Thoughts for another day
February 28, 2007
Today's verse: Zec. 4:7 Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain: (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
For me, everything in life is of and by God. It should also be for God but, my sinfulness prevents that. Now when I say of God and by God, I mean, God is the One who does all things to me. When He blesses me, I am blessed. When He gives me, I stay given. When He comes and dwells within me, I am filled and so on. There may be setbacks in life, but He allows them for a purpose. He may not reveal the purpose immediately. But it is okay for I know God is in charge. I have given Him charge and I know all’s well with me. I know that tomorrow even if I am suffering and I need to go and minister to someone, I will get up and go. If I need to be in His presence, however sick I am, I know I will do it because He is my strength.
I am sure with you too it is the same. I believe today, to you and me, He is saying something. Telling us that nothing can thwart our ways in life. Nothing that can hamper our progress when God drives us. In today’s verse, God speaks to the mountain and asks it, ‘who art thou?’ Only God can say that because He possesses immense power. God can take poison and turn it into medicine. God can take a difficulty and change it into an opportunity. God’s one Word can morph a mountain into a plain!
Oh my friend, God is powerful. You and I know that. Why then do we worry? We know that God is Merciful and Gracious. We alos note God has said He is there to help us. And His Word is true. His Name is Holy. For the sake of His Name and His Word, He will deliver. It doesn’t matter if you are not worthy in His sight. It doesn’t matter if you have forgotten Him. He will never forget you. When the Israelites sinned beyond measure, God exiled them to Babylon. But with great compassion and love, He brought them back. Today, we stand covered by the precious blood of His Son. If at that time, God rescued the Israelites, how much more will He do today, when we stand covered by the blood of the most precious Lamb of God? I tell you my friend, if you believe that Jesus sits at the right Hand of God interceding for you and He looks at you with so much love, your life is made. Rejoice. Jump in joy for you are safe and lifted High. God wants to do that for you. Can any mountain stop it?
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 26, 2007
Today's verse: Nu. 18:20. I am thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Today’s verse is a strong reminder of who the Lord is and what He wants to be in our lives. When you go through Exodus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, you will see that God wanted to play a much bigger role in the lives of His chosen ones and He often mentioned it to His people through Moses and others. Yet, somehow, the Israelites failed to make Him their all. On the contrary, they always sought to have earthly things or people above them, the way the pagans did. Even to the extent that after they settled in the Promised Land, they wanted a king, so reluctantly God gave them one. Question for us; what do we do?
We often believe in what is of the world and refuse to see what is of God. So much so that today, there are many who even deny God’s existence. When you ask whether people believe in God, they are assertive in saying they do; then when you ask them to act accordingly, they don’t. For example, if there is a problem, they will run to all and sundry, except to God. If I mention God and say I will pray, they accept that but then they don’t believe in it. This happened with a lady I know as a self confessed firm believer in God. A small problem comes her way and there; she runs helter skelter to everyone to let them know the anguish she’s in. One day, I asked her why she does it. She behaved as if I was stupid to ask the question, saying, ‘You know God works through people, so you must go to people for help.’ I shut my mouth knowing well that it would be impossible to drill into her that if you trust God, He will send people to help you even as you remain in peace!
I appeal to you today to take God at His promise. You may not immediately see a miracle. But persist. I have seen how it pays. God works and He works powerfully if you put the reins of your life in His hands. I myself have experienced how God sometimes does not seem to answer prayer. But I have also seen how when we do not relent in our persistence, He understands the tugging at His heart and He answers. I pray that both you and I take today’s verse to heart and take God at His promise. He’s best at keeping it and He will do it. We just need hold on there.
February 26, 2007
Today's verse: Nu. 18:20. I am thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Today’s verse is a strong reminder of who the Lord is and what He wants to be in our lives. When you go through Exodus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, you will see that God wanted to play a much bigger role in the lives of His chosen ones and He often mentioned it to His people through Moses and others. Yet, somehow, the Israelites failed to make Him their all. On the contrary, they always sought to have earthly things or people above them, the way the pagans did. Even to the extent that after they settled in the Promised Land, they wanted a king, so reluctantly God gave them one. Question for us; what do we do?
We often believe in what is of the world and refuse to see what is of God. So much so that today, there are many who even deny God’s existence. When you ask whether people believe in God, they are assertive in saying they do; then when you ask them to act accordingly, they don’t. For example, if there is a problem, they will run to all and sundry, except to God. If I mention God and say I will pray, they accept that but then they don’t believe in it. This happened with a lady I know as a self confessed firm believer in God. A small problem comes her way and there; she runs helter skelter to everyone to let them know the anguish she’s in. One day, I asked her why she does it. She behaved as if I was stupid to ask the question, saying, ‘You know God works through people, so you must go to people for help.’ I shut my mouth knowing well that it would be impossible to drill into her that if you trust God, He will send people to help you even as you remain in peace!
I appeal to you today to take God at His promise. You may not immediately see a miracle. But persist. I have seen how it pays. God works and He works powerfully if you put the reins of your life in His hands. I myself have experienced how God sometimes does not seem to answer prayer. But I have also seen how when we do not relent in our persistence, He understands the tugging at His heart and He answers. I pray that both you and I take today’s verse to heart and take God at His promise. He’s best at keeping it and He will do it. We just need hold on there.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 26, 2007
Today's verse: Deut. 14:2. For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
I wonder why in our walk with Christ (I don’t call this a religion but a way of life) He commands us not to have anything else before us which can take away from His deity neither accord anything or anybody the prime place of a ‘God’ other than Him. On reflection, it dawns to me that when you have created something and love it abundantly, then only will you issue such a command to that thing, assuming it had life and could understand what you say. That’s because you have the right of possession, of that thing. Because you love that thing and hence want it to be yours only isn’t it?
When God takes possession of His people and they acknowledge His deity, He starts working in them in a very marvelous and powerful manner. He gives them glimpses of a power that can come only from heaven and reassures them of that same power again and again without any rituals and without accepting mundane things like coconuts, etc. as offering. On the other hand, in the world also we see much power happening all round. But that power is illusionary and temporary. Power that can work out good in life is not possessed by satan and therefore what is seemingly good at the beginning will surely lead to slavery and destruction. We also notice that to experience this power, all that is needed are few offerings of coconuts, garlands, etc. and engaging in much ritual.
This is something that our God doesn’t want us to do. God is most upset if we allow any other thing to take His place or share His place with Him. If we ever do that, His wrath is surely going to fall. So beware. We also need to know that we are a holy people before Him and we cannot defile ourselves with ritualistic observations and practices. My friend, remember that God has chosen you, your family, your relatives, etc. and made them His own from all the others in the world. If you accede to His commands, you will lead a full life. But if you stray according to the ways of the world, you will see His retribution. I pray today for all those who stray after the ways of the world and using worldly wisdom in interpreting the teachings of Jesus Christ; that God bring them back to the knowledge of the truth, so that the Truth will set them free.
This transmission is intended for the sole use of the individual and entity to whom it is addressed, and may contain information that is confidential and may not be disclosed under applicable law. You are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or duplication of this transmission by someone other than the intended addressee or its designated agent is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by return email and delete the original message. Thank you. This disclaimer may not be removed for any purpose.
February 26, 2007
Today's verse: Deut. 14:2. For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
I wonder why in our walk with Christ (I don’t call this a religion but a way of life) He commands us not to have anything else before us which can take away from His deity neither accord anything or anybody the prime place of a ‘God’ other than Him. On reflection, it dawns to me that when you have created something and love it abundantly, then only will you issue such a command to that thing, assuming it had life and could understand what you say. That’s because you have the right of possession, of that thing. Because you love that thing and hence want it to be yours only isn’t it?
When God takes possession of His people and they acknowledge His deity, He starts working in them in a very marvelous and powerful manner. He gives them glimpses of a power that can come only from heaven and reassures them of that same power again and again without any rituals and without accepting mundane things like coconuts, etc. as offering. On the other hand, in the world also we see much power happening all round. But that power is illusionary and temporary. Power that can work out good in life is not possessed by satan and therefore what is seemingly good at the beginning will surely lead to slavery and destruction. We also notice that to experience this power, all that is needed are few offerings of coconuts, garlands, etc. and engaging in much ritual.
This is something that our God doesn’t want us to do. God is most upset if we allow any other thing to take His place or share His place with Him. If we ever do that, His wrath is surely going to fall. So beware. We also need to know that we are a holy people before Him and we cannot defile ourselves with ritualistic observations and practices. My friend, remember that God has chosen you, your family, your relatives, etc. and made them His own from all the others in the world. If you accede to His commands, you will lead a full life. But if you stray according to the ways of the world, you will see His retribution. I pray today for all those who stray after the ways of the world and using worldly wisdom in interpreting the teachings of Jesus Christ; that God bring them back to the knowledge of the truth, so that the Truth will set them free.
This transmission is intended for the sole use of the individual and entity to whom it is addressed, and may contain information that is confidential and may not be disclosed under applicable law. You are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or duplication of this transmission by someone other than the intended addressee or its designated agent is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by return email and delete the original message. Thank you. This disclaimer may not be removed for any purpose.
Friday, February 23, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 23, 2007
Today's verse: Jdgs. 4:14. …is not the LORD gone out before thee? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Some of the great achievements of man are chronicled when God’s presence has been acknowledged and the premise that ‘the Lord has gone out before him’ to accomplish what needs to be accomplished, is taken as matter of fact.
When the task on hand is offered up to God, and you have prayed about it, then heaven accompanies you, nay, rather heaven leads you. For God, the type of task doesn’t matter; it could be a mere visit to the market to buy fish or a meeting to buy a huge company. As long as you ask for God’s intervention, you have Him going before and setting the stage for you to conquer. The price of fish therefore drops with the freshest catch available and the price per share of the company comes to be lesser than what you really intended to pay with no obstacles in the negotiations.
Sometimes, it takes a little longer to behold God’s power, but that is your period of trial. When you have persisted, His hand unfurls His power to meet your need.
You may not believe this, but its best you believe because that’s the way it is with the believer. I know of a simple boy who was called for an interview. He needed the job badly and he prayed ardently for it. But the moment he entered the reception, his face fell as he saw a no of candidates and most of them looked to be and were much smarter than him. Yet, he kept faith in God. And, you know who got the job? Ah there, you guessed it. The simple, country lad. Because the chief person on the panel came from the same village as the boy!!! Does it say something of God going before the boy to set the stage?
My friend, never disregard His presence in your life. He loves you so much that He follows you quietly. And at those times when you give Him control, with much pride, He moves in front and prepares your path, leading you to victory. See, how good our God is!
February 23, 2007
Today's verse: Jdgs. 4:14. …is not the LORD gone out before thee? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Some of the great achievements of man are chronicled when God’s presence has been acknowledged and the premise that ‘the Lord has gone out before him’ to accomplish what needs to be accomplished, is taken as matter of fact.
When the task on hand is offered up to God, and you have prayed about it, then heaven accompanies you, nay, rather heaven leads you. For God, the type of task doesn’t matter; it could be a mere visit to the market to buy fish or a meeting to buy a huge company. As long as you ask for God’s intervention, you have Him going before and setting the stage for you to conquer. The price of fish therefore drops with the freshest catch available and the price per share of the company comes to be lesser than what you really intended to pay with no obstacles in the negotiations.
Sometimes, it takes a little longer to behold God’s power, but that is your period of trial. When you have persisted, His hand unfurls His power to meet your need.
You may not believe this, but its best you believe because that’s the way it is with the believer. I know of a simple boy who was called for an interview. He needed the job badly and he prayed ardently for it. But the moment he entered the reception, his face fell as he saw a no of candidates and most of them looked to be and were much smarter than him. Yet, he kept faith in God. And, you know who got the job? Ah there, you guessed it. The simple, country lad. Because the chief person on the panel came from the same village as the boy!!! Does it say something of God going before the boy to set the stage?
My friend, never disregard His presence in your life. He loves you so much that He follows you quietly. And at those times when you give Him control, with much pride, He moves in front and prepares your path, leading you to victory. See, how good our God is!
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 22, 2007
Today's verse: Lam. 2:19. Arise, cry out in the night: in the beginning of the watches pour out thine heart like water before the face of the Lord: lift up thy hands toward him for the life of thy young children, that faint for hunger in the top of every street. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
In moments of great affliction, great anguish sets in. The heart is filled with sorrow and grief. We pull out all stops and do whatever we can to stall the disaster facing us. We put our all into it because at that time, our senses know the situation needs our best.
I was watching a talent show on TV recently, where two persons were eliminated. To console them, the anchor narrated a story, you might have heard. It goes: Once a young man set out to find God. He met many sages and other renowned people whom he asked where God could be found. He got varied answers and he tried everything but didn’t meet God. Finally, he heard of a great sage and decided to go to him, though he dwelt in a remote place. The sage welcomed him and asked him to stay with him. For a whole year although this man asked and asked, the sage would not tell him where and how God could be found which frustrated the man. One day as he and the sage were walking along the edge of a river, their feet in water, the sage suddenly grabbed the head of this man and pushed it under water. The young man splashed vigorously and tried to free himself causing much tremor in the water till the sage released him.
The man took a big breath then turned and asked the sage, ‘why?’ The sage, calm as ever, asked him in turn, ‘When your head was under water, what was the one thing you wanted most for which you struggled so much.’ The man replied, ‘Air’. The sage then said, ‘because you wanted air so badly, didn’t you use all your strength and mind to get it? That’s how it is, when you seek God. Do likewise and you’ll find Him.’
The anchor wanted to say that if you have a goal in life, you must struggle to meet it, which echoes the essence of today’s verse. My friend, in a desperate situation, involve God. Hold on to His feet; don’t let Him go. Pour out buckets full of tears through the night. Let me tell you, before dawn arrives, your answer will arrive because as you cry out, God casts His glance toward you. As you cry more, His heart moves. You cry more and He weeps with you and then His hand is lifted in your favor. For God cannot bear the anguish of His children and He answers. Look at the people who got their prayers answered by Jesus: The Syrophoenician woman, Bartimaeus…all because they refused to budge, but held on. Remember, God holds your faith in high esteem and your tears in His bottle. Your answer follows, naturally!
February 22, 2007
Today's verse: Lam. 2:19. Arise, cry out in the night: in the beginning of the watches pour out thine heart like water before the face of the Lord: lift up thy hands toward him for the life of thy young children, that faint for hunger in the top of every street. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
In moments of great affliction, great anguish sets in. The heart is filled with sorrow and grief. We pull out all stops and do whatever we can to stall the disaster facing us. We put our all into it because at that time, our senses know the situation needs our best.
I was watching a talent show on TV recently, where two persons were eliminated. To console them, the anchor narrated a story, you might have heard. It goes: Once a young man set out to find God. He met many sages and other renowned people whom he asked where God could be found. He got varied answers and he tried everything but didn’t meet God. Finally, he heard of a great sage and decided to go to him, though he dwelt in a remote place. The sage welcomed him and asked him to stay with him. For a whole year although this man asked and asked, the sage would not tell him where and how God could be found which frustrated the man. One day as he and the sage were walking along the edge of a river, their feet in water, the sage suddenly grabbed the head of this man and pushed it under water. The young man splashed vigorously and tried to free himself causing much tremor in the water till the sage released him.
The man took a big breath then turned and asked the sage, ‘why?’ The sage, calm as ever, asked him in turn, ‘When your head was under water, what was the one thing you wanted most for which you struggled so much.’ The man replied, ‘Air’. The sage then said, ‘because you wanted air so badly, didn’t you use all your strength and mind to get it? That’s how it is, when you seek God. Do likewise and you’ll find Him.’
The anchor wanted to say that if you have a goal in life, you must struggle to meet it, which echoes the essence of today’s verse. My friend, in a desperate situation, involve God. Hold on to His feet; don’t let Him go. Pour out buckets full of tears through the night. Let me tell you, before dawn arrives, your answer will arrive because as you cry out, God casts His glance toward you. As you cry more, His heart moves. You cry more and He weeps with you and then His hand is lifted in your favor. For God cannot bear the anguish of His children and He answers. Look at the people who got their prayers answered by Jesus: The Syrophoenician woman, Bartimaeus…all because they refused to budge, but held on. Remember, God holds your faith in high esteem and your tears in His bottle. Your answer follows, naturally!
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 21, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 36:9. For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
If you know God, I mean you really know God – which is if you have felt His presence and have absolutely no shred of doubt of His existence – then things of God will come to be etched in your mind and heart in an indelible manner. They will remind you of Him, I say remind not the way we humans remember a person in his absence, for God is never absent but though ever present is not seen, and therefore they will bring into focus God’s loving hand upon your life.
Things, which stand out the most amongst His many traits, are His love and mercy. When God wants to nudge you gently with His love, His Spirit sends a slight shiver up your spine; an excitement grips you inside and a warmth envelopes you. When God’s mercy pours itself on you, tears roll down as His Spirit makes you realize how wicked you have been to Him and how undeserving you are. Listen my friend to the tears of the woman in Luke’s Gospel 7:36-50. They speak of His love. Zacchaeus’s fluttering heart gushed with paeans of wondrous mercy as Jesus told him, ‘This day I must abide at thy house’. And so will your heart be plunged into joy at the touch of His hand.
Today’s verse, is an exultant proclamation from a man who experienced God the most: David, who, calling himself the servant of the Lord, exclaims and affirms God as the fount of life; in Whose brightness our darkness vanishes. Indeed God is the source of life and its abundance too. If you need to lead a fulfilling life, you need God because only He can give you a full life. Your mind may be clouded with sorrow and tension with not a ray of hope but as you come into His light your darkness vanishes. The little hassles in life hardly matter as they are swept away by His abundance. Reflect on it today and live it, life will be transformed.
February 21, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 36:9. For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
If you know God, I mean you really know God – which is if you have felt His presence and have absolutely no shred of doubt of His existence – then things of God will come to be etched in your mind and heart in an indelible manner. They will remind you of Him, I say remind not the way we humans remember a person in his absence, for God is never absent but though ever present is not seen, and therefore they will bring into focus God’s loving hand upon your life.
Things, which stand out the most amongst His many traits, are His love and mercy. When God wants to nudge you gently with His love, His Spirit sends a slight shiver up your spine; an excitement grips you inside and a warmth envelopes you. When God’s mercy pours itself on you, tears roll down as His Spirit makes you realize how wicked you have been to Him and how undeserving you are. Listen my friend to the tears of the woman in Luke’s Gospel 7:36-50. They speak of His love. Zacchaeus’s fluttering heart gushed with paeans of wondrous mercy as Jesus told him, ‘This day I must abide at thy house’. And so will your heart be plunged into joy at the touch of His hand.
Today’s verse, is an exultant proclamation from a man who experienced God the most: David, who, calling himself the servant of the Lord, exclaims and affirms God as the fount of life; in Whose brightness our darkness vanishes. Indeed God is the source of life and its abundance too. If you need to lead a fulfilling life, you need God because only He can give you a full life. Your mind may be clouded with sorrow and tension with not a ray of hope but as you come into His light your darkness vanishes. The little hassles in life hardly matter as they are swept away by His abundance. Reflect on it today and live it, life will be transformed.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 20, 2007
Today's verse: Lk. 12:24. …how much more are ye better than the fowls? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
In the walk of life, some of us encounter many thorns. More thorns, than roses. Life becomes gloomy and heavy. There are some of us in such distress that it is probably impossible for others to realize what kind of distress that be. For we rarely come to know of such misery. There are many suffering quietly – whether the malady is something beyond one’s control or wrought by man.
Today, if you are in that category or if your friend, brother, sister, relative is, then take comfort. For, God is watching you and seeing your every, pain. My friend, what does Jesus imply in today’s verse. It is very clear and when read with the preceding words, it should comfort your soul. But remember your own happiness is in knowing and believing that there is a God watching you. That He fills your every tear in His bottle. That He loves you far more than a mother loves her suckling child. And yes, He will never forget you nor forsake you for He has you engraved on the palm of His Hand!
Oh beloved of God, when worry surrounds you because of what you see around, its time to look up. It’s time to tug at His heart. He, whose one Word stills the frothing of the sea, is on your side. And to work on your behalf what does He need? Nothing, but that you keep faith in Him; and call out to Him when in danger. Needless to say, living a life according to His commands will help.
I want to tell you my friend, if you are reading this with a heavy heart and resigned to your fate as you may call it, don’t. Rather tell your fate that the One who has control over it, is taking control and He will crush every adversity it can bring in its wake. And just think, when you looked up, didn’t your heart silently leap within with a new found hope. Yeah, take that hope at its appearance and take Him at His promise. Stand and declare, I can do all things through Him that strengthens me! Heaven will salute you and glory will fill your soul.
February 20, 2007
Today's verse: Lk. 12:24. …how much more are ye better than the fowls? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
In the walk of life, some of us encounter many thorns. More thorns, than roses. Life becomes gloomy and heavy. There are some of us in such distress that it is probably impossible for others to realize what kind of distress that be. For we rarely come to know of such misery. There are many suffering quietly – whether the malady is something beyond one’s control or wrought by man.
Today, if you are in that category or if your friend, brother, sister, relative is, then take comfort. For, God is watching you and seeing your every, pain. My friend, what does Jesus imply in today’s verse. It is very clear and when read with the preceding words, it should comfort your soul. But remember your own happiness is in knowing and believing that there is a God watching you. That He fills your every tear in His bottle. That He loves you far more than a mother loves her suckling child. And yes, He will never forget you nor forsake you for He has you engraved on the palm of His Hand!
Oh beloved of God, when worry surrounds you because of what you see around, its time to look up. It’s time to tug at His heart. He, whose one Word stills the frothing of the sea, is on your side. And to work on your behalf what does He need? Nothing, but that you keep faith in Him; and call out to Him when in danger. Needless to say, living a life according to His commands will help.
I want to tell you my friend, if you are reading this with a heavy heart and resigned to your fate as you may call it, don’t. Rather tell your fate that the One who has control over it, is taking control and He will crush every adversity it can bring in its wake. And just think, when you looked up, didn’t your heart silently leap within with a new found hope. Yeah, take that hope at its appearance and take Him at His promise. Stand and declare, I can do all things through Him that strengthens me! Heaven will salute you and glory will fill your soul.
Monday, February 19, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 19, 2007
Today's verse: Lk. 8:39. Return to thine own house, and show how great things God hath done unto thee. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
I believe many of you reading this have an unction of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the many. Many also may be anointed to have Ministries to do great things for God. The question is how do we begin?
We know that God alone can start a good thing in us and it is only by Him that the thing can last. Jesus says, ‘Every plant that My Heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted.’ So all work of the kingdom must begin of God Almighty and be sustained by Him. When God plants the seed of your Ministry in your heart, what is to be seen is how fertile your soil is. Many people deeply feel inside that they are called to Ministry. However, their response is zero. Their excuse is, I don’t know how to begin. I know it is difficult to preach the Gospel in today’s context. But still, the least we can do is pray. Pray that souls be saved. That is surely a sign of our positive and ‘being ready’ response. We must do what God has put in our plate at the moment and be content in it believing that at the right time, He will open the larger thing He has carved, as our mission.
In the context of today’s verse, there is this man, touched by Christ who wants to be with Him even begging Him. But Jesus asks him to go home and there tell others what God did for Him! Now why would Jesus not allow ‘so ready’ a man to be with Him? There must have been a reason, no?
We do not know ‘us’ as well as the Lord does. Therefore, we think one thing and then go do something contrary. We may have not even thought of it that way and so we are surprised at our own actions; and thus get frustrated. God however, knows us so well that He will only give us that, which will keep us happy in our lives each moment. We must do the little things we can in the situation we are, to promote the Gospel. Each small thing we do, is written in the ‘Book of Life’ and is counted as a merit to us. Persist in them till the Father, pleased with that little, opens the larger door!
February 19, 2007
Today's verse: Lk. 8:39. Return to thine own house, and show how great things God hath done unto thee. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
I believe many of you reading this have an unction of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the many. Many also may be anointed to have Ministries to do great things for God. The question is how do we begin?
We know that God alone can start a good thing in us and it is only by Him that the thing can last. Jesus says, ‘Every plant that My Heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted.’ So all work of the kingdom must begin of God Almighty and be sustained by Him. When God plants the seed of your Ministry in your heart, what is to be seen is how fertile your soil is. Many people deeply feel inside that they are called to Ministry. However, their response is zero. Their excuse is, I don’t know how to begin. I know it is difficult to preach the Gospel in today’s context. But still, the least we can do is pray. Pray that souls be saved. That is surely a sign of our positive and ‘being ready’ response. We must do what God has put in our plate at the moment and be content in it believing that at the right time, He will open the larger thing He has carved, as our mission.
In the context of today’s verse, there is this man, touched by Christ who wants to be with Him even begging Him. But Jesus asks him to go home and there tell others what God did for Him! Now why would Jesus not allow ‘so ready’ a man to be with Him? There must have been a reason, no?
We do not know ‘us’ as well as the Lord does. Therefore, we think one thing and then go do something contrary. We may have not even thought of it that way and so we are surprised at our own actions; and thus get frustrated. God however, knows us so well that He will only give us that, which will keep us happy in our lives each moment. We must do the little things we can in the situation we are, to promote the Gospel. Each small thing we do, is written in the ‘Book of Life’ and is counted as a merit to us. Persist in them till the Father, pleased with that little, opens the larger door!
Friday, February 16, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 16, 2007
Today's verse: 1 Cor. 9:16. …woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Yesterday, I happened to read a true story of a little crippled boy called Tommy. Now this boy could barely walk and was glued to his little bed near a window in a one-room apartment of his old aunt. He once discovered Jesus and he wanted to spread Jesus’ way of going about doing good. How? He wondered till God gave him the thought of writing a verse on a plain piece of paper and dropping it down the window.
So very painfully, even getting up was a tough thing for him and writing even tougher, he wrote letter by letter and after finishing, sent the piece of paper hurtling down the third floor window. And as they fell down, many read and benefited from the Bible verses. A rich man once read Tommy’s verse and was wonderfully saved and he wanted to take Tommy to his palatial home and care for Him. But Tommy wouldn’t go because the man’s home was in the countryside and although it had windows, there was hardly anybody walking under them for Tommy’s work to be useful. So Tommy declined the rich man’s offer and continued to evangelise beside his window.
My friend, what does this story tell us? How do you read, ‘Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.’ Does it tell you anything about what you should do or rather what you are supposed to do? You know when I read this story (url: http://www.tommyswindow.com/story_tommy.htm) I felt ashamed. I looked at the sky and I wondered, ‘Lord there are so many shining stars out there who shine so brightly. Why do you choose such dirt like me?’ Really, what do we do? Imagine, what a little boy like Tommy can do for Christ? And when I think of the number of excuses I give when I am asked to spread His Gospel…I just feel like disappearing into thin air.
Oh Lord, I pray, give us the strength and the zeal to spread Your Word. Perhaps, not like some of those big preachers but like Tommy. A wee bit, a day. And Lord, let Your Kingdom come and Your will be done on earth, the way it is in heaven. And above all Lord, let all come to know Jesus and take Him as their Savior. In His Name. Amen.
February 16, 2007
Today's verse: 1 Cor. 9:16. …woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Yesterday, I happened to read a true story of a little crippled boy called Tommy. Now this boy could barely walk and was glued to his little bed near a window in a one-room apartment of his old aunt. He once discovered Jesus and he wanted to spread Jesus’ way of going about doing good. How? He wondered till God gave him the thought of writing a verse on a plain piece of paper and dropping it down the window.
So very painfully, even getting up was a tough thing for him and writing even tougher, he wrote letter by letter and after finishing, sent the piece of paper hurtling down the third floor window. And as they fell down, many read and benefited from the Bible verses. A rich man once read Tommy’s verse and was wonderfully saved and he wanted to take Tommy to his palatial home and care for Him. But Tommy wouldn’t go because the man’s home was in the countryside and although it had windows, there was hardly anybody walking under them for Tommy’s work to be useful. So Tommy declined the rich man’s offer and continued to evangelise beside his window.
My friend, what does this story tell us? How do you read, ‘Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.’ Does it tell you anything about what you should do or rather what you are supposed to do? You know when I read this story (url: http://www.tommyswindow.com/story_tommy.htm) I felt ashamed. I looked at the sky and I wondered, ‘Lord there are so many shining stars out there who shine so brightly. Why do you choose such dirt like me?’ Really, what do we do? Imagine, what a little boy like Tommy can do for Christ? And when I think of the number of excuses I give when I am asked to spread His Gospel…I just feel like disappearing into thin air.
Oh Lord, I pray, give us the strength and the zeal to spread Your Word. Perhaps, not like some of those big preachers but like Tommy. A wee bit, a day. And Lord, let Your Kingdom come and Your will be done on earth, the way it is in heaven. And above all Lord, let all come to know Jesus and take Him as their Savior. In His Name. Amen.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 15, 2007
Today's verse: Is. 57:15. I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Listen to what the Lord God says about the ambience He may be found in. He is not where riches and gold and diamonds are. God isn’t in the broad dimensions of palaces and mansions. Rather, God is there in the little and the scanty. God does not make His abode in the hot air of the proud; rather He mingles in the lowliness of the meek. When Jesus said that the meek shall inherit the earth, He meant it because, God dwells with the meek. And we know that the earth and all its fullness belong to Him. That is why the meek shall inherit the earth.
Come to it, isn’t it surprising that our God chooses to be with the poor and the contrite? Throughout the world and across religions, the concept of God being with and helping the poor is only in the people following Jesus. The concept of forgiveness too is found only in Him. For only our God says forgive and forgive and forgive; not three but umpteen number of times and He Himself gave us a lesson in forgiveness.
My friend if you are reading this and Jesus is touching your heart asking you to be humble, tarry not but learn to shed your ego. If there is anyone who needs your forgiveness, do it now and thenceforth harbor no evil toward that person. Remember life is short and either you or the other person may not be there the next moment. Come to the throne of Grace and drink from His water of love and share it with others too. Somewhere in eternity, your humility and contrite nature will have helped a soul seek the high flights of Jesus’ domain.
February 15, 2007
Today's verse: Is. 57:15. I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Listen to what the Lord God says about the ambience He may be found in. He is not where riches and gold and diamonds are. God isn’t in the broad dimensions of palaces and mansions. Rather, God is there in the little and the scanty. God does not make His abode in the hot air of the proud; rather He mingles in the lowliness of the meek. When Jesus said that the meek shall inherit the earth, He meant it because, God dwells with the meek. And we know that the earth and all its fullness belong to Him. That is why the meek shall inherit the earth.
Come to it, isn’t it surprising that our God chooses to be with the poor and the contrite? Throughout the world and across religions, the concept of God being with and helping the poor is only in the people following Jesus. The concept of forgiveness too is found only in Him. For only our God says forgive and forgive and forgive; not three but umpteen number of times and He Himself gave us a lesson in forgiveness.
My friend if you are reading this and Jesus is touching your heart asking you to be humble, tarry not but learn to shed your ego. If there is anyone who needs your forgiveness, do it now and thenceforth harbor no evil toward that person. Remember life is short and either you or the other person may not be there the next moment. Come to the throne of Grace and drink from His water of love and share it with others too. Somewhere in eternity, your humility and contrite nature will have helped a soul seek the high flights of Jesus’ domain.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 14, 2007
Today's verse: 2 Cor. 3:5. Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Last week we were involved in this so-called thing, ‘savings’. Some of us discussed how much we had saved over the years and some also discussed how much their ‘forgotten’ investments had borne fruit. Some even complained about being cheated in their investments to the point of being disgusted with life itself! While all this was going on, I realized one thing blatantly missing from the conversation: The role of God in our provision.
We sing, ‘Jehovah Jireh, my provider, His Grace is sufficient for me…’ but we don’t really practice it in our lives. We love to see huge bank balances. But sadly, none of us know, how much in the bank is sufficient. Once I even heard an elderly man of about 75 yrs of age say, ‘when I had retired, I thought I would die by this age. Now I am having a financial crunch and my family is disowning me.’ Sad. But then would he really be able to save till he were to be say, 80 or 90 or…
The ‘or’ is in the Hands of God. He alone knows the span of our lives and exactly how much we need. And the Good News is, He guarantees provision for that, if you believe He will do it! Alas! We hardly rely on God to be that provider. Worse, we want to keep Him away from our finances, because He says, we need to give. ‘But Lord, I’ve only got this much, how much will be left if I give?’ It happens with the best of us. It is a shame that I depend on my small finances rather than on Him who says, ‘The earth is mine and the fullness thereof.’
I know of a family who in a worldly way, were self-sufficient and having everything. One day, the man of the house suffered a stroke. In a matter of months, their business closed down. The cars were sold and bank balances gone. Now they are completely shattered and broke and funny, the man can hardly stand!!! So much for our sufficiency. My friend, as much as you would like to trust yourself to care for yourself in the future, banish the thought. Rather, put your life into His hands for He is able. Trust Him alone to be your sufficiency. He will prove you right as days roll into months and months roll into years.
February 14, 2007
Today's verse: 2 Cor. 3:5. Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Last week we were involved in this so-called thing, ‘savings’. Some of us discussed how much we had saved over the years and some also discussed how much their ‘forgotten’ investments had borne fruit. Some even complained about being cheated in their investments to the point of being disgusted with life itself! While all this was going on, I realized one thing blatantly missing from the conversation: The role of God in our provision.
We sing, ‘Jehovah Jireh, my provider, His Grace is sufficient for me…’ but we don’t really practice it in our lives. We love to see huge bank balances. But sadly, none of us know, how much in the bank is sufficient. Once I even heard an elderly man of about 75 yrs of age say, ‘when I had retired, I thought I would die by this age. Now I am having a financial crunch and my family is disowning me.’ Sad. But then would he really be able to save till he were to be say, 80 or 90 or…
The ‘or’ is in the Hands of God. He alone knows the span of our lives and exactly how much we need. And the Good News is, He guarantees provision for that, if you believe He will do it! Alas! We hardly rely on God to be that provider. Worse, we want to keep Him away from our finances, because He says, we need to give. ‘But Lord, I’ve only got this much, how much will be left if I give?’ It happens with the best of us. It is a shame that I depend on my small finances rather than on Him who says, ‘The earth is mine and the fullness thereof.’
I know of a family who in a worldly way, were self-sufficient and having everything. One day, the man of the house suffered a stroke. In a matter of months, their business closed down. The cars were sold and bank balances gone. Now they are completely shattered and broke and funny, the man can hardly stand!!! So much for our sufficiency. My friend, as much as you would like to trust yourself to care for yourself in the future, banish the thought. Rather, put your life into His hands for He is able. Trust Him alone to be your sufficiency. He will prove you right as days roll into months and months roll into years.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 10, 2007
Today's verse: Pro. 21:13. Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
The subject of giving is a matter of much debate. You have appeals from many for varied causes which are as different as chalk is, from cheese. We shall not justify or castigate anybody who asks, but let’s look at who the Lord wants us to give to. Your opinion may differ on what you read below and you are free to keep it; but what you read is the attitude the Lord favors. I myself, may not do it, but God’s Word doesn’t change.
When someone asks for something, the Word of God tells us to give. What you think of the person asking does not matter. What purpose he is asking for doesn’t matter God wants you to give. Yes, you read it right. God wants you to give. Even if you feel the person will go and gamble with that money, still you must give because he asked. Only check with God what you need to do in a situation when you feel strongly you shouldn't give. Reason out what Christ would do in that situation.
We are so parsimonious in giving, that we find so many reasons not to. Once an extremely old and poor lady came to me and asked for some money. As I was about to give, my friend told me not to give her as her son who is a drunkard would come and snatch it from her. Will my not giving that woman help her any bit? Many of you may not understand the spirit in which I am saying this, suffice it for me to tell you that we too ask the Lord for things that are meaningless and expect Him to give it us, right? So why do we find reasons not to give, when we know we need to. How can we expect God to give what we ask if we ourselves do not know how to give or feel that the need expressed by someone else is frivolous?
My friend, consider the poor, for believe me, was it not for the Grace of God, we would be one of them. The Word of God says today, that if we don’t listen to the cries of the poor, our own cries will not be heard. Behold, the Lord loves a cheerful giver and giving does not make us poorer; on the contrary, it makes us feel on the top of the world and of course richer. And it sure is a good feeling.
February 10, 2007
Today's verse: Pro. 21:13. Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
The subject of giving is a matter of much debate. You have appeals from many for varied causes which are as different as chalk is, from cheese. We shall not justify or castigate anybody who asks, but let’s look at who the Lord wants us to give to. Your opinion may differ on what you read below and you are free to keep it; but what you read is the attitude the Lord favors. I myself, may not do it, but God’s Word doesn’t change.
When someone asks for something, the Word of God tells us to give. What you think of the person asking does not matter. What purpose he is asking for doesn’t matter God wants you to give. Yes, you read it right. God wants you to give. Even if you feel the person will go and gamble with that money, still you must give because he asked. Only check with God what you need to do in a situation when you feel strongly you shouldn't give. Reason out what Christ would do in that situation.
We are so parsimonious in giving, that we find so many reasons not to. Once an extremely old and poor lady came to me and asked for some money. As I was about to give, my friend told me not to give her as her son who is a drunkard would come and snatch it from her. Will my not giving that woman help her any bit? Many of you may not understand the spirit in which I am saying this, suffice it for me to tell you that we too ask the Lord for things that are meaningless and expect Him to give it us, right? So why do we find reasons not to give, when we know we need to. How can we expect God to give what we ask if we ourselves do not know how to give or feel that the need expressed by someone else is frivolous?
My friend, consider the poor, for believe me, was it not for the Grace of God, we would be one of them. The Word of God says today, that if we don’t listen to the cries of the poor, our own cries will not be heard. Behold, the Lord loves a cheerful giver and giving does not make us poorer; on the contrary, it makes us feel on the top of the world and of course richer. And it sure is a good feeling.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 9, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 5:7. But as for me, I will come into thy house in the multitude of thy mercy: and in thy fear will I worship toward thy holy temple. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Time and again when we hear of God’s mercy, we are reminded of His tremendous compassion for us mortal sinners. Though one may speak and speak of His mercies, one can never tire of it because of His beautiful ways of making us feel comfortable in His presence; and this keeps pounding our minds with the fact that His mercies are extensive and renewed each day.
Consider this: from the time we get up in the morning to the time we go to bed, we keep sinning either in thought, word or deed. Each time, it offends the infinite goodness of our God. It hurts Him. It makes Him feel unwanted and unwelcome. Yet, when we rise and go before Him in prayer seeking His pardon, we feel His glory descend upon us and lift us up. We sense His hand gently comforting us and making us feel good?
My friend, such is what our God is all about. Forever merciful, and wondrous. Ever ready to hold us up and make us feel great. That too just after we have sinned grievously and offended Him. On the other hand take us for example, particularly those of us who are parents, when our children offend us we thrash them, even if we love them a lot. Afterward we may shower them with kisses and gifts; but when they hurt us we punish them. And then look at how our God is. See the difference. Let me not even venture to speak of how great He is; and our all. For that would warrant we never offend Him.
Look up to the Face of the Lord and behold His mercy. Tell Him like David said, ‘because of the multitude of Your mercy Lord, look I shall come to Your Holy Dwelling and worship You.’ In saying this, I’m sure your soul will find its rest.
February 9, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 5:7. But as for me, I will come into thy house in the multitude of thy mercy: and in thy fear will I worship toward thy holy temple. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Time and again when we hear of God’s mercy, we are reminded of His tremendous compassion for us mortal sinners. Though one may speak and speak of His mercies, one can never tire of it because of His beautiful ways of making us feel comfortable in His presence; and this keeps pounding our minds with the fact that His mercies are extensive and renewed each day.
Consider this: from the time we get up in the morning to the time we go to bed, we keep sinning either in thought, word or deed. Each time, it offends the infinite goodness of our God. It hurts Him. It makes Him feel unwanted and unwelcome. Yet, when we rise and go before Him in prayer seeking His pardon, we feel His glory descend upon us and lift us up. We sense His hand gently comforting us and making us feel good?
My friend, such is what our God is all about. Forever merciful, and wondrous. Ever ready to hold us up and make us feel great. That too just after we have sinned grievously and offended Him. On the other hand take us for example, particularly those of us who are parents, when our children offend us we thrash them, even if we love them a lot. Afterward we may shower them with kisses and gifts; but when they hurt us we punish them. And then look at how our God is. See the difference. Let me not even venture to speak of how great He is; and our all. For that would warrant we never offend Him.
Look up to the Face of the Lord and behold His mercy. Tell Him like David said, ‘because of the multitude of Your mercy Lord, look I shall come to Your Holy Dwelling and worship You.’ In saying this, I’m sure your soul will find its rest.
Friday, February 09, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 9, 2007
Today's verse: Lk. 11:13. If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Jesus gave us a great gift: the Holy Spirit. There is great power in Him the third person of the Trinity. There is the power to love, the power to praise our Father in Heaven and the power to change us to be worthy for His kingdom.
In the coming of the Holy Spirit there is new birth. When the day of Pentecost dawned after the departure of Christ, the Holy Spirit came in much strength and birthed the Church. All new things are birthed by, the Holy Spirit and they last. Everything not birthed by the Spirit will see the end although it doesn’t seem to be that way now.
With the Holy Spirit comes a greater understanding of the ways of God. The eyes of our minds and hearts are opened wide to understand the purposes of God and to know Him better. The persona of Jesus is revealed more clearly and we are also made to understand our place in the plan of the Almighty. It is as if God speaks to us and we understand. We now change our outlook and become bolder. When the Holy Spirit came upon the apostles, who until then were hiding in the obscurity of the upper room, they suddenly found the courage to descend from there and get into the spotlight. Peter, a man who due to fright had denied his friendship with the Lord, now became so bold that he stood before a crowd and proclaimed the very Man he had denied!
My beloved in Christ, it is difficult to understand the ways of the Holy Spirit. But it is easy to welcome Him, for He comes to us when we welcome Him with our hearts and He takes us to the inner chambers of the Most High. He reaches out when we spread our hands in despair and He is there to guide our every step. I have felt Him in my life and when He comes, you can only sense the glorious presence of God. Jesus becomes so real and the entire world seems to be at your feet. I can therefore now understand why Jesus compares the Holy Spirit to good gifts. Because I know the Holy Spirit is a good gift. A far better gift than anything else; and a gift freely given by God.
February 9, 2007
Today's verse: Lk. 11:13. If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Jesus gave us a great gift: the Holy Spirit. There is great power in Him the third person of the Trinity. There is the power to love, the power to praise our Father in Heaven and the power to change us to be worthy for His kingdom.
In the coming of the Holy Spirit there is new birth. When the day of Pentecost dawned after the departure of Christ, the Holy Spirit came in much strength and birthed the Church. All new things are birthed by, the Holy Spirit and they last. Everything not birthed by the Spirit will see the end although it doesn’t seem to be that way now.
With the Holy Spirit comes a greater understanding of the ways of God. The eyes of our minds and hearts are opened wide to understand the purposes of God and to know Him better. The persona of Jesus is revealed more clearly and we are also made to understand our place in the plan of the Almighty. It is as if God speaks to us and we understand. We now change our outlook and become bolder. When the Holy Spirit came upon the apostles, who until then were hiding in the obscurity of the upper room, they suddenly found the courage to descend from there and get into the spotlight. Peter, a man who due to fright had denied his friendship with the Lord, now became so bold that he stood before a crowd and proclaimed the very Man he had denied!
My beloved in Christ, it is difficult to understand the ways of the Holy Spirit. But it is easy to welcome Him, for He comes to us when we welcome Him with our hearts and He takes us to the inner chambers of the Most High. He reaches out when we spread our hands in despair and He is there to guide our every step. I have felt Him in my life and when He comes, you can only sense the glorious presence of God. Jesus becomes so real and the entire world seems to be at your feet. I can therefore now understand why Jesus compares the Holy Spirit to good gifts. Because I know the Holy Spirit is a good gift. A far better gift than anything else; and a gift freely given by God.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 6, 2007
Today's verse: Ez. 12:25. For I am the LORD: I will speak, and the word that I shall speak shall come to pass; it shall be no more prolonged: (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
If the Lord has spoken something in your life, then come what may, it shall come to pass. The Lord will work it out in your life. When the Lord has decided it is time, He acts and brings the said thing into reality.
Today’s verse is for me, a reassurance of the promises that I hold on to with the Lord as my Shepherd. When I look at the things in my environment and the way life is moving, there are tremendous doubts. Deep within is the hint of a fear; will it happen? But there is also the conviction that it will, for just as the niggling doubt is there, so too is the overwhelming confidence that it will happen.
Many times I check whether what is destined was fabricated by me. Whether it was an intense desire within me, which came forth as a vision, and since it was in the area of spirituality, I deigned it to be from God. But having answered with a negative, I am reassured by today’s verse. Having checked that whatever is to happen will bring an abundance of glory to God, I know He will work it out. Yes, a lot of time has gone by but I believe that it is like wine. The more the time, the better the wine. So also, if the Ministry God has given me is to be what it is, it should take some time, I guess.
Now, why this in, a reflection. It is a reassurance from God, not just for me but also for you. My friend time may pass and years may go by without you seeing an iota of what is envisioned. But fret not. If it is from God, it shall come to pass. The circumstances may be opposite and harsh but God knows how to change them. Just trust Him like Joseph did. And just as He did to Joseph, He will do it for you.
February 6, 2007
Today's verse: Ez. 12:25. For I am the LORD: I will speak, and the word that I shall speak shall come to pass; it shall be no more prolonged: (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
If the Lord has spoken something in your life, then come what may, it shall come to pass. The Lord will work it out in your life. When the Lord has decided it is time, He acts and brings the said thing into reality.
Today’s verse is for me, a reassurance of the promises that I hold on to with the Lord as my Shepherd. When I look at the things in my environment and the way life is moving, there are tremendous doubts. Deep within is the hint of a fear; will it happen? But there is also the conviction that it will, for just as the niggling doubt is there, so too is the overwhelming confidence that it will happen.
Many times I check whether what is destined was fabricated by me. Whether it was an intense desire within me, which came forth as a vision, and since it was in the area of spirituality, I deigned it to be from God. But having answered with a negative, I am reassured by today’s verse. Having checked that whatever is to happen will bring an abundance of glory to God, I know He will work it out. Yes, a lot of time has gone by but I believe that it is like wine. The more the time, the better the wine. So also, if the Ministry God has given me is to be what it is, it should take some time, I guess.
Now, why this in, a reflection. It is a reassurance from God, not just for me but also for you. My friend time may pass and years may go by without you seeing an iota of what is envisioned. But fret not. If it is from God, it shall come to pass. The circumstances may be opposite and harsh but God knows how to change them. Just trust Him like Joseph did. And just as He did to Joseph, He will do it for you.
Monday, February 05, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 6, 2007
Today's verse: 1 Jn. 3:1. Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
In this world if there is one thing I am very confident of, I must say it is the ‘LOVE OF THE FATHER.’
If you have felt it you know what I am talking about. You know how you feel and also know the safety you have – because of your Father’s love. When God created man, He did with a lot of love; gave him His choicest and lovingly brought him forth into the world. He bestowed much unselfish love upon him because of which, though God wanted singular attention from man, He yet gave him a companion, a woman, so man who could not see Him would have someone like himself, he could see and talk to.
Then if you ponder what happened on Mount Calvary, it should be enough to break your heart. Jesus trudged up the hill with the Cross over His broken body, every step eating into His flesh sending shards of pain through His every nerve and murmurs of disbelief among the hosts of heaven rising in a chorus, as they looked at the Face of the Father and found that the Father had turned His face away from His beloved Son in whom He was well pleased! God our Father who had made His declaration of love before the choice company of the Apostles, had turned His Face from His Son! Because if He hadn’t humanity, would be destroyed that very moment.
I remember, when Abraham went to Mount Moriah to offer up Isaac, his only son, God stayed his hand at the last minute and gave him a ram instead for sacrifice; but when it came to God’s only Son, when He had set the stage for giving up His only Son, no one stopped Him. Instead they (even we I would say) were baying for Jesus’ blood! Despite all this, the Father forgave. Yes, my friend, behold what manner of love is this? Incomprehensible, unconditional, unalloyed, awesome and wholesome. So pure and so rich and so free.
Let me tell you, if you have never experienced His love yet, cry out to Him to give you an experience. And once you do, His Word will come alive and every promise will jump out as if like a Rock in the midst of a storm to which you can hold on. Life will be changed and renewed.
February 6, 2007
Today's verse: 1 Jn. 3:1. Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
In this world if there is one thing I am very confident of, I must say it is the ‘LOVE OF THE FATHER.’
If you have felt it you know what I am talking about. You know how you feel and also know the safety you have – because of your Father’s love. When God created man, He did with a lot of love; gave him His choicest and lovingly brought him forth into the world. He bestowed much unselfish love upon him because of which, though God wanted singular attention from man, He yet gave him a companion, a woman, so man who could not see Him would have someone like himself, he could see and talk to.
Then if you ponder what happened on Mount Calvary, it should be enough to break your heart. Jesus trudged up the hill with the Cross over His broken body, every step eating into His flesh sending shards of pain through His every nerve and murmurs of disbelief among the hosts of heaven rising in a chorus, as they looked at the Face of the Father and found that the Father had turned His face away from His beloved Son in whom He was well pleased! God our Father who had made His declaration of love before the choice company of the Apostles, had turned His Face from His Son! Because if He hadn’t humanity, would be destroyed that very moment.
I remember, when Abraham went to Mount Moriah to offer up Isaac, his only son, God stayed his hand at the last minute and gave him a ram instead for sacrifice; but when it came to God’s only Son, when He had set the stage for giving up His only Son, no one stopped Him. Instead they (even we I would say) were baying for Jesus’ blood! Despite all this, the Father forgave. Yes, my friend, behold what manner of love is this? Incomprehensible, unconditional, unalloyed, awesome and wholesome. So pure and so rich and so free.
Let me tell you, if you have never experienced His love yet, cry out to Him to give you an experience. And once you do, His Word will come alive and every promise will jump out as if like a Rock in the midst of a storm to which you can hold on. Life will be changed and renewed.
Friday, February 02, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 2, 2007
Today's verse: Lk. 16:31. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead. (KJV) (Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
When you read this verse, what do you think? Does it apply to you? If you ask me, I’d say, ‘Not at all, it may apply to Mr Jeff who doesn’t trust God.’ Then God sends me the test. And I fail to keep trust and break faith with God. I run, helter skelter, worried, and all. (Yes, I have good excuses; don’t we all?) Someone tells me, ‘Brother, trust God.’ I say, ‘Yes I am trusting Him’ while all the time, my actions betray my faith.
This is a common malady. In our lives we’ve seen God’s hand one time or the other. Yet when a problem comes, we fail to trust God, even if reminded that the last time I had a problem, God had solved it miraculously. The question we need to ask is, why do we do it? What Jesus says in the above verse is really astounding. ‘If somebody dead rises again and says something, we will still not be persuaded?’ Jesus Himself says that as from the mouth of Abraham, hence, it’s got to be true.
We don’t see miracles today because we don’t want to believe in them. Ask yourself, if there is a problem you’ve taken to God and prayed about, have you believed He will answer? I tell you, if you can say ‘yes’ to this, God has answered your prayer. Many tell me they pray and believe; but God does not answer because He wants them to suffer. Now that’s a myth! God cannot bear to see us suffering. So why don’t we see a miracle? When the Israelites came out of Egypt, God told those in charge to write the marvelous work He had performed in Egypt and tell them to the young, that they hear and come to trust Him. Still, people did not believe Him and they broke faith. Because of which God did not work in their favor and they suffered. That’s reason one.
The second reason is; I have compartmentalized God and likened Him to a man. My mind therefore tells me if it is a small thing I want for e.g. I got a cold and pray to God, I believe He will do it. But if I am suffering from cancer and pray, deep within I feel God will not cure. This is because I am yet to reconcile in my mind that God sees no difference between cancer and cold. He can cure both easily. The difference is in my mind. Because man, hasn’t yet found a perfect cure for cancer I don’t believe God can cure me. Sadly, what I think happens. Even then, there are testimonies of people who believed God and have survived to tell their tale.
What do we glean here? Our hearts are hardened with what we see and hear in this world. We see something amazing, we temporarily believe then quickly forget. Faith in God has to be complete and unconditional or it is no faith and therefore no miracles will be seen. Let’s learn to trust God implicitly for all that concerns us. I tell you, it pleases Him tremendously. Then you will see your miracle.
February 2, 2007
Today's verse: Lk. 16:31. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead. (KJV) (Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
When you read this verse, what do you think? Does it apply to you? If you ask me, I’d say, ‘Not at all, it may apply to Mr Jeff who doesn’t trust God.’ Then God sends me the test. And I fail to keep trust and break faith with God. I run, helter skelter, worried, and all. (Yes, I have good excuses; don’t we all?) Someone tells me, ‘Brother, trust God.’ I say, ‘Yes I am trusting Him’ while all the time, my actions betray my faith.
This is a common malady. In our lives we’ve seen God’s hand one time or the other. Yet when a problem comes, we fail to trust God, even if reminded that the last time I had a problem, God had solved it miraculously. The question we need to ask is, why do we do it? What Jesus says in the above verse is really astounding. ‘If somebody dead rises again and says something, we will still not be persuaded?’ Jesus Himself says that as from the mouth of Abraham, hence, it’s got to be true.
We don’t see miracles today because we don’t want to believe in them. Ask yourself, if there is a problem you’ve taken to God and prayed about, have you believed He will answer? I tell you, if you can say ‘yes’ to this, God has answered your prayer. Many tell me they pray and believe; but God does not answer because He wants them to suffer. Now that’s a myth! God cannot bear to see us suffering. So why don’t we see a miracle? When the Israelites came out of Egypt, God told those in charge to write the marvelous work He had performed in Egypt and tell them to the young, that they hear and come to trust Him. Still, people did not believe Him and they broke faith. Because of which God did not work in their favor and they suffered. That’s reason one.
The second reason is; I have compartmentalized God and likened Him to a man. My mind therefore tells me if it is a small thing I want for e.g. I got a cold and pray to God, I believe He will do it. But if I am suffering from cancer and pray, deep within I feel God will not cure. This is because I am yet to reconcile in my mind that God sees no difference between cancer and cold. He can cure both easily. The difference is in my mind. Because man, hasn’t yet found a perfect cure for cancer I don’t believe God can cure me. Sadly, what I think happens. Even then, there are testimonies of people who believed God and have survived to tell their tale.
What do we glean here? Our hearts are hardened with what we see and hear in this world. We see something amazing, we temporarily believe then quickly forget. Faith in God has to be complete and unconditional or it is no faith and therefore no miracles will be seen. Let’s learn to trust God implicitly for all that concerns us. I tell you, it pleases Him tremendously. Then you will see your miracle.
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Thoughts for another day
February 1, 2007
Today's verse: Matt. 10:37. He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
The Word of God, is a tad difficult to digest for most of us. I was discussing yesterday, the essence of today’s verse with someone and I never thought God would inspire me to use it for reflection, today. But, God I believe wants the cobwebs off our minds and the ways of men kept aside from His. Looking at the above verse we may find it contra to what God tells us in other areas of the Bible, particularly with what pertains to the family. But of course, when God says something, trust Him.
Most ‘true’ preachers and teachers of the Word, find many claim to love God and are ready to give their lives for Him. Yet, when it comes to following Him wholeheartedly, they fail miserably; because, families and dear ones come first, not God. When the song, ‘I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back’ is sung in church, we sing with much gusto, little reflecting on the meaning. For me, at one time, it was one of the most difficult songs to sing; because of the commitment in it. The song says, ‘The world behind me, the Cross before me…no turning back.’ Can I do it?
Everything behind me and the Cross before me…Is it possible?
When I look around, I want to believe, it’s not possible. We are so caught up in our own things; there is no time for the Cross. Some say, ‘I am chosen by God to do His work’. But just ask them to accompany you in visiting a sick person and the excuse comes, ‘Well brother, I’m so busy, so much work and my child’s exams are on the anvil, pls. excuse; but after a month, I’ll surely come…’ One sister has now spent over 3 years saying this. Each time, there is another and new excuse and each time there is the promise that she will surely set time aside for the Lord, but wait…and wait…and wait. I remember a little illustration: satan is contemplating strategy to make people move away from God very subtly and his lackeys discuss and discuss to no avail. When suddenly one of the lackeys of the devil has a brain wave, ’give them success, lots to do and excuses, that they never have nor make the time, but only the ‘desire’ to follow God. And they will come to hell with the ‘desire’ and all the time possible.’
How true beloved! We place everything else before our devotion to God. We have genuine reasons that even out-weigh the reason for God. We forget, when we leave everything and follow God, He carries our every other thing: whether family, work, or whatever. I have seen this in my own life and in so many other people’s lives that for me it is no longer a myth. If you today desire in your heart to work for God, leave all those silly reasons in God’s hands and follow Him. God will never fail you.
February 1, 2007
Today's verse: Matt. 10:37. He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
The Word of God, is a tad difficult to digest for most of us. I was discussing yesterday, the essence of today’s verse with someone and I never thought God would inspire me to use it for reflection, today. But, God I believe wants the cobwebs off our minds and the ways of men kept aside from His. Looking at the above verse we may find it contra to what God tells us in other areas of the Bible, particularly with what pertains to the family. But of course, when God says something, trust Him.
Most ‘true’ preachers and teachers of the Word, find many claim to love God and are ready to give their lives for Him. Yet, when it comes to following Him wholeheartedly, they fail miserably; because, families and dear ones come first, not God. When the song, ‘I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back’ is sung in church, we sing with much gusto, little reflecting on the meaning. For me, at one time, it was one of the most difficult songs to sing; because of the commitment in it. The song says, ‘The world behind me, the Cross before me…no turning back.’ Can I do it?
Everything behind me and the Cross before me…Is it possible?
When I look around, I want to believe, it’s not possible. We are so caught up in our own things; there is no time for the Cross. Some say, ‘I am chosen by God to do His work’. But just ask them to accompany you in visiting a sick person and the excuse comes, ‘Well brother, I’m so busy, so much work and my child’s exams are on the anvil, pls. excuse; but after a month, I’ll surely come…’ One sister has now spent over 3 years saying this. Each time, there is another and new excuse and each time there is the promise that she will surely set time aside for the Lord, but wait…and wait…and wait. I remember a little illustration: satan is contemplating strategy to make people move away from God very subtly and his lackeys discuss and discuss to no avail. When suddenly one of the lackeys of the devil has a brain wave, ’give them success, lots to do and excuses, that they never have nor make the time, but only the ‘desire’ to follow God. And they will come to hell with the ‘desire’ and all the time possible.’
How true beloved! We place everything else before our devotion to God. We have genuine reasons that even out-weigh the reason for God. We forget, when we leave everything and follow God, He carries our every other thing: whether family, work, or whatever. I have seen this in my own life and in so many other people’s lives that for me it is no longer a myth. If you today desire in your heart to work for God, leave all those silly reasons in God’s hands and follow Him. God will never fail you.
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