God A First Responder

Psalms 63:1

O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;

How often do we struggle with situation and we never think that  God is always the first person whom we should seek. Yet many times  we struggle with the many emotion that are going on in our minds and we make statements "Well, I guess all I can do is pray." I am sure you have heard that before and maybe you have even said it. We all have. We are all guilty of treating prayer as a last-ditch effort and saying things like, "Well, nothing else is working, so maybe we should pray."  Let God be are First responder and not a last-ditch offort.

Thank You Lord

Pastor Joel Osteen's Full Sermon "The Power of 'I Am'" - Oprah's Lifecla...

The Power Of I am as seen on Oprah's life class.  Inspiring, motivating, uplfting, encouraging, God desire for us to be who he made us to be. Praise God Thank you Jesus.

Power of Words

The words that follow "I am".

The power what follows these two words can bring success or failure, the positive and negatives that follow those simples words can determine the outcome.  This was Pastor Joel Osteen message in Oprah's Life Class.
If we continuosly say negative things then that is what follows, we need to change the way we think to positive thoughts; with sayings of "I am unique, I am beautiful etc;  when we continously say these positive sayings we bring blessing to us. These and many more passage are Gods desire for all of mankind.  Alot of times we limit God when he is limitless. He bless us abundantly
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, Ephesians 3:20
And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe. 1 Thesalonians 2:13
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yours; Philippians 2:3

Settled In (Waiting for Guidance)

John 16:13However when he, the Spirit of truth, has come, he will guide you into all truth, for he will not speak from himself; but whatever he hears, he will speak. He will declare to you things that are coming.
Since I moved here I have been so blessed, there is no stress being here the only thing is coming from a work ethic and working since I was 14. I am not use to all the time yet I am so enjoying it.  I have so much time to reflect and to pray, and I find myself in constant prayer mostly thanking God for providing for me, bring Kolohe (my dog) unto my life as my companion at least I am not alone I have her tho sometimes she drives me crazy..... Right now I am waiting on God as guidance, direction, purpose, and plan for ourlives. .... It so beautiful here I am so Happy..Thank Lord... Praise God for all he has done, I am so grateful for his blessings

 

Made The Move

Tuesday September 18, 2012

Today's Verse:
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. - Matthew 11:29 (KJV

 

I have finally settled in my home on Kauai its a beautiful place here in Wailua Homestead just above Opaekaa Falls and the river.  I am renting a Studio apartment myself and my Dog. It is a challenge just seeing what the Lord has instored for us here. I have been having a difficult time mostly with myself the desires of the flesh yet God has been ever so mercyful, loving and forgiving as he always has been.  I am excited to see what it is the Lord have enstored for me here.  Kauai is the older Island in the chain of islands.  God has a plan and a purpose.

It took sometime and lots of prayers before God provided a way get here to Kauai and a place for both of us, altho its far from my daughter yet its where God placed me and where I need to be.  I am thankful because he has provided all my needs and he will continue to make a way for us to do his work.

Thank You Lord

 

Learning patience (to Wait)

James 5:7-8Be patient therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. Behold, the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient over it, until it receives the early and late rain. You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.
Hebrews 12:1Therefore let us also, seeing we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Galatians 5:22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Romans 8:25But if we hope for that which we don't see, we wait for it with patience.

Learning patience is difficult yet very rewarding..  We as human before we were just a speck in our parents eyes had already been embedded in our DNA opposite attributes adultery, sexual immorality, uncleanness, lustfulness idolatry, sorcery, hatred, strife, jealousies, outbursts of anger, rivalries, divisions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. (sin) God give us these to attributes the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law some of teses are also embedded in our DNA and they sometimes conflick with each other. and this is the battles within ourselves the spirit and the flesh.  When God sent his son Jesus to die for us it brought us closer to God.

Altho God created us in his imagine he give us a will (or mind) to choose. A freedom of choice to choose where our lives will go. For me the choice was already made long before when my foundations were already set. The seed was planted, nurture and watered altho it seem long. God was always in the mist he was never far.
I finally realized that God chose me.  I wonder sometimes and ask myself why, but the Bible is clear because he loves us that is why God sent his son Jesus to die for mankind.  Many times when I would make a prayer request I expect God to answer ?Yesterday and my way.  When he didn't answer and took long according to me, I did it my way because I was being impatient.
Today altho it took many lesson and many difficut outcomes, hopefully today through prayer things are better , yet more to learn and grow.

Recently I decided to leave my Job of 10 years and relocate to Kauai, with no plans.  Praying and thanking God for all things it has been a learning experience yet amazing andfruitful, tho to some it may seem reckless and not quite thought out. 
On the last day of work, I spoke with a coworker who it that time I share about taking a leap of faith, How we always say we have faith we believe but do we really have faith, do we believe or is it just lip service.
Right now sitting hear I realize that as the days and weeks went by I am learning to wait and to do it patiently. Its been difficult but and without seeming overly drama it was not that bad. I never do pray for patience but God teaches us patience.  In a quote taken from a movie. "When God closes a door somewhere he opens a window", a window of hope.

Romans 8:25But if we hope for that which we don't see, we wait for it with patience.

Thank You Lord

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God Speaks Through Gifts and Abilities

August 20, 2012

Today I am sitting here wondering about my direction yet my direction has already been set out for me.  God had already set it out long before, God has a purpose for all of us and we need to  follow  what is the will of God..  Life was never to be easy, if it did how would we gain any knowledge or learn specific things if it was not for those adversaties and challenges.  Those challenges builds our character, the person, God wants us to be.
I always thought my character had such a flaw, because my family always said I was a cry baby, I was the mouthy person, which made me who I am, a different breed. We all are different but unique we experience things that continue to teach us help us to grow.
God helped me in many different ways.  I truly thank God for my setting my foundations, for planting the seed, many events and people helped to watered that seed planted so long ago.  There are so many events so many life lessons.
I am certain many of us have things that happen that helped to make those choice some times not the right ones,  yet God has never been far as to help you through it. I start another Reading plan titled "Hearing form God each Morning" author Joyce Meyers. here is a short subject.
People often wonder, What am I supposed to do with my life? What is my purpose for being alive? Does God have a plan for me? One way God answers these questions is through our natural gifts and abilities. He leads us to understand our purpose through the skills and talents He gives us.
God had Given me an ability that help me in my Job, even with having brain tumor twice and having resection surgery done twice.  Most of my coworker were surprised when the heard my story and was surprised that even with mycondition I was able to use that ability for work.  I work for a school bus company for almost 10 years as a driver first and later as a dispatcher for special needs.  My memory regarding students, schools, what school student attended and vehicles they rode to and from home and school,  address where student lived, names of employees, telephone numbers, surprised many of my coworkers even my employer.  It is a God given ability and God speaks through me when i share my testamony. Thank You Lord

Leap Of Faith

July 16, 2012

Last Day at work

Today is my last day of work, here on Oahu. I have been employed for 10 years almost July 29, 2012 would be 10 years.  I have enjoyed working for this company. In the last 3 years I felt that there is somewhere else I need to be yet I have not made a move.  
I am stepping out of my comfort zone and taking a leap of faith by resigning from my Job and moving to Kauai. Iwill also be moving to help my sister in law with her drivers Ed Business at least that is the plan, right now I am leaving my future in Gods hands and taking that leap of faith, the faith the I speak much yet Do I say what I mean or do what the spirit moves me to do. Most times I waited on Gods answer. If it be the will of God all will well.  What is needed and where I am needed will be in Gods hands. By Faith we are lead.
God does know what is best.  Thank You Lord.

FEARFUL

Looking , watching and praying is what scriptures tell us to do, as we are now in those crucial days yet we no not when Jesus will return for his people.  Many churches have different ideas of when of who will be taken up when the Lord returns.
Some denominations say once saved always saved. and yet we still sin.  Romans 3:23 For all have sin and fall short of the glory of God.  Its a daily struggle to just to stay focus.

THE GLORIOUS HOPE

Draw Near – 365 Guides to Greater Intimacy with God

Hebrews 9:28  So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.


THE GLORIOUS HOPE


During the Cold War, a famed scientist remarked, "The United States has 100,000 atomic weapons while Russia has 50,000. Yet, only four thousand such weapons can destroy the entire human race." Another scientist said, "I am not optimistic that the human race will survive another ten years." Bertrand Russell once bitterly said, "I wouldn't give a 50-50 chance that one person will be alive on this planet forty years from now."

Winds of despair often blow across our dying planet until we all live in an uneasy tension. We wonder what shattering blow will hit us next. Terrorism, pollution, and violence permeate our daily lives.

Man without God has absolutely no reason to hope. Without question, our scientific accomplishments have outstripped our moral strength. We recklessly rattle rockets and threaten ourselves with total extinction. Pitted against the blackness of the hour, however, is the promise of centuries ago: "I will return." Christ promised to return to our world and bring order out of chaos, joy out of despair. This is the glorious hope of the believer.

Jesus taught His disciples to pray, "Thy kingdom come." What a remarkable petition this is. When Christ's Kingdom comes, there will be no more war and hatred. Babies will not die of starvation and neglect. When Christ comes, human suffering will cease. No wonder the believer should daily pray, "Thy kingdom come." The true believer longs for his Lord's return.

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RAT ON THE PLANE

Draw Near – 365 Guides to Greater Intimacy with God.
Wed Apr 25

Day 66 of 365.
Colossians  3:1 in Reader .1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

RAT ON THE PLANE

Flying over heavily-wooded terrain, a pilot heard gnawing noises in the back of his small aircraft. Panic gripped him as he realized that a rat was chewing through wires vital to the plane's operation. By the time he could get to an airport, it might be too late. Then an idea struck him. He nosed his airplane as high as he could without losing consciousness and put on his oxygen mask. In just a few minutes, the gnawing stopped and the rat was dead.

Many shuffle through life with gnawing doubt, fears, guilt, and inferiorities until these things overcome them. They have tried many ways to get rid of these overwhelming naggings, but all have failed. One thing, however, has never failed. When we nose the craft of our lives upward, real relief is ours. Isaiah promised: But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint (Isaiah 40:31). Doubts, fears, guilt, and inferiorities cannot last in the pure presence of our Christ.

The psalmist added: You will show me the path of life; In Your Presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore (Psalm 16:11). When doubts return to gnaw at us, it is time to nose heavenward to bask again in His presence. These "rats" of doubt die as we soar higher and higher into the pure presence of Christ.

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HOLDING ON

Draw Near – 365 Guides to Greater Intimacy with God
Tue Apr 17

Day 58 of 365.

Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.



HOLDING ON


During my first airplane ride, I held on. I looked out the window and the ground seemed so far away. Desperately clenching the strap by the window, I tensed every time the tiny plane hit an air pocket. How ridiculous I must have looked to those more accustomed to air travel. After all, clinging to that strap would not help if the plane plummeted to the earth.

While it amuses us to envision someone clinging tenaciously to a tiny strap in a moving plane, many are going through life just as frightened. They seem to wince at every turn and keep their hands on their pulse. Physicians estimate that 33,000 patients each week are not really sick, only afraid. Our generation is clinging to the strap and yet knows that it is not doing any good. Some, however, have learned to live more relaxed. They, too, feel the bumps and see the perils but are confident that everything will be okay. They have learned that our security is in the Christ we love: The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge (Psalm 46:7).

Confident living comes not by human resolution but by a relationship to Christ. As we are in Christ, we can be assured of His complete control of our lives. We can relax. Paul had learned to love Christ deeply: Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death (Philippians 1:20). May each of us learn to live more confidently in Christ by fully trusting Him.

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DESTINY

Draw Near – 365 Guides to Greater Intimacy with God
Tue Apr 3 Day 44 of 365.

Jeremiah 1:5  Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.


We all are destine for good things, as Jeremiah states God knew us before we were formed, we may not be prophets, but in our own lives we are tho share the love of God with others.
 
God gives us the choice either to accept or reject our destiny. In Romans, Paul said that God desires us to be conformed to the image of His Son. This is our destiny. If we move with it, our world will be a warmer, finer place to live. If we balk, many may fail to hear of our Lord and, like the diabetics, will be merely a gathering of ghosts, bemoaning their fate.

Its a coice ; the question is who do we choose to serve.
As for me and my house we will serve the Lord.

Passion Of Christ

April 9 2012

Last Night while flipping through The TV channels,  I stop at the passion of the Christ it was nearing the ending, Yet the most important part, when Jesus was being beaten and flogged. The clarity and vividness of that flogging was something that stirred my heart, down to the core, they used whips that tore parts of his flesh.  The Pharisees, Scribes and Saducees cheered on the crowds to incite insults at Jesus while he was being flogged, for each stripe he took I cried and cried my heart hurt. At that moment I was reminded of the price jesus paid for (my) mankinds sin. After the flogging they paraded him through the streets of Jerusalem to Golgatha where he was nailed to the cross and crucified. Satan was defeated on that Day. It was Man that seperated us from God and It was Man who returned us back to God.  John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth him should not parrish, but have eternal life.  John 14 :6 Jesus said I am the way the truth and the life no man cometh unto the father except through me.

LOVE AT HOME

Draw Near; Day 37


Ephesian 5:33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.


Looking at society today, marriages are looked on as temporary, or hollywood marriages, when the going gets tough the tough gets going.   Marriages today is not forever anymore.  More and more marriages seem to end in divorce.  We as a nation have forgotten the foundation of marriages are built on God. and that men are the head of the family and wives are to be submissive, husband are to love their wives.

LOVE AT HOME


Legend tells of an attractive young couple who boarded a train for the traditional honeymoon at Niagara Falls. That they were very much in love was apparent to all who saw them. Suddenly, the bride found herself hurling insults at her husband, and his rejoinders matched hers in bitterness and venom. Then she discovered a stranger sitting next to her whose presence had caused the transformation. "How did you get in here?" she gasped. "And who are you?" The stranger softly answered, "I'm Ten-years-from-now."


Many marriages are under stresses that threaten to destroy them. The sweetness of the honeymoon has worn off, and the business of living has caused some abrasions. Paul understood these problems, and he spent much time admonishing husbands and wives. Here is his formula for a happy home and a lasting marriage.

There must be one leader in the home, and God ordained the man to be that. But the man has a spiritual obligation to deeply love his wife as his own body. Both are to cling to each other rather than side against each other with relatives. The admonition to love is so strong that Paul repeated it again and likened the husband-wife relationship to that of Christ and His church. In today's prayer period, let us pray for a deeper love in our homes.

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Making a Life not a living

Draw Near – 365 Guides to Greater Intimacy with God.

Day 24 of 365. 

James 1:9-10  Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted:10 But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.

DIED A GROCER


Asked to explain the meaning of an epitaph he had written for his tombstone--"Born, a Human Being; Died, a Wholesale Grocer"--the businessman replied, "I was so busy selling groceries, I did not have to get married and have a family. I was successful. But I was so busy making a living, I never had time to live." Many today have a similar problem.

James points out that life is just a vapor and we must spend our time doing important things. He reminds us the man born in low circumstances can be exalted through Christ, and those born in riches should rejoice because they can enter the door of eternal salvation. The door is open to all men without preference. The only key is faith in Christ.

We often need to be reminded that we are creatures of eternity, not of time. We must consider our actions, not in terms of our few short years on this globe, but of that day when we will stand before our Creator and account for the deeds of the flesh. May we constantly remember that we were born human beings and that we need not die in despair. Through Christ we can, and will, live forever. Let us not be so busy making a living that we forget to make a life.

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Whats On Your Mind? 3/12/2012

Everyday when reading my Bible plan, its just been encouraging, the author of this plan write, different short stories pertaining to the scripture for that Day.  The stories allows the reader to see the the entire chapter and gives a clarity to the passage . There are so many stories and scripture to gleam from, that will build up your spiritual walk with God. Scriptures that otherswise would stay hidden due to lack of understanding; Matthew 7:7 Ask and ye shall  receive, Seek and ye shall find, Knock and the door will open.  Another scripture when I heard it again, it was on a Disney Movie, "Sound of Music" it stuck and embedded itself into my mind and heart. And brought to life  in 2010 New Years Eve; Psalm 121
Altho being a Christian since my childhood yet still a babe in Christ.  It took what seem a long time, until God knew I was ready to accept and receive his wisdom.  Jesusbrought clarity to understanding his word. I pray and hope that I will continue strive for the ultimate goal (Eternal Life).  I also pray to stay focus and finish this Bible Reading Plan for a year.
My blog will be about my Bible Reading Plan and at other times reminders and reflection of where I am in my lifes journey.

The clarity of the word of God is uplifting it brings about the changes in a person life, in all things.  God is the sculptor he chips away the things that hinders our growth, its a work in progress.  Thank you Lord  for your love and mercy.

Everyday is a Learning Day.

Every day is a learning day, trying to grasp all that God has instored can be overwhelming. God reminds me; "Be still"! He reminded me in todays scripture lesson. James 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.


I came across a twitter comment that sort of left me confused, by John Piper, 1 Corinthians 12:3 "No one can say 'Jesus is Lord' except in the Holy Spirit."  Christianity at its core is supernatural.   Ephesian 6:10 answers that question and I am no longer dumbfounded or confused,"Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might.


6:11: Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
6:12: For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world's rulers of the darkness of this age, and against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
6:13: Therefore, put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand.
6:14: Stand therefore, having the utility belt of truth buckled around your waist, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness,
6:15: and having fitted your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
6:16: above all, taking up the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil one.
6:17: And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;
6:18: with all prayer and requests, praying at all times in the Spirit, and being watchful to this end in all perseverance and requests for all the saints:
6:19: on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in opening my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel,


I am not a theologian, or a pastor, I am but a mere child who is seeking to learn and grow in my spiritual walk with God.  I notice how much of a change has taken place. Often times situation involving a person, prayers to change them would be my constant.  God reminded the need to take a different look at the situation.   The ultimate goal, striving for eternal life.  To Change is to except the truth to see others as God sees us,  to love and pray for them. Thank You Lord Jesus for loving me, for teaching me, most of all for dying for my sins. In Jesus name Amen.
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Draw Near: Day 20

Philippians 4:15 .Listen View Philippians 4:15 in Reader .15 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.

Philippians 4:19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesu
Day 20
Caring

Paul knew the cost and comfort of such care. Philippi was the only church that saw his physical needs and relieved them. He did not have to ask for their help. They saw and reached out. Thus he promised them: And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19).

A Caring person moves to relieve the person's needs and touch him with his concern most imes without being asked. Caring does cost, but its rewards are eternal. We should look around today and really see the needs of others. Then may we relieve those needs in a practical and loving way. This brings blessing to both giver and receiver.

I remember when I was younger growing up my Dad he was a stern man a giving man with a heart of gold. When he saw someone in need he would give everything, and anything. He instilled that value in us to see the needs of others.

Draw Near: Day 19

Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.


Day 19 MIND ADVERTISEMENT



Famed author Bruce Barton has wisely said: "For good or ill, your conversation is your advertisement. Every time you open your mouth, you let men look into your mind." Jesus said the same thing many years earlier: For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34). It is true that, to know how people think and what they are, we only need listen to their words.



The apostle Paul says, I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content. Paul knew how to be abased and how to abound. In other words, circumstances of his life did not affect his happiness. Rather, his joy was firmly rooted in a relationship with the Lord he loved. In such confidence, Paul could frankly claim: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13).


Our strongest witness for Christ is our positive conversation that breathes hope.
They Apostle Paul Reminds us to be content, to be joyful no matter what our state may be to count it all a blessing.






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Draw Near: The Thank You Cure

Day 18
Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus

The Thank You Cure

A wise old doctor in South Wales often prescribes the "thank-you cure." When a patient comes to him depressed but without symptoms of serious woes, the doctor tells him, "For six weeks, I want you to say 'Thank you' whenever someone does you a favor. And to show you mean it, emphasize the words with a smile." When the patient complains that few do him favors, the doctor simply replies, "Seek and ye shall find." Six weeks later the patient usually returns with a new outlook, freed of his grievances against life, and convinced that people have suddenly become more kind and friendly.

Praise does far more for us than it does for God. Our Father is not some egocentric being Who needs to be told constantly how wonderful He is. He desires the praise of His people because it opens their hearts to God and their fellowman. The grateful heart is a gracious heart. We are to season our request with thanksgiving, and in so doing, our love for the Lord grows deeper.

Reading through this bible plan has been, very inspirational, uplifting and encouraging.

Draw Near: Day 17

 Day 17
Philippians4: I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord.

4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.


Public Rebuke


The same day the disastrous Chicago fire broke out, a forest fire started in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, which killed five hundred more people than the Chicago blaze. Called the worst natural disaster in history, the Wisconsin fire started when many small fires were sparked in the dry weather. The Chicago conflagration received more publicity because it caused far more property damage and because of the romantic story of Mrs. O'Leary's cow beginning the Chicago blaze. However, both fires were devastating.


Paul warn the Philippians of the false Prophets within the church. Paul also saw a potential danger to such a young church, the disagreement between individual. Often we need help from others to see our problems from a different point of view, and to defuse it immediately. When left unattended our little fires of anger can bring destruction and even spiritual death.  Thank Lord for grace and mercy.

Draw Near: Guide to Greater Intimacy with God - Day 16

Day16
Philippians 3:19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly 20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ

The Writer titles Innocent Victims;

The horror of Hitler often overshadows that of Mussolini. However, we must never forget how evil this little dictator was. He marched without mercy on Ethiopia and machine-gunned peaceful people who still hunted with bows and arrows. He stayed in power for twenty-one years by murder, intrigue, and exile. When German forces collapsed in 1945, the escaping Mussolini was caught and, along with his mistress, shot. Their bodies were taken to Milan and hung by the heels in front of a garage. It was an ugly end to an ugly and totally immoral man.


There are evil men in the world even in the church, who set their minds on earthly things, their end, like Mussolini's, will be disgrace and damnation. Paul warns the Philippians of these false teachers.
Pitted against the evil ones of this world are those who, like Paul, can say that their citizenship is in heaven.
These are men who live for eternity rather than the few years between birth and the grave. They refuse to live by the law of the jungle--"survival of the fittest"--but seek to fulfill their responsibilities to God and man. May our citizenship be rooted in eternity rather than in the gutters of this earth.


Its so important that we focus on the things in heaven and not on earth. There are many who set there sights on here, and now,what the world has to offer.  It is starting to show, how a nation built on the foundation of God.  The world seem to live by the laws of the jungle, survival of the fittest. Have we as a nation forgotten our first love and stray far that there is no redemption and no salvation.  We need to wake up and smell the coffee before its too late and we are left behind.

Christian Bumper stickers! Approve or Disapprove

Draw Near; Guide to Greater Intimacy with God
Day 15
JUST HONK


A Catholic priest told of driving behind a car with the message "Honk if you love Jesus" on the bumper sticker. "I don't exactly approve of that sort of thing," he said, "but maybe it was the nice weather or something." While stopped behind the car at a traffic light, the priest honked and waved. The lady in the car stuck out her head and yelled, "Can't you see the light is red, stupid?" The priest laughed and said, "It serves me right."

This incident reminds us that we often are tempted to act out of character with our Christian witness. In the heat of busy days, we sometimes say or do things that are not a good testimony for the Kingdom. The lady's attitude was wrong, and she probably later regretted it.


Paul approaches the problem of being human he encourage us to behave like believers, when we do not God can and will call it to our attention. As true believer we are convicted of our wrong doings by the Spirit that dwells with in us. It is wonderful when we realize how much God loves us.
2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God , and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished into all good works.

Looking Back: How much Growth is there?

The Bible Reading plan; Draw Near; Guide to Greater Intimacy with God has been encouraging, uplifting.
Today I seem to be galloping forward at a fast pace, yet God reminds me, and this question arise, Am I moving to fast that somehow I am missing something?

Looking back, when I first started writing this blog, and much has changed, the person I was and the person I am has grown, God's word seem to breathe life and the words seem to walk off the page and I am still learning, and growing, I am a work in progress.  Sometimes its good to step back take a deep breath and view your surrounding, to see the awesomeness of God's great creation, how majestic and intricate his creation.  I am so blessed by God. I have much to be thankful and praise God.  Thank you Lord.

Salvation is a divine interruption in man's heart

Draw Near : Guide to Greater Intimacy with God.
Day 13
TO MAKE A MIRROR


Madame Chiang Kai-shek tells of a young Buddhist monk two thousand years ago who looked pious, clasped his hands, and chanted "Amita Buddha" all day, believing he could thus acquire grace. One day, the Father Prior of the temple sat beside him and began rubbing a piece of stone against a brick. This went on for several days until the young monk asked, "Father Prior, what are you doing?"

"I'm trying to make a mirror," he replied. "But," protested the youth, "you cannot make a mirror of a brick." "That is true," the old man replied, "and it is just as impossible for you to attain grace by chanting all day."

This ancient Chinese story points to this truth: sinners cannot become saints unless their character changes. Paul understood this and frankly told the Philippians to have no confidence in the flesh, that is, not to consider themselves worthy of salvation because they had gone to the right schools, memorized the right things, and chanted the right prayers. Paul learned this from personal experience; he had done all these things, and they had not saved him.

Salvation is a divine interruption in man's heart. In Christ, we are made new creatures and become totally dependent, not on our own fleshly righteousness but on His grace. As the songwriter said, "Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe."

The writer uses this short story, to share Paul's writing to the Philippians "have no confident in the flesh.  Meaning we can do nothing on our own, only with God can we attain grace.  Paul who was named Saul throught experience.  If you read the story of Saul before his transformation on the road to Damascus. Paul persecuted the Christians, he was a devout Jew, a leader in the synagogue.  Paul grow up in the Jewish  church learning the Laws of Moses, customs and the traditions.  After Paul's encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus Paul's character changed. Paul became consume with share God's message that it became his mission and ministry to preach the word of God to the Gentiles. As Individuals we need to make the changes in us and only throught Jesus Christ are we able to attain  Grace, and Mercy.

Father God Thank For your Love, Grace, And Mercy. In Jesus Name Amen.

Seeking Our Own

Draw Near: Guide to greater Intimacy with God
Day 12 Used and Abused
Philippians 2:21 For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.

Today reading the writer writes about a young man whom had gain noteriaty and fame at age 5 won the hearts of Americans in the Walt Disney movie Song of the South.  At age  31, Bobby said, "I was carried on a silver platter and dumped into a garbage can." He was bitter because those who liked him as a child actor cared nothing for him when he could no longer entertain them.  Shortly after, March 30 1968 Bobby Driscoll die after many years of drug abuse. 

In today's society many seek things of the world fame, noteriety, money, status. we are reminded that we need to seek the things which are Jesus Christ.

Matt 6:19-21 (KJV)Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

The Writer and Paul noted; Timothy and Epaphroditus were men with a genuine love for the people of Philippi.  Believers must see people as people, being neither awed nor appalled at their veneer. 
Father God, Thank for loving me unconditional, help me to show that unconditional love to others even to those that have hurt me. to be genuinely loving and forgiving. In Jesus name amen.

Draw Near - Rejoice in the Lord - Day -11

Direct Order

As the writer wrote;  A cantankerous old lady came through surgery with flying colors. The surgeon sternly told her when she awoke, "In accordance with the rules of this hospital, you will have to walk ten minutes the very first day, and you will be out of here in a week since hospital beds are at a premium." On her first day, the old woman took her steps as ordered and within a few days was walking all over the hospital. Later, her family tried to pay the doctor a bonus for his work.

"Nonsense," he said, "It was just a routine operation." "It's not the operation we're marveling over," said the grandson. "It's her walking. She hasn't taken a step in six years!"

In Paul's letter to The Philippians; Paul left no room for disagreements or arguments; Philippians 2:14 Do All things without murmuring and disputings.  Apparently some people respond to direct and firm orders.  This scripture is not easy to take, yet it is Scripture.

The writer wrote and Paul says, "all things even things that seem so menial and insignificant.
That ye may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world...(Philippians 2:15).

Thank you Lord for your constant love and mercy. In Jesus name Amen.

Draw Near - Guide to Greater Intimacy with God - Day 10

FORGET THE FACE

Lately I have been reading  bible reading plan. It is structure to learn the Word of God, to have a greater knowledge and wisdom of who God Is.

Charles William Eliot, one of the greatest presidents of Harvard University, was born with a serious facial disfigurement. When he was older he became sensitive about his disfigurement, his mother said, "My son, it is not possible for you to get rid of this handicap. His parents consulted the best physicians and they could do nothing for him. But it is possible, with God's help, to grow a soul and mind so big that people will see you through God's Eyes." This is exactly what he did. Today, he is recognized as one of the educators who shaped modern secondary education.

Paul talked about the only begotten Son of God willfully coming to earth and humbling Himself to become a man. He further subjected Himself to the disfigurement of the cross. His life, death, and resurrection force us to look beyond that ugliness to the glory of His salvation. One day every knee will bow before this Lord of lords!
Like the writer of this reading plan wrote; Christ is a prime example of obedience, Jesus lived a life pleasing to his father knowing the ultimate sacrifice.  Jesus Christ was an atonement of sin for mankind.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that whosoever believeth he him should perish, but have eternal life.
John 14:6 Jesus said to him " I am the way the truth and the life No man cometh unto the father except through me.

This reading plan is a year long, a year of growing closer to God, learning to be christlike not only in spirit but also in the flesh being mindful that, Jesus paid the ultimate price.

Father, God Lord Jesus Thank for your Love, and Mercy in Jesus Name Amen.

Lack of Understanding; "God's Word"

Read a posting,  Appointment with Death - Cancelled; How a devout community prayed for healing for gentlemen name George had stage 2 cancer.  How prayers healed this man and he is now cancer free.

Scripture says we are born, than death, and than Judgement. Death is inevitable its a matter of time and only God knows that appointed time. It may seem bizarre or morbed to think about death, yet I can truthfully say
I no longer fear death.

Years ago I feared death, I don't think its death that I feared, my fear was I am not ready and my soul would be in forever darkness.  The one question that seem to plague my mind and why I feared Death; was "Is my name written in the book of life." "

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
3:17: For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved.
14:6: Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.

In the last 10 years I have been seeking God, learning, growing, working at drawing closer God. The ultimate goal is to have an intimate relationship with God.
When growing up my parents were very involved in Church, later they fell away.  Yet they were persistant and made sure that we went to church. Later my parents return to their first love.
God brought this scripture to mind; Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.  At that young age God was not a real person and Jesus was story book character.. I knew of God but I did not know him, Its an odd statement yet true. As I got older it became  God became  real only when I need him, It was "God in a box" that I took out on, Special Occasion, and on Sunday's, and when I was in trouble. When all went well, back in the box it went.

Now that I am older the realization  Word of God has become exciting, alarming, sad at times, awesome  and it comes to life. Scripture that I learned when I was younger I now understand, through God's divine wisdom..  Matthew 6:33 But seek first God's Kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well.

God wants us to be doers of the word and not just hearers.  To have Christian like attitudes in all things. Thank You Lord for your strength, in Jesus name amen..

Draw Near: Guide to Greater Intimacy with God -Liberated

Lately I have been doing a reading plan titled Draw Near- Guides to a Greater Intimacy with God. I am trying to stay committed to this reading plan and each day is a struggle to remain on task.  Even now I am distracted just to write my thoughts.
Day 7Michelangelo saw the task of the sculptor as that of freeing figures from their marble prisons. In each block of stone, he saw some "person" then chipped away until that form emerged. Sometimes he failed, as with St. Matthew. This famous statue is only half-finished because Michelangelo could not get the stone to release the figure of the brilliant apostle.
Todays reading; Heb 12:1-2 (KJV) 1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Heb 12:29 (KJV) 29 For our God is a consuming fire.

After today's reading I realize that God is a sculptor and as a sculptor he chips away the things that imprison us. By chiseling away the things that holds us back. God continues to work and conform us into the person and frees us from the sin that corrupts mankind.

We are prisoners, God frees us by chipping away the carnal nature, that so enslaves us
Thank You Lord for your Love, Grace, and Mercy. Lord help my to stay focus and committed to reading this plan daily.  aslo the read your word daily. In Jesus Name Amen.

Draw Near: Guide to Greater Intimacy with God - Day 1 - Ask, Seek , Knock

When first started this plan, never thought I be putting this in my blog now looking back, I am noticing the many changes that have taken place and starting to edit my post the person that I was back in 2009 when I first started this blog was just starting to grow and that is because my love for God has changed, and I am a willing participant.
Day 1
BUCKET OF WATER
In the middle of a lake near Akron, Ohio, is an island that was once the site of a famous amusement park. Shortly after the park lodge was first constructed over a hundred years ago, it caught fire. Firefighters rowed to the island to fight the blaze. A candy vendor working on shore wanted to do his part so he filled a bucket with water, rowed to the island, tossed it on the burning structure and rowed back to shore for more water. It never occurred to him to use the lake water.
While we laugh at the candy vendor, many men try to solve their problems in much the same way. Divine help is available but they ignore it, struggling to solve the human dilemma with human wisdom. After all their exhausting efforts, the fire still burns and little is accomplished.

If we question this premise, we need only look at the recidivism rates in our prison systems. Sixty to ninety percent of those coming out will return within five years. Still we try to rehabilitate without a spiritual perspective. How much wiser we would be to dip deeply into the resources Christ offers to change men. This is true not only with the problems of our society but also with our personal needs.

Matthew 7:7 Ask and ye shall  receive, Seek and ye shall find, Knock and the door will open.
Yesterday, searching for a reading plan, I know the Jesus Lead me to this exact plan; Draw Near; guide to greater intimacy with God.
Matthew Chapter 7 speak to the heart of man. there is so much in this chapter to gleam from a reminder, not only of faith, and belief, seeking God wholeheartedly

As children of God how much more different are we, if we first seek God.  Jesus called out to his father God, to take this cup from him. Jesus ask his father God.  I believe we ask God for what is needed, he will answer and provide all our needs. This does not mean we can treat it like  carte blanche. Christ offer to change man, would we not be wiser to dip deeply into the resources God has if we just,  Ask and ye shall receive, Seek and ye shall find, Knock and the door will open.
Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way the truth and the life no man cometh unto the father except through me.
Jesus knew his purpose. God the Father gave the ultimate sacrifice, his only son Jesus
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
If we believe in Jesus than we know by his word that if we ask , we will receive.

Father God, Lord Jesus as I began this new reading plan help me to stay focus and committ to this plan through out the year, grant me strength to read through this plan daily and not lose focus.
Father God Thank Lord for the many blessing In Jesus name Amen.

Faith

I Have been dealt w/ a dilemna regarding my health, yet I am not sadden or afraid. My faith is strong because God is in control, each day is still a struggle just to stay focus, yet God is always there, merciful and gracious, a constant reminder of how awesome, majestic, and loving.

I received a call from my doctor regarding a growth, possibly another tumor, yet surprisingly I was okay, I know it had alot to do with, my love for God, my faith and the Word of God which is all powerful.  I thank God for his love for me, knowing that throughout my life he has always been there for me even when I forsake him he did not forsake me..  I stand firm on the word of God and his promises; Train up a child in the way of the Lord, when he is old he will not depart from it. Thank God for his love

The New Year Approaches, " It" s Year 2012".

As the Old Year fades and the New Year begins,I wait in anticipation for God to lay his word on my heart. Since 2010, God began to lay scriptures on my heart to open my eyes and heart to his word

These are the scriptures God laid on my heart were; Ps. 1:1-5, Ps 121:1-2, Mt.6:33. So I would see his words and understand, God used music to breathe life into his word. "My Help" by Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, Ps 121:1-2, "Slow Fade" by Casting Crown, Ps 1:1-5.

2012 Phil.. 4:6-7 scripture God laid on my heart to reminded me of his word and to renew my mind daily with the Word of God. I need to meditate on his word daily.

I am reminded that I need to give all of me I need to let go of everything to surrender all. Father God. Thank you for blessing me and reminding me, to keep me on track, directing my path. Lord as the new year approaches and you breathe life, and as I consume your Word, help me to remain focus, and to draw closer to you.

Father God, Lord Jesus Thank You in Jesus name Amen.