The best gift to your child
Five-year-old Deepak used to sleep alone in his room. One day his father was with him at bedtime. Deepak wanted his father to tell him some stories, which he did.
After quite some time Deepak felt sleepy and told his father, “Now, Daddy, I have to say my prayers.” He knelt down beside his bed, joined his hands, raised his eyes to heaven and prayed, “now I lay down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep; if I should die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take.” This was his usual prayer, but that night he looked up at his Dad, then raised his eyes to heaven and prayed aloud, “Dear God, make me a great big good man, like my Daddy. Thank you God.” In a moment he was in bed and in five minutes he slept.
And then the father knelt by his son’s bedside and prayed “Dear Lord, make me a great big good man like my boy thinks I am.”
Every child holds a very high opinion about its parents. It is left to the parents to come up to that opinion. The best gift that parents can offer to their children is their own life’s example.
BY,
RSV RAJ
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
What is God like?
A man who had been blind from birth once asked someone to give him a glass of milk and queried, “What does milk look like?” The other man answered, “Milk is a white liquid”. The blind man asked, “But what do you mean by white?” The other man answered, “White is the colour of a swan”. The blind man asked, “What is a swan?” The other replied, “A swan is a bird with a bent neck”. The blind man asked again, “What does bent mean?” The other man said, “I will bend my elbow and you will touch it, and then you will know what bent means”.
The blind man touched the bent elbow of the other man and said, “Now I know what milk looks like!”
In a book, even in the Bible, only words can be used to tell about God. These might seem ridiculous to you, as it seems ridiculous for a blind man to know the appearance of milk from a bent elbow. But we are all very limited and by nature blind to the all- comprehensive, omniscient, omnipotent God. We come to know Him by approximations. Read the words, forget about them, look at the ear, the dandelion, the bumble bee, and simply believe that God is!
By,
RSV RAJ
A man who had been blind from birth once asked someone to give him a glass of milk and queried, “What does milk look like?” The other man answered, “Milk is a white liquid”. The blind man asked, “But what do you mean by white?” The other man answered, “White is the colour of a swan”. The blind man asked, “What is a swan?” The other replied, “A swan is a bird with a bent neck”. The blind man asked again, “What does bent mean?” The other man said, “I will bend my elbow and you will touch it, and then you will know what bent means”.
The blind man touched the bent elbow of the other man and said, “Now I know what milk looks like!”
In a book, even in the Bible, only words can be used to tell about God. These might seem ridiculous to you, as it seems ridiculous for a blind man to know the appearance of milk from a bent elbow. But we are all very limited and by nature blind to the all- comprehensive, omniscient, omnipotent God. We come to know Him by approximations. Read the words, forget about them, look at the ear, the dandelion, the bumble bee, and simply believe that God is!
By,
RSV RAJ
Sunday, September 16, 2007
LET US ENJOY LIFE HERE AND NOW
Once a philosopher asked the emperor Alexander: “Your Excellency, what will be your next goal after conquering Rome?” “Cicily is next to Rome. It will be an easy task. So my next aim is to conquer Cicily,” he replied.
“After that…?” the philosopher continued.“After that I will turn to Africa and defeat Carthage.” “After Carthage?”
“Greece will be my next target.”
Again the philosopher asked courteously, “Your Excellency, if you don’t mind, please explain me the advantage of all these victories?”
“After conquering the world I will enjoy my life in peace.”
“Then why don’t you enjoy your life now?”
History reveals that his dreams were not fulfilled. He had to bid farewell to this world long before he could sit and enjoy life in peace. His kingdom got divided. He met with the same fate that doomed the lives of many who wished to become the wealthiest and mightiest in the world. Life cannot be maintained happily with our achievements and gains. We do not need anything new in order to make our life more joyful. The presumption that more wealth and status would give us more happiness is foolishness. We can maintain happiness in life, here and now. For that, we need a serene heart. We can derive it from our faith and dependence in God.
Ambition to become bigger and greater will gradually destroy our serenity of heart. When we travel in a fast-moving vehicle, we would feel the trees and the crowd outside flashing away quickly. On the other hand, if the vehicle runs in a moderate speed the pictures by the wayside can be seen very clearly. Similarly, we will be able to experience the beauty of a flower, the warmth of moonlight and the tenderness of relationships only if we make our minds calm.Over speed can always cause danger. So we must find out enough time to pray, to love, to be alone in solitude… If we gain everything in life and miss happiness, that will be a big tragedy. “This time you will not have to leave in a hurry; you will not be trying to escape. The Lord your God will lead you on every side”
By,
RSV RAJ
Once a philosopher asked the emperor Alexander: “Your Excellency, what will be your next goal after conquering Rome?” “Cicily is next to Rome. It will be an easy task. So my next aim is to conquer Cicily,” he replied.
“After that…?” the philosopher continued.“After that I will turn to Africa and defeat Carthage.” “After Carthage?”
“Greece will be my next target.”
Again the philosopher asked courteously, “Your Excellency, if you don’t mind, please explain me the advantage of all these victories?”
“After conquering the world I will enjoy my life in peace.”
“Then why don’t you enjoy your life now?”
History reveals that his dreams were not fulfilled. He had to bid farewell to this world long before he could sit and enjoy life in peace. His kingdom got divided. He met with the same fate that doomed the lives of many who wished to become the wealthiest and mightiest in the world. Life cannot be maintained happily with our achievements and gains. We do not need anything new in order to make our life more joyful. The presumption that more wealth and status would give us more happiness is foolishness. We can maintain happiness in life, here and now. For that, we need a serene heart. We can derive it from our faith and dependence in God.
Ambition to become bigger and greater will gradually destroy our serenity of heart. When we travel in a fast-moving vehicle, we would feel the trees and the crowd outside flashing away quickly. On the other hand, if the vehicle runs in a moderate speed the pictures by the wayside can be seen very clearly. Similarly, we will be able to experience the beauty of a flower, the warmth of moonlight and the tenderness of relationships only if we make our minds calm.Over speed can always cause danger. So we must find out enough time to pray, to love, to be alone in solitude… If we gain everything in life and miss happiness, that will be a big tragedy. “This time you will not have to leave in a hurry; you will not be trying to escape. The Lord your God will lead you on every side”
By,
RSV RAJ
Song and Silence
A shepherd said to a nightingale, “sing!” The nightingale replied, “The frogs make too much noise. It takes away the pleasure of singing. Don’t you hear them?” the shepherd said, “I surely do, but only your silence makes me hear them”.
Walk through the world singing the song of Jesus. It is to your shame if so many words of hatred and unbelief are heard.
By,
RSV RAJ
A shepherd said to a nightingale, “sing!” The nightingale replied, “The frogs make too much noise. It takes away the pleasure of singing. Don’t you hear them?” the shepherd said, “I surely do, but only your silence makes me hear them”.
Walk through the world singing the song of Jesus. It is to your shame if so many words of hatred and unbelief are heard.
By,
RSV RAJ
Friday, September 14, 2007
WORSHIP
A man dreamed that an angel escorted him to church one Sunday. There he saw the organist vigorously playing the organ, but no sound was heard. The choir and the congregation began to sing, but he heard no voices. When the minister stood up to pray, his lips moved but he heard nothing.
The man was amazed as he turned to his guide.
“You hear anything?” said the angel.
“No,” was the reply.
The angel replied, “You’re right, because there is nothing to hear. These people are not engaged in worship - only in the form of worship. Their hearts are not touched, and this silence is the silence that is yet unbroken by God”.
By,
RSV RAJ
A man dreamed that an angel escorted him to church one Sunday. There he saw the organist vigorously playing the organ, but no sound was heard. The choir and the congregation began to sing, but he heard no voices. When the minister stood up to pray, his lips moved but he heard nothing.
The man was amazed as he turned to his guide.
“You hear anything?” said the angel.
“No,” was the reply.
The angel replied, “You’re right, because there is nothing to hear. These people are not engaged in worship - only in the form of worship. Their hearts are not touched, and this silence is the silence that is yet unbroken by God”.
By,
RSV RAJ
Thursday, September 13, 2007
YOU SAY & GOD SAYS BIBLE VERSES
You say: "It's impossible" God says: All things are possible(Luke 18:27)
You say: "I'm too tired" God says: I will give you rest Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: "Nobody really loves me"God says: I love you (John 3:1 6 & John 3:34 )
You say: "I can't go on" God says: My grace is sufficient (II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: "I can't figure things out" God says: I will direct your steps(Proverbs 3:5- 6)
You say: "I can't do it" God says: You can do all things (Philippians 4:13)
You say: "I'm not able" God says: I am able (II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: "It's not worth it" God says: It will be worth it (Roman 8:28 )
You say: "I can't forgive myself" God says: I Forgive you (I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: "I can't manage" God says: I will supply all your needs (Philippians 4:19)
You say: "I'm afraid" God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear (II Timothy 1:7)
You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated" God says: Cast all your cares on ME (I Peter 5:7)You say: "I'm not smart enough"God says: I give you wisdom (I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: "I feel all alone" God says: I will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5)
By,
Roy Thampi
You say: "It's impossible" God says: All things are possible(Luke 18:27)
You say: "I'm too tired" God says: I will give you rest Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: "Nobody really loves me"God says: I love you (John 3:1 6 & John 3:34 )
You say: "I can't go on" God says: My grace is sufficient (II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: "I can't figure things out" God says: I will direct your steps(Proverbs 3:5- 6)
You say: "I can't do it" God says: You can do all things (Philippians 4:13)
You say: "I'm not able" God says: I am able (II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: "It's not worth it" God says: It will be worth it (Roman 8:28 )
You say: "I can't forgive myself" God says: I Forgive you (I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: "I can't manage" God says: I will supply all your needs (Philippians 4:19)
You say: "I'm afraid" God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear (II Timothy 1:7)
You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated" God says: Cast all your cares on ME (I Peter 5:7)You say: "I'm not smart enough"God says: I give you wisdom (I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: "I feel all alone" God says: I will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5)
By,
Roy Thampi
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
The Burning Hut
******************
The only survivor of a shipwreck washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him, and every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming.
Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect him from the elements, and to store his few possessions.
But then one day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, the smoke rolling up to the sky.
The worst had happened; everything was lost. He was stung with grief and anger. "God, how could you do this to me!" he cried.
Early the next day, however, he was awakened by the sound of a ship that was approaching the island. It had come to rescue him.
"How did you know I was here?" asked the weary man of his rescuers.
"We saw your smoke signal," they replied.
Remember next time your little hut is burning to the ground - - it just may be a smoke signal that summons the grace of God.
Cheer up. Help is on the way.....
By,
Ruthie
******************
The only survivor of a shipwreck washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him, and every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming.
Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect him from the elements, and to store his few possessions.
But then one day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, the smoke rolling up to the sky.
The worst had happened; everything was lost. He was stung with grief and anger. "God, how could you do this to me!" he cried.
Early the next day, however, he was awakened by the sound of a ship that was approaching the island. It had come to rescue him.
"How did you know I was here?" asked the weary man of his rescuers.
"We saw your smoke signal," they replied.
Remember next time your little hut is burning to the ground - - it just may be a smoke signal that summons the grace of God.
Cheer up. Help is on the way.....
By,
Ruthie
Can you define what Life is....?
Life is a dream, achieve it.
Life is a promise, fulfil it.
Life is a fight, face it.
Life is a chance, gain it.
Life is a duty, perform it.
Life is a challenge, dare it.
Life is a game, win it.
Life is a stage, act it.
Life is a song, sing it.
Life is an ice-cream.
Enjoy it before it melts away!
Yes dear friends! We have only one Life and it is given by Jesus!
Is Jesus happy by giving you this Life? Or is He sad...?
Life is so... Precious!
Because you don't have another to enjoy or play with!
Your Life here will decide your Life beyond....!!
Life is a dream, achieve it.
Life is a promise, fulfil it.
Life is a fight, face it.
Life is a chance, gain it.
Life is a duty, perform it.
Life is a challenge, dare it.
Life is a game, win it.
Life is a stage, act it.
Life is a song, sing it.
Life is an ice-cream.
Enjoy it before it melts away!
Yes dear friends! We have only one Life and it is given by Jesus!
Is Jesus happy by giving you this Life? Or is He sad...?
Life is so... Precious!
Because you don't have another to enjoy or play with!
Your Life here will decide your Life beyond....!!
THE THREE THINGS IN LIFE
*******************************
Three things in life that, once gone, never come back -
1. Time
2. Words
3. Opportunity
Three things in life that may never be lost -
1. Peace
2. Hope
3. Honesty
Three things in life that are most valuable -
1. Love
2. Self-confidence
3. Friends
Three things in life that are never certain -
1. Dreams
2. Success
3. Fortune
Three things in life that are most appreciated -
1. Generosity
2. Humor
3. Forgiveness
Three things that make a person -
1. Hard work
2. Sincerity
3. Commitment
Three things in life that can destroy a person -
1. Alcohol / Drugs
2. Pride
3. Anger
Three things that are truly constant -
Father -
Son -
Holy Ghost -
*******************************
Three things in life that, once gone, never come back -
1. Time
2. Words
3. Opportunity
Three things in life that may never be lost -
1. Peace
2. Hope
3. Honesty
Three things in life that are most valuable -
1. Love
2. Self-confidence
3. Friends
Three things in life that are never certain -
1. Dreams
2. Success
3. Fortune
Three things in life that are most appreciated -
1. Generosity
2. Humor
3. Forgiveness
Three things that make a person -
1. Hard work
2. Sincerity
3. Commitment
Three things in life that can destroy a person -
1. Alcohol / Drugs
2. Pride
3. Anger
Three things that are truly constant -
Father -
Son -
Holy Ghost -
A Father's Counsel--
1. Revere the Lord all your days, my son, and refuse to sin or to transgress His commandments. 2. Live uprightly all the days of your life, and do not walk in the ways of wrongdoing; for those who act in accordance with truth will prosper in all their activities.
3. To all those who practice righteousness give alms from your possessions, and do not let your eye begrudge the gift when you make it.
4. Do not turn your face away from anyone who is poor, and the face of God will not be turned away from you.
5. If you have many possessions, make your gift from them in proportion; if few, do not be afraid to give according to the little you have.
6. So you will be laying up a good treasure for yourself against the day of necessity.
7. For almsgiving delivers from death and keeps you from going into the Darkness. Indeed, almsgiving, for all who practice it, is an excellent offering in the presence of the Most High.
8. So now, my son, love your kindred, and in your heart do not disdain your kindred, the sons and daughters of your people.
9. For in pride there is ruin and great confusion. And in idleness there is loss and dire poverty, because idleness is the mother of famine.
10. Do not keep over until the next day the wages of those who work for you, but pay them at once.
11. If you serve God you will receive payment. Watch yourself, my son, in everything you do, and discipline yourself in all your conduct.
12. What you hate, do not do to anyone.
13. Do not drink wine to excess or let drunkenness go with you on your way.
14. Give some of your food to the hungry, and some of your clothing to the naked. Give all your surplus as alms, and do not let your eye begrudge your giving of alms.
15. Seek advice from every wise person and do not despise any useful counsel.
So now, my friend remember these commandments, and do not let them be erased from your heart (Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:2).
1. Revere the Lord all your days, my son, and refuse to sin or to transgress His commandments. 2. Live uprightly all the days of your life, and do not walk in the ways of wrongdoing; for those who act in accordance with truth will prosper in all their activities.
3. To all those who practice righteousness give alms from your possessions, and do not let your eye begrudge the gift when you make it.
4. Do not turn your face away from anyone who is poor, and the face of God will not be turned away from you.
5. If you have many possessions, make your gift from them in proportion; if few, do not be afraid to give according to the little you have.
6. So you will be laying up a good treasure for yourself against the day of necessity.
7. For almsgiving delivers from death and keeps you from going into the Darkness. Indeed, almsgiving, for all who practice it, is an excellent offering in the presence of the Most High.
8. So now, my son, love your kindred, and in your heart do not disdain your kindred, the sons and daughters of your people.
9. For in pride there is ruin and great confusion. And in idleness there is loss and dire poverty, because idleness is the mother of famine.
10. Do not keep over until the next day the wages of those who work for you, but pay them at once.
11. If you serve God you will receive payment. Watch yourself, my son, in everything you do, and discipline yourself in all your conduct.
12. What you hate, do not do to anyone.
13. Do not drink wine to excess or let drunkenness go with you on your way.
14. Give some of your food to the hungry, and some of your clothing to the naked. Give all your surplus as alms, and do not let your eye begrudge your giving of alms.
15. Seek advice from every wise person and do not despise any useful counsel.
So now, my friend remember these commandments, and do not let them be erased from your heart (Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:2).
Break the Worry Habit Before It Breaks You
1. Keep busy.
2. Don’t fuss about trifles.
3. Use the law of averages to outlaw your worries.
4. Apply these four good working habits:
a. Clear your desk of all papers except those relating to the immediate problem at hand.
b. Do things in the order of their importance.
c. When you face a problem, solve it then and there if you have the facts necessary to make a decision.
d. Learn to organize, deputize and supervise.
5. Put enthusiasm into your work.
6. Don’t worry about insomnia.
The Perfect Way to Conquer Worryis to Pray.
Don’t Worry about Criticism
1. Remember that unjust criticism is often a disguised compliment.
2. Do the very best you can.
3. Analyze your own mistakes and criticize yourself.
Prevent Fatigue and Worry and Keep Your Energy and Spirits High
1. Rest before you get tired.
2. Learn to relax at your work.
3. Protect your health and appearance by relaxing at home.
1. Keep busy.
2. Don’t fuss about trifles.
3. Use the law of averages to outlaw your worries.
4. Apply these four good working habits:
a. Clear your desk of all papers except those relating to the immediate problem at hand.
b. Do things in the order of their importance.
c. When you face a problem, solve it then and there if you have the facts necessary to make a decision.
d. Learn to organize, deputize and supervise.
5. Put enthusiasm into your work.
6. Don’t worry about insomnia.
The Perfect Way to Conquer Worryis to Pray.
Don’t Worry about Criticism
1. Remember that unjust criticism is often a disguised compliment.
2. Do the very best you can.
3. Analyze your own mistakes and criticize yourself.
Prevent Fatigue and Worry and Keep Your Energy and Spirits High
1. Rest before you get tired.
2. Learn to relax at your work.
3. Protect your health and appearance by relaxing at home.
Principles from How to Stop Worrying and Start Living Fundamental Principles for Overcoming Worry!
1. Live in “day-tight compartments.”
2. How to face trouble:
a. Ask yourself, “What is the worst that can possibly happen?”
b. Prepare to accept the worst.
c. Try to improve on the worst.
3. Remind yourself of the exorbitant price you can pay for worry in terms of your health.
4. Cooperate with the inevitable.
5. Decide just how much anxiety a thing may be worth and refuse to give it more.
6. Don’t worry about the past.
Cultivate a Mental Attitude that will Bring You Peace and Happiness
1. Fill your mind with thoughts of peace, courage, health and hope.
2. Never try to get even with your enemies.
3. Expect ingratitude.
4. Count your blessings – not your troubles.
5. Do not imitate others.
6. Try to profit from your losses.
7. Create happiness for others.
Basic Techniques in Analyzing Worry
1. Get all the facts.
2. Weigh all the facts – then come to a decision.
3. Once a decision is reached, act!
4. Write out and answer the following questions:
a. What is the problem?
b. What are the causes of the problem?
c. What are the possible solutions?
d. What is the best possible solution?
1. Live in “day-tight compartments.”
2. How to face trouble:
a. Ask yourself, “What is the worst that can possibly happen?”
b. Prepare to accept the worst.
c. Try to improve on the worst.
3. Remind yourself of the exorbitant price you can pay for worry in terms of your health.
4. Cooperate with the inevitable.
5. Decide just how much anxiety a thing may be worth and refuse to give it more.
6. Don’t worry about the past.
Cultivate a Mental Attitude that will Bring You Peace and Happiness
1. Fill your mind with thoughts of peace, courage, health and hope.
2. Never try to get even with your enemies.
3. Expect ingratitude.
4. Count your blessings – not your troubles.
5. Do not imitate others.
6. Try to profit from your losses.
7. Create happiness for others.
Basic Techniques in Analyzing Worry
1. Get all the facts.
2. Weigh all the facts – then come to a decision.
3. Once a decision is reached, act!
4. Write out and answer the following questions:
a. What is the problem?
b. What are the causes of the problem?
c. What are the possible solutions?
d. What is the best possible solution?
WHAT JESUS CHRIST SAYS ABOUT HELL!
"fire" Matt 7:19, 13:40, 25:41
"everlasting fire" Matt 18:8, 25:41
"eternal damnation" Mark 3:29
"hell fire" Matt 5:22, 18:9, Mark 9:47
"damnation" Matt 23:14, Mark 12:40, Luke 20:47
"damnation of hell" Matt 23:33
"resurrection of damnation" John 5:29
"furnace of fire" Matt 13:42, 50
"the fire that never shall be quenched" Mark 9:43, 45
"the fire is not quenched" Mark 9:44, 46, 48
"Where their worm dieth not" Mark 9:44, 46, 48
"wailing and gnashing of teeth" Matt 13:42, 50
"weeping and gnashing of teeth" Matt 8:12, 22:13, 25:30
"torments" Luke 16:23
"tormented in this flame" Luke 16:24
"place of torment" Luke 16:28
"outer darkness" Matt 8:12, 22:13
"everlasting punishment" Matt 25:46
"fire" Matt 7:19, 13:40, 25:41
"everlasting fire" Matt 18:8, 25:41
"eternal damnation" Mark 3:29
"hell fire" Matt 5:22, 18:9, Mark 9:47
"damnation" Matt 23:14, Mark 12:40, Luke 20:47
"damnation of hell" Matt 23:33
"resurrection of damnation" John 5:29
"furnace of fire" Matt 13:42, 50
"the fire that never shall be quenched" Mark 9:43, 45
"the fire is not quenched" Mark 9:44, 46, 48
"Where their worm dieth not" Mark 9:44, 46, 48
"wailing and gnashing of teeth" Matt 13:42, 50
"weeping and gnashing of teeth" Matt 8:12, 22:13, 25:30
"torments" Luke 16:23
"tormented in this flame" Luke 16:24
"place of torment" Luke 16:28
"outer darkness" Matt 8:12, 22:13
"everlasting punishment" Matt 25:46
Text: 2Kings 4:38-41
"Elisha returned to Gilgal and [red]there was a famine in that region (2Kings 4:38)
It is said that there was a famine in the region of Gilgal. The Bible also says(Josh 5:9-11), Gilgal was the place of prosperity. Gilgal is the place from where God rolled away the reproach of Egypt. And it continues to say that the Israelites had a Passover there. In other words, Gilgal could provide them enough water and food for Passover. Because of this God's provision, people might had thought that no famine will take place in the city of Gilgal. But it happened. The famine was severe and made people to go to other place to search food and herbs.
So, onething is sure! Famine can take place anywhere. It does not have any difference between Gilgal and other place. But even in the midst of famine, there was God's hand to provide them what they needed.
When Elisha and other prophets met in Gilgal, they planned to prepare a stew. One of them went to the field and gathered some wild herbs and put it into the pot. But this herb poisoned the whole stew. Remember! even a small herb(sin) can also poison the whole stew(your body). When they found that the stew is poisoned they cried out to Elisha "Death in the pot". Now Elisha made the stew harmless and the people drank and enjoyed.
Our God is the unchanging God.
"NO PROBLEM IS TOO BIG FOR GOD;NO TIME IS TOO LATE FOR GOD".
If famine takes place in your life, don't be afraid. You need to do just onething..."Cry Out!" The Lord will provide anything to those who are faithful to the covenant. What does a Famine mean? The lack of food can be a famine. Lack of money can be a famine. Lack of resources for daily living can be a famine. You may be thinking that how will I overcome this. Don't Worry...Leave this unto the hands of God and Cry Out! In OT, Famine is a covenant curse(1Kings 8:36-37). But when you cry unto God, He will turn this curse into Blessing. Amen!!
GOD BLESS YOU!
"Elisha returned to Gilgal and [red]there was a famine in that region (2Kings 4:38)
It is said that there was a famine in the region of Gilgal. The Bible also says(Josh 5:9-11), Gilgal was the place of prosperity. Gilgal is the place from where God rolled away the reproach of Egypt. And it continues to say that the Israelites had a Passover there. In other words, Gilgal could provide them enough water and food for Passover. Because of this God's provision, people might had thought that no famine will take place in the city of Gilgal. But it happened. The famine was severe and made people to go to other place to search food and herbs.
So, onething is sure! Famine can take place anywhere. It does not have any difference between Gilgal and other place. But even in the midst of famine, there was God's hand to provide them what they needed.
When Elisha and other prophets met in Gilgal, they planned to prepare a stew. One of them went to the field and gathered some wild herbs and put it into the pot. But this herb poisoned the whole stew. Remember! even a small herb(sin) can also poison the whole stew(your body). When they found that the stew is poisoned they cried out to Elisha "Death in the pot". Now Elisha made the stew harmless and the people drank and enjoyed.
Our God is the unchanging God.
"NO PROBLEM IS TOO BIG FOR GOD;NO TIME IS TOO LATE FOR GOD".
If famine takes place in your life, don't be afraid. You need to do just onething..."Cry Out!" The Lord will provide anything to those who are faithful to the covenant. What does a Famine mean? The lack of food can be a famine. Lack of money can be a famine. Lack of resources for daily living can be a famine. You may be thinking that how will I overcome this. Don't Worry...Leave this unto the hands of God and Cry Out! In OT, Famine is a covenant curse(1Kings 8:36-37). But when you cry unto God, He will turn this curse into Blessing. Amen!!
GOD BLESS YOU!
Wings Of A Prayer
*******************
Just close your eyes
and open your heart
And feel your worries
and cares depart...
Just yield yourself
to the Father above
And let Him hold you
secure in His love,
For He hears every prayer
and answers each one
When we pray in His name,
"Thy will be done" --
And the burdens that seemed
too heavy to bearare lifted
away on the wings of prayer.
///////\\\\\\\\\\//////////\\\\\\\\\\\
*******************
Just close your eyes
and open your heart
And feel your worries
and cares depart...
Just yield yourself
to the Father above
And let Him hold you
secure in His love,
For He hears every prayer
and answers each one
When we pray in His name,
"Thy will be done" --
And the burdens that seemed
too heavy to bearare lifted
away on the wings of prayer.
///////\\\\\\\\\\//////////\\\\\\\\\\\
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us form all unrighteousness.
As God's son Jesus Christ willingly choose to bear the offenses of the whole world, to take the blame for everything the people had done against God since the dawn of time and until the end of it. Jesus was innocent and yet he took the punishment for them so that his beloved people will be spared.
To "confess" simply means "to agree". Take a few moments each day to agree with God about how well your thoughts, words and actions have lined up with what he desires for your life. Move forward with confidence, fully forgiven and free from guilt.
Once God forgives you, all traces of your past offenses are gone. His forgiveness wipes away any feelings of guilt or blame.
As God's son Jesus Christ willingly choose to bear the offenses of the whole world, to take the blame for everything the people had done against God since the dawn of time and until the end of it. Jesus was innocent and yet he took the punishment for them so that his beloved people will be spared.
To "confess" simply means "to agree". Take a few moments each day to agree with God about how well your thoughts, words and actions have lined up with what he desires for your life. Move forward with confidence, fully forgiven and free from guilt.
Once God forgives you, all traces of your past offenses are gone. His forgiveness wipes away any feelings of guilt or blame.
TIME
*****
Imagine there is a bank that credits your account each morning with $86,400.
It carries over no balance from day to day.
Every evening it deletes whatever part of the balance you failed to use during the day.
What would you do?
Draw out every cent, of course!!!!
Each of us has such a bank.
Its name is TIME.
Every morning, it credits you with 86,400 seconds.
Every night it writes off, as lost, whatever of this you have failed to invest to a good purpose.
It carries over no balance.
It allows no overdraft.
Each day it opens a new account for you.
Each night it burns the remains of the day.
If you fail to use the day's deposits, the loss is yours.
There is no going back.
There is no drawing against the "tomorrow".
You must live in the present on today's deposits.
Invest it so as to get from it the utmost in health, happiness, and success!
The clock is running.
Make the most of today!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yesterday is history.
Tomorrow is mystery.
Today is a gift.
That's why it is called the Present Open it and use it !!
*****
Imagine there is a bank that credits your account each morning with $86,400.
It carries over no balance from day to day.
Every evening it deletes whatever part of the balance you failed to use during the day.
What would you do?
Draw out every cent, of course!!!!
Each of us has such a bank.
Its name is TIME.
Every morning, it credits you with 86,400 seconds.
Every night it writes off, as lost, whatever of this you have failed to invest to a good purpose.
It carries over no balance.
It allows no overdraft.
Each day it opens a new account for you.
Each night it burns the remains of the day.
If you fail to use the day's deposits, the loss is yours.
There is no going back.
There is no drawing against the "tomorrow".
You must live in the present on today's deposits.
Invest it so as to get from it the utmost in health, happiness, and success!
The clock is running.
Make the most of today!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yesterday is history.
Tomorrow is mystery.
Today is a gift.
That's why it is called the Present Open it and use it !!
SPIRITS OF GOD : Do You Have Them?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`````````
1. Spirit of Faith; 2 Cor 4:13
2. Spirit of Holiness; Rom 1:4
3. Spirit of Adoption; Rom 8:15
4. Spirit of Truth John; 14:17
5. Meek & Quiet Spirit; 1 Pet 3:4
6. Spirit of Sound Mind; 2 Tim 1:7
7. Spirit of Love; 2 Tim 1:7
8. Spirit of Power; 2 Tim 1:7
9. Spirits of Burning; Isaiah 4:4
10. Spirit of Judgment; Isaiah 4:4
11. Spirit of Wisdom; Isaiah 11:2
12. Spirit of Understanding; Isaiah 11:2
13. Spirit of Counsel; Isaiah 11:2
14. Spirit of Might; Isaiah 11:2
15. Spirit of Knowledge; Isaiah 11:2
16. Spirit of Fear of the Lord; Isaiah 11:2
17. Spirit of the Lord; Isaiah 11:2
18.'Grace & Peace from Seven Spirits; Rev 1:4
19. Spirit of Prophesy; Rev 19:10
******************************************
SPIRITS OF DEVIL: Do You Have Them?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`~~~~~
1. Spirits of Devils; Rev 16:14
2. Spirit of the World; 1 Cor 2:12
3. Spirit of Bondage; Rom 8:15
4. Spirit of Fear; 2 Tim 1:7
5. Spirit of Disobedience; Ephes 2:2
6. Spirit of Error; 1 John 4:6
7. Seducing Spirits; 1 Tim 4:1
8. Delusion; 2Thes2:ll
9. Unclean Spirit; Matt 12:43
10. Dumb Spirit; Mark 9:17
11. Deaf Spirit; Mark 9:17
12. Lying Spirit; 1 King 22:23
13. Spirit of Divination; Acts 16:16
14. Spirit of Infirmity; Luke 13:11
15. Spirit of Egypt; Isaiah 19:3
16. Familiar Spirit; 1 Sam 28:7
17. Different Spirit; 2 Cor 11:4
18. Spirit of Whoredom; Hosea 4:12
**************************************
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`````````
1. Spirit of Faith; 2 Cor 4:13
2. Spirit of Holiness; Rom 1:4
3. Spirit of Adoption; Rom 8:15
4. Spirit of Truth John; 14:17
5. Meek & Quiet Spirit; 1 Pet 3:4
6. Spirit of Sound Mind; 2 Tim 1:7
7. Spirit of Love; 2 Tim 1:7
8. Spirit of Power; 2 Tim 1:7
9. Spirits of Burning; Isaiah 4:4
10. Spirit of Judgment; Isaiah 4:4
11. Spirit of Wisdom; Isaiah 11:2
12. Spirit of Understanding; Isaiah 11:2
13. Spirit of Counsel; Isaiah 11:2
14. Spirit of Might; Isaiah 11:2
15. Spirit of Knowledge; Isaiah 11:2
16. Spirit of Fear of the Lord; Isaiah 11:2
17. Spirit of the Lord; Isaiah 11:2
18.'Grace & Peace from Seven Spirits; Rev 1:4
19. Spirit of Prophesy; Rev 19:10
******************************************
SPIRITS OF DEVIL: Do You Have Them?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`~~~~~
1. Spirits of Devils; Rev 16:14
2. Spirit of the World; 1 Cor 2:12
3. Spirit of Bondage; Rom 8:15
4. Spirit of Fear; 2 Tim 1:7
5. Spirit of Disobedience; Ephes 2:2
6. Spirit of Error; 1 John 4:6
7. Seducing Spirits; 1 Tim 4:1
8. Delusion; 2Thes2:ll
9. Unclean Spirit; Matt 12:43
10. Dumb Spirit; Mark 9:17
11. Deaf Spirit; Mark 9:17
12. Lying Spirit; 1 King 22:23
13. Spirit of Divination; Acts 16:16
14. Spirit of Infirmity; Luke 13:11
15. Spirit of Egypt; Isaiah 19:3
16. Familiar Spirit; 1 Sam 28:7
17. Different Spirit; 2 Cor 11:4
18. Spirit of Whoredom; Hosea 4:12
**************************************
PRAYERS
Life without purpose is barren indeed
There can't be a harvest unless you plant seed
There can't be attainment unless there's a goal
And man's but a robot unless there's a soul.
If we send no ships out, no ships will come in,
And unless there's a contest, nobody can win.
For games can't be won unless they are played,
And prayers can't be answered unless they are prayed.
So whatever is wrong with your life today
You'll find a solution if you kneel down and pray.
Not just for pleasure, enjoyment and health,
Not just for honors and prestige and wealth.
But pray for a purpose to make life worth living
And pray for the joy of unselfish giving.
For great is your gladness and rich your reward,
When you make your life's purpose the choice of the Lord.
Life without purpose is barren indeed
There can't be a harvest unless you plant seed
There can't be attainment unless there's a goal
And man's but a robot unless there's a soul.
If we send no ships out, no ships will come in,
And unless there's a contest, nobody can win.
For games can't be won unless they are played,
And prayers can't be answered unless they are prayed.
So whatever is wrong with your life today
You'll find a solution if you kneel down and pray.
Not just for pleasure, enjoyment and health,
Not just for honors and prestige and wealth.
But pray for a purpose to make life worth living
And pray for the joy of unselfish giving.
For great is your gladness and rich your reward,
When you make your life's purpose the choice of the Lord.
"Before you were ever formed in your mother's womb, God saw you and He approved you." (Jeremiah 1:5)
You are approved by Almighty God! You are created in His image and you're the apple of His eye. You did not choose God, but He chose you and He is pleased with you–His most precious creation.
Notice that verse doesn't say that God approves you as long as you don't have any faults, or as long as you don't make any mistakes. No, God approves you unconditionally. No matter how many weaknesses you may think you have today, no matter how many times you fall in your walk with God, you've got to get right back up again and hold your head up high. Don't allow the enemy to bring strife into your life by deceiving you into thinking that you are not "good enough" for the plan of God. Stand strong in your thoughts about yourself knowing that not only have you been chosen, but you are approved by Almighty God.
A Prayer for Today
"God, Thank you for your unconditional acceptance. I was made in Your image and born with your approval...and that makes me good enough for any challenge I face in this life. I will hold my head up high and look for opportunities to share this message with my brothers and sisters and friends in Christ. In Jesus' Name – Amen".
You are approved by Almighty God! You are created in His image and you're the apple of His eye. You did not choose God, but He chose you and He is pleased with you–His most precious creation.
Notice that verse doesn't say that God approves you as long as you don't have any faults, or as long as you don't make any mistakes. No, God approves you unconditionally. No matter how many weaknesses you may think you have today, no matter how many times you fall in your walk with God, you've got to get right back up again and hold your head up high. Don't allow the enemy to bring strife into your life by deceiving you into thinking that you are not "good enough" for the plan of God. Stand strong in your thoughts about yourself knowing that not only have you been chosen, but you are approved by Almighty God.
A Prayer for Today
"God, Thank you for your unconditional acceptance. I was made in Your image and born with your approval...and that makes me good enough for any challenge I face in this life. I will hold my head up high and look for opportunities to share this message with my brothers and sisters and friends in Christ. In Jesus' Name – Amen".
"A wide door has been open to me and with it are many adversaries." (I Corinthians 16:9)
God is always giving you opportunities to move forward in life. It is God's desire that you grow and reach your full potential. Anytime you take a step forward, the enemy will try to bring opposition and adversity against you. But God also promises that through Him, you can overcome any opposition the enemy brings your way.
When you step out in faith and the opposition comes, stand your ground and keep doing what you know to do. Keep on praying. Keep reading the Word. Keep going to church. Keep walking in love and forgiveness, and keep your heart tender. When the enemy sees that you are more determined than he is, he'll back down and you will move forward to new levels of victory! Stay focused and full of joy no matter what comes against you. As you do, you will overcome opposition and discover the champion in you!
A Prayer for Today
"God,
I will be the steadfast Christian You called me to be with the help of prayer, Bible study, and Christian fellowship. I have faith that I will overcome whatever comes my way. In Jesus' Name – Amen".
God is always giving you opportunities to move forward in life. It is God's desire that you grow and reach your full potential. Anytime you take a step forward, the enemy will try to bring opposition and adversity against you. But God also promises that through Him, you can overcome any opposition the enemy brings your way.
When you step out in faith and the opposition comes, stand your ground and keep doing what you know to do. Keep on praying. Keep reading the Word. Keep going to church. Keep walking in love and forgiveness, and keep your heart tender. When the enemy sees that you are more determined than he is, he'll back down and you will move forward to new levels of victory! Stay focused and full of joy no matter what comes against you. As you do, you will overcome opposition and discover the champion in you!
A Prayer for Today
"God,
I will be the steadfast Christian You called me to be with the help of prayer, Bible study, and Christian fellowship. I have faith that I will overcome whatever comes my way. In Jesus' Name – Amen".
God made His people for praise, fame and honor. God said "people whom I formed for Myself will declare My praise". Praise is very relational, because it originates from love. You never praise a total stranger. Praise proclaims who God is and ridicules the devil. Praise describes the awesomeness of God to all creation in all generation.
Praise is a glorious spark from our inner man's life with Christ. Praise crushes the devil under your feet and puts him in the lake of fire. Praise is the key to the Throne Room of God. Praise signifies your momentum in approaching God for intimate worship. Praise is the act of triumphant warriors. Praise declares nothing is impossible for God. Praise is a proof of your tongue's submission to God. Praise is a firm decision applied by your mind. Praise shows that you love to give God the glory.
Praise frightens the enemy camp because God abides on the praises of His people. Praise is a thunderous shout of astonishing faith. Where we hear the deafening sound of Praise and we see the sheen of unapproachable light. Praise destroys the power of darkness; Praise also means shine in Greek. Praise is an explosive weapon in the spiritual warfare. Praise is the evidence of your absence in the enemy camp. Praise is the display of inner joy flowing from a heart that is engaged with Jesus. Praise is the mark of a saint.
Praise proclaims God and His people are not dead. Praise invites God to fight your war. In war Praise brings victory against the enemy and destroys the lies of the devil. Praise proves that you don’t quench the Spirit of worship. Praise is not the meaningless clichés spoken by fake worshipers, Praise is the sincere act of the saints [1Pet2:9]. Praise signifies the unity in the Church Worship. Praise fills God's glory in the Temple [2Ch5:13]. Praise is a great celebration of joy and it shows you are not a stumbling block in Congregational Worship. Praise is lovely, when we kiss the King of Glory.Come together in song and dance, let's make His praise glorious. Amen...
VJ Traven.
Praise is a glorious spark from our inner man's life with Christ. Praise crushes the devil under your feet and puts him in the lake of fire. Praise is the key to the Throne Room of God. Praise signifies your momentum in approaching God for intimate worship. Praise is the act of triumphant warriors. Praise declares nothing is impossible for God. Praise is a proof of your tongue's submission to God. Praise is a firm decision applied by your mind. Praise shows that you love to give God the glory.
Praise frightens the enemy camp because God abides on the praises of His people. Praise is a thunderous shout of astonishing faith. Where we hear the deafening sound of Praise and we see the sheen of unapproachable light. Praise destroys the power of darkness; Praise also means shine in Greek. Praise is an explosive weapon in the spiritual warfare. Praise is the evidence of your absence in the enemy camp. Praise is the display of inner joy flowing from a heart that is engaged with Jesus. Praise is the mark of a saint.
Praise proclaims God and His people are not dead. Praise invites God to fight your war. In war Praise brings victory against the enemy and destroys the lies of the devil. Praise proves that you don’t quench the Spirit of worship. Praise is not the meaningless clichés spoken by fake worshipers, Praise is the sincere act of the saints [1Pet2:9]. Praise signifies the unity in the Church Worship. Praise fills God's glory in the Temple [2Ch5:13]. Praise is a great celebration of joy and it shows you are not a stumbling block in Congregational Worship. Praise is lovely, when we kiss the King of Glory.Come together in song and dance, let's make His praise glorious. Amen...
VJ Traven.
The struggle of the flesh:
Galatians 5:16-21:So I say,live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit,and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other,so that you do not do what you want.But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.
The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery, idolatry and witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy, drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before,that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.When the word "flesh" appears in the New Testament, it usually doesn't refer to the human body's physical covering.The flesh is the humanness within us that wants to indulge in self-gratification.Our natural impulses are geared,not toward pleasing the Lord,but toward personal comfort and pleasure.
People go to great lengths to fill the emptiness within—even participating in the acts of sexual immorality,contention,idolatry,and carousing listed in today's passage.But nothing can truly appease the flesh,which always selfishly wants more.When an unbeliever acts out of self-interest,believers cannot say he should know better.There's no Helper inside him to sound the alarm when he is wrong or to enable better conduct.But the Christian has no such excuse,since God's Spirit dwells within,prompting appropriate behavior and thoughts.
However,the tug of the flesh remains,since we do not shed our humanity until we reach heaven.So we still have the capacity to give in to sinful inclinations and sow corruption into our life.To protect ourselves from fleshly desires,we must place our complete trust in the Holy Spirit. Only He can point out wrong actions,thoughts,and attitudes.What's more,He can fill us with the desire to obey and enables us to make right choices.
Galatians 5:16-21:So I say,live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit,and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other,so that you do not do what you want.But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.
The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery, idolatry and witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy, drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before,that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.When the word "flesh" appears in the New Testament, it usually doesn't refer to the human body's physical covering.The flesh is the humanness within us that wants to indulge in self-gratification.Our natural impulses are geared,not toward pleasing the Lord,but toward personal comfort and pleasure.
People go to great lengths to fill the emptiness within—even participating in the acts of sexual immorality,contention,idolatry,and carousing listed in today's passage.But nothing can truly appease the flesh,which always selfishly wants more.When an unbeliever acts out of self-interest,believers cannot say he should know better.There's no Helper inside him to sound the alarm when he is wrong or to enable better conduct.But the Christian has no such excuse,since God's Spirit dwells within,prompting appropriate behavior and thoughts.
However,the tug of the flesh remains,since we do not shed our humanity until we reach heaven.So we still have the capacity to give in to sinful inclinations and sow corruption into our life.To protect ourselves from fleshly desires,we must place our complete trust in the Holy Spirit. Only He can point out wrong actions,thoughts,and attitudes.What's more,He can fill us with the desire to obey and enables us to make right choices.
"Why me, Lord?"
So many times in the course of life, God's children can be heard to cry these familiar words of desperation: "Why me, Lord?"You may have looked around you and supposed that others, even non-Christians, had an easier path and said, "Why me, Lord?"Maybe you have been hurt by someone's careless words or actions – someone you loved and trusted – like darts piercing your heart.
Have you said, "Why me, Lord?"Have you suffered a devastating attack on your finances, your family, your health, or some other area in your life that has caused you to cry out in anguish, "Why me, Lord?
"Beloved, as hard as it may be, look beyond your situation and your pain to see the purposes of God. Ask Him what He's doing in your life to allow this situation to come your way. Don't look into this dark night without seeing beyond it to the dawn of a new day.
"We are assured and know that (God being a partner in their labor), all things work together and are (fitting into a plan) for good to those who love God and are called according to (His) design and purpose" (Romans 8:28, AMP).When you begin to realize that all of life's troubles can be used for your good, you will recognize that God really is in control, and that His sunshine is hiding just behind that cloud.
So many times in the course of life, God's children can be heard to cry these familiar words of desperation: "Why me, Lord?"You may have looked around you and supposed that others, even non-Christians, had an easier path and said, "Why me, Lord?"Maybe you have been hurt by someone's careless words or actions – someone you loved and trusted – like darts piercing your heart.
Have you said, "Why me, Lord?"Have you suffered a devastating attack on your finances, your family, your health, or some other area in your life that has caused you to cry out in anguish, "Why me, Lord?
"Beloved, as hard as it may be, look beyond your situation and your pain to see the purposes of God. Ask Him what He's doing in your life to allow this situation to come your way. Don't look into this dark night without seeing beyond it to the dawn of a new day.
"We are assured and know that (God being a partner in their labor), all things work together and are (fitting into a plan) for good to those who love God and are called according to (His) design and purpose" (Romans 8:28, AMP).When you begin to realize that all of life's troubles can be used for your good, you will recognize that God really is in control, and that His sunshine is hiding just behind that cloud.
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