Thoughts for another day
June 29, 2006
Today's verse: Gen. 45:5b. for God did send me before you to preserve life. (KJV).
When something bad happens in our lives, we rise and say, ‘God why did this happen?’ Our hearts are broken and we resist ‘this thing’ unto our very lives. I personally have witnessed many say to me, but brother why did it happen to me. What wrong have I done? What is now to happen to me?
When you read today’s verse, there is much consolation that will come your way. For in it you find the wisdom of ages. Here is a man tried and tested, virtually by fire and after he had gone through it very obediently, as can be inferred in the Word of God, he happens to meet the perpetrators of the misery that he had undergone. But, rather than be vengeful, Joseph tell his brothers, ‘it was for saving lives that God sent me here’. What a blessed thing to say.
In the face of murmuring and dissension, when we hear a voice of acceptance of the will of God, it is like a breath of fresh air. Many of us condemn the situation we are in and of course blame the architect of the situation – God, whole-heartedly. We hardly ponder to think, ‘Lord, what great thing are you sending my way, now that you are testing me?’ For remember, before every great work of God is a testing. Before Noah, could be saved, he was tested to become foolish in the eyes of his neighbors who would be saying, ‘Look at that fool, he is building such a big boat when it will never rain enough to even lift the boat!’ Before salvation could be granted to man, Jesus Christ the Redeemer had to face the insult of being jeered by the thousands of people who had gathered for the feast of the Passover in Jerusalem. What a test that was!
My beloved in Christ, count it a blessing when you are chosen of God to undergo trials. When difficulties come your way and you find no solution, look up to the sky and ask Him, ‘Come Lord, now tell me what is the blessing You are sending me?’ Believe me my friend, The Great I AM, will look at you and smile at the heavenly host and say, ‘Here is My true servant in whom I am well pleased.’
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 28, 2006
Today's verse: Ps 20:7. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God. (KJV).
There is a profound thought for us in today’s verse. In our world today, there are many who trust in things other than God. Many will tell you, ‘Yes we trust in God but then God Himself gives us riches to bank on!’ So therefore we also place our trust in our riches and on other edifices constructed by man; after all God Himself has enabled us to have all these things no? And believe me, this makes so much sense…the devil is no doubt intelligent and very very convincing.
Sometimes in prayer I ask the Lord, ‘Master where are those miracles that you said we would work… and even greater things than what You did as You Yourself said, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do.’
And the response as it were in the Lord’s words is, ‘Where do I see the trust in you that I may work such wonders?’ It is shameful that today we trust in our wealth, our positions and our things on earth in times of strife rather than God.
Is God hurt when we do not trust in Him? Let me take you to an incident in David’s life. You know that David trusted God in all things. But then, even the best of men barring Christ, have yielded to the devil’s temptation and David too did the same. God wanted David to trust in Him always and God ensured that anytime David needed help, His mighty hand was there. Yet, David endeavored to take a census of Israel (2 Sam. 24:1- 14). Not so much as to know the number of people in his kingdom but to know how many men fit for military service were there. This displeased God so much that He sent Gad to inform David that he would be punished with any of three punishments and He did not allow a respite to David. David had to take one of the three.
So too God is displeased with us when we do not trust Him. After a while He moves away for He feels neglected and offended. Let that not happen with you. Let today’s verse be the cry of your heart too.
June 28, 2006
Today's verse: Ps 20:7. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God. (KJV).
There is a profound thought for us in today’s verse. In our world today, there are many who trust in things other than God. Many will tell you, ‘Yes we trust in God but then God Himself gives us riches to bank on!’ So therefore we also place our trust in our riches and on other edifices constructed by man; after all God Himself has enabled us to have all these things no? And believe me, this makes so much sense…the devil is no doubt intelligent and very very convincing.
Sometimes in prayer I ask the Lord, ‘Master where are those miracles that you said we would work… and even greater things than what You did as You Yourself said, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do.’
And the response as it were in the Lord’s words is, ‘Where do I see the trust in you that I may work such wonders?’ It is shameful that today we trust in our wealth, our positions and our things on earth in times of strife rather than God.
Is God hurt when we do not trust in Him? Let me take you to an incident in David’s life. You know that David trusted God in all things. But then, even the best of men barring Christ, have yielded to the devil’s temptation and David too did the same. God wanted David to trust in Him always and God ensured that anytime David needed help, His mighty hand was there. Yet, David endeavored to take a census of Israel (2 Sam. 24:1- 14). Not so much as to know the number of people in his kingdom but to know how many men fit for military service were there. This displeased God so much that He sent Gad to inform David that he would be punished with any of three punishments and He did not allow a respite to David. David had to take one of the three.
So too God is displeased with us when we do not trust Him. After a while He moves away for He feels neglected and offended. Let that not happen with you. Let today’s verse be the cry of your heart too.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 27, 2006
Today's verse: 2 Cor. 6:16 b. I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. (KJV).
Do you know where God dwells? Not very far, but with you and in you for He says I will dwell in them. For you as a child of God, no matter what you are, where you are or for that matter, what your belief system is, the biggest consolation is: God is close at hand. As Paul says in the Acts of Apostles, ‘that they would search for God and perhaps grope for him and find him--though indeed he is not far from each one of us. For 'In him we live and move and have our being' Acts 17:27,28.
My friend, in good or bad in times glad or sad, He, the King of the Universe is at hand. When you do good, He is watching; when bad too, He sees you. There is no escaping His eyes. In fact David says in Ps. 139, ‘If I go to the bottom of the ocean too Your eyes behold me!’ And for most of us God’s Omnipresence is the panacea we long for. Knowledge that the Supreme Almighty God is by our side, nay rather, within us, can be powerful for they say knowledge is power. For when He is there, who can dare to inflict pain on you? Who, can dare to subject you to terror? None.
You might tell me, but even then brother, there are people suffering and are subject to torture though they believe in God. To them I’ll say, fret not nor lose your hope for He The Guardian of Israel is going to extract an account of every harm the evil one does to you His child who trusts Him. As for you, He is testing you. Not for any other reason but because He loves you (Heb. 12:6). For it is only when you are tried in the furnace of life that you will come forth like pure gold. And think not that this is for you alone; He made His only begotten Son go through it. Tell me, what was the reason for Jesus to suffer the way He did. But again the Word of God says, ‘Son though He was, He learned obedience from what He suffered!’ (Heb. 5:8)
My beloved in God, know that your Father loves you above all and He suffered for your sake and He is there at hand. Remember, even if the whole world is against you, He is with you and He will deliver. Trust Him.
June 27, 2006
Today's verse: 2 Cor. 6:16 b. I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. (KJV).
Do you know where God dwells? Not very far, but with you and in you for He says I will dwell in them. For you as a child of God, no matter what you are, where you are or for that matter, what your belief system is, the biggest consolation is: God is close at hand. As Paul says in the Acts of Apostles, ‘that they would search for God and perhaps grope for him and find him--though indeed he is not far from each one of us. For 'In him we live and move and have our being' Acts 17:27,28.
My friend, in good or bad in times glad or sad, He, the King of the Universe is at hand. When you do good, He is watching; when bad too, He sees you. There is no escaping His eyes. In fact David says in Ps. 139, ‘If I go to the bottom of the ocean too Your eyes behold me!’ And for most of us God’s Omnipresence is the panacea we long for. Knowledge that the Supreme Almighty God is by our side, nay rather, within us, can be powerful for they say knowledge is power. For when He is there, who can dare to inflict pain on you? Who, can dare to subject you to terror? None.
You might tell me, but even then brother, there are people suffering and are subject to torture though they believe in God. To them I’ll say, fret not nor lose your hope for He The Guardian of Israel is going to extract an account of every harm the evil one does to you His child who trusts Him. As for you, He is testing you. Not for any other reason but because He loves you (Heb. 12:6). For it is only when you are tried in the furnace of life that you will come forth like pure gold. And think not that this is for you alone; He made His only begotten Son go through it. Tell me, what was the reason for Jesus to suffer the way He did. But again the Word of God says, ‘Son though He was, He learned obedience from what He suffered!’ (Heb. 5:8)
My beloved in God, know that your Father loves you above all and He suffered for your sake and He is there at hand. Remember, even if the whole world is against you, He is with you and He will deliver. Trust Him.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 26, 2006
Today's verse: Mi. 7:18,19. Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy. He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea. (KJV).
Think of this Word of God above as a reminder to you. A reminder to show you, the nature, of our Father in Heaven. A beautiful and wonderful God. Maker of Heaven and Earth. He says the earth and the fullness thereof is His. By His great power He sustains everything and He gives life to all. He gathers together His lost children whom He has redeemed by the Blood of His only begotten son, Jesus Christ.
This beautiful God is so magnificent, you will never be able to fully fathom it. He is so beautiful that the word falls short of sufficient consideration. He is so awesome that none on earth can understand the awe He inspires. Even nature is subject to His dominion for His word says, ‘Tremble, thou earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob; Ps 114:7’. This I say, truly one of these days, we shall come to understand His Glory and we shall know who He is! And when you stop to consider, this very splendor filled God, comes to us when we sin against Him, and like we would plead to know how we have wronged someone who is hurting us, He says, ‘O my people, what have I done unto thee? and wherein have I wearied thee? testify against me.’ Mi. 6:3.
And bowing your head in silent reflection you may say like David, ‘Indeed Lord, what am I that your anger does not linger and what is the son of man that even though he sin, you will cast his sins into the bottom of the sea! Truly my friend, God is unique, as only He can be, and today, no matter what sin you are in, get up and go to Him. He is waiting to receive you.
June 26, 2006
Today's verse: Mi. 7:18,19. Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy. He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea. (KJV).
Think of this Word of God above as a reminder to you. A reminder to show you, the nature, of our Father in Heaven. A beautiful and wonderful God. Maker of Heaven and Earth. He says the earth and the fullness thereof is His. By His great power He sustains everything and He gives life to all. He gathers together His lost children whom He has redeemed by the Blood of His only begotten son, Jesus Christ.
This beautiful God is so magnificent, you will never be able to fully fathom it. He is so beautiful that the word falls short of sufficient consideration. He is so awesome that none on earth can understand the awe He inspires. Even nature is subject to His dominion for His word says, ‘Tremble, thou earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob; Ps 114:7’. This I say, truly one of these days, we shall come to understand His Glory and we shall know who He is! And when you stop to consider, this very splendor filled God, comes to us when we sin against Him, and like we would plead to know how we have wronged someone who is hurting us, He says, ‘O my people, what have I done unto thee? and wherein have I wearied thee? testify against me.’ Mi. 6:3.
And bowing your head in silent reflection you may say like David, ‘Indeed Lord, what am I that your anger does not linger and what is the son of man that even though he sin, you will cast his sins into the bottom of the sea! Truly my friend, God is unique, as only He can be, and today, no matter what sin you are in, get up and go to Him. He is waiting to receive you.
Friday, June 23, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 23, 2006
Today's verse: Ps. 17:1. Hear the right, O LORD, attend unto my cry, give ear unto my prayer, that goeth not out of feigned lips. (KJV).
There is a way of prayer that seems like fragrance rising unto the nostrils of God. There is a method of praying that God loves; and this prayer is answered. That is what I call, a prayer coming straight from the heart, hammering the heart of Yahweh God.
About two days ago, I called up a lady who is also ‘deeply into prayer’. In the morning I spoke to her daughter after more than 17 months and she told me that her mother had fallen and broken her thighbone and was in bed for over a year.
When I spoke to this lady, who is usually very confident, she started crying and continuously told me, ‘brother please pray for me.’ She told me about her self and also about her son who has been a thorn in her flesh for sometime now. I know that she goes to pray for people and also has small prayer sessions sometimes at home, so I asked her why don’t you cry out to the Lord fervently. Petition Him in tears and humility. She cried a little more and said I will pray even more. I could sense that she felt devastated. Imagine your self in her situation. I then prayed for her on the phone and hung up after profusely promising to pray for her. Her name is Effie Mertia.
All the while, what was going through my mind was, ‘if you don’t believe God to help you in your situation, how can you trust Him to help in someone else’s? Why do people feel that God does not answer prayer? Look at today’s verse my beloved in Christ and see the pain of the psalmist. When you pray, let it be your heart crying out.
People tell me, ‘brother I pray.’ All I ask is, do you really? Is. 62:6,7 says, ‘oh you who are to remind the Lord, take no rest. And give no rest to Him until He re-establishes Jerusalem.’ When you pray, let God know you mean business. Tell Him, ‘You created me with love. I have this problem and only You can solve it. And Your Word says, “Ask and you shall receive”, so Lord I believe and so Lord I ask and asking believe I have received.’ And bang the doors of Heaven continuously. Let the courtyard to the Mercy Seat be covered with your tears. And, my friend I tell you, Heaven will not be able to withstand your pressure. Grace will be released to remove the pain in your heart. For I can say this much of my Father, He cries when you do and will come to comfort you.’
June 23, 2006
Today's verse: Ps. 17:1. Hear the right, O LORD, attend unto my cry, give ear unto my prayer, that goeth not out of feigned lips. (KJV).
There is a way of prayer that seems like fragrance rising unto the nostrils of God. There is a method of praying that God loves; and this prayer is answered. That is what I call, a prayer coming straight from the heart, hammering the heart of Yahweh God.
About two days ago, I called up a lady who is also ‘deeply into prayer’. In the morning I spoke to her daughter after more than 17 months and she told me that her mother had fallen and broken her thighbone and was in bed for over a year.
When I spoke to this lady, who is usually very confident, she started crying and continuously told me, ‘brother please pray for me.’ She told me about her self and also about her son who has been a thorn in her flesh for sometime now. I know that she goes to pray for people and also has small prayer sessions sometimes at home, so I asked her why don’t you cry out to the Lord fervently. Petition Him in tears and humility. She cried a little more and said I will pray even more. I could sense that she felt devastated. Imagine your self in her situation. I then prayed for her on the phone and hung up after profusely promising to pray for her. Her name is Effie Mertia.
All the while, what was going through my mind was, ‘if you don’t believe God to help you in your situation, how can you trust Him to help in someone else’s? Why do people feel that God does not answer prayer? Look at today’s verse my beloved in Christ and see the pain of the psalmist. When you pray, let it be your heart crying out.
People tell me, ‘brother I pray.’ All I ask is, do you really? Is. 62:6,7 says, ‘oh you who are to remind the Lord, take no rest. And give no rest to Him until He re-establishes Jerusalem.’ When you pray, let God know you mean business. Tell Him, ‘You created me with love. I have this problem and only You can solve it. And Your Word says, “Ask and you shall receive”, so Lord I believe and so Lord I ask and asking believe I have received.’ And bang the doors of Heaven continuously. Let the courtyard to the Mercy Seat be covered with your tears. And, my friend I tell you, Heaven will not be able to withstand your pressure. Grace will be released to remove the pain in your heart. For I can say this much of my Father, He cries when you do and will come to comfort you.’
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 22, 2006
Today's verse: Lk 17:25. But first must he suffer many things, and be rejected of this generation. (KJV).
Jesus Christ suffered rejection. He was denied and refused and rejected. Imagine, the Son of God Almighty, came down to earth to show the way to mortal man. To infuse light in his life. What did He get in return…Rejection, insult and death!
While going to the chapel the other day, I noticed the graveyard and for a moment wondered about all those who go into those graves. How many of them might have faced rejection at the hands of people they knew? Men and women, having lived on the earth, buried in the mud. Whose physical form will be erased forever. And as I was thinking, I suddenly remembered this lady called Theresa. Her physical form also would have been erased by now for she had died a year ago.
It seemed very distant but I still remembered. One late evening Theresa came to me. I sensed she was in agony. She cried and told me, ‘my husband has thrown me out of the home. He has rejected me as his wife and asked me to find my own way of living.’ The question she asked of me (still pricks me) was, ‘Brother, what do I do now?’ You see, in a very small way I help others but this was different. For a minute I couldn’t figure out how to help her; I knew I personally couldn’t help her; what was I supposed to do?
But like I usually do, I began talking to her of Jesus. ‘My sister,’ I said, ‘Jesus was rejected too. And they took His life by nailing Him on the Cross between two wicked men!’ So if you are rejected, there is only One whom you can approach – Jesus. After this we exchanged a number of words of both pain and comfort and eventually she came out of it. What really made me happy was how the transformation occurred in her of being ‘hurt’ to being the ‘hurter’. She understood the gross sins she had committed which had resulted in her rejection of Christ in her life. She felt comforted by the Holy Spirit and now started looking for a solution for her current homelessness. After some time, I went home and she went her way.
My beloved, in Christ, there are many of us who are rejected. Sometimes for no fault of ours. We feel depressed and sad. How can they ignore me? How can they be so callous? On Calvary, Mary, Jesus’ mother, would have asked the same questions then, no? But for those of us who are rejected, Jesus is our role model and strength. For He knows well, what rejection means. He can fill your heart. He can come into your depressed mind and fill it with joy. He can make your tomorrows, which seem so bleak, something to look forward too. Lift up your feeble hands right now and tell Him to take them in His own. He is an expert at doing that. Praise His Name.
June 22, 2006
Today's verse: Lk 17:25. But first must he suffer many things, and be rejected of this generation. (KJV).
Jesus Christ suffered rejection. He was denied and refused and rejected. Imagine, the Son of God Almighty, came down to earth to show the way to mortal man. To infuse light in his life. What did He get in return…Rejection, insult and death!
While going to the chapel the other day, I noticed the graveyard and for a moment wondered about all those who go into those graves. How many of them might have faced rejection at the hands of people they knew? Men and women, having lived on the earth, buried in the mud. Whose physical form will be erased forever. And as I was thinking, I suddenly remembered this lady called Theresa. Her physical form also would have been erased by now for she had died a year ago.
It seemed very distant but I still remembered. One late evening Theresa came to me. I sensed she was in agony. She cried and told me, ‘my husband has thrown me out of the home. He has rejected me as his wife and asked me to find my own way of living.’ The question she asked of me (still pricks me) was, ‘Brother, what do I do now?’ You see, in a very small way I help others but this was different. For a minute I couldn’t figure out how to help her; I knew I personally couldn’t help her; what was I supposed to do?
But like I usually do, I began talking to her of Jesus. ‘My sister,’ I said, ‘Jesus was rejected too. And they took His life by nailing Him on the Cross between two wicked men!’ So if you are rejected, there is only One whom you can approach – Jesus. After this we exchanged a number of words of both pain and comfort and eventually she came out of it. What really made me happy was how the transformation occurred in her of being ‘hurt’ to being the ‘hurter’. She understood the gross sins she had committed which had resulted in her rejection of Christ in her life. She felt comforted by the Holy Spirit and now started looking for a solution for her current homelessness. After some time, I went home and she went her way.
My beloved, in Christ, there are many of us who are rejected. Sometimes for no fault of ours. We feel depressed and sad. How can they ignore me? How can they be so callous? On Calvary, Mary, Jesus’ mother, would have asked the same questions then, no? But for those of us who are rejected, Jesus is our role model and strength. For He knows well, what rejection means. He can fill your heart. He can come into your depressed mind and fill it with joy. He can make your tomorrows, which seem so bleak, something to look forward too. Lift up your feeble hands right now and tell Him to take them in His own. He is an expert at doing that. Praise His Name.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 21, 2006
Today's verse: 1 Thess. 5:18. give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (KJV).
Phil Harbor stood on stage. The people were giving him a standing ovation. He had just rendered his own composition and his voice had rung through the auditorium touching the hearts of the people there, both noblemen and hoi polloi with the greatest hint of melody ever. His mind traversed back to about twenty years ago.
That morning as he tried to sing Amazing Grace in church, all turned to look at him and some even remarked, ‘will somebody tell that crow to stop singing?’ Some even laughed. Phil actually shrank into his seat and cried. When the service was over he went to the dorm crying. All the boys sang well except him. Fr. Dom seeing Phil, usually a happy orphan boy with tears in his eyes gently asked him what happened. Between sobs Phil narrated his experience. Fr. Dom put his hand around him and said, ‘my son, God has given you a wonderful life. He has also given you a wonderful voice. All you need to do is discover it. Count it a blessing my son that he found you fit enough to discover it, unlike us who can sing easily.’ That was a lesson Phil never forgot. Fr Dom advised him to practice singing the way his idol sang, whenever he was free and Phil did just that. Over time, Phil slowly but steadily emerged as one of the best singers in the children’s choir. He could sing any note at any pitch and at any time.
When he sang ‘Amazing Grace’ solo the first time on invitation at the neighboring church, the echo of God’s love flowed in the flawless voice and floated into the hearts of all of them there in the church, leaving many teary eyed. And thus began Phil’s musical sojourn. He was fondly known as the ‘orphan music-tender’. Now at age thirty-seven, he knew how he had been able to counter his difficulty and bless the Lord with his voice. Then looking up towards Heaven, he thanked God, who had despite the odds, enabled him to rise. His voice was a miracle!
My beloved in Christ, the reason for misery in our lives is because we fail to count our many blessings. We sing the song loudly but fail to practice it. We grumble, mumble and nag. Do you think our Father in heaven likes it? Remember, He hated grumblers. He hates them even today. He loves when people praise Him for the faults he has put in them. He loves when people like Phil bless Him for their sore voices and He loves them more when they say, ‘even with this voice I will sing’. And then He releases His blessings upon them and enables them to do much. Like St Paul, I exhort you to give thanks in all circumstances; for it is God’s will. Today, if there’s something the Lord has put in your life that seems faulty, look up to Heaven and thank Him. There up above the clouds, the Lord of your life will smile back at you. Rest assured, His blessings will flow fast and full unto you.
June 21, 2006
Today's verse: 1 Thess. 5:18. give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (KJV).
Phil Harbor stood on stage. The people were giving him a standing ovation. He had just rendered his own composition and his voice had rung through the auditorium touching the hearts of the people there, both noblemen and hoi polloi with the greatest hint of melody ever. His mind traversed back to about twenty years ago.
That morning as he tried to sing Amazing Grace in church, all turned to look at him and some even remarked, ‘will somebody tell that crow to stop singing?’ Some even laughed. Phil actually shrank into his seat and cried. When the service was over he went to the dorm crying. All the boys sang well except him. Fr. Dom seeing Phil, usually a happy orphan boy with tears in his eyes gently asked him what happened. Between sobs Phil narrated his experience. Fr. Dom put his hand around him and said, ‘my son, God has given you a wonderful life. He has also given you a wonderful voice. All you need to do is discover it. Count it a blessing my son that he found you fit enough to discover it, unlike us who can sing easily.’ That was a lesson Phil never forgot. Fr Dom advised him to practice singing the way his idol sang, whenever he was free and Phil did just that. Over time, Phil slowly but steadily emerged as one of the best singers in the children’s choir. He could sing any note at any pitch and at any time.
When he sang ‘Amazing Grace’ solo the first time on invitation at the neighboring church, the echo of God’s love flowed in the flawless voice and floated into the hearts of all of them there in the church, leaving many teary eyed. And thus began Phil’s musical sojourn. He was fondly known as the ‘orphan music-tender’. Now at age thirty-seven, he knew how he had been able to counter his difficulty and bless the Lord with his voice. Then looking up towards Heaven, he thanked God, who had despite the odds, enabled him to rise. His voice was a miracle!
My beloved in Christ, the reason for misery in our lives is because we fail to count our many blessings. We sing the song loudly but fail to practice it. We grumble, mumble and nag. Do you think our Father in heaven likes it? Remember, He hated grumblers. He hates them even today. He loves when people praise Him for the faults he has put in them. He loves when people like Phil bless Him for their sore voices and He loves them more when they say, ‘even with this voice I will sing’. And then He releases His blessings upon them and enables them to do much. Like St Paul, I exhort you to give thanks in all circumstances; for it is God’s will. Today, if there’s something the Lord has put in your life that seems faulty, look up to Heaven and thank Him. There up above the clouds, the Lord of your life will smile back at you. Rest assured, His blessings will flow fast and full unto you.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 20, 2006
Today's verse: 2 Sam. 7:18. Who am I, O Lord GOD? and what is my house, that thou hast brought me hitherto? (KJV).
When David was firmly installed as king of both Judah and Israel after conquering the Philistines, he sat on the throne and the foremost thought that entered his mind was: what about the ark of God? He wanted to build God a temple.
God had given him rest from all his enemies on every side and David never forgot the wonderful deeds of God in raising him from being just an ordinary shepherd boy to king of Israel. In his relationship with God, he never forgot that God had accomplished all things, while he just went about doing what he felt right. Truly in David’s life Ex. 14:14 – ‘the Lord shall fight for you’ had been realized. And any person in David’s place would be seeped in pride. Perhaps, over a period of time even the most God fearing people get to know pride and wear it as a cloak and think that their accomplishments are of their own abilities. But David was not so and that is why we understand why God says of him, ‘He is a man after my own heart’ (1 Sam. 13:14).
My friend, it is extremely difficult to think of God when prosperity has enveloped your household. It is difficult to have a relationship with God when things are going well because then, who needs God? There are so many things to be done and so much to be accomplished, so God must wait while those other ‘very important’ things are completed, no?
David had a right heart before God and when God gave him many promises through Nathan the prophet, David humbled himself before God and used the above verse as prayer. My friend, I exhort you today to humble yourself before God and falling flat before Him, show your nothingness. After all, Micah says, ‘He hath shown thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?’
June 20, 2006
Today's verse: 2 Sam. 7:18. Who am I, O Lord GOD? and what is my house, that thou hast brought me hitherto? (KJV).
When David was firmly installed as king of both Judah and Israel after conquering the Philistines, he sat on the throne and the foremost thought that entered his mind was: what about the ark of God? He wanted to build God a temple.
God had given him rest from all his enemies on every side and David never forgot the wonderful deeds of God in raising him from being just an ordinary shepherd boy to king of Israel. In his relationship with God, he never forgot that God had accomplished all things, while he just went about doing what he felt right. Truly in David’s life Ex. 14:14 – ‘the Lord shall fight for you’ had been realized. And any person in David’s place would be seeped in pride. Perhaps, over a period of time even the most God fearing people get to know pride and wear it as a cloak and think that their accomplishments are of their own abilities. But David was not so and that is why we understand why God says of him, ‘He is a man after my own heart’ (1 Sam. 13:14).
My friend, it is extremely difficult to think of God when prosperity has enveloped your household. It is difficult to have a relationship with God when things are going well because then, who needs God? There are so many things to be done and so much to be accomplished, so God must wait while those other ‘very important’ things are completed, no?
David had a right heart before God and when God gave him many promises through Nathan the prophet, David humbled himself before God and used the above verse as prayer. My friend, I exhort you today to humble yourself before God and falling flat before Him, show your nothingness. After all, Micah says, ‘He hath shown thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?’
Monday, June 19, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 19, 2006
Today's verse: Ps 23:6. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. (KJV).
In David’s prayer of Psalm 23, among the many assertions he makes about God, the above verse for me is the epitome of the nature of our Father in Heaven. Think, mercy shall follow me...
God is merciful. He is mercy personified. He forgives and forgives and forgives despite our sinning and sinning and even more sinning. God watches over us very carefully and when we sin, He is disappointed. Then, He wants us to, but turn and ask for His forgiveness. There are many times we feel guilty for having offended Him but He says, ‘Come back to me!’ The devil might want you to believe that God will hold your offence against you but rest assured, God is only waiting for you to turn around.
And by His mercy are all His gifts given to us. They are not withheld if we turn and ask Him to forgive us. Life itself continues as a result of God’s mercy. The psalmist says in Ps. 94:18, ‘my foot slipped but thy mercy held me up.’ By His mercy all things are renewed on the face of the earth. When we cry out to God for help, He looks not on our rotten condition, but His mercy comes to the fore. He picks us up and rescues us. His mighty hand works great things for us. Oh, behold that merciful face, it is like the balm of Gilead, like water from the rock.
My beloved in Christ, whenever you turn to God, remember never doubt His mercy. He, who could forgive even whilst dying a painful death inflicted by maniacal people, can forgive you anytime and let His river of Grace flow unto you.
June 19, 2006
Today's verse: Ps 23:6. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. (KJV).
In David’s prayer of Psalm 23, among the many assertions he makes about God, the above verse for me is the epitome of the nature of our Father in Heaven. Think, mercy shall follow me...
God is merciful. He is mercy personified. He forgives and forgives and forgives despite our sinning and sinning and even more sinning. God watches over us very carefully and when we sin, He is disappointed. Then, He wants us to, but turn and ask for His forgiveness. There are many times we feel guilty for having offended Him but He says, ‘Come back to me!’ The devil might want you to believe that God will hold your offence against you but rest assured, God is only waiting for you to turn around.
And by His mercy are all His gifts given to us. They are not withheld if we turn and ask Him to forgive us. Life itself continues as a result of God’s mercy. The psalmist says in Ps. 94:18, ‘my foot slipped but thy mercy held me up.’ By His mercy all things are renewed on the face of the earth. When we cry out to God for help, He looks not on our rotten condition, but His mercy comes to the fore. He picks us up and rescues us. His mighty hand works great things for us. Oh, behold that merciful face, it is like the balm of Gilead, like water from the rock.
My beloved in Christ, whenever you turn to God, remember never doubt His mercy. He, who could forgive even whilst dying a painful death inflicted by maniacal people, can forgive you anytime and let His river of Grace flow unto you.
Friday, June 16, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 16, 2006
Today's verse: 1 Co. 1:18. For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (KJV).
In a grade 3 class the teacher asked the girls, what they would want to become when they became big. The usual responses like doctor, engineer, architect, etc. echoed in the room. When it was Mary’s turn with a feeble voice she said, ‘Nurse.’ All the others burst out laughing. Each girl began telling her friend beside her, ‘Mary is stupid. Who would want to become a nurse.’ Then the teacher asked, ‘Mary, why do you want to become a nurse?’
Mary started sobbing. ‘Miss,’ she began, ‘my mummy is very sick at home and daddy says there is no good nurse to take care of her. My mummy is really suffering and so I want to become a good nurse so that I can take care of my mummy and others who are suffering.’ Every body was silent. The teacher then told the class, of all the answers I have received, this is the best ever. God bless you Mary’
Sometimes, great things are couched and masked by very stupid facades. I have seen the greatest warmth in huts. I have met love in the dirtiest faces. And my beloved in Christ, I have seen the love of God in the Cross.
See, our God, who is so beautiful and reigning in splendor, gave us a symbol that was considered a curse. Look at what it has become! A symbol, that speaks to the heart of man. A sign, that makes even the hardest heart melt. A glimmer of hope, for the worst sinner, and the route to eternal life.
When I was small I used to ask the Lord, ‘Why did You die on the cross. Wasn’t there another way to give salvation?’ But today, I hug the cross. And I tell Him, ‘Thank you for the Cross.’ For when I look at it and consider the sin within me, I am reassured. Reassured that He died a shameful death that even the worst of my sins could be forgiven! My friend, consider the merits of the cross and embrace it. That’s all you’ll ever need.
June 16, 2006
Today's verse: 1 Co. 1:18. For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (KJV).
In a grade 3 class the teacher asked the girls, what they would want to become when they became big. The usual responses like doctor, engineer, architect, etc. echoed in the room. When it was Mary’s turn with a feeble voice she said, ‘Nurse.’ All the others burst out laughing. Each girl began telling her friend beside her, ‘Mary is stupid. Who would want to become a nurse.’ Then the teacher asked, ‘Mary, why do you want to become a nurse?’
Mary started sobbing. ‘Miss,’ she began, ‘my mummy is very sick at home and daddy says there is no good nurse to take care of her. My mummy is really suffering and so I want to become a good nurse so that I can take care of my mummy and others who are suffering.’ Every body was silent. The teacher then told the class, of all the answers I have received, this is the best ever. God bless you Mary’
Sometimes, great things are couched and masked by very stupid facades. I have seen the greatest warmth in huts. I have met love in the dirtiest faces. And my beloved in Christ, I have seen the love of God in the Cross.
See, our God, who is so beautiful and reigning in splendor, gave us a symbol that was considered a curse. Look at what it has become! A symbol, that speaks to the heart of man. A sign, that makes even the hardest heart melt. A glimmer of hope, for the worst sinner, and the route to eternal life.
When I was small I used to ask the Lord, ‘Why did You die on the cross. Wasn’t there another way to give salvation?’ But today, I hug the cross. And I tell Him, ‘Thank you for the Cross.’ For when I look at it and consider the sin within me, I am reassured. Reassured that He died a shameful death that even the worst of my sins could be forgiven! My friend, consider the merits of the cross and embrace it. That’s all you’ll ever need.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 15, 2006
Today's verse: . Dn7:14. …his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. (KJV).
Our Lord Jesus Christ has gained a dominion for Himself, which is far above others’. By virtue of His adhering to the will of the Father, Jesus has been bestowed a position far higher than any other.
The letter to the Hebrews begins with the glorification of the Son who is God Himself. And it speaks of all that the Son has done to earn the throne. In it we have the Father saying to Jesus, ‘Thy throne, O God, is forever and ever: a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of thy kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.’
The honor that Jesus has attained unto Himself is because He made the will of the Father His own will. To the disciples, who ask Him about His food in Ch. 4 of John’s Gospel, He says, ‘My food is to do the will of My Father.’ So much was He concerned about doing the will of the Father that He emptied Himself of all that He would have as a man and filled Himself with the desires of the Father. God says of David, ‘he is a man after My own heart.’ And Jesus is far more superior to David. That is why, God the Father proclaims with voice, ‘this is My beloved Son’, both at His baptism and at the transfiguration.
My beloved in Christ, let us to attain to the will of our Father in our lives. It is difficult. But let us take the strength that our God can give and move on saying, ‘My Father, let me be Your vessel which You use as You will…’
June 15, 2006
Today's verse: . Dn7:14. …his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. (KJV).
Our Lord Jesus Christ has gained a dominion for Himself, which is far above others’. By virtue of His adhering to the will of the Father, Jesus has been bestowed a position far higher than any other.
The letter to the Hebrews begins with the glorification of the Son who is God Himself. And it speaks of all that the Son has done to earn the throne. In it we have the Father saying to Jesus, ‘Thy throne, O God, is forever and ever: a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of thy kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.’
The honor that Jesus has attained unto Himself is because He made the will of the Father His own will. To the disciples, who ask Him about His food in Ch. 4 of John’s Gospel, He says, ‘My food is to do the will of My Father.’ So much was He concerned about doing the will of the Father that He emptied Himself of all that He would have as a man and filled Himself with the desires of the Father. God says of David, ‘he is a man after My own heart.’ And Jesus is far more superior to David. That is why, God the Father proclaims with voice, ‘this is My beloved Son’, both at His baptism and at the transfiguration.
My beloved in Christ, let us to attain to the will of our Father in our lives. It is difficult. But let us take the strength that our God can give and move on saying, ‘My Father, let me be Your vessel which You use as You will…’
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 14, 2006
Today's verse: Mk 5:19. Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee. (KJV).
Among the things the Lord likes us to do, is one very crucial thing and that is proclaiming His goodness. That way He is given much glory. And He is accorded the honor that He deserves.
Our God is a jealous God (Ex. 20:5) and since He is the Creator of all, He alone has to become the sole recipient of the glory we give. For He alone has the power to do all things. Paul says, He brings to existence that which does not exist and definitely, this God has to have all the glory for surely He deserves it.
Apart from this, God wants those who do not know Him to get to know Him. One key thing that He wants all to know is the salvation that He brings. Besides, He also brings healing to His people and God wants us to know that too. Which is why Jesus exhorts the ex-possessed man in today’s verse to go and tell his friends how the Lord has done great things for him and had compassion on Him. Such is the mercy of our God and such is His way. There never was one who was more compassionate as our God and healed, as did Jesus when He walked the face of the earth.
If you have received any healing, turn your face to God and glorify Him. Remember, He has healed you and He will heal you and all those who turn to Him in repentance. Revere Him and let His deeds be known.
June 14, 2006
Today's verse: Mk 5:19. Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee. (KJV).
Among the things the Lord likes us to do, is one very crucial thing and that is proclaiming His goodness. That way He is given much glory. And He is accorded the honor that He deserves.
Our God is a jealous God (Ex. 20:5) and since He is the Creator of all, He alone has to become the sole recipient of the glory we give. For He alone has the power to do all things. Paul says, He brings to existence that which does not exist and definitely, this God has to have all the glory for surely He deserves it.
Apart from this, God wants those who do not know Him to get to know Him. One key thing that He wants all to know is the salvation that He brings. Besides, He also brings healing to His people and God wants us to know that too. Which is why Jesus exhorts the ex-possessed man in today’s verse to go and tell his friends how the Lord has done great things for him and had compassion on Him. Such is the mercy of our God and such is His way. There never was one who was more compassionate as our God and healed, as did Jesus when He walked the face of the earth.
If you have received any healing, turn your face to God and glorify Him. Remember, He has healed you and He will heal you and all those who turn to Him in repentance. Revere Him and let His deeds be known.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 13, 2006
Today's verse: James 1:2,3. My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. (KJV).
In Ministry, when you look around, you always find many people suffering. And still others in agony and I look at them and feel – why do they moan who endure such little suffering. O champion of Christ, look at the Cross and tell me, why did He have to suffer; why did He have to die? And when one said, ‘God forbid Lord that this happen to You’, He replied, ‘Get thee behind Me satan!’
My friend, remember, to suffer joyfully is to be with the Lord. To accept His gift of pain is to exalt His Name. To look at your agony and tell Him, ‘Lord I am ready to suffer, but that Thou may save souls on account of my suffering’, is a great offering unto the Lord – an offering of sweet savor, of choice fragrance.
Beloved, remember when God looks at you and sees you suffer yet not moan; sees you in agony yet blessing someone else’s soul, that’s the time His countenance breaks into a smile and says, ‘Here is My Son’s friend!’
Today’s verse asks to be joyful when faced with a trial. For thus is the trying of your faith going to result in victory. Thus is the will of God unto your life in doing His work on earth. And when you suffer for the Kingdom, look up to the heavens and tell Him, ‘Thank You Lord for counting me among those who are Your choice ones.’
And think my friend, when you suffer; you suffer, as does our Father. Today, I open to you an aspect of Him, which will keep you strong in your suffering. Look and know our Heavenly Father suffers. Behold if you can, the tears in His eyes at what you and I are doing to offend Him. Yet He silently waits like the Father in the parable of the prodigal son…waiting to welcome you with open arms, when you come back.
June 13, 2006
Today's verse: James 1:2,3. My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. (KJV).
In Ministry, when you look around, you always find many people suffering. And still others in agony and I look at them and feel – why do they moan who endure such little suffering. O champion of Christ, look at the Cross and tell me, why did He have to suffer; why did He have to die? And when one said, ‘God forbid Lord that this happen to You’, He replied, ‘Get thee behind Me satan!’
My friend, remember, to suffer joyfully is to be with the Lord. To accept His gift of pain is to exalt His Name. To look at your agony and tell Him, ‘Lord I am ready to suffer, but that Thou may save souls on account of my suffering’, is a great offering unto the Lord – an offering of sweet savor, of choice fragrance.
Beloved, remember when God looks at you and sees you suffer yet not moan; sees you in agony yet blessing someone else’s soul, that’s the time His countenance breaks into a smile and says, ‘Here is My Son’s friend!’
Today’s verse asks to be joyful when faced with a trial. For thus is the trying of your faith going to result in victory. Thus is the will of God unto your life in doing His work on earth. And when you suffer for the Kingdom, look up to the heavens and tell Him, ‘Thank You Lord for counting me among those who are Your choice ones.’
And think my friend, when you suffer; you suffer, as does our Father. Today, I open to you an aspect of Him, which will keep you strong in your suffering. Look and know our Heavenly Father suffers. Behold if you can, the tears in His eyes at what you and I are doing to offend Him. Yet He silently waits like the Father in the parable of the prodigal son…waiting to welcome you with open arms, when you come back.
Monday, June 12, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 11, 2006
Today's verse: Deut. 31:6. Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. (KJV).
What a promise we have in today’s verse. In this one verse are millions of deeds of the Lord are told, if you, but care to listen to His Word carefully: ‘He it is that doth go with thee…’
See in your mind’s eye: the heavens open and the Lord walks out and goes with you as you move along; it is such a glorious thing. Who can stand before you then? Tell me what disease or sorrow can trail you if He, the Master of the Universe is there with you. And if any evil does summon the courage to stare you in the face then The Rock who is behind you will move in front of you and blow the evil away. His mighty arm will wrap around you as doth a father’s arm around the little child.
Oh my friend, The Guardian of Israel is all the assurance you need and let me tell you, He is never far from you for He goes with you. Paul says in Acts. 17:27, 28; ‘That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: For in him we live, and move, and have our being.’
Today, the Spirit of God wants you to know that He is just a call away. If today the evil one wants to hold you in his icy grip, call to the Spirit. He will come with the sound of many waters and He will brush the evil away. For truly we have a God, a Father who walks with us and who will never forsake us and He says, ‘Fear not, for I am with you.’
June 11, 2006
Today's verse: Deut. 31:6. Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. (KJV).
What a promise we have in today’s verse. In this one verse are millions of deeds of the Lord are told, if you, but care to listen to His Word carefully: ‘He it is that doth go with thee…’
See in your mind’s eye: the heavens open and the Lord walks out and goes with you as you move along; it is such a glorious thing. Who can stand before you then? Tell me what disease or sorrow can trail you if He, the Master of the Universe is there with you. And if any evil does summon the courage to stare you in the face then The Rock who is behind you will move in front of you and blow the evil away. His mighty arm will wrap around you as doth a father’s arm around the little child.
Oh my friend, The Guardian of Israel is all the assurance you need and let me tell you, He is never far from you for He goes with you. Paul says in Acts. 17:27, 28; ‘That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: For in him we live, and move, and have our being.’
Today, the Spirit of God wants you to know that He is just a call away. If today the evil one wants to hold you in his icy grip, call to the Spirit. He will come with the sound of many waters and He will brush the evil away. For truly we have a God, a Father who walks with us and who will never forsake us and He says, ‘Fear not, for I am with you.’
Friday, June 09, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 9, 2006
Today's verse: Lk. 9:23. And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. (KJV).
Walking with the Lord means acceptance of suffering as part of life. We grow up with the belief that suffering must be hated and removed from our lives as soon as possible. And therefore, when a little bit of suffering comes, it unnerves us and we become uncomfortable.
What does Jesus teach us? That suffering is an essential part of life. Look at the above verse, it says: take up his cross daily… But the Lord isn’t talking of suffering for the sake of suffering but for the sake of the Kingdom. More, that we may talk of the Cross and its message. And in my opinion, this cross is not a physical cross but the cross of persecution; the cross of insults; and such like. For it is only in that context that denial of self enables one to carry it and be selfless about it, for the sake of Jesus Christ.
My friend, you and I have to learn a lot about this. If you ask about myself, I’d say, I’m a long way from carrying the cross. My temperament and psychological make up do not allow me to accept insults, and abasement for self. Sometimes I really dread the thought of how I will miss the bus to the Kingdom if I react the way I react now. I feel there is so much to ‘un-learn’ what the world has taught us. There is so much of God that we need to learn and there is so much to change in oneself. Oh the road ahead, seems long and weary and difficult. But then it has to be done. Not by your own might but by His Grace. Rest assured He will do it for you.
My brother or sister in Christ, let us cry out and pray today, ‘Oh Lord, change my heart, not my neighbor’s, not my friend’s, not my brother’s or my wife’s, but Lord my heart as I surrender it to You…Somehow I’m sure the Lord’s peace will fall upon us. Amen.
June 9, 2006
Today's verse: Lk. 9:23. And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. (KJV).
Walking with the Lord means acceptance of suffering as part of life. We grow up with the belief that suffering must be hated and removed from our lives as soon as possible. And therefore, when a little bit of suffering comes, it unnerves us and we become uncomfortable.
What does Jesus teach us? That suffering is an essential part of life. Look at the above verse, it says: take up his cross daily… But the Lord isn’t talking of suffering for the sake of suffering but for the sake of the Kingdom. More, that we may talk of the Cross and its message. And in my opinion, this cross is not a physical cross but the cross of persecution; the cross of insults; and such like. For it is only in that context that denial of self enables one to carry it and be selfless about it, for the sake of Jesus Christ.
My friend, you and I have to learn a lot about this. If you ask about myself, I’d say, I’m a long way from carrying the cross. My temperament and psychological make up do not allow me to accept insults, and abasement for self. Sometimes I really dread the thought of how I will miss the bus to the Kingdom if I react the way I react now. I feel there is so much to ‘un-learn’ what the world has taught us. There is so much of God that we need to learn and there is so much to change in oneself. Oh the road ahead, seems long and weary and difficult. But then it has to be done. Not by your own might but by His Grace. Rest assured He will do it for you.
My brother or sister in Christ, let us cry out and pray today, ‘Oh Lord, change my heart, not my neighbor’s, not my friend’s, not my brother’s or my wife’s, but Lord my heart as I surrender it to You…Somehow I’m sure the Lord’s peace will fall upon us. Amen.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 8, 2006
Today's verse: Mt 18:21,22. Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. (KJV).
In most of us, hurt, bitterness and unmet expectation from friends, relatives and associates is the root cause of un-forgiveness. Sometimes, it takes such major dimensions that a great hatred starts developing within us and very subtly takes a sinister form and literally eats us from inside.
My friend in Christ, let not un-forgiveness find root in your heart. It will block the Grace of God from you hindering the blessings that are to flow unto you. God works on the theme of forgiveness. Look at it this way: He is constantly aware of what we are doing or not doing. And He knows every sin we commit. And every sin is an offence directed at Him. Despite this, when we sit down to pray, He is immediately found by us and He holds us in His hands and grants us refreshment. But if we harbor un-forgiveness, He can do nothing in our lives for we go against the principle of His nature and our communing with Him becomes literally impossible.
Jesus had no two ways of looking at forgiveness. He forgave – even at the point of death. And He expects you to forgive. That is why even the prayer He taught has the point of ‘forgive us as we forgive those who sin against us.’ In the parable of the unforgiving servant, He makes the point abundantly clear that God will treat those who don’t forgive, harshly! And in today’s verse, Jesus advocates infinite forgiveness. So forgive, for you never know, you too may need to be forgiven and you can’t expect it, unless you do first.
June 8, 2006
Today's verse: Mt 18:21,22. Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. (KJV).
In most of us, hurt, bitterness and unmet expectation from friends, relatives and associates is the root cause of un-forgiveness. Sometimes, it takes such major dimensions that a great hatred starts developing within us and very subtly takes a sinister form and literally eats us from inside.
My friend in Christ, let not un-forgiveness find root in your heart. It will block the Grace of God from you hindering the blessings that are to flow unto you. God works on the theme of forgiveness. Look at it this way: He is constantly aware of what we are doing or not doing. And He knows every sin we commit. And every sin is an offence directed at Him. Despite this, when we sit down to pray, He is immediately found by us and He holds us in His hands and grants us refreshment. But if we harbor un-forgiveness, He can do nothing in our lives for we go against the principle of His nature and our communing with Him becomes literally impossible.
Jesus had no two ways of looking at forgiveness. He forgave – even at the point of death. And He expects you to forgive. That is why even the prayer He taught has the point of ‘forgive us as we forgive those who sin against us.’ In the parable of the unforgiving servant, He makes the point abundantly clear that God will treat those who don’t forgive, harshly! And in today’s verse, Jesus advocates infinite forgiveness. So forgive, for you never know, you too may need to be forgiven and you can’t expect it, unless you do first.
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 7, 2006
Today's verse: Rev 21:5. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. (KJV).
One great aspect of being with the Lord is the assurance of refreshment. I have read and heard about many saints of God, who, when they made their dwelling with God, came out refreshed. My own experience is somewhat like this: I may have had a day of difficulty and weariness. Then I sit to pray in the evening and for the first few minutes, thoughts of the things that caused me difficulty, roam around in my mind. They don’t allow me to concentrate and pray to God. However, as I trust Him to make my mind clear, gradually it settles in His presence. And the refreshment flows into my being. And really it is a wonderful feeling. It’s like cool water on parched lips.
Now this doesn’t happen in a jiffy. You need to wait on the Lord for a while before this can happen. I don’t mean to judge, but have observed that many people who come to the prayer room (yes I am grateful to God that they atleast remember Him and visit Him if only for a few seconds) often come in and sit/kneel and even before they can say Hallelujah, they are on their way out. How then can they expect to be refreshed? And of course, there are many who just don’t have the time! God’s grace will flow, provided you are available to accept it.
That God makes all things new is something I have no doubt about. If He says it, He does it. And the people who experienced His refreshing touch are blessed. David, in Ps 23 says, ‘He leads me beside restful waters; He restores my soul.’ Jesus says, ‘I am meek and humble of heart and you shall find rest for your souls.’ Let the prayer of our heart today be, ‘Lord, You make all things new. Lord, let me be available that you may make me new too, in Jesus’ Name. Amen and Thank you Lord.’
June 7, 2006
Today's verse: Rev 21:5. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. (KJV).
One great aspect of being with the Lord is the assurance of refreshment. I have read and heard about many saints of God, who, when they made their dwelling with God, came out refreshed. My own experience is somewhat like this: I may have had a day of difficulty and weariness. Then I sit to pray in the evening and for the first few minutes, thoughts of the things that caused me difficulty, roam around in my mind. They don’t allow me to concentrate and pray to God. However, as I trust Him to make my mind clear, gradually it settles in His presence. And the refreshment flows into my being. And really it is a wonderful feeling. It’s like cool water on parched lips.
Now this doesn’t happen in a jiffy. You need to wait on the Lord for a while before this can happen. I don’t mean to judge, but have observed that many people who come to the prayer room (yes I am grateful to God that they atleast remember Him and visit Him if only for a few seconds) often come in and sit/kneel and even before they can say Hallelujah, they are on their way out. How then can they expect to be refreshed? And of course, there are many who just don’t have the time! God’s grace will flow, provided you are available to accept it.
That God makes all things new is something I have no doubt about. If He says it, He does it. And the people who experienced His refreshing touch are blessed. David, in Ps 23 says, ‘He leads me beside restful waters; He restores my soul.’ Jesus says, ‘I am meek and humble of heart and you shall find rest for your souls.’ Let the prayer of our heart today be, ‘Lord, You make all things new. Lord, let me be available that you may make me new too, in Jesus’ Name. Amen and Thank you Lord.’
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 6, 2006
Today's verse: Acts 17:24. God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; (KJV).
Ponder this for a moment. God is so great that the earth is but His footstool. Yet He comes to us in a way that we are neither intimidated nor frightened to behold Him. In fact He the Invincible and Eternal Sovereign, can be approached by us mere mortals.
However, we have boxed our God in finite spaces and in a manner that He is expected to stay there and do His work without entering the other domains where we are and we don’t want Him there either because we feel we would find His presence distracting or we are too embarrassed to introduce Him to those in our domain (what would they say...foolish fellow, still believing God?).
So what do we do? We make tabernacles and churches and we box Him in that space going there every now and then to visit Him. Very convenient and easy isn’t it? But is that what God wants?
God wants us… not our places. (While on places or turfs, is there anything that does not belong to Him?) And He wants us as we are – no facades or false pretences acceptable…He wants to come into our hearts (forget how evil they are) and, He wants to reign in our lives. His Word says, ‘Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.’ Ah, our beautiful God…see He wants to come in. Could you open your heart to Him now and say, ‘Lord, come in, your servant has waited for you.’
June 6, 2006
Today's verse: Acts 17:24. God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; (KJV).
Ponder this for a moment. God is so great that the earth is but His footstool. Yet He comes to us in a way that we are neither intimidated nor frightened to behold Him. In fact He the Invincible and Eternal Sovereign, can be approached by us mere mortals.
However, we have boxed our God in finite spaces and in a manner that He is expected to stay there and do His work without entering the other domains where we are and we don’t want Him there either because we feel we would find His presence distracting or we are too embarrassed to introduce Him to those in our domain (what would they say...foolish fellow, still believing God?).
So what do we do? We make tabernacles and churches and we box Him in that space going there every now and then to visit Him. Very convenient and easy isn’t it? But is that what God wants?
God wants us… not our places. (While on places or turfs, is there anything that does not belong to Him?) And He wants us as we are – no facades or false pretences acceptable…He wants to come into our hearts (forget how evil they are) and, He wants to reign in our lives. His Word says, ‘Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.’ Ah, our beautiful God…see He wants to come in. Could you open your heart to Him now and say, ‘Lord, come in, your servant has waited for you.’
Monday, June 05, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 5, 2006
Today's verse: Pro 16:4. The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil. (KJV).
When you are in the Lord and you see all kinds of things happening with you and in the world which are not exactly the things you would expect the Lord to be doing for His people, you kind of find it strange isn’t it?
I too found them strange. But the strangest thing was my nature and temperament. I know the Lord has ordained me for a large Ministry, but then when I look at myself, and my inclinations, I wonder, Lord am I the right person? Or have I mistaken the vision? The latter is more probable; but then what do you say about the sequences that unfold in your life thereafter? Somehow, despite my nature they point to the fact that there is a task cut out for me! And I believe that despite what I see, His purposes will be fulfilled.
Today’s verse gives immense consolation to me about God’s purpose in my life and also in yours. The Lord has made all things for Himself and His purposes will be achieved, no matter how difficult they seem to puny man. At the time when the exile was decreed for the Jews God raised up evil Babylon in the face of the powerful Assyria to destroy Judah. When the redemption was near after just 70 years, God raised up Persia to deliver and that too in the face of mighty Babylon. So you see God can do anything; and mind you even if you see an itinerant thing in your life as evil and thank the Lord for it, God will transform it before your eyes and bring about good in your life according to His purpose. And you will live to glorify Him.
June 5, 2006
Today's verse: Pro 16:4. The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil. (KJV).
When you are in the Lord and you see all kinds of things happening with you and in the world which are not exactly the things you would expect the Lord to be doing for His people, you kind of find it strange isn’t it?
I too found them strange. But the strangest thing was my nature and temperament. I know the Lord has ordained me for a large Ministry, but then when I look at myself, and my inclinations, I wonder, Lord am I the right person? Or have I mistaken the vision? The latter is more probable; but then what do you say about the sequences that unfold in your life thereafter? Somehow, despite my nature they point to the fact that there is a task cut out for me! And I believe that despite what I see, His purposes will be fulfilled.
Today’s verse gives immense consolation to me about God’s purpose in my life and also in yours. The Lord has made all things for Himself and His purposes will be achieved, no matter how difficult they seem to puny man. At the time when the exile was decreed for the Jews God raised up evil Babylon in the face of the powerful Assyria to destroy Judah. When the redemption was near after just 70 years, God raised up Persia to deliver and that too in the face of mighty Babylon. So you see God can do anything; and mind you even if you see an itinerant thing in your life as evil and thank the Lord for it, God will transform it before your eyes and bring about good in your life according to His purpose. And you will live to glorify Him.
Friday, June 02, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 2, 2006
Today's verse: Ps 50:15. And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me. (KJV).
In the Bible we have so many different promises of God and truly I can say that a good study of His Word can make our feet steadfast and we can be on firm ground, not by any human assistance but by His awesome might; which although we cannot see and many times not even perceive, works in ways we can’t imagine.
As we go through the Word, God’s beautiful domain opens before us and we stand in awe of a God so beautiful that we do not know what to say. Then we realize our own insignificance. Our inadequateness. Many times I pose before God, ‘O Lord, how can I rise into Your presence with my filthy rags?’ The answer I get is, ‘you cannot, but I will raise you up.’ To even stand before His mercy throne there are many qualifying notes. Chief of which is ‘belief’. In addition, thanksgiving and praise unto Him are necessary. Of course, a crying heart and a penitent soul get automatic entry.
Today’s verse, first asks us to thank the Lord our God and fulfill our vows to Him. Then promises the Most High, to call Him in time of trouble for His deliverance, which after it being accomplished must lead to your glorifying His Name. This is a sure promise. Remember, whether you see God or not, whether, you believe that He will do it for you or not. Or for that matter, whether you are pure or not, God will keep His part of the deal. It is His nature to deliver. It is His way to come forth and rescue us when we cry out to Him. And that my friend, is the assurance, the Holy Spirit gives us. Let me also tell you: don’t take God’s Word lightly…for heaven and earth will pass away but His Word shall remain: Unshakeable…Unalterable. And inviolable. You would do well to understand it and keep it. It will mean the difference between victory and defeat.
June 2, 2006
Today's verse: Ps 50:15. And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me. (KJV).
In the Bible we have so many different promises of God and truly I can say that a good study of His Word can make our feet steadfast and we can be on firm ground, not by any human assistance but by His awesome might; which although we cannot see and many times not even perceive, works in ways we can’t imagine.
As we go through the Word, God’s beautiful domain opens before us and we stand in awe of a God so beautiful that we do not know what to say. Then we realize our own insignificance. Our inadequateness. Many times I pose before God, ‘O Lord, how can I rise into Your presence with my filthy rags?’ The answer I get is, ‘you cannot, but I will raise you up.’ To even stand before His mercy throne there are many qualifying notes. Chief of which is ‘belief’. In addition, thanksgiving and praise unto Him are necessary. Of course, a crying heart and a penitent soul get automatic entry.
Today’s verse, first asks us to thank the Lord our God and fulfill our vows to Him. Then promises the Most High, to call Him in time of trouble for His deliverance, which after it being accomplished must lead to your glorifying His Name. This is a sure promise. Remember, whether you see God or not, whether, you believe that He will do it for you or not. Or for that matter, whether you are pure or not, God will keep His part of the deal. It is His nature to deliver. It is His way to come forth and rescue us when we cry out to Him. And that my friend, is the assurance, the Holy Spirit gives us. Let me also tell you: don’t take God’s Word lightly…for heaven and earth will pass away but His Word shall remain: Unshakeable…Unalterable. And inviolable. You would do well to understand it and keep it. It will mean the difference between victory and defeat.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Thoughts for another day
June 1, 2006
Today's verse: Is 41:13. For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee. (KJV).
This listless, empty and fragile life of ours is so uncertain that at any time, anything could happen. Take for example, when the monsoon rains struck Kerala, a territory in South India, where a man went for a bath in the river, there was a flash flood and he was washed away in an instant, probably, never ever, to be seen by his family and friends again!
To those who trust in themselves and or inane and meaningless things, there is no hope when anything in nature goes awry. There is none to look up to or to keep your trust in. But to those who believe in El Shaddai, Yahweh God, He is there. At times of distress in your life if you, but look up to Him, He is ever willing to hold your hand. Forgetting the sins you have committed against Him, He is ready to lift you up. Look at today’s verse, isn’t it enough assurance?
It is now raining in Mumbai and when I look at the overcast sky I wonder, ‘Lord, what will all those people living on the streets do?’ And then I am reminded that He is there. He will work, not necessarily the way we think He should, but in a way that the lives of those people are held secure. It is I who don’t do anything, not so much as even giving a hot meal to satiate empty stomachs. But God helps them. My friend, if you but open your door to Him, He is waiting at the threshold. Just waiting to help. If you have pain in your heart and a terrible need, turn to Him. I can tell you that He will rush in to your help. After all He has promised it, isn’t it?
Today's verse: Is 41:13. For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee. (KJV).
This listless, empty and fragile life of ours is so uncertain that at any time, anything could happen. Take for example, when the monsoon rains struck Kerala, a territory in South India, where a man went for a bath in the river, there was a flash flood and he was washed away in an instant, probably, never ever, to be seen by his family and friends again!
To those who trust in themselves and or inane and meaningless things, there is no hope when anything in nature goes awry. There is none to look up to or to keep your trust in. But to those who believe in El Shaddai, Yahweh God, He is there. At times of distress in your life if you, but look up to Him, He is ever willing to hold your hand. Forgetting the sins you have committed against Him, He is ready to lift you up. Look at today’s verse, isn’t it enough assurance?
It is now raining in Mumbai and when I look at the overcast sky I wonder, ‘Lord, what will all those people living on the streets do?’ And then I am reminded that He is there. He will work, not necessarily the way we think He should, but in a way that the lives of those people are held secure. It is I who don’t do anything, not so much as even giving a hot meal to satiate empty stomachs. But God helps them. My friend, if you but open your door to Him, He is waiting at the threshold. Just waiting to help. If you have pain in your heart and a terrible need, turn to Him. I can tell you that He will rush in to your help. After all He has promised it, isn’t it?
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