Getting to Know God
"But when the Friend comes, the Spirit of the Truth, he will take you by the hand and guide you into all the truth there is." (John 16:13)
Today's Word
God wants to help us make the right decision. He's there to warn us when we're about to make a mistake, or about to get into areas that are questionable and may bring us harm. It's just like an alarm clock going off in our conscience. He is that nervous feeling you get, that uneasiness we all hear telling us when we are about to do something that is not in our best interest. The Holy Spirit can speak through an inner feeling, an impression not in your head but in your heart. God speaks through your conscience and you can learn to hear His voice. The more time you spend with God the more you will be able to discern His voice guiding and directing you and leading you to a new level of joy and fulfillment.
A Prayer for Today
God, when I spend time with You, I grow closer to You and learn to better hear Your voice. Thank You for giving us Your Spirit, that we may grow wiser. I will hear Your voice and I will obey it. In Jesus' name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Word becomes flesh
Text to read I Kings 18:41-46
There had been no rain in the land for three and half years. The Word of the Lord comes to Elijah saying, “Go, and present yourself to Ahab. I will send rain on the earth” (1 Kings 18:1) Elijah thus becomes an heir of a promise – a promise of rain; a Word from the Lord. Most of us have a Word from the Lord - you may call it your vision, or a prophecy over you, or your dream, or your destiny. However, it takes a process for that Word to become flesh i.e. for that Word to manifest itself physically. If you are a recipient of a spoken Word from God and in the process of waiting for that Word to be manifest physically, then please take into consideration the principles listed below:
1. Spoken word – never needs a “battery change”.
It eventually rained after three and a half years. Regarding this incident, James writes in Chapter 5, verse 17 “…the heaven gave rain and the earth yielded its harvest” Notice two keywords in this verse .i.e. “gave” and “its.” Both these words indicate a sense of personal belonging. Heaven gave rain – which means heaven had rain within itself to give. The earth yielded its harvest – which means the earth had harvest within itself to yield. Both the earth and the heaven had it in them to prove the spoken word of God to be true. Hebrews 1:3 says “The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word…” In other words, there isn’t a single thing that God has created, for which He does not have the power to sustain. Appliances manufactured by the spoken Word, do not need a battery change. If God has spoken a Word into your life, He will not only do it, He will sustain what He does too.
By,
Sujith Alex
Text to read I Kings 18:41-46
There had been no rain in the land for three and half years. The Word of the Lord comes to Elijah saying, “Go, and present yourself to Ahab. I will send rain on the earth” (1 Kings 18:1) Elijah thus becomes an heir of a promise – a promise of rain; a Word from the Lord. Most of us have a Word from the Lord - you may call it your vision, or a prophecy over you, or your dream, or your destiny. However, it takes a process for that Word to become flesh i.e. for that Word to manifest itself physically. If you are a recipient of a spoken Word from God and in the process of waiting for that Word to be manifest physically, then please take into consideration the principles listed below:
1. Spoken word – never needs a “battery change”.
It eventually rained after three and a half years. Regarding this incident, James writes in Chapter 5, verse 17 “…the heaven gave rain and the earth yielded its harvest” Notice two keywords in this verse .i.e. “gave” and “its.” Both these words indicate a sense of personal belonging. Heaven gave rain – which means heaven had rain within itself to give. The earth yielded its harvest – which means the earth had harvest within itself to yield. Both the earth and the heaven had it in them to prove the spoken word of God to be true. Hebrews 1:3 says “The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word…” In other words, there isn’t a single thing that God has created, for which He does not have the power to sustain. Appliances manufactured by the spoken Word, do not need a battery change. If God has spoken a Word into your life, He will not only do it, He will sustain what He does too.
By,
Sujith Alex
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
You are highly favored
"And the angel said, 'Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.'" (Luke 1:28)
Today's Word
Did you know that as a child of God, you are highly favored? No matter what you may have done in the past, as soon as you make Jesus Christ your Lord and Savior, you have favor with God! Mary didn't understand how or why she had God's favor, or what that favor was for. At that moment, she didn't know that she was chosen as a pure and holy vessel to bring Christ to the world. Friend, you have God's favor for the very same reason as Mary–because God chose you and made you a pure and holy vessel to bring Christ to your home, workplace, and even the world.
A Prayer for Today
God, I am blessed to be highly favored! There are friends, boss, co-workers, even family members who need to hear Your message. God, You can count on me to share Your Word with the world. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
"And the angel said, 'Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.'" (Luke 1:28)
Today's Word
Did you know that as a child of God, you are highly favored? No matter what you may have done in the past, as soon as you make Jesus Christ your Lord and Savior, you have favor with God! Mary didn't understand how or why she had God's favor, or what that favor was for. At that moment, she didn't know that she was chosen as a pure and holy vessel to bring Christ to the world. Friend, you have God's favor for the very same reason as Mary–because God chose you and made you a pure and holy vessel to bring Christ to your home, workplace, and even the world.
A Prayer for Today
God, I am blessed to be highly favored! There are friends, boss, co-workers, even family members who need to hear Your message. God, You can count on me to share Your Word with the world. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
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
Be Blessed
"All these blessings will come upon you and overtake you if you obey the LORD your God." (Deuteronomy 28:2)
Today's Word
Moses told the Israelites that God's blessings would not only follow them in response to their obedience, but overtake them like a flood! Think about it, God wants to bless you so that you will become even more of a blessing to those around you! Every area of need in your life is an opportunity for blessing from God. Are you being obedient in every area of your life that you can think of? If not, give it over in faith to God and be prepared to be blessed beyond your wildest dreams!
A Prayer for Today
God, give me strength and obedience so that You may pour upon me Your blessings. I desire to be a bigger blessing to those around me. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
"All these blessings will come upon you and overtake you if you obey the LORD your God." (Deuteronomy 28:2)
Today's Word
Moses told the Israelites that God's blessings would not only follow them in response to their obedience, but overtake them like a flood! Think about it, God wants to bless you so that you will become even more of a blessing to those around you! Every area of need in your life is an opportunity for blessing from God. Are you being obedient in every area of your life that you can think of? If not, give it over in faith to God and be prepared to be blessed beyond your wildest dreams!
A Prayer for Today
God, give me strength and obedience so that You may pour upon me Your blessings. I desire to be a bigger blessing to those around me. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
Sabbath or the Lord’s Day?
Jesus came to fulfill the Law (Matt. 5:17-20). He didn’t remove it, but enriched it and took it to greater heights. His standards of the law and its adherence are much higher (Matthew 5 and Romans 6). It is seen from the N.T. that the Law is for the unbelievers (I Tim. 1:9), but not for the believers. The believer is not under the Law, but grace (Rom. 6:14). Law has only led us to a sense of sinfulness, but Jesus Christ has led us to Salvation (Gal. 3:24-25). For the believers, there is a “new” Testament, a new set of Laws written in their hearts and not on stone tablets. So NT believers are to adhere to the laws as they are enriched by the Lord Jesus Christ and as He enables them through His Spirit.
The Lord Jesus who came to fulfill the Law as the Passover Lamb has in essence repeated 9 out of 10 commandments in a much enriched way in the N.T. and He expects us to keep all of those in their full gravity. But the question remained whether the commandment of the Sabbath was to be kept by the NT believer. The truths as revealed in the NT emphasize that the Sabbath has been replaced with the Lord’s Day which is the First Day of the week on which we commemorate the resurrection of the Lord. This has been the day observed as a day of remembrance, for breaking of bread and set apart as a special day of the week by the believers as seen in the Acts and the Epistles. The following Biblical contexts have led the Church throughout the last 20 centuries to keep Sunday, the first day of the week, as the Lord’s Day.
By,
Deepesh P
Jesus came to fulfill the Law (Matt. 5:17-20). He didn’t remove it, but enriched it and took it to greater heights. His standards of the law and its adherence are much higher (Matthew 5 and Romans 6). It is seen from the N.T. that the Law is for the unbelievers (I Tim. 1:9), but not for the believers. The believer is not under the Law, but grace (Rom. 6:14). Law has only led us to a sense of sinfulness, but Jesus Christ has led us to Salvation (Gal. 3:24-25). For the believers, there is a “new” Testament, a new set of Laws written in their hearts and not on stone tablets. So NT believers are to adhere to the laws as they are enriched by the Lord Jesus Christ and as He enables them through His Spirit.
The Lord Jesus who came to fulfill the Law as the Passover Lamb has in essence repeated 9 out of 10 commandments in a much enriched way in the N.T. and He expects us to keep all of those in their full gravity. But the question remained whether the commandment of the Sabbath was to be kept by the NT believer. The truths as revealed in the NT emphasize that the Sabbath has been replaced with the Lord’s Day which is the First Day of the week on which we commemorate the resurrection of the Lord. This has been the day observed as a day of remembrance, for breaking of bread and set apart as a special day of the week by the believers as seen in the Acts and the Epistles. The following Biblical contexts have led the Church throughout the last 20 centuries to keep Sunday, the first day of the week, as the Lord’s Day.
By,
Deepesh P
Friday, September 14, 2007
"This man receiveth sinners."-Luke 15:2
Observe the condescension of this fact. This Man, who towers above all other men, holy, harmless, undefiled, and separate from sinners-this Man receiveth sinners. This Man, who is no other than the eternal God, before whom angels veil their faces-this Man receiveth sinners. It needs an angel's tongue to describe such a mighty stoop of love. That any of us should be willing to seek after the lost is nothing wonderful-they are of our own race; but that He, the offended God, against whom the transgression has been committed, should take upon Himself the form of a servant, and bear the sin of many, and should then be willing to receive the vilest of the vile, this is marvellous.
"This Man receiveth sinners"; not, however, that they may remain sinners, but He receives them that He may pardon their sins, justify their persons, cleanse their hearts by His purifying word, preserve their souls by the indwelling of the Holy Ghost, and enable them to serve Him, to show forth His praise, and to have communion with Him. Into His heart's love He receives sinners, takes them from the dunghill, and wears them as jewels in His crown; plucks them as brands from the burning, and preserves them as costly monuments of His mercy. None are so precious in Jesus' sight as the sinners for whom He died. When Jesus receives sinners, He has not some out-of-doors reception place, no casual ward where He charitably entertains them as men do passing beggars, but He opens the golden gates of His royal heart, and receives the sinner right into Himself-yea, He admits the humble penitent into personal union and makes Him a member of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones. There was never such a reception as this! This fact is still most sure this evening, He is still receiving sinners: would to God sinners would receive Him.
By,
Saji Abraham
Observe the condescension of this fact. This Man, who towers above all other men, holy, harmless, undefiled, and separate from sinners-this Man receiveth sinners. This Man, who is no other than the eternal God, before whom angels veil their faces-this Man receiveth sinners. It needs an angel's tongue to describe such a mighty stoop of love. That any of us should be willing to seek after the lost is nothing wonderful-they are of our own race; but that He, the offended God, against whom the transgression has been committed, should take upon Himself the form of a servant, and bear the sin of many, and should then be willing to receive the vilest of the vile, this is marvellous.
"This Man receiveth sinners"; not, however, that they may remain sinners, but He receives them that He may pardon their sins, justify their persons, cleanse their hearts by His purifying word, preserve their souls by the indwelling of the Holy Ghost, and enable them to serve Him, to show forth His praise, and to have communion with Him. Into His heart's love He receives sinners, takes them from the dunghill, and wears them as jewels in His crown; plucks them as brands from the burning, and preserves them as costly monuments of His mercy. None are so precious in Jesus' sight as the sinners for whom He died. When Jesus receives sinners, He has not some out-of-doors reception place, no casual ward where He charitably entertains them as men do passing beggars, but He opens the golden gates of His royal heart, and receives the sinner right into Himself-yea, He admits the humble penitent into personal union and makes Him a member of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones. There was never such a reception as this! This fact is still most sure this evening, He is still receiving sinners: would to God sinners would receive Him.
By,
Saji Abraham
Be Refreshed
"The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul." (Psalm 23:1-3)
Today's Word
Nothing is more refreshing than having some crisp, cold water to drink when you're dry, thirsty and tired! If quenching your thirst feels so good and invigorating, then imagine just how much better it feels to refresh your spirit and soul. That's what God had in mind when He stated that He desires for you to come before Him and plug yourself back into His unlimited strength and victory. The same should be true of your time with other believers. When followers of Christ gather, it should be uplifting and refreshing for everyone involved, and make each person leave the place different than when they came in.
A Prayer for Today
God, give me a great desire to seek You daily and refresh my soul and spirit with the living water of Your Word. Thank You also for the times I have with fellow believers. Help me to refresh them as well. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
"The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul." (Psalm 23:1-3)
Today's Word
Nothing is more refreshing than having some crisp, cold water to drink when you're dry, thirsty and tired! If quenching your thirst feels so good and invigorating, then imagine just how much better it feels to refresh your spirit and soul. That's what God had in mind when He stated that He desires for you to come before Him and plug yourself back into His unlimited strength and victory. The same should be true of your time with other believers. When followers of Christ gather, it should be uplifting and refreshing for everyone involved, and make each person leave the place different than when they came in.
A Prayer for Today
God, give me a great desire to seek You daily and refresh my soul and spirit with the living water of Your Word. Thank You also for the times I have with fellow believers. Help me to refresh them as well. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
ACCEPTED BY GOD
While so many people today are going through feelings of rejection, frustration and loneliness, what a joy to know we belong to Jesus and Jesus belongs to us! He is our friend, our brother, our intercessor...always pleading our cause before the Father!
Yes, we have trials. Yes, we go through difficult problems, but never alone. Praise God, He holds our hands and walks with us. He gives us joy in the midst of our trials.
His word is true: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. (1 Peter 5:7). Jesus assures us, I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Live within my love (John 15:9, TLB). You didn't choose me! I chose you! I appointed you to go and produce lovely fruit always... (John 15:16, TLB).
With these words tucked comfortingly in your heart, you can look at your circumstances from a whole new perspective. Rejoice in the confidence of Jesus' acceptance and abiding love for you. Live in His love, filled with His peace and joy.
By,
Deepesh P
While so many people today are going through feelings of rejection, frustration and loneliness, what a joy to know we belong to Jesus and Jesus belongs to us! He is our friend, our brother, our intercessor...always pleading our cause before the Father!
Yes, we have trials. Yes, we go through difficult problems, but never alone. Praise God, He holds our hands and walks with us. He gives us joy in the midst of our trials.
His word is true: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. (1 Peter 5:7). Jesus assures us, I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Live within my love (John 15:9, TLB). You didn't choose me! I chose you! I appointed you to go and produce lovely fruit always... (John 15:16, TLB).
With these words tucked comfortingly in your heart, you can look at your circumstances from a whole new perspective. Rejoice in the confidence of Jesus' acceptance and abiding love for you. Live in His love, filled with His peace and joy.
By,
Deepesh P
In every situation, there are always two stories--
the story you see and the story God sees.
Sometimes life seems to be taking us down a huge detour and everything looks like it's not going our way. In those situations, our life and our story seems to be a disaster.
This is exactly what happened to Joseph, whose story is found in Genesis 37-50. Joseph's brothers jealously hated him and sold him into slavery. Joseph was wrongfully put in prison for raping Potifer's wife, when really he refused to compromise his integrity by sleeping with her. Then, Joseph helped get the chief cupbearer out of jail; however, when the cupbearer had an opportunity to return the favor and get Joseph out of jail, the man forgot about Joseph. Joseph ended up spending thirteen years in jail for something he didn't do.
At this point Joseph's story was going haywire, but God's story was right on track. That's because God had an amazing plan for Joseph's life; God was going to use Joseph to save Egypt and the surrounding lands for seven years of devastating famine. What looked to Joseph like a huge detour was really a great plan of God to provide food for countless people, including the very brothers that had sold Joseph into slavery.
At the end of this, Joseph realized that God had a bigger plan for his life, and after his brothers come to him for food, he tells them: "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20).
All along, God's story was right on track.
This same principle is also true in the life of Jesus. To the disciples, it looked as those Jesus would be a great king who would rule Israel and return the nation to greatness. They hailed him as a great leader. So, when Jesus was being crucified, the story they saw looked like a major train wreck -- this great leader whom they had followed for the past three years was suddenly dead. However, God's story was at its peak -- God was in the process of connecting humanity to himself.
By,
Benhar Philip
the story you see and the story God sees.
Sometimes life seems to be taking us down a huge detour and everything looks like it's not going our way. In those situations, our life and our story seems to be a disaster.
This is exactly what happened to Joseph, whose story is found in Genesis 37-50. Joseph's brothers jealously hated him and sold him into slavery. Joseph was wrongfully put in prison for raping Potifer's wife, when really he refused to compromise his integrity by sleeping with her. Then, Joseph helped get the chief cupbearer out of jail; however, when the cupbearer had an opportunity to return the favor and get Joseph out of jail, the man forgot about Joseph. Joseph ended up spending thirteen years in jail for something he didn't do.
At this point Joseph's story was going haywire, but God's story was right on track. That's because God had an amazing plan for Joseph's life; God was going to use Joseph to save Egypt and the surrounding lands for seven years of devastating famine. What looked to Joseph like a huge detour was really a great plan of God to provide food for countless people, including the very brothers that had sold Joseph into slavery.
At the end of this, Joseph realized that God had a bigger plan for his life, and after his brothers come to him for food, he tells them: "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20).
All along, God's story was right on track.
This same principle is also true in the life of Jesus. To the disciples, it looked as those Jesus would be a great king who would rule Israel and return the nation to greatness. They hailed him as a great leader. So, when Jesus was being crucified, the story they saw looked like a major train wreck -- this great leader whom they had followed for the past three years was suddenly dead. However, God's story was at its peak -- God was in the process of connecting humanity to himself.
By,
Benhar Philip
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
HAVEN OF HOPE
There was a season in Job's life when, encompassed with trials so great it defies the imagination, he was consumed with hopelessness, sure that he'd never again see anything good. This great man of faith had become defeated by enemy onslaught, reduced by his calamities to being without hope.
There is nothing quite as dark as life without hope. Hope is the great motivator. Without it the heart becomes sick, the soul despairs, and the spirit is consumed.
Are you without hope today? Have the circumstances of your life overcome you? Are your burdens more than you can bear? Do you need a spark from the Holy Spirit to rekindle your faith and renew your hope? Hope is as near as the God Who lives within you, so don't despair but persevere in trust and love for God. He promises to reward your trust and patience by ultimately overcoming on your behalf.
Happy is he who the God of Jacob for his help, Whose hope is in the LORD his God (Psalm 146:5).
Remember, He is right by your side this moment. Tell Him of your need and feel a touch from Him. Draw hope from Him and from those around you who have hope for you when you've lost your own. Job's hope was gone when he looked at the bigness of his need instead of looking to the bigness of his God. Job's losses were restored when he once again admitted the sovereignty and goodness of God. This became his haven of hope, his doorway to help and happiness.
By,
Deepesh P
There was a season in Job's life when, encompassed with trials so great it defies the imagination, he was consumed with hopelessness, sure that he'd never again see anything good. This great man of faith had become defeated by enemy onslaught, reduced by his calamities to being without hope.
There is nothing quite as dark as life without hope. Hope is the great motivator. Without it the heart becomes sick, the soul despairs, and the spirit is consumed.
Are you without hope today? Have the circumstances of your life overcome you? Are your burdens more than you can bear? Do you need a spark from the Holy Spirit to rekindle your faith and renew your hope? Hope is as near as the God Who lives within you, so don't despair but persevere in trust and love for God. He promises to reward your trust and patience by ultimately overcoming on your behalf.
Happy is he who the God of Jacob for his help, Whose hope is in the LORD his God (Psalm 146:5).
Remember, He is right by your side this moment. Tell Him of your need and feel a touch from Him. Draw hope from Him and from those around you who have hope for you when you've lost your own. Job's hope was gone when he looked at the bigness of his need instead of looking to the bigness of his God. Job's losses were restored when he once again admitted the sovereignty and goodness of God. This became his haven of hope, his doorway to help and happiness.
By,
Deepesh P
God Is In Control - 1 Corinthians 13:12
It is 100 percent true that God is good and that He is in control. These facts, however, do not prevent bad things from happening.Though it's within the Lord's power to give everyone a perfect existence, that wouldn't be in our best interest. Trials and suffering often drive people to the Lord. And for those of us who are already His followers, God uses harsh circumstances to mature our faith and conform us to the image of His Son. To be made perfect and pleasing to our Father is indeed in our best interest.
In His omniscience and wisdom, God will allow disaster and evil to touch our lives so we can grow from the experience. If we could peek behind the scenes of our life, we'd see the Lord in control and working toward His ultimate purpose for us.
Romans 8:28 affirms this: "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." On occasion, we see immediate positive results from trials. But other times, we must wait months or years to fully understand what God was doing in those difficult circumstances.
When He permits bad things to happen, we can be sure that He will continue to provide comfort and guidance, even as He shapes us into the people He wants us to be.
READ MORE HERE...
By,
Saji Abraham
It is 100 percent true that God is good and that He is in control. These facts, however, do not prevent bad things from happening.Though it's within the Lord's power to give everyone a perfect existence, that wouldn't be in our best interest. Trials and suffering often drive people to the Lord. And for those of us who are already His followers, God uses harsh circumstances to mature our faith and conform us to the image of His Son. To be made perfect and pleasing to our Father is indeed in our best interest.
In His omniscience and wisdom, God will allow disaster and evil to touch our lives so we can grow from the experience. If we could peek behind the scenes of our life, we'd see the Lord in control and working toward His ultimate purpose for us.
Romans 8:28 affirms this: "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." On occasion, we see immediate positive results from trials. But other times, we must wait months or years to fully understand what God was doing in those difficult circumstances.
When He permits bad things to happen, we can be sure that He will continue to provide comfort and guidance, even as He shapes us into the people He wants us to be.
READ MORE HERE...
By,
Saji Abraham
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
The principle of contribution
“One day Jesus sat down opposite the temple treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. Then He called His disciples and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.” Mark 12:41-44
Upon reading the above text, I decided to do a study on how much money this widow really had. A more accurate understanding of the currencies and the denominations used can be gained by looking into the original Greek text. For example the word “penny” appears in the New Testament a few times in most modern translations (“farthing” in traditional translations), but the root word has several meanings. I would like to illustrate how much money this widow had by comparing two verses: i.e. Mark 12: 42 and Matthew 10:29.
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny [in Greek - assarion]? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father.
Mark 12:42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, [in Greek - two lepta] worth only a fraction of a penny. [In Greek - kodrantes]
A total of three denominations are mentioned in the above two verses, namely – assarion, lepta and kodrantes. There is another common denomination we find in the bible – denarius (plural denarii), which is the normal daily wage for a labourer. The following are the conversion rates that relate them.
1 assarion = 1/16 denarius
1 kodrantes = 1/64 denarius
1 lepton (plural lepta) = 1/128 denarius
Based on the above equations and according to Jesus in Matthew 10:29:
The price for 2 sparrows = 8 lepta.
By,
Sujith Alex
“One day Jesus sat down opposite the temple treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. Then He called His disciples and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.” Mark 12:41-44
Upon reading the above text, I decided to do a study on how much money this widow really had. A more accurate understanding of the currencies and the denominations used can be gained by looking into the original Greek text. For example the word “penny” appears in the New Testament a few times in most modern translations (“farthing” in traditional translations), but the root word has several meanings. I would like to illustrate how much money this widow had by comparing two verses: i.e. Mark 12: 42 and Matthew 10:29.
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny [in Greek - assarion]? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father.
Mark 12:42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, [in Greek - two lepta] worth only a fraction of a penny. [In Greek - kodrantes]
A total of three denominations are mentioned in the above two verses, namely – assarion, lepta and kodrantes. There is another common denomination we find in the bible – denarius (plural denarii), which is the normal daily wage for a labourer. The following are the conversion rates that relate them.
1 assarion = 1/16 denarius
1 kodrantes = 1/64 denarius
1 lepton (plural lepta) = 1/128 denarius
Based on the above equations and according to Jesus in Matthew 10:29:
The price for 2 sparrows = 8 lepta.
By,
Sujith Alex
I will sing of mercy and judgment."-Psalm 101:1
Faith triumphs in trial. When reason is thrust into the inner prison, with her feet made fast in the stocks, faith makes the dungeon walls ring with her merry notes as she I cries, "I will sing of mercy and of judgment. Unto thee, O Lord, will I sing." Faith pulls the black mask from the face of trouble, and discovers the angel beneath. Faith looks up at the cloud, and sees that
'Tis big with mercy and shall break In blessings on her head."
There is a subject for song even in the judgments of God towards us. For, first, the trial is not so heavy as it might have been; next, the trouble is not so severe as we deserved to have borne; and our affliction is not so crushing as the burden which others have to carry. Faith sees that in her worst sorrow there is nothing penal; there is not a drop of God's wrath in it; it is all sent in love. Faith discerns love gleaming like a jewel on the breast of an angry God. Faith says of her grief, "This is a badge of honour, for the child must feel the rod"; and then she sings of the sweet result of her sorrows, because they work her spiritual good. Nay, more, says Faith, "These light afflictions, which are but for a moment, work out for me a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." So Faith rides forth on the black horse, conquering and to conquer, trampling down carnal reason and fleshly sense, and chanting notes of victory amid the thickest of the fray.
"All I meet I find assists me
In my path to heavenly joy:
Where, though trials now attend me,
Trials never more annoy. "
"Blest there with a weight of glory,
Still the path I'll ne'er forget,
But, exulting, cry, it led me
To my blessed Saviour's seat."
By,
Saji Abraham
Faith triumphs in trial. When reason is thrust into the inner prison, with her feet made fast in the stocks, faith makes the dungeon walls ring with her merry notes as she I cries, "I will sing of mercy and of judgment. Unto thee, O Lord, will I sing." Faith pulls the black mask from the face of trouble, and discovers the angel beneath. Faith looks up at the cloud, and sees that
'Tis big with mercy and shall break In blessings on her head."
There is a subject for song even in the judgments of God towards us. For, first, the trial is not so heavy as it might have been; next, the trouble is not so severe as we deserved to have borne; and our affliction is not so crushing as the burden which others have to carry. Faith sees that in her worst sorrow there is nothing penal; there is not a drop of God's wrath in it; it is all sent in love. Faith discerns love gleaming like a jewel on the breast of an angry God. Faith says of her grief, "This is a badge of honour, for the child must feel the rod"; and then she sings of the sweet result of her sorrows, because they work her spiritual good. Nay, more, says Faith, "These light afflictions, which are but for a moment, work out for me a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." So Faith rides forth on the black horse, conquering and to conquer, trampling down carnal reason and fleshly sense, and chanting notes of victory amid the thickest of the fray.
"All I meet I find assists me
In my path to heavenly joy:
Where, though trials now attend me,
Trials never more annoy. "
"Blest there with a weight of glory,
Still the path I'll ne'er forget,
But, exulting, cry, it led me
To my blessed Saviour's seat."
By,
Saji Abraham
You Can Change a Destiny
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 28:18-19)
Today's Word
Jesus told His disciples and us to go out and tell of the Good News that is the Gospel. You are a part of something special today—part of a historic time when Christians have unprecedented ways to reach the lost. The Great Commission was not the Great Suggestion, so you must be bold and act now! You can help change the path that someone is on; you may be a part of shaping someone's eternal destiny. That's something to get excited about today! You will be blessed and rewarded beyond measure for helping someone else see the light of God. Live boldly, join the mission, and change a destiny today.
A Prayer for Today
God, give me boldness as I share Your message with others. Thank You for allowing me to be a little part of shaping someone's destiny. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 28:18-19)
Today's Word
Jesus told His disciples and us to go out and tell of the Good News that is the Gospel. You are a part of something special today—part of a historic time when Christians have unprecedented ways to reach the lost. The Great Commission was not the Great Suggestion, so you must be bold and act now! You can help change the path that someone is on; you may be a part of shaping someone's eternal destiny. That's something to get excited about today! You will be blessed and rewarded beyond measure for helping someone else see the light of God. Live boldly, join the mission, and change a destiny today.
A Prayer for Today
God, give me boldness as I share Your message with others. Thank You for allowing me to be a little part of shaping someone's destiny. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
FATHER'S LOVE LETTER
You may not know me, but I know everything about you. Ps. 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up. Ps. 139:2
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered. Matthew 10:29-31
You were made in my image. Genesis 1:27
I knew you even before you were conceived. Jer. 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation. Eph. 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book. Ps. 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live. Acts. 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Ps. 139:13
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love. 1 Jn. 4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you. 1 Jn. 3:1I
offer you more than your earthly father ever could. Mat. 7:11
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand. Jas. 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs. Mat. 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope. Jer. 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love. Jer. 31:3
I will never stop doing good to you. Jer. 32:40
I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul. Jer. 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things. Jer. 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me. Deut. 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart. Ps. 37:4
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine. Eph. 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager. 2 Thes. 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles. 2 Cor.1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you. Ps. 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart. Isa. 40:11
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes. Rev. 21:3-4
And I’ll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth. Rev. 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus. Jn. 17:23
I have always been Father, and will always be Father. Eph. 3:14-15
Will you be my child? Jn. 1:12-13
I am waiting for you. Lk 15:11-32
By,
RSV RAJ
You may not know me, but I know everything about you. Ps. 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up. Ps. 139:2
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered. Matthew 10:29-31
You were made in my image. Genesis 1:27
I knew you even before you were conceived. Jer. 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation. Eph. 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book. Ps. 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live. Acts. 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Ps. 139:13
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love. 1 Jn. 4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you. 1 Jn. 3:1I
offer you more than your earthly father ever could. Mat. 7:11
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand. Jas. 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs. Mat. 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope. Jer. 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love. Jer. 31:3
I will never stop doing good to you. Jer. 32:40
I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul. Jer. 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things. Jer. 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me. Deut. 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart. Ps. 37:4
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine. Eph. 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager. 2 Thes. 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles. 2 Cor.1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you. Ps. 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart. Isa. 40:11
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes. Rev. 21:3-4
And I’ll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth. Rev. 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus. Jn. 17:23
I have always been Father, and will always be Father. Eph. 3:14-15
Will you be my child? Jn. 1:12-13
I am waiting for you. Lk 15:11-32
By,
RSV RAJ
"Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well, the rain also filleth the pools."-Psalm 84:6
This teaches us that the comfort obtained by a one may often prove serviceable to another; just as wells would be used by the company who came after. We read some book full of consolation, which is like Jonathan's rod, dropping with honey. Ah! we think our brother has been here before us, and digged this well for us as well as for himself. Many a "Night of Weeping," "Midnight Harmonies," an "Eternal Day," "A Crook in the Lot," a "Comfort for Mourners," has been a well digged by a pilgrim for himself, but has proved quite as useful to others. Specially we notice this in the Psalms, such as that beginning, "Why art thou cast down, O my soul?" Travellers have been delighted to see the footprint of man on a barren shore, and we love to see the waymarks of pilgrims while passing through the vale of tears.
The pilgrims dig the well, but, strange enough, it fills from the top instead of the bottom. We use the means, but the blessing does not spring from the means. We dig a well, but heaven fills it with rain. The horse is prepared against the day of battle, but safety is of the Lord. The means are connected with the end, but they do not of themselves produce it. See here the rain fills the pools, so that the wells become useful as reservoirs for the water; labour is not lost, but yet it does not supersede divine help.
Grace may well be compared to rain for its purity, for its refreshing and vivifying influence, for its coming alone from above, and for the sovereignty with which it is given or withheld. May our readers have showers of blessing, and may the wells they have digged be filled with water! Oh, what are means and ordinances without the smile of heaven! They are as clouds without rain, and pools without water. O God of love, open the windows of heaven and pour us out a blessing!
By,
Saji Abraham
This teaches us that the comfort obtained by a one may often prove serviceable to another; just as wells would be used by the company who came after. We read some book full of consolation, which is like Jonathan's rod, dropping with honey. Ah! we think our brother has been here before us, and digged this well for us as well as for himself. Many a "Night of Weeping," "Midnight Harmonies," an "Eternal Day," "A Crook in the Lot," a "Comfort for Mourners," has been a well digged by a pilgrim for himself, but has proved quite as useful to others. Specially we notice this in the Psalms, such as that beginning, "Why art thou cast down, O my soul?" Travellers have been delighted to see the footprint of man on a barren shore, and we love to see the waymarks of pilgrims while passing through the vale of tears.
The pilgrims dig the well, but, strange enough, it fills from the top instead of the bottom. We use the means, but the blessing does not spring from the means. We dig a well, but heaven fills it with rain. The horse is prepared against the day of battle, but safety is of the Lord. The means are connected with the end, but they do not of themselves produce it. See here the rain fills the pools, so that the wells become useful as reservoirs for the water; labour is not lost, but yet it does not supersede divine help.
Grace may well be compared to rain for its purity, for its refreshing and vivifying influence, for its coming alone from above, and for the sovereignty with which it is given or withheld. May our readers have showers of blessing, and may the wells they have digged be filled with water! Oh, what are means and ordinances without the smile of heaven! They are as clouds without rain, and pools without water. O God of love, open the windows of heaven and pour us out a blessing!
By,
Saji Abraham
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
THOUGHTS FOR THIS DAY
God's Love
"God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:16 NIV).
God's Plan
[Christ speaking] "I came that they might have life, and might have it abundantly" [that it might be full and meaningful] (John 10:10).
Why is it that most people are not experiencing the abundant life? Because...
Man Is Sinful
"All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).
Man was created to have fellowship with God; but, because of his stubborn self-will, he chose to go his own independent way, and fellowship with God was broken. This self-will, characterized by an attitude of active rebellion or passive indifference, is an evidence of what the Bible calls sin.
Man Is Separated
"The wages of sin is death" [spiritual separation from God] (Romans 6:23)This diagram illustrates that God is holy and man is sinful. A great gulf separates the two. The arrows illustrate that man is continually trying to reach God and the abundant life through his own efforts, such as a good life, philosophy, or religion - but he inevitably fails.
The third law explains the only way to bridge this gulf...
He Died in Our Place
"God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8).
He Rose From the Dead
"Christ died for our sins...He was buried...He was raised on the third day, according to the Scriptures...He appeared to Peter, then to the twelve. After that He appeared to more than five hundred..." (1 Corinthians 15:3-6).
He Is the Only Way to God
"Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me' " (John 14:6).
By,
Saji Abraham
God's Love
"God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:16 NIV).
God's Plan
[Christ speaking] "I came that they might have life, and might have it abundantly" [that it might be full and meaningful] (John 10:10).
Why is it that most people are not experiencing the abundant life? Because...
Man Is Sinful
"All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).
Man was created to have fellowship with God; but, because of his stubborn self-will, he chose to go his own independent way, and fellowship with God was broken. This self-will, characterized by an attitude of active rebellion or passive indifference, is an evidence of what the Bible calls sin.
Man Is Separated
"The wages of sin is death" [spiritual separation from God] (Romans 6:23)This diagram illustrates that God is holy and man is sinful. A great gulf separates the two. The arrows illustrate that man is continually trying to reach God and the abundant life through his own efforts, such as a good life, philosophy, or religion - but he inevitably fails.
The third law explains the only way to bridge this gulf...
He Died in Our Place
"God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8).
He Rose From the Dead
"Christ died for our sins...He was buried...He was raised on the third day, according to the Scriptures...He appeared to Peter, then to the twelve. After that He appeared to more than five hundred..." (1 Corinthians 15:3-6).
He Is the Only Way to God
"Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me' " (John 14:6).
By,
Saji Abraham
Be Delighted
"Be delighted with the Lord. Then he will give you all your heart's desires."(Psalm 37:4)
Today's Word
What really makes you happy? Most people in this life are happy and content with trying to find a decent job, getting married, and having a couple of children. There is nothing wrong with any of these, but is that the main point of life? God wants you to delight yourself in the things of Him. Things and people on earth can make you happy, but ultimately your greatest delight and joy should be in God. The reason this is important is because of what today's verse says. When you make Him your delight, He will give you the desires of your heart. So if you really want joy and fulfillment, then make Jesus your delight!
A Prayer for Today
God, thank You for promising me blessings and strength as I serve You. May I rest in and put my joy in You and You alone. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
"Be delighted with the Lord. Then he will give you all your heart's desires."(Psalm 37:4)
Today's Word
What really makes you happy? Most people in this life are happy and content with trying to find a decent job, getting married, and having a couple of children. There is nothing wrong with any of these, but is that the main point of life? God wants you to delight yourself in the things of Him. Things and people on earth can make you happy, but ultimately your greatest delight and joy should be in God. The reason this is important is because of what today's verse says. When you make Him your delight, He will give you the desires of your heart. So if you really want joy and fulfillment, then make Jesus your delight!
A Prayer for Today
God, thank You for promising me blessings and strength as I serve You. May I rest in and put my joy in You and You alone. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
Monday, September 10, 2007
HOLD ON TO HOPE
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." (John 10:10)
Today's Word
Satan wants you to give up and quit so he can have the victory in your life. But you can overcome him through the almighty power of God! Christ performed many miracles in the Bible, and He is still doing miracles today. The Bible says He is the same yesterday, today and forever. No matter what weapon the enemy may throw at you, it cannot penetrate the defense that Christ has put around you! Guard your hope, your joy, and your victory in Christ, because they are God-given blessings that He wants you to enjoy every day.
A Prayer for Today
God, do not allow the enemy to overcome me, but help me to guard my joy, my hope, and my victory in Christ, which are wonderful gifts from You! In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." (John 10:10)
Today's Word
Satan wants you to give up and quit so he can have the victory in your life. But you can overcome him through the almighty power of God! Christ performed many miracles in the Bible, and He is still doing miracles today. The Bible says He is the same yesterday, today and forever. No matter what weapon the enemy may throw at you, it cannot penetrate the defense that Christ has put around you! Guard your hope, your joy, and your victory in Christ, because they are God-given blessings that He wants you to enjoy every day.
A Prayer for Today
God, do not allow the enemy to overcome me, but help me to guard my joy, my hope, and my victory in Christ, which are wonderful gifts from You! In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
"Be ye separate."-2 Corinthians 6:17
The Christian, while in the world, is not to be of the world. He should be distinguished from it in the great object of his life. To him, "to live," should be "Christ." Whether he eats, or drinks, or whatever he does, he should do all to God's glory. You may lay up treasure; but lay it up in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, where thieves break not through nor steal. You may strive to be rich; but be it your ambition to be "rich in faith," and good works. You may have pleasure; but when you are merry, sing psalms and make melody in your hearts to the Lord. In your spirit, as well as in your aim, you should differ from the world.
Waiting humbly before God, always conscious of His presence, delighting in communion with Him, and seeking to know His will, you will prove that you are of heavenly race. And you should be separate from the world in your actions. If a thing be right, though you lose by it, it must be done; if it be wrong, though you would gain by it, you must scorn the sin for your Master's sake. You must have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. Walk worthy of your high calling and dignity.
Remember, O Christian, that thou art a son of the King of kings. Therefore, keep thyself unspotted from the world. Soil not the fingers which are soon to sweep celestial strings; let not these eyes become the windows of lust which are soon to see the King in His beauty-let not those feet be defiled in miry places, which are soon to walk the golden streets-let not those hearts be filled with pride and bitterness which are ere long to be filled with heaven, and to overflow with ecstatic joy.
By,
Saji Abraham
The Christian, while in the world, is not to be of the world. He should be distinguished from it in the great object of his life. To him, "to live," should be "Christ." Whether he eats, or drinks, or whatever he does, he should do all to God's glory. You may lay up treasure; but lay it up in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, where thieves break not through nor steal. You may strive to be rich; but be it your ambition to be "rich in faith," and good works. You may have pleasure; but when you are merry, sing psalms and make melody in your hearts to the Lord. In your spirit, as well as in your aim, you should differ from the world.
Waiting humbly before God, always conscious of His presence, delighting in communion with Him, and seeking to know His will, you will prove that you are of heavenly race. And you should be separate from the world in your actions. If a thing be right, though you lose by it, it must be done; if it be wrong, though you would gain by it, you must scorn the sin for your Master's sake. You must have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. Walk worthy of your high calling and dignity.
Remember, O Christian, that thou art a son of the King of kings. Therefore, keep thyself unspotted from the world. Soil not the fingers which are soon to sweep celestial strings; let not these eyes become the windows of lust which are soon to see the King in His beauty-let not those feet be defiled in miry places, which are soon to walk the golden streets-let not those hearts be filled with pride and bitterness which are ere long to be filled with heaven, and to overflow with ecstatic joy.
By,
Saji Abraham
Sunday, September 9, 2007
"And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment."-Revelation 4:4
These representatives of the saints in heaven are said to be around the throne. In the passage in Canticles, where Solomon sings of the King sitting at his table, some render it "a round table." From this, some expositors, I think, without straining the text, have said, "There is an equality among the saints." That idea is conveyed by the equal nearness of the four and twenty elders. The condition of glorified spirits in heaven is that of nearness to Christ, clear vision of His glory, constant access to His court, and familiar fellowship with His person: nor is there any difference in this respect between one saint and another, but all the people of God, apostles, martyrs, ministers, or private and obscure Christians, shall all be seated near the throne, where they shall for ever gaze upon their exalted Lord, and be satisfied with His love. They shall all be near to Christ, all ravished with His love, all eating and drinking at the same table with Him, all equally beloved as His favourites and friends even if not all equally rewarded as servants.
Let believers on earth imitate the saints in heaven in their nearness to Christ. Let us on earth be as the elders are in heaven, sitting around the throne. May Christ be the object of our thoughts, the centre of our lives. How can we endure to live at such a distance from our Beloved? Lord Jesu, draw us nearer to Thyself. Say unto us, "Abide in Me, and I in you"; and permit us to sing, "His left hand is under my head, and His right hand doth embrace me."
O lift me higher, nearer Thee,
And as I rise more pure and meet,
O let my soul's humility
Make me lie lower at Thy feet;
Less trusting self, the more I prove
The blessed comfort of Thy love.
By,
Saji Abraham
These representatives of the saints in heaven are said to be around the throne. In the passage in Canticles, where Solomon sings of the King sitting at his table, some render it "a round table." From this, some expositors, I think, without straining the text, have said, "There is an equality among the saints." That idea is conveyed by the equal nearness of the four and twenty elders. The condition of glorified spirits in heaven is that of nearness to Christ, clear vision of His glory, constant access to His court, and familiar fellowship with His person: nor is there any difference in this respect between one saint and another, but all the people of God, apostles, martyrs, ministers, or private and obscure Christians, shall all be seated near the throne, where they shall for ever gaze upon their exalted Lord, and be satisfied with His love. They shall all be near to Christ, all ravished with His love, all eating and drinking at the same table with Him, all equally beloved as His favourites and friends even if not all equally rewarded as servants.
Let believers on earth imitate the saints in heaven in their nearness to Christ. Let us on earth be as the elders are in heaven, sitting around the throne. May Christ be the object of our thoughts, the centre of our lives. How can we endure to live at such a distance from our Beloved? Lord Jesu, draw us nearer to Thyself. Say unto us, "Abide in Me, and I in you"; and permit us to sing, "His left hand is under my head, and His right hand doth embrace me."
O lift me higher, nearer Thee,
And as I rise more pure and meet,
O let my soul's humility
Make me lie lower at Thy feet;
Less trusting self, the more I prove
The blessed comfort of Thy love.
By,
Saji Abraham
What Do You Look At?
"The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." (1 Samuel 16:7)
Today's Word
When you accept Christ, He begins to work in you and through you automatically. He creates you to be a completely new person. No one else around you may notice the change, at least immediately, because man usually only sees the outside of a person, what can be seen and heard. And sometimes, you may not even see or feel the change. But the fact is that God changed you when you became a Christian, and He is still changing you because you belong to Him and you have His power and strength to be a new person! God changes people where it matters—on the inside. Don't be discouraged if others around you don't seem to notice a difference. Don't ever forget that a life-changing transformation has taken place in your heart.
A Prayer for Today
God, thank You for Your life-changing power and strength. Give me eyes to see people the way You see them, from the inside out. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
"The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." (1 Samuel 16:7)
Today's Word
When you accept Christ, He begins to work in you and through you automatically. He creates you to be a completely new person. No one else around you may notice the change, at least immediately, because man usually only sees the outside of a person, what can be seen and heard. And sometimes, you may not even see or feel the change. But the fact is that God changed you when you became a Christian, and He is still changing you because you belong to Him and you have His power and strength to be a new person! God changes people where it matters—on the inside. Don't be discouraged if others around you don't seem to notice a difference. Don't ever forget that a life-changing transformation has taken place in your heart.
A Prayer for Today
God, thank You for Your life-changing power and strength. Give me eyes to see people the way You see them, from the inside out. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Use Your Time Wisely!
"Don't waste time arguing over foolish ideas and silly myths and legends. Spend your time and energy in the exercise of keeping spiritually fit." (1 Timothy 4:7)
Today's Word
Paul said that he didn't waste his time thinking about or participating in things that kept him from achieving his goals and fulfilling his destiny. That's the attitude of victory you need to have in your daily life! God wants to help you make good decisions every day. He predestined you and all believers for greatness and for a life filled with victory. God wants you to experience His presence and His power in your life as He prepares you for a lifetime of wise decision-making. Have the positive attitude of Paul. Don't be bothered by insignificant things of life, rise above and see the spiritual greatness that is your destiny in Christ!
A Prayer for Today
God, I'm overwhelmed to think that You have destined me for greatness! Thank You for giving me godly goals and aspirations. Please give me strength to seek Your greatness. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
"Don't waste time arguing over foolish ideas and silly myths and legends. Spend your time and energy in the exercise of keeping spiritually fit." (1 Timothy 4:7)
Today's Word
Paul said that he didn't waste his time thinking about or participating in things that kept him from achieving his goals and fulfilling his destiny. That's the attitude of victory you need to have in your daily life! God wants to help you make good decisions every day. He predestined you and all believers for greatness and for a life filled with victory. God wants you to experience His presence and His power in your life as He prepares you for a lifetime of wise decision-making. Have the positive attitude of Paul. Don't be bothered by insignificant things of life, rise above and see the spiritual greatness that is your destiny in Christ!
A Prayer for Today
God, I'm overwhelmed to think that You have destined me for greatness! Thank You for giving me godly goals and aspirations. Please give me strength to seek Your greatness. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
Do you still believe God even when you can't believe what just happened?
When something really awful occurs, you may use the word "unbelievable" to describe it. During those times, even if what happened may have shaken your life, it is very important to maintain your faith. Circumstances are volatile, but God is never-changing—the solid rock.
You can't depend on your outward surroundings; however, you can depend on God. That's the purpose of faith. Hebrews 11:1 describes faith as being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Then, the rest of Hebrews 11 goes on to discuss great men and women in the Bible who exhibited faith. So, when your circumstances are unbelievable—whether good or bad—be sure to maintain your faith, your confident assurance of God's love for you.
All the people mentioned in Hebrews 11 went through difficult circumstances, yet they still believed God even in the midst of their tough trials. Follow the examples of Abraham, Noah, Joseph, Moses, and countless others: live by faith. It is important that you still believe God even during unbelievable circumstances.
READ MORE HERE...
By,
Benhar Philip
When something really awful occurs, you may use the word "unbelievable" to describe it. During those times, even if what happened may have shaken your life, it is very important to maintain your faith. Circumstances are volatile, but God is never-changing—the solid rock.
You can't depend on your outward surroundings; however, you can depend on God. That's the purpose of faith. Hebrews 11:1 describes faith as being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Then, the rest of Hebrews 11 goes on to discuss great men and women in the Bible who exhibited faith. So, when your circumstances are unbelievable—whether good or bad—be sure to maintain your faith, your confident assurance of God's love for you.
All the people mentioned in Hebrews 11 went through difficult circumstances, yet they still believed God even in the midst of their tough trials. Follow the examples of Abraham, Noah, Joseph, Moses, and countless others: live by faith. It is important that you still believe God even during unbelievable circumstances.
READ MORE HERE...
By,
Benhar Philip
"From Me is thy fruit found."-Hosea 14:8
Our fruit is found from our God as to union. The fruit of the branch is directly traceable to the root. Sever the connection, the branch dies, and no fruit is produced. By virtue of our union with Christ we bring forth fruit. Every bunch of grapes have been first in the root, it has passed through the stem, and flowed through the sap vessels, and fashioned itself externally into fruit, but it was first in the stem; so also every good work was first in Christ, and then is brought forth in us. O Christian, prize this precious union to Christ; for it must be the source of all the fruitfulness which thou canst hope to know. If thou wert not joined to Jesus Christ, thou wouldst be a barren bough indeed.
Our fruit comes from God as to spiritual providence. When the dew-drops fall from heaven, when the cloud looks down from on high, and is about to distil its liquid treasure, when the bright sun swells the berries of the cluster, each heavenly boon may whisper to the tree and say, "From me is thy fruit found." The fruit owes much to the root-that is essential to fruitfulness-but it owes very much also to external influences. How much we owe to God's grace-providence! in which He provides us constantly with quickening, teaching, consolation, strength, or whatever else we want. To this we owe our all of usefulness or virtue.
Our fruit comes from God as to wise husbandry. The gardener's sharp-edged knife promotes the fruitfulness of the tree, by thinning the clusters, and by cutting off superfluous shoots. So is it, Christian, with that pruning which the Lord gives to thee. "My Father is the husbandman. Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away; and every branch that beareth fruit He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit." Since our God is the author of our spiritual graces, let us give to Him all the glory of our salvation.
By,
Saji Abraham
Our fruit is found from our God as to union. The fruit of the branch is directly traceable to the root. Sever the connection, the branch dies, and no fruit is produced. By virtue of our union with Christ we bring forth fruit. Every bunch of grapes have been first in the root, it has passed through the stem, and flowed through the sap vessels, and fashioned itself externally into fruit, but it was first in the stem; so also every good work was first in Christ, and then is brought forth in us. O Christian, prize this precious union to Christ; for it must be the source of all the fruitfulness which thou canst hope to know. If thou wert not joined to Jesus Christ, thou wouldst be a barren bough indeed.
Our fruit comes from God as to spiritual providence. When the dew-drops fall from heaven, when the cloud looks down from on high, and is about to distil its liquid treasure, when the bright sun swells the berries of the cluster, each heavenly boon may whisper to the tree and say, "From me is thy fruit found." The fruit owes much to the root-that is essential to fruitfulness-but it owes very much also to external influences. How much we owe to God's grace-providence! in which He provides us constantly with quickening, teaching, consolation, strength, or whatever else we want. To this we owe our all of usefulness or virtue.
Our fruit comes from God as to wise husbandry. The gardener's sharp-edged knife promotes the fruitfulness of the tree, by thinning the clusters, and by cutting off superfluous shoots. So is it, Christian, with that pruning which the Lord gives to thee. "My Father is the husbandman. Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away; and every branch that beareth fruit He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit." Since our God is the author of our spiritual graces, let us give to Him all the glory of our salvation.
By,
Saji Abraham
Friday, September 7, 2007
You are defined by your choices!
"Where is the man who fears the Lord? God will teach him how to choose the best." (Psalm 25:12)
Today's Word
One of the best ways to draw closer to God and listen to that "still, small voice" of His Spirit is simply to spend time reading the Bible. Why not decide today to make that a priority? Get involved in a Bible-believing church in your area where you can fellowship with friends who also want to serve the Lord. They can and will encourage you in living a life of excellence. The more time you spend with God and with His people, the more familiar you will become with His voice. Learn to live according to the leadings and the inner promptings of the Holy Spirit. Accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior is most important! Then, realize that God has planned out your days for good and not for evil (Jeremiah 29:11). Take confidence that the Lord will help you distinguish right from wrong, and make the right choice every time.
A Prayer for Today
God, I want to know You more intimately. I know that You give me opportunities to draw closer to You; I will act on those opportunities by reading Your Word and having fellowship with Your people. Help me to discern the right choice in the situations I face, so I can make decisions that please You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
"Where is the man who fears the Lord? God will teach him how to choose the best." (Psalm 25:12)
Today's Word
One of the best ways to draw closer to God and listen to that "still, small voice" of His Spirit is simply to spend time reading the Bible. Why not decide today to make that a priority? Get involved in a Bible-believing church in your area where you can fellowship with friends who also want to serve the Lord. They can and will encourage you in living a life of excellence. The more time you spend with God and with His people, the more familiar you will become with His voice. Learn to live according to the leadings and the inner promptings of the Holy Spirit. Accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior is most important! Then, realize that God has planned out your days for good and not for evil (Jeremiah 29:11). Take confidence that the Lord will help you distinguish right from wrong, and make the right choice every time.
A Prayer for Today
God, I want to know You more intimately. I know that You give me opportunities to draw closer to You; I will act on those opportunities by reading Your Word and having fellowship with Your people. Help me to discern the right choice in the situations I face, so I can make decisions that please You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
Thursday, September 6, 2007
God honors those who persevere
"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." (Hebrews 10:36)
Today's Word
We all face challenges, difficulties, and times when things don't go as planned. Have you ever noticed that it's in times of difficulty that we grow and develop? Those times are opportunities to allow God's Word to come alive in your life and see you through to victory. God will use your challenges to stretch you, and enlarge your vision.
We encourage you to be faithful during your adversity. Make up your mind to serve God no matter what comes against you, and God will honor you. Hold your head up high knowing that no matter what the situation looks like today, God will reward your faithfulness. Fight the good fight of faith. You are being prepared for promotion. And if you'll simply remain faithful and fight through life, then in due season, God will promote you to new levels of victory and you'll live that abundant life that He has promised you!
A Prayer for Today
God, I can face the challenges in my life with my head held high, knowing You have confidence in me. Open my eyes to the good that will come from it. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." (Hebrews 10:36)
Today's Word
We all face challenges, difficulties, and times when things don't go as planned. Have you ever noticed that it's in times of difficulty that we grow and develop? Those times are opportunities to allow God's Word to come alive in your life and see you through to victory. God will use your challenges to stretch you, and enlarge your vision.
We encourage you to be faithful during your adversity. Make up your mind to serve God no matter what comes against you, and God will honor you. Hold your head up high knowing that no matter what the situation looks like today, God will reward your faithfulness. Fight the good fight of faith. You are being prepared for promotion. And if you'll simply remain faithful and fight through life, then in due season, God will promote you to new levels of victory and you'll live that abundant life that He has promised you!
A Prayer for Today
God, I can face the challenges in my life with my head held high, knowing You have confidence in me. Open my eyes to the good that will come from it. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
Blessings and Difficulties...
You need both blessings and difficulties, because one without the other is neither.People who live in affluence for all of life (such as many people in North America and Western Europe) can easily become so accustomed to wealth, blessings, and prosperity that they can easily forget what blessings they actually have. However, if those possessions are taken away, those people will certainly look at life with a new perspective, realizing how much they really had.
You don't realize how much you have until you don't have it anymore.
God knows the importance of balance; that is, the importance of having both blessings and difficulties. There are several scriptures that speak about this balance. For example in 1 Peter 4:13, we are told: Rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. Notice how we participate both in suffering and in joy.
Similarly, in 2 Corinthians 1:7, Paul wrote this to the church in Corinth: And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort. They experienced both suffering and comfort.
Don't become too comfortable with what you have, because when you forget that the things you have are a blessing from God and when you start to assume that they are guaranteed possessions, it is quite possible that God will take them away from you in order to teach you that you need both blessings and difficulties, because one without the other is neither.
love in christ,
Benhar Philip
You need both blessings and difficulties, because one without the other is neither.People who live in affluence for all of life (such as many people in North America and Western Europe) can easily become so accustomed to wealth, blessings, and prosperity that they can easily forget what blessings they actually have. However, if those possessions are taken away, those people will certainly look at life with a new perspective, realizing how much they really had.
You don't realize how much you have until you don't have it anymore.
God knows the importance of balance; that is, the importance of having both blessings and difficulties. There are several scriptures that speak about this balance. For example in 1 Peter 4:13, we are told: Rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. Notice how we participate both in suffering and in joy.
Similarly, in 2 Corinthians 1:7, Paul wrote this to the church in Corinth: And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort. They experienced both suffering and comfort.
Don't become too comfortable with what you have, because when you forget that the things you have are a blessing from God and when you start to assume that they are guaranteed possessions, it is quite possible that God will take them away from you in order to teach you that you need both blessings and difficulties, because one without the other is neither.
love in christ,
Benhar Philip
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
His pain, my gain.
Text to read Mark 8:22-25
"... Jesus led him..." Mark 8:23
One day, some people brought a blind man to Jesus and begged Him to touch him. “Jesus took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village…” (Mark 8:23) Notice two things that Jesus did:
1. He took the blind man by the hand
2. He led the blind man out of the village.
I was studying that line very carefully and I realized that: It DID NOT say:
A. “Jesus took the blind man’s hand and led him out of the village.”
It said: B. “Jesus took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village.”
The “object” of attention in Statement A is “the blind man’s hand.” However the object of attention is Statement B is “The blind man.” Mark 8:23 does not use Statement A, rather it uses Statement B.
I am glad that when I encountered Jesus, He did not take only a few components of me – rather He took all of me. He did not take my hands alone; he took ME by my hand – and that means a lot to me. It means a lot to me that He did not take my hands alone to serve His purpose – rather He used my hand to take ME – and then work out His purpose through me. He did not take my successes alone, or my failures alone; my strengths alone, or my weaknesses alone; my dreams alone, or my fears alone. He took me. “Jesus took the blind man…”
By,
Sujith Alex
Text to read Mark 8:22-25
"... Jesus led him..." Mark 8:23
One day, some people brought a blind man to Jesus and begged Him to touch him. “Jesus took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village…” (Mark 8:23) Notice two things that Jesus did:
1. He took the blind man by the hand
2. He led the blind man out of the village.
I was studying that line very carefully and I realized that: It DID NOT say:
A. “Jesus took the blind man’s hand and led him out of the village.”
It said: B. “Jesus took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village.”
The “object” of attention in Statement A is “the blind man’s hand.” However the object of attention is Statement B is “The blind man.” Mark 8:23 does not use Statement A, rather it uses Statement B.
I am glad that when I encountered Jesus, He did not take only a few components of me – rather He took all of me. He did not take my hands alone; he took ME by my hand – and that means a lot to me. It means a lot to me that He did not take my hands alone to serve His purpose – rather He used my hand to take ME – and then work out His purpose through me. He did not take my successes alone, or my failures alone; my strengths alone, or my weaknesses alone; my dreams alone, or my fears alone. He took me. “Jesus took the blind man…”
By,
Sujith Alex
Keep the Emotional Tank Full
"Happy are those who long to be just and good, for they shall be completely satisfied." (Matthew 5:6)
Today's Word
Every important relationship you have should be an opportunity to ask yourself, "How can I keep this person's emotional tank full?" Try to discover what the people around you need. People have different ways they express and receive love. We all have different kinds of needs and different ways that these needs are best met. These differences are part of what make our relationships exciting and fulfilling! Take the time to find out what your mate needs and how you can best meet those needs. Not only will this work in marriage, but in every other relationship of your life. You'll grow closer to your relationship & have more meaningful and fulfilling friendships, and find that your life takes on a new dimension and purpose when you focus on caring for others.
A Prayer for Today
God, I thank You for thinking so much of us. You loved us enough to give us everything. Give me strength so that I may look to fill the emotional tanks of others around me. Thank You for putting these special people in my life. In Jesus' name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
"Happy are those who long to be just and good, for they shall be completely satisfied." (Matthew 5:6)
Today's Word
Every important relationship you have should be an opportunity to ask yourself, "How can I keep this person's emotional tank full?" Try to discover what the people around you need. People have different ways they express and receive love. We all have different kinds of needs and different ways that these needs are best met. These differences are part of what make our relationships exciting and fulfilling! Take the time to find out what your mate needs and how you can best meet those needs. Not only will this work in marriage, but in every other relationship of your life. You'll grow closer to your relationship & have more meaningful and fulfilling friendships, and find that your life takes on a new dimension and purpose when you focus on caring for others.
A Prayer for Today
God, I thank You for thinking so much of us. You loved us enough to give us everything. Give me strength so that I may look to fill the emotional tanks of others around me. Thank You for putting these special people in my life. In Jesus' name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
"Cast your burdens on the Lord, releasing the weight of them and He will sustain you." (Psalm 55:22)
Today's Word
Jesus said in John 14:27, "I'm leaving you My peace. I'm giving it unto you." The Amplified version says, "Now stop allowing yourself to be agitated and disturbed. And do not permit yourselves to become unsettled." God has done His part to give you His peace. As a child of God, His peace is on the inside of you right now. You've got to do your part and make the decision to live in peace.
When negative circumstances arise, and you make the choice to stay calm and live in peace, you are showing that you have faith and trust in God. You are saying, "God, I know that You are in control, I know that You're going to see me through. I know that no weapon formed against me is going to prosper." Today, choose to keep peace in your life. When you cast your burdens on Him, He promises to sustain you–that's a place of true peace, a place of lasting power!
A Prayer for Today
God, what an amazing discovery to find that Your perfect peace is within me! I trust You and will tap into that peace when life tries to steal it away. Thank you for giving me power over negative attitudes! In Jesus' Name – Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
Today's Word
Jesus said in John 14:27, "I'm leaving you My peace. I'm giving it unto you." The Amplified version says, "Now stop allowing yourself to be agitated and disturbed. And do not permit yourselves to become unsettled." God has done His part to give you His peace. As a child of God, His peace is on the inside of you right now. You've got to do your part and make the decision to live in peace.
When negative circumstances arise, and you make the choice to stay calm and live in peace, you are showing that you have faith and trust in God. You are saying, "God, I know that You are in control, I know that You're going to see me through. I know that no weapon formed against me is going to prosper." Today, choose to keep peace in your life. When you cast your burdens on Him, He promises to sustain you–that's a place of true peace, a place of lasting power!
A Prayer for Today
God, what an amazing discovery to find that Your perfect peace is within me! I trust You and will tap into that peace when life tries to steal it away. Thank you for giving me power over negative attitudes! In Jesus' Name – Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
Monday, September 3, 2007
"The Lord trieth the righteous."-Psalm 11:5
All events are under the control of Providence; consequently all the trials of our outward life are traceable at once to the great First Cause. Out of the golden gate of God's ordinance the armies of trial march forth in array, clad in their iron armour, and armed with weapons of war. All providences are doors to trial. Even our mercies, like roses, have their thorns. Men may be drowned in seas of prosperity as well as in rivers of affliction. Our mountains are not too high, and our valleys are not too low for temptations: trials lurk on all roads. Everywhere, above and beneath, we are beset and surrounded with dangers. Yet no shower falls unpermitted from the threatening cloud; every drop has its order ere it hastens to the earth.
The trials which come from God are sent to prove and strengthen our graces, and so at once to illustrate the power of divine grace, to test the genuineness of our virtues, and to add to their energy. Our Lord in His infinite wisdom and superabundant love, sets so high a value upon His people's faith that He will not screen them from those trials by which faith is strengthened. You would never have possessed the precious faith which now supports you if the trial of your faith had not been like unto fire. You are a tree that never would have rooted so well if the wind had not rocked you to and fro, and made you take firm hold upon the precious truths of the covenant grace. Worldly ease is a great foe to faith; it loosens the joints of holy valour, and snaps the sinews of sacred courage. The balloon never rises until the cords are cut; affliction doth this sharp service for believing souls. While the wheat sleeps comfortably in the husk it is useless to man, it must be threshed out of its resting place before its value can be known. Thus it is well that Jehovah trieth the righteous, for it causeth them to grow rich towards God.
By,
Saji
All events are under the control of Providence; consequently all the trials of our outward life are traceable at once to the great First Cause. Out of the golden gate of God's ordinance the armies of trial march forth in array, clad in their iron armour, and armed with weapons of war. All providences are doors to trial. Even our mercies, like roses, have their thorns. Men may be drowned in seas of prosperity as well as in rivers of affliction. Our mountains are not too high, and our valleys are not too low for temptations: trials lurk on all roads. Everywhere, above and beneath, we are beset and surrounded with dangers. Yet no shower falls unpermitted from the threatening cloud; every drop has its order ere it hastens to the earth.
The trials which come from God are sent to prove and strengthen our graces, and so at once to illustrate the power of divine grace, to test the genuineness of our virtues, and to add to their energy. Our Lord in His infinite wisdom and superabundant love, sets so high a value upon His people's faith that He will not screen them from those trials by which faith is strengthened. You would never have possessed the precious faith which now supports you if the trial of your faith had not been like unto fire. You are a tree that never would have rooted so well if the wind had not rocked you to and fro, and made you take firm hold upon the precious truths of the covenant grace. Worldly ease is a great foe to faith; it loosens the joints of holy valour, and snaps the sinews of sacred courage. The balloon never rises until the cords are cut; affliction doth this sharp service for believing souls. While the wheat sleeps comfortably in the husk it is useless to man, it must be threshed out of its resting place before its value can be known. Thus it is well that Jehovah trieth the righteous, for it causeth them to grow rich towards God.
By,
Saji
"For the Lord grants wisdom! His every word is a treasure of knowledge and understanding." (Proverbs 2:6)
Today's Word
The Bible says that God predestined us that we should live the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us. We have to choose to experience that life of abundance and blessing that He has planned for us. This is true for you no matter what you have gone through in the past. The exciting thing is that you don't have to follow those old ways anymore! The key is simply to listen to God's wisdom and choose to obey it. God gives good sense to the godly. He shows us how to distinguish right from wrong, how to make sound, wise decisions . . . and bloom according to His plan.
A Prayer for Today
God, thank You that You want to bless me, and that You prearranged a wonderful and fulfilling life for all of those seek You. I am so thankful that I'm able to look ahead and be excited about what lies in front of me. Give me strength to listen to Your voice and obey it. In Jesus' name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
Today's Word
The Bible says that God predestined us that we should live the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us. We have to choose to experience that life of abundance and blessing that He has planned for us. This is true for you no matter what you have gone through in the past. The exciting thing is that you don't have to follow those old ways anymore! The key is simply to listen to God's wisdom and choose to obey it. God gives good sense to the godly. He shows us how to distinguish right from wrong, how to make sound, wise decisions . . . and bloom according to His plan.
A Prayer for Today
God, thank You that You want to bless me, and that You prearranged a wonderful and fulfilling life for all of those seek You. I am so thankful that I'm able to look ahead and be excited about what lies in front of me. Give me strength to listen to Your voice and obey it. In Jesus' name. Amen.
By,
Shreedhar Jaysingh
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Love unexpressed is not love at all.
In John 13:34-35, Jesus instructed us—His followers—to love others: "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." As Christians, learning to walk in love should be a very high priority.
Unfortunately, we often love others only superficially—that is, we talk love, but don't live love. James 2:15-16 addresses this problem: "Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, 'Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?"
If you say that you love someone, but don't express it by what you do, then that "love" is worthless. Indeed, it isn't even real love.
Likewise, 1 John 3:17-18 asks, "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth." Here again, we are instructed to love with actions—not just with our mouth.
Follow the instructions of Jesus: love one another. However, remember that real love must be accompanied by actions, because love unexpressed is not love at all!
By,
Benhar Philip
In John 13:34-35, Jesus instructed us—His followers—to love others: "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." As Christians, learning to walk in love should be a very high priority.
Unfortunately, we often love others only superficially—that is, we talk love, but don't live love. James 2:15-16 addresses this problem: "Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, 'Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?"
If you say that you love someone, but don't express it by what you do, then that "love" is worthless. Indeed, it isn't even real love.
Likewise, 1 John 3:17-18 asks, "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth." Here again, we are instructed to love with actions—not just with our mouth.
Follow the instructions of Jesus: love one another. However, remember that real love must be accompanied by actions, because love unexpressed is not love at all!
By,
Benhar Philip
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