthrough. The Bible tells us that we already have whatever we are praying for because we are already blessed with all blessings in Christ. (Ephesians 1:3)

And you are in Christ the moment you received Him as your Saviour. So when you pray, you are actually releasing your faith to lay hold of what you already have in Christ. And as you keep saying that you have it already (Mark 11:23), you will see the manifestation of it in the natural realm.

In one of our church camps, a church member shared about her back problem of 15 years as a result of a fall from her rooftop. She needed an operation for the shooting pains in her tailbone. She had also been taking anti-stress pills for five years.

After coming to church, she realised that she had already received her healing through the finished work of Christ. Refusing the operation and even the pills, she would rebuke the pain which kept coming back, saying, “In Jesus, I believe I am healed. I am not trying or going to be healed. I am already healed. I have a brand new backbone for I am in Christ. For as Christ is, so am I in this world.” It was not very long before this sister saw the manifestation of her healing.

Sometimes, the devil will try to bring back symptoms of the sickness or lack to make you feel and think that you still have not received your blessing. That is the time to release your faith and believe that you have it already. You are not confessing to get it, you are confessing because you already have it in Christ!

My friend, the Bible tells us that Christ is in us. (Colossians 1:27) This means that right now, in you, is your healing, prosperity, wellness, family’s well-being and everything your heart desires. So say, “I have everything I need in Christ right now!”

Reflection from "He Chose the Nails"

2007-04-14T17:15:00.000-07:00

by Max Lucado

John didn’t know on that Friday what you and I now know. He didn’t know that Friday’s tragedy would be Sunday’s triumph. John would later confess that he “did not yet understand from the Scriptures that Jesus must rise from the dead” (John 20:9).

That’s why what he did on Saturday is so important.

We don’t know anything about this day; we have no passage to read, no knowledge to share. All we know is this: When Sunday came, John was still present. When Mary Magdalene came looking for him, she found him.

Jesus was dead. The Master’s body was lifeless. John’s friend and future were buried. But John had not left. Why? Was he waiting for the resurrection? No. As far as he knew, the lips were forever silent and the hands forever still. He wasn’t expecting a Sunday surprise. Then why was he here?

You’d think he would have left. Who was to say that the men who crucified Christ wouldn’t come after him? The crowds were pleased with one crucifixion; the religious leaders might have called for more. Why didn’t John get out of town?

Perhaps the answer was pragmatic; perhaps he was taking care of Jesus’ mother. Or perhaps he didn’t have anywhere else to go. Could be he didn’t have any money or energy or direction … or all of the above.

Or maybe he lingered because he loved Jesus.

To others, Jesus was a miracle worker. To others, Jesus was a master teacher. To others, Jesus was the hope of Israel. But to John, he was all of these and more. To John, Jesus was a friend.

You don’t abandon a friend? not even when that friend is dead. John stayed close to Jesus.

He had a habit of doing this. He was close to Jesus in the upper room. He was close to Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. He was at the foot of the cross at the crucifixion, and he was a quick walk from the tomb at the burial.

Did he understand Jesus? No.

Was he glad Jesus did what he did? No.

But did he leave Jesus? No.

What about you? When you’re in John’s position, what do you do? When it’s Saturday in your life, how do you react? When you are somewhere between yesterday’s tragedy and tomorrow’s triumph, what do you do? Do you leave God? or do you linger near him?

John chose to linger. And because he lingered on Saturday, he was around on Sunday to see the miracle.

Psalm 40:2

2007-04-14T04:49:00.000-07:00

He brought me out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock and established my goings.

Gina held onto the branch for dear life. The floodwaters swirled around her, pulling at her, threatening to carry her off in the raging torrent. The pouring rain blinded her, and large clumps of mud kept bumping into her. Her arms ached and throbbed. The last of her strength gave out, but as she let the branch slip through her fingers, a strong hand gripped her wrist. Gina felt herself slide up onto the bank of the swollen river, and she spread herself out to feel the firm ground beneath her.

There are days that feel like a struggle for life. How wonderful it would be to have someone come along and lift us up out of the struggle. God can do that. His Spirit renews and strengthens us. Through the loving power of God, we are pulled out of the darkest pit and set upon solid ground.

Prayer:
Lord, hear me as I call out to You. Whether my prob lems are huge or tiny, I find I need Your help to get me through. Pull me up into Your loving arms, and surround me in Your love. Amen.

Psalm 40:12

2007-04-14T04:48:00.000-07:00

For innumerable evils have compassed me about: mine iniquities have taken hold upon me, so that I am not able to look up; they are more than the hairs of mine head: theref ore my heart faileth me.

Church made Sue feel uncomfortable. She wanted to be there, but she felt so unworthy. Just sitting in the church made her feel like a hypocrite. She asked forgiveness for her sins, and she believed that God gave it to her, but there was so much to forgive. All her life, she had been told that God was great and that human beings were unworthy of the attention He gave them. Sue figured she must be about the most unworthy of all.

Too often we come before the Lord with the feeling that we shouldn't be there. True, we have sinned, but God does not want us to dwell on the fact that we have sinned, but that we have been forgiven, and that we are His chosen people. The love of God is greater than any sin we might commit. God makes us able to look up, because He lifts the burden of guilt from our shoulders.

Prayer:
Your grace has made me worthy, Lord. What I could not do on my own, You have done for me. Thank You, Father, from the depths of my soul. Amen.

Reflection on 13 April at 3am in the morning...

2007-04-12T11:55:00.000-07:00

You are blood bought and heaven made.
A sweet child of God who is forever saved.
So be grateful, joyful for isnt it true?
What you dont have is much less than what you do...

Sanctification: The Process

2007-04-11T10:12:00.000-07:00

2 Timothy 2 Nevertheless, God's solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: "The Lord knows those who are his," and, "Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness." In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.

Imagine walking into a room and noticing two ceramic vessels. One is a gracefully curved gold pitcher. The other is a plain pot. Which would catch your eye and draw you in for a closer look?

In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul used this metaphor to explain how some Christians honor the Lord with their life and service. Others bring shame to the Gospel through selfish living. Scripture commonly uses the vessel image because believers should be “filled with” the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 5:18 says the Holy Spirit trains us in righteousness and strengthens us in suffering. His work begins on the inside, where He adjusts our thinking to align with God’s Word. Our beliefs affect our actions. The Lord wants our behavior to conform to the perceptions the Holy Spirit places on our spirit.

If a person cooperates with the Lord in removing ungodly actions and attitudes, then he becomes a “vessel of honor.” He can be used for God’s kingdom. As believers, our responsibility in the sanctification process is to work with God to eliminate sin from our lives.

The believer’s job is to deal with sin. We must flee from it, or confess and repent when necessary. When we’re vigilant about keeping a sinless life, then the Holy Spirit can work to mature our faith. This makes us golden vessels who pour God’s love upon the world.

Doubt : When Doubt is at Work

2007-04-09T04:17:00.000-07:00

Exodus 4:10-13 Moses said to the LORD, "O Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue." The LORD said to him, "Who gave man his mouth? Who makes him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or makes him blind? Is it not I, the LORD ? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say." But Moses said, "O Lord, please send someone else to do it."

Doubt is destructive. It fills us with uncertainty and makes us indecisive. It affects our ability to connect with God and receive His wisdom. We will know doubt is at work when we struggle to believe the following truths:

First, God loves us all the time. Most of us accept the Lord’s deep affection for us when we’re “good.” But how about when we’re disobedient? Our behavior doesn’t change His love. We can be certain of this because of the promises in Romans 5:8, which says, “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” God loved us while we rebelled against Him. That’s amazing grace.

Second, doubt is working in our lives when we struggle to believe that God has forgiven our disobedience. We know God promises to forgive us when we confess our sins. But we may have trouble believing we’re forgiven. Feelings don’t determine truth. We know God’s word is true. Psalm 103:12 says, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.” That’s a description of complete forgiveness.

Finally, we know doubt is a problem when we forget that God has called us to serve Him. The Lord often invites believers to join Him in His work. This can include teaching a Sunday school class, helping a family in need, taking a leadership role, or telling another person about Jesus. Doubt can cause us to make excuses for our disobedience, just as Moses did in Exodus chapter four. In Ephesians 2:10, God promises that He’s equipped us with everything we need to follow His will.

The opposite of doubt is faith.

Which word best describes your state of mind?

Doubt : Winning the Struggle with Doubt

2007-04-09T04:11:00.000-07:00

James 1:5-8 If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.

Doubt can lead to anxiety, frustration, and fear. All of those emotions can short-circuit our faith. A nagging sense of insecurity can come from a variety of sources:

First, uncertainties can develop from a lack of knowledge about God’s character, confusion regarding His promises, or a misunderstanding of His plans.

Second, insecurity can result from the presence of sin in our lives. Sin may prompt us to question biblical truth in an attempt to justify our actions.

Third, focusing on circumstances instead of the Lord’s sufficiency can drain away our hope and joy.

Fourth, insecurity can be caused by past failures which can result on a more pessimistic outlook on life.

Finally, other people’s criticism can also make us feel insecure. Whatever the cause, when we’re overwhelmed with doubt, our usefulness to God is limited.

Believers’ fears are a tool of the Enemy. Satan will often add his own words to increase our negative thinking. He reminds us of past mistakes and seemingly unanswered prayers. His age-old technique of questioning God’s direction makes us wonder if we truly know the Lord’s will. As the Father of Lies, Satan tries to twist the truth to serve his purposes.

When doubts surface, confess them as sin. Remember other times you trusted God and His faithfulness, and meditate on His promises. The Holy Spirit will guide you into truth so you can overcome.

Doubt doesn’t fit who we are as children of God. We are permanently adopted into His family, heirs, and co-heirs with His Son, Jesus. As believers, our character is defined when we walk in step with God.

Don’t Send Me to Africa By Lysa TerKeurst

2007-03-26T10:47:00.000-07:00

Don’t Send Me to Africa
By Lysa TerKeurst

2 Chronicles 16:9, “For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.”

Since I was a little girl, I’ve had a heart for the people of Africa . To be honest though, I didn’t want to be a missionary who lived in a hut, ate grubs fried on an open flame, and wore tribal headdresses. So, while I prayed for the people of Africa , I would always throw in, “But Lord don’t send me.” I can just imagine God smiling and looking back at me saying, “Really Princess? You don’t want to go to Africa …fine. Then I’ll send Africa to you.”

And that’s exactly what He did. One night while attending a concert by the Liberian Boys Choir, God clearly spoke to my heart and told me that two of those boys were mine. I tried to ignore Him, but to no avail. At the end of the concert, two of the boys walked straight up to me, wrapped their arms around me, and called me, “Mom” After months of prayer and piles of paperwork, we went to pick up our two sons, Mark and Jackson…Africa had come to our home.

No longer was the plight of the starving orphans in Africa a nameless face on TV, they were precious children who deserved a second chance. Not only did we think so, but also the people of my church soon felt moved to also adopt children from Liberia . Today, as I walk up to church on Sunday mornings I am always moved by the precious sight I see. A little white hand holding a little black hand, a brother and sister skipping and laughing together! And something in my heart just knows this is the way it’s supposed to be.

This is the way the body of Christ is supposed to work. God speaks, we listen, He confirms, we obey, and He gives us the strength to do amazing things. I love the verse, 2 Chronicles 16:9, because it brings a picture to my mind of God standing in front of a crowd of people asking, “Who is willing to do an amazing assignment for me?”

Many shrug away and make excuses. But one little girl jumps up and in complete abandon says, “Me Lord! Me! Pick me! I am willing!” Then God smiles, scoops her up, brings her into his loving embrace, and whispers back, “Well done my child…I am so pleased. You have made the good choice. I will give you the strength to do this. Do not be afraid, I will be with you.”

Dear Lord, let me always be that little girl with the up-stretched arm and obedient heart. God give me the wisdom to know Your voice and the courage to say "yes" to whatever You ask of me. My greatest desire is to walk with You all the days of my life. I don’t want to settle for the good life. I want the great life, where I live the adventure You created my soul to live.” In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

May you dance like no one is watching

2007-03-22T09:26:00.000-07:00

When I meditated on the word Guidance, I kept seeing "dance" at the end of the word. I remember reading that doing God's will is a lot like dancing. When two people try to lead, nothing feels right. The movement doesn't flow with the music, and everything is quite uncomfortable and jerky.

When one person realizes that, and lets the other lead, both bodies begin to flow with the music. One gives gentle cues, perhaps with a nudge to the back or by pressing lightly in one direction or another. It's as if two become one body, moving beautifully. The dance takes surrender, willingness, and attentiveness from one person and gentle guidance and skill from the other.
My eyes drew back to the word Guidance.

When I saw "G: I thought of God, followed by "u" and "i".

"God, "u" and "i" dance." => God, you, and I dance.

As I lowered my head, I became willing to trust that I would get guidance about my life. Once again, I became willing to let God lead. My prayer for you today is that God's blessings and mercies be upon you on this day and everyday.

May you abide in God as God abides in you. Dance together with God, trusting God to lead and to guide you through each season of your life.

And I Hope You Dance... Dance to Inspire, Inspire to Dance : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ALtIwy77RU&eurl=

1 Cor 13:7 Love believes all things

2007-03-14T19:23:00.000-07:00

God hasn't given up on you.
He hasn't turned away.
He hasn't walked out.
He could have.
Others would have.
But He hasn't.
God believes in you.
And I wonder...
Could you take some of that belief that He has in you and share it with someone else?
Could you believe in someone?

The power in the words you say...

God Makes Everything Work Together For Good

2007-03-13T16:57:00.000-07:00

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

In this verse, “all things” is literally all things — the good, the bad and the ugly! Now, it does not mean that all things are from God. Some things, such as accidents, sicknesses, broken relationships and divorces are not from God. They are from the devil or just part of the fallen world that we live in. What this verse does tell us is that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose”. That is our inheritance as God’s beloved children.

Do the people of the world have this inheritance? No. When bad things happen to them, they are what they are — bad things. But when bad things happen to the children of God, it does not end there. God can make those bad things work together for good. In other words, the devil may throw lemons at you, but God can take those lemons and make refreshing lemonade for you!

It is important that you remember that God is not behind anything that is bad and ugly. But when those things happen, know that He is able to make all things work together for good. And don’t let anyone tell you that all things will work together for good only if you love God and are called according to His purpose. These two things are not conditions but descriptions of believers. Believers are those who love God because they know that God first loved them. (1 John 4:19) And they are called according to His purpose for they have been born again.

And because you have been born again, all things in your life will work together for good. This is your inheritance as a beloved child of God!

Pray In The Spirit

2007-03-13T16:47:00.000-07:00

Jude 1:20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit.

When you are faced with a crisis, you can tell the Holy Spirit, “I don’t know how to pray about this problem. I have done everything I know, but I don’t seem to be getting my breakthrough. Help me pray, Holy Spirit.”

And as you pray in the Spirit, you will feel like there is a prayer going on within you. Flow with it until you feel a release. You will feel the burden lift, and peace and a note of victory inside you. The Holy Spirit will assure you that everything is going to be all right or He will prompt you to do something. Then, you will find that what has been hindering you from receiving your breakthrough is removed, and in its place is the answer that you need!

Sin Cannot Stop God's Grace

2007-03-13T16:31:00.000-07:00

Romans 5:20 Moreover the law entered that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more.

When a top executive is caught for embezzlement or a church minister is involved in an illicit affair, you will often hear the phrase “fallen from grace”. We have come to believe that when someone falls into sin, he falls from grace.

But God wants us to want know that when someone falls into sin, he does not fall from grace. He actually falls into grace! And God’s grace is there to put him back on his feet.

The Bible tells of prostitutes and tax-collectors — sinners — who fell into God’s grace and got back on their feet. If the sin in their lives could stop God’s grace, they would never have been able to receive His grace of healing, help and power.

Now, it is important you understand that God hates sin because it destroys our lives, relationships and bodies. Sin is evil! But it is not overcome by us talking about sin and relying on our willpower. It takes the grace of God to destroy sin. In fact, it is when you are under His grace that sin has no dominion over you. (Romans 6:14) It is when you see His grace in providing His Son to put away your sins and make you forever righteous that sin will not dominate you.

The devil will say to you, “You think that you can still expect God’s blessings after what you did this morning?” That is when you must say, “Yes, what I did was wrong. And it is because I am imperfect that Christ is my righteousness and perfection. It is because I am undeserving that I plead only the grace of God, which is His unearned, unmerited, undeserved favour towards me.”
Sin does not and cannot stop God’s grace. If the grace of God can be cut off by sin, Jesus would never have come to save us because we were all sinners. But praise God, “where sin abounded, grace abounded much more”!

See how God’s grace is bigger, stronger and more powerful than your sins. Receive His grace right now to walk in victory over that weakness or sin in your life, and in every area of your life!

FEAR NOT : A Strange Time for Fear

2007-03-13T09:39:00.000-07:00

Normally, we think of fear in terms of failure. We tend to become afraid when we experience a major setback and feel inadequate. Or, we may be shaken when we make a big mistake and think there’s something wrong with our judgment. These are the times when we would almost expect fear to strike, right?

In 1 Kings 18, Elijah demonstrated a radically different attitude when he experienced one of the most dynamic victories in all of Scripture. Armed with only his unflinching faith in the Lord, he faced down 850 false priests. God moved mightily and destroyed the idolaters, bringing glory to Himself throughout Israel.

But right after this confrontation, when his faith should have been at its strongest, Elijah became scared. In 1 Kings 19, the prophet learned that the evil queen Jezebel had called for his death. Apparently forgetting God’s mighty victory just moments before, Elijah ran away. How could this be?

Elijah’s story reminds us that our failures may not pose the greatest danger to spiritual growth after all. Potential for destruction may actually lie hidden within our successes. When our confidence is at its peak, we can sometimes turn our eyes away from the Giver of strength. Instead, we focus on ourselves.

Your victory is always in God’s hand. Don’t be fooled. He may work in, around, or through you to accomplish His purpose. But it’s always His victory. Have you been distracted by success? Turn your eyes back to God. All praise, glory, and freedom from fear are His.

FEAR NOT : How to Handle our Fear

2007-03-13T09:35:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

A believer is captive to fear only when he or she chooses to be. Some people actually organize their life (or at least portions of it) around avoiding anxiety. But God’s children don’t have to live in that kind of bondage. His key to our shackles is trust.

At some time, fear enters the life of every believer. But it doesn’t need to remain long. To confront and overcome our concern, we must first acknowledge its presence. Ignoring anxiety, or trying to work around it, will likely cause us to step out of God’s will.

After we have admitted to being afraid, the next thing we must do is identify the nature of our fear. Sometimes, we feel anxious without knowing the reason. But the Holy Spirit can reveal why we are being held captive.

Next, we must begin the process of defeating fear’s hold on our lives. What better tool could there be for breaking chains than the Bible, the “sword of the Spirit” as it’s called in Ephesians 6:17. God’s Word speaks to our individual fears. Use a concordance to find specific practical help. Or, for more general encouragement, turn to Isaiah 41:10. Read and memorize this important promise.

When you feel anxious, take Isaiah 41:10 back to God by praying, “Here’s what You said, and I believe You because You never lie. So I will trust You, Lord, to work in this situation.” Trusting God is the only way to be free from fear. Decide whether you are going to believe God and His promises or be chained by your emotions.

FEAR NOT : Facing Our Fears

2007-03-13T09:34:00.000-07:00

Fear can creep into a person’s life and wraps itself around his mind and heart. This happens so subtly that he doesn’t recognize how anxiety has affected his decision-making, his health, and his spirit. Ultimately, many people miss God’s best. Their lack of faith keeps them from stepping out to do His will.

The fear may seem unimportant at first. But left unchecked, it can interfere with our lifestyle. Physically, tension may keep us from relaxing and enjoying the best each day has to offer. Constant anxiety can lead to health problems. Our mind can become clouded by fear, which can limit what we’re willing to think about and consider. Once that happens, our dreams and creativity will almost certainly be stifled.

Most dangerous to our spiritual lives is the mental paralysis that often accompanies unchecked fear. Unless it is submitted to God, a single anxiety can easily rule over us and color our attitude with a general sense of uneasiness. We become indecisive and worry that we will make poor decisions. This mindset entraps us, as we try to avoid anything that might cause fear. As a result, we stop growing as Christians, and our work and family life suffers.

This is a worst-case scenario. But, fear can affect you in many ways. When you attempt to ignore your anxiety or work around it, you aren’t placing complete trust in God and following Him wholeheartedly. Make an honest assessment of your life, and ask the Lord to reveal instances where fear is holding you back.

Obedience : The Priority of Obedience

2007-03-13T09:29:00.000-07:00

Before leaving for work, a father says to his son, “Straighten your room, take out the garbage, and sweep the driveway.” When Dad comes home, the son explains his unique approach to the chore list: “Well, Dad, the garbage can was only half full. And, I figured nobody would see my room. But, I cleaned the driveway, just as you said.”

How many of us would say the son obeyed his father? Some of us treat God the same way. We approach Him with rationalizations and arguments, instead of submission. When Saul spared an enemy king and kept the best of the war plunder, He disobeyed God. The Lord commanded him to destroy everyone and everything, but Saul followed his own plan.

First, he argued that he followed the Lord’s command. With the exception of the rival king, everything had been wiped out (1 Sam. 15:13 & 15). When the prophet Samuel rebuked Saul for disobedience, the king passed the blame to the people. He also attempted to justify the sinful action by claiming he was planning to offer the choice plunder as a sacrifice. Persistent disobedience led the Lord to withdraw His blessing from Saul’s reign.

We might think our rationalizations sound convincing. But God isn’t fooled. He requires complete obedience. When we choose to follow only portions of His will, we are actually being disobedient and there will be consequences. Anytime we step outside God’s will for our lives, we can expect consequences for not choosing the right path.

Obedience : The Key to God’s Heart

2007-03-13T09:24:00.000-07:00

You may be familiar with the phrase “holding the key to someone’s heart.” It means we know what will make someone else happy, and we do those things because we want him or her to feel loved.

Believers hold the key to God’s heart. If we want to please Him and show Him our love, we will be obedient to all He commands.

The most important principle for living is submission to God’s will. Every other discipline of the Christian life whether it’s worship, devotion, good works, or humility, springs out of obedience. For this reason, Scripture tells us in Hosea 6:6 to love loyalty more than sacrifice. We can’t live successfully before God without obeying Him.

Some Christians get caught up in doing everything “by the book,” thinking their spiritual actions will prove how faithful they are. They follow all the rules, frown upon those who don’t, and feel very pleased with themselves for making it so easy for the Lord to love them. But good behavior designed to impress others doesn’t honor God. He wants Christians to act out of love for Him, not out of conceit.

Obedience is more than following a list of rules. A wise believer is, first of all, in touch with the Lord daily to discover His will. Secondly, a mature Christian is committed to obeying whatever he or she is called to do.

Good works and acts of worship may convince the world we are faithful to God. But the Lord knows our intentions. Only through honoring him with our daily obedience can we unlock His heart.

WAITING : Learning to Wait

2007-03-13T09:19:00.000-07:00

Psalms 25:20-21 Keep my soul, and deliver me; Let me not be ashamed, for I put my trust in You. Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, For I wait for You.

What are you and I to think when God withholds His answer to our prayer? Most likely, you’ve wondered about this at some point. As creatures bound by time, we can find those ticking seconds very frustrating.
God doesn’t see us simply in the here and now. He perceives the big picture all at once, where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re going. And, He knows the exact impact on our lives of every little decision, action, or blessing.

Does God want to bring something into your life that would absolutely destroy you? Of course not! He knows what may be a tremendous blessing later could completely devastate your life now. For this reason, He often pauses to give you time to prepare for that blessing.

Learning to wait on God is difficult. Patience successfully demands at least three things from us. First, we must be sensitive to Him. That is, we must nurture our relationship with the Father so we can hear Him when He tells us to wait. Second, we must trust His judgment. Does God know more than we do? Of course. Then doesn’t it make sense to trust Him? Finally, we must be obedient. If we try to accomplish something alone after God tells us to wait, then we’re headed for disaster. God blesses obedience, even obedient waiting.

The Lord doesn’t operate in a vacuum. He works within His relationship with you. Never forget He is actively walking with you, even when He withholds an answer to your prayer. It doesn’t mean He’s not there. It simply means He’s looking out for you even more.

WAITING : The Grace to Wait

2007-03-13T09:17:00.000-07:00

Psalms 62:1-2 Truly my soul silently waits for God; From Him comes my salvation. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be greatly moved.

For most of us, waiting in line is pure agony. We arrive at a doctor’s appointment on time. But we’re forced to sit in the waiting room for what seems like forever. We go to the grocery store for just a few things, and get stuck in a long checkout line. And, then, there’s the glacially-paced traffic jam at the bank drive-thru! It seems no one in our culture likes to wait.

When we take something to the Lord in prayer, we bring our human impatience with us. We may make a request and expect an immediate answer. If God doesn’t spring into action right away, some people may think prayer doesn’t work. They believe God didn’t hear them, or He simply wasn’t listening.

How tragic! Compare that attitude to King David’s. He was only 16 years old when God sent the prophet Samuel to anoint him as king. Yet, 16 more years would pass before that promise was fulfilled. What did David do during that time? Did he moan and groan, shaking his finger at the Lord and demanding his throne now? Not at all. David understood God was trustworthy. He also realized his heavenly Father was not only the God of who and what, but also of when and how. David wanted the kingship only when God was ready for him to have it. So, he waited.

Are you waiting on something today? Will you wait on the Lord like you impatiently wait on a bank teller? Or will you, like King David, trust in God’s timing and His provision?

The power in the words you say...

2007-03-13T09:03:00.000-07:00

Before you speak, ask yourself... "Will what I am about to say help others become stronger?" You have the ability with your words, to make a person stronger. Your words are to their soul what a vitamin is to their body. Therefore friends, speak words of love and encouragement into the lives of the people around you for you never know how your words nourishes the life of another. Be Blessed !

Reflection on being a child of God...

2007-03-10T21:55:00.000-08:00

We have much to learn as the children of God, the most difficult perhaps is to learn how to regard our trails and tribulations, even the tragedies that beset us as capable of enhancing and enriching our lives.

Whereas God does not send them, He does permit them and He can use them to draw us closer to Him and thereby accomplish His purposes in and through us.

We desperately need the wisdom to accept these painful happenings with graciousness, even with joy knowing that whatever they may be, God has the ability to transform them from ugliness to beauty, from the plots of satan designed to destroy into the purposes of God destined to do us good.

The key is a genuine faith in a loving God. A faith that frees us and strengthens us to endure whatever may come our way...

A letter from an old friend...

2007-03-10T21:51:00.000-08:00

I was packing my room and came across my autograph book. I opened it and a letter fell out. It was from a Cambodian friend in Melbourne.

An extract of the letter wrote... "(A reflection from my journal)... I remember you as a friend who is open, honest and also stand up for what is right. I've asked God to one day make you be a woman of God who can lead a nation for the Christian community, especially those in deep hurts, deep need for God's love and healing. May you continue to be touched and experience the Holy Spirit and may God's calling be upon you. Dunno but sometimes I do dream and speak to God in my journal. :)

Love, Menga 29 April 2003

Its been almost 4 years since the letter and its quite amazing how life has been for me since. My Melbourne house-mate who is a caregroup leader told me she had a vision of me standing in front of a crowd preaching to people, sharing about the love of Christ. I'm really excited coz next year I'll be off to Hillsong Leadership College learning more about God, learning to be a better and more effective servant, fulfilling my destiny, leading that life of Significance!

Jesus, help me and teach me to be more like you... this I ask in your most precious name, Amen.

At the Cross with The Passion Movie

2007-03-07T09:12:00.001-08:00

I came across this clip of Pastor Darlene singing "At the Cross" with extracted clips from "The Passion" movie. My heart ached when I watched it and couldnt hold my tears back. Watch it and you would know what I mean... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAFEa9pYHtU&NR

Birthday Photos of Ray and Flo

2007-03-05T07:37:00.000-08:00

It's my birthday

2007-03-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

Photos of the birthday cakes I had this year.

I celebrated my 29th birthday last Wednesday on the 28th of February. It has been a great month, the month of February. Valentine’s Day, Chinese New Year and then my birthday. I used not fall into depression every year in the past as my birthday draws near. I always questioned my existence and I would never see a purpose in my life I didn’t think that anyone cared or bothered if I existed on the surface of the earth or not but this year things have been very different. For a girl who had not had a birthday cake for years, I’ve got an abundance of it. I had many different group of friends that celebrated my birthday for me and I want to thank all of you. Love you heaps !

The amount of love that has been pouring in this month, the number of birthday cards, well wishes and blessings that have been showering upon me is beyond what any girl could have asked for. My best friend sent me a card that wrote "Happy Birthday to one of God's nicest work of art!" That really made my day. I thot that was so sweet of her. Thank you Jesus for giving me all these friends. They are angels without wings. This is going to be the most memorable birthday ever !

Please pray for my grandma

2007-03-05T06:36:00.000-08:00

Friends would know that my grandma has been in hospital for the past three months. Tomorrow she will be coming home. I am looking forward to it as she is getting more and more frustrated staying in the hospital. I think she misses home. Her movement is still very restricted but I pray that we will be able to manage carrying her around the house. Friends, please continue to keep my grandma in your prayers, Pray for a speedy supernatural recovery and that her spirits be high and lifted up and both my mum and her will have the grace to be patient with each other. Thanks all of you for your prayers. Be blessed in Jesus's name :)

Salt & Light : Shining Light in Our Circle of Influence

2007-02-28T09:15:00.000-08:00

John 12:35-36 Then Jesus said to them, "A little while longer the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going. While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light."

Jesus was the “Light of the World,” and He commanded His followers to be light, as well. We're to shine with a godly brightness in hopes that people will be drawn to the One who dwells within us.

Light shines most effectively when it is not hidden. As Christians, we are to be transparent about our faith and our dependence on the Lord. Light is also brightest when its cover is kept clean. People are quick to spot hypocrisy, so our private actions must match who we are in public. Eliminating sinful habits and practices will brighten our testimony for Jesus.

Light also reveals the hidden darkness. The Holy Spirit will use our actions to shine biblical truth into others’ lives and to reveal their need for the Savior. Their initial reaction may be discomfort or even guilt. But, as the Spirit moves, they will be drawn to the light you display.

Light also serves to guide and to warn. As we obey God’s leading, we'll be equipped to help others understand some key truths: their sinful state, their need for a Savior; and how to reconcile with God through Jesus Christ. We will also function as lanterns to warn people of the dangers along the path they’re taking.

Finally, our interactions are to bring warmth through an encouraging attitude and servant-like actions. To make a strong impact, we must reflect the light of God’s Son. Growing in Christlikeness is the key. Become intentional about shining your light in your circle of influence--namely, your home, workplace, and community.

Salt & Light : Being a Salty Influence

2007-02-28T09:12:00.000-08:00

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

In Matthew 5:13, Jesus calls His followers to be the “salt of the earth.” What qualities does salt possess that we can exhibit in our spiritual lives?

First, salt adds flavor. Salt doesn’t bring change to itself; it seasons that which needs improved taste. In the same way, we are to focus on those who don’t know Jesus as Savior. Christlike character opens the way for others to hear our message.

Second, salt is a preservative. Salt keeps meat from going bad. In the case of people, our lives are to demonstrate an alternative to the world’s ways and point others to Jesus. Our influence can help them leave the destructive path they’re on and follow Him.

Third, salt makes an impact. Changes caused by salt may be invisible, but they are still evident. A timely word or act of kindness can speak volumes to someone searching for God. At other times, it's what we avoid doing or saying that catches another’s attention. We can be an effective witness to people around us wherever we are: restaurants, grocery lines, doctors’ offices, etc.

Finally, salt causes thirst. By facing difficulties with calmness, endurance, and hope, we display a godly testimony. When people going through hardship and pain see the way we deal with our troubles, they will thirst to know how we do it. Telling them about our dependence on God and His sufficiency will show them how to satisfy their needs.

Functioning as salt provides the opportunity to have a godly impact on someone else. Do the people around you sense something special in your life and thirst to know what it is?

Salt & Light : Making a Lasting Impact

2007-02-28T09:05:00.000-08:00

Matthew 5:13-16 "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

First Timothy 2:4 says that God “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth." His plan is to use believers to make an impact on the world. It's God’s will for each of us to live in such a way that we influence other people for their spiritual good. Jesus used two very distinct words "salt and light" to illustrate our mission.

Salt is an additive used for flavoring and preserving. Its presence penetrates and spreads throughout any food on which it is sprinkled. As a result, there is a significant difference in flavor. Christians are to function the same way as salt: by spreading the appeal of Christ through our interaction with others. But, Jesus warns that the “saltiness” of our lives will decrease if we practice ungodly habits and attitudes. Chronic patterns of sin will render us “tasteless” and ineffective.

Jesus also calls us to be light, just as He was (John 1:4, 9). Light drives out darkness, reveals what is present, illuminates the path ahead, and warns of danger. We're to do the same by reflecting the Savior’s presence through our conversation and conduct. Just as soot on a glass lantern diminishes its light, sin’s presence decreases the strength of our testimony and reduces our influence. The more sin there is in our lives, the less divine light we'll reflect.

The composition of salt and the clarity of light are what gives them their power. Our character, which is who we are when no one is looking, can help or hurt our ability to affect our world. Consider the impact you can make by following God!

TRIALS : God’s Protection and Peace in Life’s Storms

2007-02-28T02:39:00.000-08:00

Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Emotional storms of inner turmoil are difficult to handle. Grief, fear, and worry can cause us great distress. To see us through life's difficulties, God provides His protection and peace. But protection doesn't mean that troubles won’t occur.

Jesus allowed the disciples to experience the fear and anxiety of being in a boat on a raging sea. He permitted them to suffer because He had something far more important to teach them. He wanted the disciples to recognize their own helplessness, His sufficiency, and their dependence on Him.

God's peace is not dependent upon the calming of our circumstances or the removal of external pressures. It doesn’t mean the absence of conflict either. His promised peace comes in three ways.

First, Jesus Himself becomes our peace. Through His death, He reconciled us to the Father. And we are no longer His enemies (Romans 5:1). In God, we can be at rest.

Second, when we're in a right relationship with the Father, we have the ability to live at peace with our fellow man (Ephesians 2:14). Through God, we have the power to choose forgiveness, to keep no record of wrongs, and to show love to our enemies.

The third way His promised peace comes is through the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. It enables us to experience an increasing sense of inner tranquility (Galatians 5:22-23).

God provides our spiritual needs to both endure and grow stronger in our Christian faith. What challenges do you face? Are you using what God has provided?

TRIALS : God’s Provision in Life’s Storms

2007-02-28T02:34:00.000-08:00

Matthew 14:27-31 "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid." And Peter answered Him and said, "Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water." So He said, "Come." And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, "Lord, save me!" And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?"

No one enjoys suffering. But in the hands of almighty God, trials become tools. He uses them to shape believers into the people He intends for them to be.

In our own strength, we lack the sufficient resources and abilities to meet life’s challenges. So, God provides just what we need. The most important thing He gives us is an awareness of His presence. At first, the disciples believed they were alone in a terrifying storm. When they initially spotted Jesus, their fear increased. They thought He was a ghost. But as they recognized Him, their fear changed to relief and hope.

During a crisis, we may not sense God’s presence. But, He has promised always to be with us (Hebrews 13:5-6). The assurance that He will never leave provides immediate comfort, an infusion of courage, and a sense of confidence to endure.

Another promise God makes is that He’ll provide a path through the trial. The disciples probably wondered how long the storm would last and whether they would make it safely to shore. As you or I would, they most likely wanted it all to end “yesterday.” But, had they somehow avoided this storm, they would have missed the demonstration of Jesus’ power over the sea and wind. This frightening situation was transformed into a revelation of the Savior’s divine nature. God wants to make known His power through our trials, too.

Ask God to reveal His abiding presence in the midst of your trouble. He'll provide strength to endure and wisdom to navigate a way out.

TRIALS : Reasons for the Storms of Life

2007-02-28T02:30:00.000-08:00

2 Corinthians 1:3-6 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ. Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.

The Lord is never taken by surprise. He knows everything we are going through. And He is orchestrating our circumstances for both our benefit and His glory, according to His good will.

One purpose for hardship is our cleansing. Because of our own “flesh” nature, and the self-absorbed world we live in, it's easy to develop selfish attitudes, mixed-up priorities, and ungodly habits. The pressures that bear down on us from stormy situations are meant to bring these impurities to our attention and direct us to a place of repentance. Our trials are not designed to sink us but to purify us and guide us back to godliness.

A second reason we face difficulty is so that we'll bring comfort to others. God’s work in our lives is not intended solely for us. It's designed to reach a world that does not recognize or acknowledge Him. The Lord uses our challenges to equip us for serving others. As we experience suffering, we will learn about God’s sufficiency, His comforting presence, and His strength to help us endure. Our testimony during times of difficulty will be authentic. Those we minister to will recognize that we know and understand their pain. What credibility would we have with people in crisis if we never experienced a deep need?

Reflecting on the divine purpose in hardship can help us respond to them in a God-honoring way. Take a moment to fix your attention on the Lord. Seek to understand what He wants you to learn.

TRIALS : God’s Purposes in Our Difficulties

2007-02-28T02:26:00.000-08:00

Romans 8:28-29 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.

If we could choose the number of difficulties we want to face in a month, most of us would pick zero. Yet, God sees value in difficult times. Through His mighty power, He uses trials to accomplish His plans.

One of God’s purposes for us is a growing intimacy in our relationship with Him. But He knows we struggle to put Him first over our own interests. Many of us place higher priority on family and friends than on companionship with God. For others, finances, work, or even personal pleasures interfere. When the Lord sees that our attention is drifting away from Him, He might use hardships to draw us back so we’ll refocus.

Another reason God allows difficulties is to conform us to the image of Jesus. Pain is a tool that brings areas of ungodliness to the surface. God also uses it to sift, shape, and prune us. The sanctification process, the building of Christlike character into our lives, starts at salvation and ends with our last breath.

A third purpose for stressful circumstances is to reveal true convictions. Our faith is tested in tough times. It’s easy to say, “God is good,” when things are peaceful. But when everything goes wrong, what do we believe about Him? Do our words and actions reveal an attitude of trust?

King David endured many heartaches: a disintegrating family, personal attacks, and betrayal by close friends. But through his trials, he gained deeper intimacy with God, stronger faith, and more godly character. Won’t you let God accomplish His purposes in your present situation?

LOVE : It's all about forgiveness...

2007-02-28T02:22:00.000-08:00

1 Corinthians 13:5-7 Love is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Forgiving those who wronged us is a tough command to follow. Our human nature finds it easier and more satisfying to hold onto our anger. But, as vessels of God’s love, Christians no longer live according to the impulses of the flesh. Thanks to the Holy Spirit, when someone mistreats us, we can not only forgive but also show love to that person.

First Corinthians 13:5 tells us several important aspects of love:

First, Love does not seek its own. Many people are preoccupied with their “rights.” Yet, the idea of entitlement is a worldly creation, not a biblical mandate. This doesn’t mean we allow others to take advantage of us. Rather, our primary concern should not be with our interests. Instead, we're to be focused on showing God’s love to our enemy, which is a mandate from Scripture. (Matthew 5:44)

Second, Love is not provoked. Maintaining a peaceful spirit when we're irritated is difficult. But the moments when we're persecuted or wronged are precisely the times we most need to be mindful of God’s love flowing through us. Think how often Jesus had to face religious leaders who deliberately provoked Him. Yet, on the cross, He sought the Father’s forgiveness for them, too.

Finally, Love does not take into account a wrong suffered. God’s love flowing through us can remove a hurt done someone else. But we must let this happen instead of holding onto painful memory.

People will wrong us. But, if we have an unprovoked, caring attitude that isn't preoccupied with rights, then we can let go of bitterness and forgive with love.

LOVE : Happy Valentines Day Jesus

2007-02-27T02:33:00.000-08:00

1 John 4-12 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

It has been awhile that Ngiap Heng has walked out on me. This is my second Valentines Day alone since. I remembered last year this time I was still feeling hurt that my wedding did not come to pass and that I spent the day mopping and wallowing in self pity. This year Valentines of 2007 is very different…

I had a really well rested sleep the night before and I woke up feeling as if I was in love. The fact is that I am. I am in love with Jesus and I am THE bride of Christ. I said my morning prayers. I told Jesus that I loved him and I wanted to be with him forever and that I prayed that he would shower me with his love all the days of my life. It was such a beautiful morning. The sky was clear, the sun was shining yet it was nice and cool. I had a really nice walk to the bus stop taking in the fresh air that filled the morning. It felt as if romance filled the atmosphere. Everyone I met along the walk seemed to have a glow radiating out from their faces. I took bus 72 in at 7.20 in the morning and we had a conductor that was checking our farecards. Most of the time they are not very friendly but this was had a smile on his face and was wishing everyone good morning. I obviously wished him good morning back and flashed him my million dollar smile. He was pleasantly surprised and wished me a very “Happy Valentines’ Day”. A few of the passengers were surprised and I had a couple of stares but I didn’t really care. That was so nice of the bus conductor I thought to myself.

I took the train and met one of my salsa dance partners Dylon. He was on the other side of the train but the saw me and came across and stood in front of me. I it was another pleasant surprise. I had a big hug and he too wished me a very “Happy Valentines’ Day”. It was 8.30 in the morning and I already have been wished twice.

I alighted at Buena Vista MRT station and took bus 92 to office and the bus driver seemed to be in an exceptionally good mood too. He greeted everyone that boarded the bus “Good Morning” and I wished him “Happy Valentines’ Day” and he reciprocated by wishing me back too. Office was really nice everyone was in a happy spirit and I was singing to myself all day at the table while doing my work.

Lunchtime… Raymond, Animesh and I went to Cintech for lunch as we had a meeting after and guess who was standing in the Ban Mian queue beside me? It was Josie! The head of the intercessory team and a good friend of mine. What a surprise! She too gave me a big cuddle and wished me “Happy Valentines’ Day” and she was just sitting behind me at the canteen. What a small world! We said our goodbyes and I went off for me meeting at Depot Road.

Guess what… at the lift lobby, I bumped into Dorothy one of my dance ministry friends from New Creation Church and we were like “Hey! Was just thinking about you and ta dah! You appear before my very eyes” We hugged each other and wished each other a blessed love filled day.

My meeting went very smoothly and I ended work on the dot so that I can go to the hospital and spent it with my grandma. I was planning to go to CSC and spend sometime in the adoration room but since it was the day of love I decided to spend it with the one I loved the most and I believed that Jesus would have understood. I went home and did my quiet time instead and I thanked him for the really beautiful day.

Dear Lord, thank you for your faithfulness towards me. Thank you for loving me everyday of my life. Thank you for your steadfast love that is new every morning. Thank you for the love that never ceases. I asked for a simple day filled with love and you just overwhelmed me with the abundance of it. Love from strangers and love from friends. I know it’s your way of showing me that you care. You can’t come down from heaven to hug me but you send friends to come and give me cuddles. Thank you for taking me into your embrace. I love you Jesus, Thank you for everything.

LOVE : The Power of Love

2007-02-20T22:37:00.000-08:00

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails.

Believers are channels for God’s love. His love flowing through us is a powerful force that enables us to do more than the unbeliever who relies only upon himself:

First, we can exhibit divine patience. With God’s Spirit living within us, we are empowered to wait upon His timing and purpose. When we care about someone, we naturally want to act quickly on his or her behalf. But, as the Lord is working out His perfect plan, we must wait until He tells us to proceed.

Second, we can demonstrate a kind and caring attitude. As believers, we have the capacity to be genuinely kind, regardless of how others treat us. Unlike vengeance, which feeds our own desires, kindness responds to the other person’s need for love and affirmation.

Third, we learn to separate love from jealousy. Jealousy is a fear of losing someone, or losing loyalty from that person. Being a channel for God’s love gives us the security to hold relationships more loosely. When we're confident of our Lord’s care and sovereignty, we don't need to cling so fiercely to our friends and family that we smother them.

Finally, we understand that love is not arrogant. Apart from the fullness of God’s love, people are empty and prone to crave attention for themselves. But, as believers, we're indwelled by the Holy Spirit, who enables us to understand our value in God’s eyes. As a result, we can be humble before men.

God’s love is powerful. When we allow His caring Spirit to flow through us, we can profoundly affect our world.

LOVE: Above All Else

2007-02-20T22:34:00.000-08:00

1 Corinthians 13:1-3 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.

The Corinthian believers placed more emphasis on the Holy Spirit’s gifts than on the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). For this reason, Paul digresses from a discussion of spiritual gifts to write about love. In 1 Corinthians 13, the apostle confronts those who prize eloquence and action over a heart that is genuinely committed to Christ.

Some people speak in a way that could be interpreted as loving. But their pretty words may actually be born of selfishness. Others say mean things, yet claim to do so “for your own good.” If those words are flowing only from the mouth and not from a loving heart, they are nothing more than noise in God's ears.

Similarly, an action that appears loving may have an ulterior motive. Paul uses the example of charitable giving. Those who give do so for a variety of reasons: some noble (like believing in a cause), and others more self-serving (like the need to feel good inside). But, unless charity is motivated primarily by love, the deed will not count toward a believer’s eternal reward. That person already received “compensation” in the form of whatever advantage was sought.

It's easy to hide our true motivation from others. But God knows that if our love for Him isn't compelling us to act on His behalf, then acting and speaking in a religious manner are empty gestures. Believers are called to be conformed to Christ. But we are like Him only when we love as He does.

LOVE : The Lessons of Love

2007-02-09T16:17:00.000-08:00

Matthew 22:37-39 Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'

Jesus said the most important commandment is to love God and others. To live apart from this directive is to miss our reason for being. There are different types of love, as well as different degrees of intensity. For example, brotherly love--phileo in the Greek is one type of caring. While agape the unconditional love that characterizes God is love of the highest order. Agape is a commitment that inspires us to help others find and pursue God’s plan for their lives.

John 13:35 reads, “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Jesus was saying His followers should be identifiable by their love for others. But people enter the world as selfish sinners with a limited capacity to demonstrate care and concern. So God must do something to enable them to show His love. By receiving salvation through Christ the Savior, a person becomes a brand-new creation, which allows the Holy Spirit to work in the believer's life, and through whom God can live out His life and love.

Natural, self-generated love is imperfect because it comes from a sinful heart. (Jeremiah 17:9) However, a heart filled with the Spirit is capable of practicing agape love. Believers are able to love even their enemies and persecutors because the Holy Spirit lives out God’s most important commandment through them.

Love that is selfless, patient, and kind is rare. And its sole source is God. We're unable to practice that kind of passionate care until we allow the Father’s love to flow through us.

LOVE : The Expressions of God’s Love

2007-02-08T13:45:00.001-08:00

Luke 15:11-24

God’s unconditional love guarantees that He, like the Prodigal Son’s father, is always waiting to welcome back sinners (Luke 15:20). He accepts us no matter how dirty we are from sin or how disgraced from failure.

God's first way of expression is through touch. Our heavenly Father reaches out to physically reassure us through the arms and hands of fellow believers.

Second, is quality time. We need intimacy with the Lord in order for our relationship to grow. He is always ready to spend time with us.

Third, God expresses Himself through service. Jesus said that He came to serve. (Mark 10:45) The Lord goes before us to protect, provide, and guide us onto the correct path for our lives.

Fourth, is gift giving. "Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17). Each blessing in our lives is an expression of God’s care.

And the final way God expresses his love to us is through words of encouragement. The Scriptures are packed with the Lord’s inspiring and encouraging messages for believers. He also sends people into our lives to offer praise and godly counsel.

These are some of the ways God shows us His love. In turn, we must allow His love to flow through us to others. Ultimately, we'll discover that every person will respond to one or more of these methods of communicating God’s love.

More than Enough...

2007-02-07T06:44:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MaLNjeTEeE4&NR

All of You is more than enough for all of me For every thirst and every need You satisfy me with Your love And all I have in You is more than enough

You are my supply My breath of life And still more awesome than I know

You are my reward worth living for And still more awesome than I know

All of You is more than enough for all of me For every thirst and every need You satisfy me with Your love And all I have in You is more than enough

You're my sacrifice Of greatest price And still more awesome than I know

Youre the coming King You are everything And still more awesome than I know

More than all I want More than all I need You are more than enough for me

More than all I know More than all I can say You are more than enough for me

Father Lord, thank you so much for showering me with your love and your grace and your favour and everything good thing that has come along may way for the past 29 years. Thank you for being there for me during the difficult times, never forsaking me and always there with me every step of the way journeying with me every moment. Lord, I can never thank you enough. Keep me close to your heart, keep my heart right by ours Lord, let me never lose sight of you even when my days get really busy and trials get difficult. Let me never forget what whatever it is, You Lord are more than enough for me. This I pray in Jesus name. Amen.

Fix Your Eyes On God's Unshakeable Word

2007-02-07T01:57:00.000-08:00

Philippians 4:19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

“This war will affect the world’s economy.”... “Unemployment is at an all-time high.”

People of the world feel helpless as systems of the world go up and down. But God does not want you to feel helpless because you are not of the world. (John 17:16) You are of God and therefore need not be subject to the world’s systems. Whatever the world’s situation is, fear not because “God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus”.

Notice that Philippians 4:19 says that “God shall supply all your need”. It does not say that God may supply some of your needs. It also says that God will do it “according to His riches”. It is not out of His riches. If a millionaire gives you a hundred dollars, it is out of his riches. The sum is only a small portion of his riches. However, if he gives to you according to his riches, it means that he is lining up his millions for your supply!

Lastly, the verse says that God does it “according to His riches in glory”. It is not according to the riches of your company or how well the economy is doing. No, it is according to God’s riches in glory!

So how do you stop yourself from feeling helpless in uncertain, shaky times? My friend, don’t look at your circumstances or the bad things that are happening in the world because you will get “earth-sick”. Instead, look at the unshakeable, eternal Word of God. Your heart will become stable and you will see your God supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus!

God Wants To Set You Up For A Blessing

2007-02-07T01:53:00.000-08:00

Ruth 2:12 The Lord repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.

Have you ever wondered why, in some Bible stories, God sometimes asked people to give what little they had to Him? It may appear cruel, but the truth is that God was setting them up for a blessing! God’s way is to use whatever we have, and multiply it once we put it into His hands.

The widow of Zarephath had only a handful of flour and a little oil to make one last meal for her son and herself before they faced starvation. But she trusted God and used a portion of the little that she had to make a cake for the prophet Elijah. And God rewarded her by making sure that her bin of flour was not used up and her jar of oil did not run dry until the drought ended. (1 Kings 17:8–16)

Similarly, the boy who gave his little lunch of five loaves and two small fish to Jesus not only ate well, but he also saw it being used to feed more than 5,000 people with 12 basketfuls left over! (John 6:1–13)

Whenever we give what little we have, whether it is money, time or energy to God, it opens up our hearts to receive. God can then fill us up with more. And when we give our lives to God, we can trust Him to make things right for us and to be the rewarder of our faith.

When Ruth, a childless Moabite widow, left the comfort of her home to follow her mother-in-law Naomi and the God of Israel back to a foreign land (Ruth 1:16), she was given a full reward by the Lord. God gave Ruth adequate protection and ensured that she was well-provided for through Boaz, who took on the role of kinsman-redeemer for her and Naomi. (Ruth 2:9, 4:9–10)

Beloved, when you trust Him with all that you have today, know that He loves you and is setting you up for a blessing. Expect good things to happen!

You Will Have Whatever You Say

2007-02-07T01:50:00.000-08:00

Mark 11:23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, “Be removed and be cast into the sea,” and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.

God says that we will have whatever we say. So whatever we want to have, we can say it and have it.

Unfortunately, we often say what we don’t want to have. For example, we say, “I don’t know why my money just gets used up so fast every month. Even when my boss gives me an increment, there never seems to be enough money.” And, true enough, we see “money not enough” at the end of every month.

You see, you will have whatever you say. So why not change what you have been saying to, “From now on, I will have more than enough because Jesus became poor at the cross, so that I might become rich — 2 Corinthians 8:9. So poverty, be gone in Jesus’ name!”

Whatever mountain of difficulty you have, be it a mountain of debt or serious health condition, Jesus says, “For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.”

Jesus highlights the importance of saying by mentioning the word “say” thrice, but the word “believe” only once. Our problem today is that there is more preaching on believing than saying. So the reason people find it hard to walk in faith is that they are not saying enough.

But if you focus more on saying God’s Word, faith will come. Faith comes by hearing and hearing the Word of God. (Romans 10:17) That is how God quickened the faith of Abraham. He changed Abraham’s saying when He changed his name from Abram to Abraham, which means “father of many nations”. (Genesis 17:5) From then on, whenever Abraham introduced himself, he would say, “Hi, my name is ‘father of many nations’.”

Beloved, declare your abundance, saying, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1) Speak forth your healing, saying, “By Jesus’ stripes I am healed!” (Isaiah 53:5) And you will have whatever you say!

A Season of LOVE...

2007-02-07T01:46:00.000-08:00

1John 4:11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another

Have you ever encountered a “sandpaper person?” You know, someone that rubs you the wrong way. Most of us want to run and hide from sandpaper people. Sometimes we escape them, but not for long. Eventually, we will run head-on into another one. Why? Because God is doing some of His best work in us when He places sandpaper people in our lives.

Have you ever noticed how hard it is to love a sandpaper person? They’re usually arrogant, mean, rude and selfish. They like to demand their own way and boast in their accomplishments. Yet, God has called us to love all people—not just the lovable, but the unlovable as well. The Bible says, “Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another” (1 John 4:11).

You may be thinking that’s impossible. You’re right; in our own strength we can’t love the unlovely. Yet, God’s love is different than ours. We express love according to how we feel. When a friend is caring and helpful, we feel loved and then we express love back. We call that kind of love—“friendship love.” When being close to our spouse gives us a warm fuzzy feeling, we call that—“being in love.” However, if we love only according to our feelings, then we will never learn to love the unlovable, because the one thing we don’t feel around a sandpaper person is—love.
While most love according to their feelings, God’s love is more of a response of the will. Examine 1 Corinthians 13:4 as it explains how biblical love responds:

Love is patient and kind, never jealous or envious, never boastful or proud, never haughty or selfish or rude. Love doesn’t demand its own way. It is not irritable or touchy. It does not hold grudges and will hardly even notice when others do it wrong. It is never glad over injustice, but rejoices when truth wins out. If you love someone, you will be loyal to him no matter what the cost. You’ll believe in him and always expect the best of him, while defending him. (NKJ)

That is how God loves us. No matter how mean or selfish we are, or how many times we settle for our own way of doing things instead of His way—God still has the capacity to love us. When we truly realize how God, by His mercy, has loved us to the end of our meanness, selfishness and pride, then no matter how heartless another person may be, we can chose to respond to them in a loving way also.

We respond to all people with love when we choose to see them as a valuable person created by and in the image of God. Love is not a feeling; it’s a choice. It’s a choice that leads to lovely responses toward others.

So how is God teaching us to respond with His kind of love? You guessed it—by not “losing it” with the sandpaper people in our lives. When we respond to the meanest person we know with the loving kindness of God, then God has done one of His best works in us. He’s taught us how to love as He loves!

Dear Lord, thank you for loving me not because I’m lovable, but because You are love. Help me to love the unlovable in my life the way You have loved me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Hillsong's "Mighty to Save" on YouTube

2007-02-07T01:28:00.000-08:00

Hillsongs Mighty to Save can be found at youtube too and I used it alot for my quiet time untill one day I could not take it anymore and bought myself the DVD. Enjoy... :)

Hillsong - Intro
Hillsong - Take It All
Hillsong - I Believe
Hillsong - The Freedom We Know
Hillsong - For Who You Are
Hillsong - You Alone Are God
Hillsong - Open My Eyes
Hillsong - Deep Of Your Grace
Hillsong - From The Inside Out
Hillsong - Found
Hillsong - More To See
Hillsong - Follow The Son
Hillsong - Adonai
Hillsong - Higher (I Believe In You)
Hillsong - Oceans Will Part
Hillsong - None But Jesus
Hillsong - At The Cross
Hillsong - Mighty To Save
Hillsong - How Great is Our God

The last three songs are my personal favs. Be blessed :)

Chris Tomlin in YouTube

2007-02-07T01:16:00.000-08:00

For those who love to worship the Lord, do enjoy these video music clips by Chris Tomlin:

Made To Worship
http://www.youtube. com/watch? v=sJEC3eCtmRU&mode=related&search=

Glorious
http://www.youtube. com/watch? v=9i01HyDBImE&mode=related&search=

Amazing Grace - My Chains Are Gone
http://www.youtube. com/watch? v=PU_4lIik9D8&mode=related&search=

Holy Is The Lord
http://www.youtube. com/watch? v=Nv6hSdbfo2E&NR

We Fall Down (Steven Curtis Chapman & Chris Tomlin)
http://www.youtube. com/watch? v=NWVrKOzxuQg&NR

Enough
http://www.youtube. com/watch? v=MaLNjeTEeE4&NR

PRAYER : A Life-Changing Prayer

2007-02-07T01:02:00.000-08:00

Colossians 1:9-12 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.

The most powerful act anyone can perform is to pray for someone. Of course, the power is not in the praying, but in the release God gives in His perfect answer to our prayers. Paul provides an example of one of the most effective prayers we could utter. He prays that the Colossian church:

• May be filled with the knowledge of God’s will. What a wonderful gesture to ask God to make clear for family members or friends the precise, exact decisions He wishes them to make in every circumstance.

• May walk in a manner worthy of the Lord. This means asking that someone’s life will have weight–will count eternally and not temporally.

• May bear fruit in every good work. We should pray for loved ones to remain so Christ-centered that He through them determines their conversation, conduct, and character.

• May increase in the knowledge of God. Can there be a more precious request than that of wanting someone to grow ever closer to our heavenly Father?

• May be strengthened and sustained with the power of God. Within an evil world system, we need the supernatural power of God to help us bear up under the strain.

• May give thanks that we already have qualified as saints of God. There is nothing for which we should be more appreciative.

PRAYER : Too Busy NOT to Pray

2007-02-07T00:37:00.000-08:00

Luke 5:15-16 Yet the news about him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.

Have you ever forgone your daily prayer time because you felt too busy? When we surrender quiet time for something else, we’re making a statement about our priorities. It is a not-so-subtle way of saying, “Jesus, my calendar is more important to me than You are today. I’ll catch up with You later.”

We all do this from time to time. It’s so easy to be pulled out of the prayer closet. We think we can “make up” the time later because God will always be there. We seem to have taken God’s eternal, indwelling presence for granted.

We fail to realize that our quiet moments with the Lord empower us to face the challenges of each day. Therefore, the busier our day, the more time we should spend in prayer preparing for it! The Bible clearly shows that Jesus Himself protected His private time with the Father. No one had more on his mind, had more things to do, or was in greater demand than Jesus. And yet, His busiest days are the times we see Him pulling away from the crowds in order to pray.

Is prayer the first thing you remove from your daily agenda when the schedule fills up? Protect that time every day at all cost. Remember that Jesus is God. If He considered prayer necessary to prepare for His busiest days, then it is absolutely essential for the rest of us!

PRAYER : The Price of Prayerlessness

2007-02-07T00:29:00.000-08:00

Imagine walking through a crowded airport. You cannot move without bumping into someone. You’re late for your flight, and the wheels just broke on your over-packed suitcase.

With no other option, you’re forced to carry the luggage and slowly maneuver through the congested lobby toward the ticketing area. Almost immediately, a young gentleman offers to carry your bags, but you pridefully refuse. When you realize the ticket counter is two levels up, you make your way to the stairs. Someone asks you if it would be easier to take the elevator. But you are determined to carry your bags.

As you finally make it to the top of the steps, your arms feel numb from the pressure of your bags. Your legs are starting to buckle from the weight. Your back is aching from supporting the heavy load. Then, you spot a collection of unused baggage carts. But you ignore them, self-assured that you can handle the bags yourself.

Isn’t this a silly story? Who would prefer to carry such a heavy burden, ignoring every opportunity to lay it down? And yet, many believers do just that. Our Father has called us to lay our cares at His feet. But when we fail to come to God in prayer, we’re just as foolish as the man staggering with his bags through the airport.

Are you trying to carry a greater burden than you can bear? Don’t ignore God’s offer to help. The truth is, we really can’t “do it ourselves,” and God never wanted us to try.

WAITING : A Lifestyle of Waiting on God

2007-02-07T00:19:00.000-08:00

Psalm 37
1 Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong;
2 for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away.
3 Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
4 Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.
5 Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this:
6 He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.
7 Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.
8 Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret--it leads only to evil.
9 For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.
10 A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found.
11 But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace.
12 The wicked plot against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them;
13 but the Lord laughs at the wicked, for he knows their day is coming.
14 The wicked draw the sword and bend the bow to bring down the poor and needy, to slay those whose ways are upright.
15 But their swords will pierce their own hearts, and their bows will be broken.
16 Better the little that the righteous have than the wealth of many wicked;
17 for the power of the wicked will be broken, but the Lord upholds the righteous.
18 The days of the blameless are known to the Lord, and their inheritance will endure forever.
19 In times of disaster they will not wither; in days of famine they will enjoy plenty.
20 But the wicked will perish: The Lord's enemies will be like the beauty of the fields, they will vanish--vanish like smoke.
21 The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously;
22 those the Lord blesses will inherit the land, but those he curses will be cut off.
23 If the Lord delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm;
24 though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.
25 I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.
26 They are always generous and lend freely; their children will be blessed.
27 Turn from evil and do good; then you will dwell in the land forever.
28 For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones.
29 the righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever.
30 The mouth of the righteous man utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks what is just.
31 The law of his God is in his heart; his feet do not slip.
32 The wicked lie in wait for the righteous, seeking their very lives;
33 but the Lord will not leave them in their power or let them be condemned when brought to trial.
34 Wait for the Lord and keep his way. He will exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are cut off, you will see it.
35 I have seen a wicked and ruthless man flourishing like a green tree in its native soil,
36 but he soon passed away and was no more; though I looked for him, he could not be found. 37 Consider the blameless, observe the upright; there is a future for the man of peace.
38 But all sinners will be destroyed; the future of the wicked will be cut off.
39 The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in time of trouble.
40 The Lord helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him.

Ever notice how some teenagers will ask a question but then rush out the door before you can respond? We act the same way toward God when we don’t wait on Him. There are several things we need to develop a lifestyle of waiting on the Lord.

First, we need faith. We must be willing to trust God when a solution isn’t obvious and we can’t see a way through our struggles. Meditating on and applying Scripture to life’s trials will result in strengthened faith. (Romans 10:17)

Second, we need humility to develop a lifestyle of waiting on God. We must recognize that we can accomplish nothing apart from Jesus. Then, we will be able to endure until God reveals His answer. (John 15:5) God’s ways are always perfect, and our cleverest plan will not be as adequate.

Third, we need patience in order to wait on God. Waiting is characterized by a calm demeanor and inner peace, which both come from believing that God is who He says He is and that He’ll fulfill His promises. With the Spirit’s help, we’ll face stressful circumstances without complaining, and we’ll accept life’s challenges without trying to manipulate our way out.

Fourth, we need courage to wait on God. It’s human nature to want to be in control. We yearn to know the outcome and timeline of every difficult situation. We need courage to resist following our own schedule and the ability to refuse to cave in to pressure from others.

With the Holy Spirit’s help, we can hold steady when others disapprove of our decision to wait on God. Wisdom and godly action come through seeking God and His will. Quiet your heart and mind and listen to Him.

WAITING : When It’s Wise to Wait

2007-02-07T00:15:00.000-08:00

Psalms 130: 5-7 I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I put my hope. My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning. O Israel, put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love and with him is full redemption.

Timing is critical in business, science, and sports. But, most importantly, it’s essential in the believer’s life. To keep in step with the Lord, we need to carry out His instructions in His timeframe.

Waiting on God means seeking further direction from Him while we remain in our present circumstances. It encompasses an attitude of expectancy and readiness. There are several reasons why patience is our wisest course of action.

First, waiting on God allows us to receive direction. Too often, we make decisions based on the influence of our friends or culture. But God is the only source of true wisdom. He knows all things and answers us on the basis of His complete understanding. He is willing to give us clear direction for any large or small decisions we are trying to make. He wants the very best for us in our personal lives, whether the issue is marriage, schooling, business, or relationships (Psalm 32:8).

Second, waiting on God allows us to realize His timetable. To others, it may appear as if we are delaying unnecessarily. But knowing we are walking in concert with God will bring His divine peace to our hearts.

Finally, waiting on God allows us to prepare for His answer and course of action. God may use a season of waiting to strengthen our faith while helping us recognize ungodly motives and areas of sin.

Living godly begins with hearing from God. Have you waited to receive direction from Him?

New Version of Footprints

2007-02-06T23:37:00.000-08:00

Ecclesiastes 3:1,4 "To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under Heaven. A time to weep, a time to laugh; A time to mourn, and a time to dance."

Imagine you and the Lord Jesus are walking down the road together. Formuch of the way, the Lord's footprints go along steadily, consistently,rarely varying the pace. But your footprints are a disorganized streamof zigzags, starts, stops, turn arounds, circles, departures andreturns. For much of the way, it seems to go like this, but gradually yourfootprints come more in line with the Lord's, soon paralleling His consistently. You and Jesus are walking as true friends!

This seems perfect, but then an interesting thing happens: Your footprints, that once etched the sand next to Jesus', are now walking precisely in Hissteps. Inside His larger footprints are your smaller ones, you and Jesus are becoming one. This goes on for many miles, but gradually you noticeanother change. The footprints inside the large footprints seem to grow larger.

Eventually they disappear altogether.There is only one set of footprints: they have become one. This goes onfor a long time, but suddenly the second set of footprints are back.This time it seems even worse! Zigzags all over the place. Stops. Starts. Deep gashes in the sand. A veritable mess of prints.

You are amazed and shocked. Your dream ends. Now you pray: "Lord, I understand the first scene with zigzags and fits. I was a new Christian; I was just learning. But you walked on through the storm andhelped melearn to walk with you.""That is correct."" ... and when the smaller footprints were inside of Yours, I wasactually learning to walk in Your steps; followed you very closely.""Very good. You have understood everything so far.""... when the smaller footprints grew and filled in Yours, I supposethat I was becoming like you in every way."

"Precisely.""So, Lord, was there a regression or something? The footprints separated, and this time it was worse than at first."There is a pause as the Lord answers with a smile in his voice.

"Youd on't know? That was when we danced

迎春福

2007-02-06T21:32:00.000-08:00

A friend send this poem to me which I thought was really nice to bless others with.

基督宏爱耀大地
祥花瑞蝶迎春来
天使展翅百羽飞
恩典祝福飘满堂

Blessed New Year everyone !

Jesus and the washing machine

2007-02-06T18:42:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago a miracle happened before my very eyes. I went home at about 11pm and was going to do my laundry. My washing machine has been acting up lately and sometimes it would automatically decide to shut down by itself after about three seconds of starting the wash. Last night was one of those days again. I tried switching off the main power supply, waiting for awhile and then switching it on again. I tried playing around with the buttons on the machine itself, maybe trying a different "combination" of wash would get the machine to work. Tried all sort of methods and nothing seemed to work. Then I suddenly remembered ! "Why don't I pray?" which was what I did. So I laid my hands on the on button and prayed a really short prayer in tongues and I ended it off with "In Jesus's name, I command you washing machine to work !" and wha la ! the machined started to spew water out and stayed on till the end of the wash !

Last week I did laundry again and I was abit worried if my washing machine will break down once more but then a little voice inside me spoke to me saying... Once Jesus heals he heals forever. Its not like he makes the blind see today and then tomorrow the blind will lose his vision right? Likewise for our life... Jesus came to be crucified on the cross once for ALL our sins... our past sins, our current sins, and even our future sins that we have yet to commit but whatever it is, He will ALWAYS forgive us and love us.

My washing machine has not given me any problem since...

Praise be to you Lord Jesus for using a washing machine to remind me of your everlasting love and forgiving grace!

Praising Him for His Goodness

2007-02-06T18:30:00.000-08:00

Psalm 107:8 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

There’s nothing like meditating on the goodness of God that stirs up the joy in me, and moves me to praise Him with every fiber of my being. On the other hand, nothing much saddens me more than the attitude of many Christians, who seem to have no joy whatsoever. Many seem to be not only depressed much of the time, but deeply ensnared in bitterness and despair.

One of the reasons this is so troubling, is that so many of these poor, wayfaring strangers have been led into that condition by scripturally errant pastors, prophets, and Christian counselors.
Anyone who tries to teach, comfort, or counsel by saying things like, “God has sent this trial to teach you how to trust Him” or, “It may not be God’s will or timing, in your particular case, for you to be healed from your affliction” or worse yet, “You know... This sin, sickness, or affliction may be your ‘cross to bear’, and you should just thank God for it” — that person may have your best interests at heart, but his message is contrary to the gospel of Christ.

God is good... ALL the time!

At least five times in Psalm 107 alone, we are exhorted to give thanks, and to praise God for His GOODNESS. There are primarily two Hebrew words translated “goodness”, in the Old Testament. One of them is “tuwb” (pronounced toob), and it refers to gladness, joy, welfare, or beauty, i.e., the ‘goodness’ of the promised land.

The other word is “checed” (pronounced kheh’sed), and it means mercy, kindness, etc. This is the word in Psalm 107... “Oh that men would praise the Lord for his ‘goodness”.

God is the source of both. As a matter-of-fact, both words are in one very familiar line of scripture... “Surely goodness (tuwb) and mercy (checed) shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.” (Psalm 23:6)

It is this goodness (mercy), for which we come “boldly unto the throne of grace” to obtain (along with grace), to help us in a time of need. God wants to help you out of your trial. He is not the giver of trials, He is the giver of mercy and grace — goodness, in other words. And His expressed intention is to deliver you.

Sources of trial

If God’s people would only quit blaming Him for their problems and begin thanking Him for the solutions to their problems, my how the circumstances would change for many people! Now think, before you disagree with that — it really is just another way of saying what the Psalmist said... “Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness!”.

You may say, “Well... We really don’t ‘blame God’ for our problems”. But there are many religiously doctored up ways for people to express that very sentiment. It is communicated in songs and sermons alike; thus, propagating the idea that faith and spiritual maturity come through trials, and therefore God, many times, will not deliver you from those trials because they are part of your training. If that were true, most of us would be spiritually perfected faith giants by now.

There are trials of persecution and affliction that come upon the righteous just because they are Christians. And though these trials do not come from God either, they are associated with godliness; and they are part of the package of being a servant of the Lord. The trials and tribulations I am addressing in this article, however, are primarily those which do not have anything to do with persecution or godliness.

Psalm 107:8-13 once again, reveals some of the sources of these trials...

Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness. Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and iron; Because they rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High: Therefore he brought down their heart with labour; they fell down, and there was none to help. Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them out of their distresses.

Here we have God’s people sitting in darkness, bound up in many different kinds of affliction. Why? ... Because God was trying to teach them something? ... NO. The scripture is very clear as to the reason for their despair. They “rebelled against the words of God, and contemned [despised] the counsel of the Most High”.

God was bound by His own honor and justice to allow them to suffer the consequences of their own determination and stubbornness. And He will do the same for you and me. What I want you to see, is the fact that even though they brought the trial and affliction on themselves; when they called on the Lord for help, He was right there to deliver them. And again — He will do the same for you and me.

Continuing in the same passage of scripture, verses 17 - 21...

Fools, because of their transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted. Their soul abhorreth all manner of meat; and they draw near unto the gates of death. Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he saveth them out of their distresses. He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions. Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

Once again... Was it the sovereignty of God, that brought such hardship upon these folks? Was it some hidden purpose of God, working in the lives of these afflicted souls? Hardly! Their afflictions came because of their sinfulness and rebellion to godly authority and counsel — which is iniquity.

Did their affliction teach them anything? Was their faith in any way strengthened by the trial? Absolutely not! When they finally cried out to God for mercy... He sent His WORD... Not more trials and tribulations! He sent His WORD and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.

Please note that God’s Word equates trials and affliction with DESTRUCTION, not training or strengthening. Our deliverance, our healing, our maturation, our training, our equipping for service, our strength — all of that, comes from His WORD, not from trials and affliction.
And think about this for a moment... It was rebellious, transgressing, fools mentioned there, in Psalm 107, who had sense enough to call on the Lord for help, rather than blaming Him for their trials. So, does it not make sense, that if God would hear and deliver the rebellious, transgressing, fools... How much more willing would He be, to hear and deliver those who stand before Him in the righteousness of Christ Jesus — those who boldly come to the Throne of Grace to receive mercy and grace to help in such a time of need?

Deliverance from trial is not based on our goodness, but on His. May we forever praise Him for His goodness and His wonderful works in our behalf.

His Shalom He Has Bequeathed To You

2007-02-05T14:40:00.000-08:00

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

In Israel, the Jews greet each other with the word “shalom”. Unlike the English word “peace”, “shalom” does not just mean peace of mind, but also wholeness for your entire being — spirit, soul and body. It means having a sense of total well-being and soundness. In other words, “shalom” encompasses your prosperity, health and completeness.

When Jesus spoke to His disciples in John 14:27, He did not use the English word “peace”. He would have used the Hebrew word “shalom”, saying, “Shalom I leave with you, My shalom I give to you…” Interestingly, the word “leave” here actually means “bequeath”, the way a rich man bequeaths his estate to his beneficiary.

The disciples must have been excited when they heard that Jesus was bequeathing to them His shalom. They must have known that to receive His shalom was to have His health because they had never seen Him sick. To have Jesus’ shalom also meant never being in lack because Jesus was never broke. Whenever He needed money, money was there. Once, money to pay the temple tax came in the mouth of a fish! (Matthew 17:24–27)

The disciples also understood that having His shalom meant having His abundance because they had seen Him meeting the needs of thousands with plenty of leftovers. They saw him feeding 5,000 men (not including the women and children) and having 12 baskets full of leftovers! (Mark 6:34–44)

Jesus wanted His disciples to know that His peace was different from the peace that the world offers. His peace would change whatever trying circumstances beset them. Even if it was a mega-storm, it would have to bow to His peace. The Prince of Peace merely spoke, “Peace, be still!” and the winds and the sea obeyed Him. (Mark 4:39) His peace changed the mega-storm into a perfect calm!

Beloved, that is the kind of peace that Jesus has bequeathed to you. Therefore, believe that His shalom which He has left with you will change all your difficult situations, bringing you from sickness, lack and mental anguish to health, prosperity and total wellness!

Expect Good Happening To You!

2007-02-05T07:41:00.000-08:00

Ephesians 6:1717 And take the helmet of salvation…

When the phone rings at odd times, most people think, “Oh dear, it must be bad news.” They don’t think, “I wonder what the good news is that it cannot wait till morning!”

When we hear, “The boss wants to see you,” instinctively, we think, “Oh dear, this is not good.” But how do we know that it is not a promotion?

Our minds are inclined towards the negative. So to guard our minds against negative thoughts, we are to put on “the helmet of salvation”, which is “the hope of salvation”. (1 Thessalonians 5:8)

If you are going through a trial right now, putting on as a helmet the hope of salvation means that you have a confident expectation of good coming your way. It means that you choose to believe that this trial that you are going through is only temporary because God will see you through it. It means that you believe that this difficult period will end with your salvation — your preservation, wholeness, wellness, health and prosperity!

You may not know what is going to happen this week. But one thing that you can do is put on the helmet of the hope of salvation. And tell yourself that you are going to have a fantastic week!

You can have a confident expectation of good happening to you because you are not like the people of the world. You are a child of the living God. You have a Saviour watching over you. There are more angels given charge over you than there are demons against you. And greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world. (1 John 4:4) There is every reason for you to have a confident expectation of good happening to you!

WAITING : The Rewards of Waiting

2007-02-05T07:35:00.000-08:00

Psalm 33:18-22 But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in you.

We have all experienced times of waiting in doctors’ offices, traffic jams, and checkout lines. While there, we have nothing to do but wait for our turn.

In God’s kingdom, waiting is defined as an “active stillness.” We should be active because we are continuing in our present situation, and still because we are focusing our attention on Him for guidance. Practicing a lifestyle of active stillness requires a purposeful and expectant attitude, a patient and determined frame of mind, and a prayerful and obedient heart.

There are rewards for waiting on the Lord. We receive the supernatural energy and strength we need for godly living. At times, when responsibilities overburden us, we might be tempted to get out of step with God. Even though we know He is calling us to keep a steady pace, we may lag behind. At other times, our schedules leave us little time to think. So we make quick decisions, pushing ahead of Him. In either case, we risk becoming weary and emotionally spent because we are operating in our own strength.

Patiently waiting on God brings us the physical energy and emotional reserves we need to keep going. Waiting on God also enables us to discover His will, which is always for our good (Romans 8:28). We also gain spiritual victory in the midst of our trials and disappointments.

Our all-knowing and all-powerful God is always on time. But we often leave too early or arrive too late. Pick a situation in which you are tempted to overrule God’s perfect timing. Then submit to Him, realizing the issue is a matter of trust.