Thoughts for another day
Aug. 31, 2007
Today's verse: Eze. 16:62-63. So I will establish my covenant with you, and you will know that I am the LORD. Then, when I make atonement for you for all you have done, you will remember and be ashamed and never again open your mouth because of your humiliation, declares the Sovereign LORD.' (NIV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
After creating the world, God looked at it and was pleased. Since I am so small before His awesome mind, I may not but only dare to guess what He might have thought at that moment: ‘This puny creature of mine will be hard put in most things so I must tell Him what He needs to do and support His actions with My Power and My Word of promise.’ That’s the beginning of the flow of covenants that God established with man and it began with ‘Be fruitful and multiply, fill the earth and subdue it…Gen. 1:28.
God loves covenants and at every defining stage He covenanted with the person who had favor in His sight. Our covenant giving God finally gave us His covenant through Jesus Christ His Son, in Whom and through Him, He established His kingdom.
Unfortunately, man has never kept covenants in the way God has kept them, breaking them again and again. It was as if a covenant meant nothing. God was not pleased and He destroyed those who had scant respect for His covenants. Yet later, God being the merciful One that He is changed His mind and forgave and kept the tenets of the covenant, which was sacred in His sight.
Today’s verse reflects this nature of God in the aspects of covenanting; of forgiving us for breaking His covenant and pulling us back to Him. And God knows that when His Spirit comes on us, we are changed and that’s why He says ‘you will remember and be ashamed and never again open your mouth because of because of your humiliation…’ Let us check whether we have experienced this in our lives.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 30, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 46:10. Be still, and know that I am God: KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
This by far is one of the best ways God has declared to us in which we can get to know Him. But, as we know, it is very difficult to be still.
Look at it this way. We need God most when we are in trouble and in distress. When happy, we hardly remember Him, not all, but surely most of us I’d say. And when in a foul situation, we become all agitated and disturbed and canter about with anxiety and looking for help from all and sundry. For the world this might be a good method of relating our problem to those around us; but with God, it is certainly not the best ways of making Him work. Rather, we need to approach Him with confidence and calm. Not that which comes from self-ability but one that is in based on God’s ability.
Now confidence is possible only when we are composed and this composure comes only when we still ourselves within. In any case, most of our problems are so minor that after the event, we ourselves wonder how we could get so agitated. For God to solve any of our problems is a matter of just saying a Word. A single Word is enough to turn the world upside down were it needed. And so therefore, when God sees us agitated, He directly knows the unbelief in our hearts. And where there is unbelief, God rarely works.
My friend, know well today that when you approach God for something, let your heart trust in Him and let Him know that you trust Him. In confidence and stillness of heart approach the Throne of Mercy and for sure, you will find rest in your soul and an answer to your problem.
Aug. 30, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 46:10. Be still, and know that I am God: KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
This by far is one of the best ways God has declared to us in which we can get to know Him. But, as we know, it is very difficult to be still.
Look at it this way. We need God most when we are in trouble and in distress. When happy, we hardly remember Him, not all, but surely most of us I’d say. And when in a foul situation, we become all agitated and disturbed and canter about with anxiety and looking for help from all and sundry. For the world this might be a good method of relating our problem to those around us; but with God, it is certainly not the best ways of making Him work. Rather, we need to approach Him with confidence and calm. Not that which comes from self-ability but one that is in based on God’s ability.
Now confidence is possible only when we are composed and this composure comes only when we still ourselves within. In any case, most of our problems are so minor that after the event, we ourselves wonder how we could get so agitated. For God to solve any of our problems is a matter of just saying a Word. A single Word is enough to turn the world upside down were it needed. And so therefore, when God sees us agitated, He directly knows the unbelief in our hearts. And where there is unbelief, God rarely works.
My friend, know well today that when you approach God for something, let your heart trust in Him and let Him know that you trust Him. In confidence and stillness of heart approach the Throne of Mercy and for sure, you will find rest in your soul and an answer to your problem.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 29, 2007
Today's verse: Jer. 28:9. The prophet, which prophesieth of peace, when the word of the prophet shall come to pass, then shall the prophet be known, that the LORD hath truly sent him. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
In this troubled world, people are groping for reassurance. Many reach out to those professing to be ministers of God, seeking a Word, saying ‘Give us a Word from God that we may know what our fate is.’ Many itinerant preachers and others give them a verse, a reassuring one, and they are very happy saying ‘oh, that’s a good message.’ Yet, that day, some nasty tidings come their way and they blame God, ‘You had given me such reassurance in your Word through that man of Yours, now see what has happened.’ Who is to be blamed? God? Not at all. It has to be the minister.
That is the gist of the message in today’s verse. At the time of Jeremiah, Israel was in turmoil. The people sought a Word from God. There was Jeremiah prophesying evil and there were others claiming to be prophets and prophesying good like the prophet Hananiah. That’s when; Jeremiah utters our verse for today. How true it is.
God is a loving God and those tuned to Him have nothing to worry. When you know that you have a special place in God’s heart (that only you will know, no one else can tell you for He will reveal it only to you) you need worry about nothing. The entire Word of God tells of His love for His people; of course in between, there is the chastening that He gives them so that He can draw them near. But it doesn’t mean that He has forsaken them. You need to be actively aware of this. If someone who claims to be from God and tells you great things that are not in His Word, do not believe. Also remember if God sends some suffering your way, do not turn to man who may offer you very soothing words saying God will heal you in a day or two. What if you don’t? You will then blame God. Just remember that God will rescue you from your situation soon but only trust in Him.
I would advise you my friend to adhere to God and seek His Word for only what He tells you will come to pass. No man however big he is can make anything come to pass. So trust only God and listen to Him alone.
Aug. 29, 2007
Today's verse: Jer. 28:9. The prophet, which prophesieth of peace, when the word of the prophet shall come to pass, then shall the prophet be known, that the LORD hath truly sent him. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
In this troubled world, people are groping for reassurance. Many reach out to those professing to be ministers of God, seeking a Word, saying ‘Give us a Word from God that we may know what our fate is.’ Many itinerant preachers and others give them a verse, a reassuring one, and they are very happy saying ‘oh, that’s a good message.’ Yet, that day, some nasty tidings come their way and they blame God, ‘You had given me such reassurance in your Word through that man of Yours, now see what has happened.’ Who is to be blamed? God? Not at all. It has to be the minister.
That is the gist of the message in today’s verse. At the time of Jeremiah, Israel was in turmoil. The people sought a Word from God. There was Jeremiah prophesying evil and there were others claiming to be prophets and prophesying good like the prophet Hananiah. That’s when; Jeremiah utters our verse for today. How true it is.
God is a loving God and those tuned to Him have nothing to worry. When you know that you have a special place in God’s heart (that only you will know, no one else can tell you for He will reveal it only to you) you need worry about nothing. The entire Word of God tells of His love for His people; of course in between, there is the chastening that He gives them so that He can draw them near. But it doesn’t mean that He has forsaken them. You need to be actively aware of this. If someone who claims to be from God and tells you great things that are not in His Word, do not believe. Also remember if God sends some suffering your way, do not turn to man who may offer you very soothing words saying God will heal you in a day or two. What if you don’t? You will then blame God. Just remember that God will rescue you from your situation soon but only trust in Him.
I would advise you my friend to adhere to God and seek His Word for only what He tells you will come to pass. No man however big he is can make anything come to pass. So trust only God and listen to Him alone.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 27, 2007
Today's verse: Mk. 4:26,27. And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
We cannot see God and often we cannot see His hand working in our favor. Yet, as sure as each year, the rains come at the appointed time and go at the appointed time though none knows how, God works in our lives. We may not be able to see Him or perceive His Presence. Yet, we can sense with our spirit that His force is there in our lives. It is like the perfume we spray. Despite our not seeing it, our nasal senses recognise it and we know about its presence. So too is the presence of God in our lives.
Years of lack of communication with Him make dull our feeble senses and we find it difficult to discern God’ s Presence. However, in the quietness of our soul we can identify His Graciousness and recognise His Omnipresence. And the best part is that God works in our lives. Many times without our knowing it.
My friend, countless are the times, God has saved you from peril. You and I may never know of the many times His arm shielded us from a falling brick or a speeding car or a tire burst, etc. We will never realize how He worked so that the job we did at our work places, turned out to be the right thing to do in the circumstances, yet deep inside we know we could do better.
Jesus rightly said in the Words above that the man does not know how the seed springs up and grows. And so too how we grow and before long we reach adulthood. Learn today that it is because of the invisible yet, very much present hand of God that we live and move about. It is only because of His mercy that it is possible. Let us therefore, cherish His Presence and His mercies.
Aug. 27, 2007
Today's verse: Mk. 4:26,27. And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
We cannot see God and often we cannot see His hand working in our favor. Yet, as sure as each year, the rains come at the appointed time and go at the appointed time though none knows how, God works in our lives. We may not be able to see Him or perceive His Presence. Yet, we can sense with our spirit that His force is there in our lives. It is like the perfume we spray. Despite our not seeing it, our nasal senses recognise it and we know about its presence. So too is the presence of God in our lives.
Years of lack of communication with Him make dull our feeble senses and we find it difficult to discern God’ s Presence. However, in the quietness of our soul we can identify His Graciousness and recognise His Omnipresence. And the best part is that God works in our lives. Many times without our knowing it.
My friend, countless are the times, God has saved you from peril. You and I may never know of the many times His arm shielded us from a falling brick or a speeding car or a tire burst, etc. We will never realize how He worked so that the job we did at our work places, turned out to be the right thing to do in the circumstances, yet deep inside we know we could do better.
Jesus rightly said in the Words above that the man does not know how the seed springs up and grows. And so too how we grow and before long we reach adulthood. Learn today that it is because of the invisible yet, very much present hand of God that we live and move about. It is only because of His mercy that it is possible. Let us therefore, cherish His Presence and His mercies.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 24, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 108:2,3. Awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early. I will praise thee, O LORD, among the people: and I will sing praises unto thee among the nations. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
It is so delightful to the soul ready to worship the Almighty to hear the above words in our verse for today. Ah, glory in this my soul, that I will wake the dawn with my praises to my Father in heaven.
Before the first ray of the sun, embraces the grain of sand in sweet union, my soul you have had union with your Maker, your Husband. You have given yourself into His embrace and breathed of His glorious perfume as soon as you have woken. And how blessed it has been for you to be fondling His gentle curls as they fall upon you. As His warm, sweet hands gently run over your hair and grip you in a tingling experience you can only imagine. And yes, imagine how the day will unfold…
Even when the darts of the evil one come toward you, they will need to go past the cloak He has spread around you and mind you, no barb can penetrate that cloak. When a difficultly presents itself in your path, your Maker who is by your side will move before you, so the difficulty has to contend with Him first and then come to you and how can it even think of contending with the Almighty? Even the worst calamity loses steam when it sees your Guardian beside you; screeching to a halt that you behold it with scorn!
As for you my soul, you can breathe in the cool air around, while you gently listen to the footfalls of your Beloved. He brings you near dales so beautiful: a suffusion of peace runs toward you even as your being is cooled and enchanted. Relax, my soul and be in His rest. For you have given prime place to Him your Maker and therefore He now wants to fawn over you and delight in you. He has your name carved in the palm of His hand and He has His breathe in you. He loves you with a love everlasting and He will never forsake you. So go, keep waking the dawn and sing His praises among the nations.
Aug. 24, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 108:2,3. Awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early. I will praise thee, O LORD, among the people: and I will sing praises unto thee among the nations. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
It is so delightful to the soul ready to worship the Almighty to hear the above words in our verse for today. Ah, glory in this my soul, that I will wake the dawn with my praises to my Father in heaven.
Before the first ray of the sun, embraces the grain of sand in sweet union, my soul you have had union with your Maker, your Husband. You have given yourself into His embrace and breathed of His glorious perfume as soon as you have woken. And how blessed it has been for you to be fondling His gentle curls as they fall upon you. As His warm, sweet hands gently run over your hair and grip you in a tingling experience you can only imagine. And yes, imagine how the day will unfold…
Even when the darts of the evil one come toward you, they will need to go past the cloak He has spread around you and mind you, no barb can penetrate that cloak. When a difficultly presents itself in your path, your Maker who is by your side will move before you, so the difficulty has to contend with Him first and then come to you and how can it even think of contending with the Almighty? Even the worst calamity loses steam when it sees your Guardian beside you; screeching to a halt that you behold it with scorn!
As for you my soul, you can breathe in the cool air around, while you gently listen to the footfalls of your Beloved. He brings you near dales so beautiful: a suffusion of peace runs toward you even as your being is cooled and enchanted. Relax, my soul and be in His rest. For you have given prime place to Him your Maker and therefore He now wants to fawn over you and delight in you. He has your name carved in the palm of His hand and He has His breathe in you. He loves you with a love everlasting and He will never forsake you. So go, keep waking the dawn and sing His praises among the nations.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 23, 2007
Today's verse: 1 Thess. 1:5. For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
For many of us, the Gospel is the Power of God for salvation. This is good, but somehow we understand it does not have the might to solve our other problems. What does God have to say on this? Perhaps, it will shed some light on our verse for today.
God wants that the Gospel reach out everywhere and that its power be known to all. In fact, it is only through the Gospel that the Power of God is revealed. The greatest power is that in the Gospel lies the fruit of salvation and eternal life. This even when God had told Adam ‘the day you eat of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, you shall surely die…’ Gen. 2:17. An utterance of God is permanent and yet, through the awesome sacrifice of Jesus Christ, God’s power was revealed in transforming fallen man to redeemed man. What tremendous power and might is here.
Now if that for which the Gospel came into existence, which is salvation, was given to us by God, and God being a loving Father who yearns to care for us, isn’t He going to keep the other part of the Gospel revealed in Jesus’ words, …And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. Of course, Christ begins this with ‘for them that believe’. And belief comes through the Gospel.
It therefore means that while we glory in the fact that we are redeemed, we must remember that God’s Gospel is like a cover that we wear to be defended from evil and catastrophe. In fact if the mere carrying of the physical book that is the Bible can save us from danger (I know of a few examples and I am one too), how much more the carrying of the Gospel in our hearts. The Gospel of Christ is an effusion of the Power of God. I’d advise you, get this power into you today. Let it reside in the inner chambers of your heart.
Aug. 23, 2007
Today's verse: 1 Thess. 1:5. For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
For many of us, the Gospel is the Power of God for salvation. This is good, but somehow we understand it does not have the might to solve our other problems. What does God have to say on this? Perhaps, it will shed some light on our verse for today.
God wants that the Gospel reach out everywhere and that its power be known to all. In fact, it is only through the Gospel that the Power of God is revealed. The greatest power is that in the Gospel lies the fruit of salvation and eternal life. This even when God had told Adam ‘the day you eat of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, you shall surely die…’ Gen. 2:17. An utterance of God is permanent and yet, through the awesome sacrifice of Jesus Christ, God’s power was revealed in transforming fallen man to redeemed man. What tremendous power and might is here.
Now if that for which the Gospel came into existence, which is salvation, was given to us by God, and God being a loving Father who yearns to care for us, isn’t He going to keep the other part of the Gospel revealed in Jesus’ words, …And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. Of course, Christ begins this with ‘for them that believe’. And belief comes through the Gospel.
It therefore means that while we glory in the fact that we are redeemed, we must remember that God’s Gospel is like a cover that we wear to be defended from evil and catastrophe. In fact if the mere carrying of the physical book that is the Bible can save us from danger (I know of a few examples and I am one too), how much more the carrying of the Gospel in our hearts. The Gospel of Christ is an effusion of the Power of God. I’d advise you, get this power into you today. Let it reside in the inner chambers of your heart.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 21, 2007
Today's verse: Jer. 12:3. But thou, O LORD, knowest me: thou hast seen me, and tried mine heart toward thee: (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
There are times you read a statement in the Bible, which makes you feel good. For me the above is one such statement. It is a beautiful expression of a person in tune with the general will of God. It is knowing and feeling that you are in fine fettle, for you know your God and you know the desires of His heart. And thus knowing, you move on to tell Him, Lord ‘You know me and you have seen me and tested that my heart is with You.’
Such a blessed utterance this is: Because it talks, of your relationship, with the Almighty. You know when I can really utter this statement from my heart; it means that I have been able to do it only by His Grace. Mundane utterance can mean nothing and has no power in it, but when you say it from your heart, it means gaining heaven. In fact let me take you to Jesus’ teaching on the mount, ch. 7:21-23. Jesus says that He will declare solemnly that He never knew them who claimed to do mighty things in His Name! So who does He know? Only those who do the will of His Father.
You see, God desires the very basic things in our life, not the superficial. We may seem to be praying and doing a lot, but at heart what are we? If you can find yourself saying very clearly that in this, you always pray, ‘Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done’ then Heaven has come into you. And you could utter today’s verse confidently like it is yours. God will let His light shine on you.
Aug. 21, 2007
Today's verse: Jer. 12:3. But thou, O LORD, knowest me: thou hast seen me, and tried mine heart toward thee: (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
There are times you read a statement in the Bible, which makes you feel good. For me the above is one such statement. It is a beautiful expression of a person in tune with the general will of God. It is knowing and feeling that you are in fine fettle, for you know your God and you know the desires of His heart. And thus knowing, you move on to tell Him, Lord ‘You know me and you have seen me and tested that my heart is with You.’
Such a blessed utterance this is: Because it talks, of your relationship, with the Almighty. You know when I can really utter this statement from my heart; it means that I have been able to do it only by His Grace. Mundane utterance can mean nothing and has no power in it, but when you say it from your heart, it means gaining heaven. In fact let me take you to Jesus’ teaching on the mount, ch. 7:21-23. Jesus says that He will declare solemnly that He never knew them who claimed to do mighty things in His Name! So who does He know? Only those who do the will of His Father.
You see, God desires the very basic things in our life, not the superficial. We may seem to be praying and doing a lot, but at heart what are we? If you can find yourself saying very clearly that in this, you always pray, ‘Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done’ then Heaven has come into you. And you could utter today’s verse confidently like it is yours. God will let His light shine on you.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 21, 2007
Today's verse: Is. 25:7,8. And he will destroy in this mountain the face of the covering cast over all people, and the veil that is spread over all nations. He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken it. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Those of us who sojourn with God and move and abide under the shadow of His wings will understand what is the exact meaning of the above verse. We know that God is able to do all things and we need to submit to Him. But often we side step this little truth and make believe that the things that torment us in our lives, like temptation or the desire to sin, can be overcome by ourselves.
In fact, so difficult it is, that I tell you; it is easier to walk 20 miles than avoid sin completely in a day. This is because of the vile and cunning ways of the devil. Don’t we remember how the devil tricked Eve? He does that today too and to very good effect. That is why we have so many problems in society. Families breaking up, friends becoming enemies, fights in the neighborhood over petty things and harboring of pride are the fruits of the veil that the devil spreads over us. A veil of deceit, lies and evil, through which we are unable to see.
But take heart my friend, God’s Word, the unshakeable, enduring truth comes to us and says that He Himself will destroy this veil. The death that threatens us will be swallowed up into victory and yes my friend, God will take us in His loving arms and wipe away our tears. And I tell you by Heaven, it will happen and soon. For His Word is sure and I believe the time is now. So rejoice and praise Him. He is your Father, in Him put your trust and come into His presence with confidence.
Aug. 21, 2007
Today's verse: Is. 25:7,8. And he will destroy in this mountain the face of the covering cast over all people, and the veil that is spread over all nations. He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken it. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Those of us who sojourn with God and move and abide under the shadow of His wings will understand what is the exact meaning of the above verse. We know that God is able to do all things and we need to submit to Him. But often we side step this little truth and make believe that the things that torment us in our lives, like temptation or the desire to sin, can be overcome by ourselves.
In fact, so difficult it is, that I tell you; it is easier to walk 20 miles than avoid sin completely in a day. This is because of the vile and cunning ways of the devil. Don’t we remember how the devil tricked Eve? He does that today too and to very good effect. That is why we have so many problems in society. Families breaking up, friends becoming enemies, fights in the neighborhood over petty things and harboring of pride are the fruits of the veil that the devil spreads over us. A veil of deceit, lies and evil, through which we are unable to see.
But take heart my friend, God’s Word, the unshakeable, enduring truth comes to us and says that He Himself will destroy this veil. The death that threatens us will be swallowed up into victory and yes my friend, God will take us in His loving arms and wipe away our tears. And I tell you by Heaven, it will happen and soon. For His Word is sure and I believe the time is now. So rejoice and praise Him. He is your Father, in Him put your trust and come into His presence with confidence.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 20, 2007
Today's verse: Mt. 10:8. …freely ye have received, freely give. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
The Grace of God is free. The gift of the Holy Spirit is free. Everything that comes from God is free.
Look at the gifts of nature, it gives us so much but for free, only in the hands of men do they, bear a price. We are supposed to give all that God gives us, freely to others. Despite this, there are so many of us who look for some reward even when we are giving of the gifts that God Himself has given us for free.
God gives talents to us. We make use of them and prosper; then we become proud and we even charge people unreasonably in using them for their benefit. What’s the problem you might say, as there is a charge for everything? But my friend, there are many who do not have the money to buy our talent, and they may be in desperate need, what then should we do? Insist on our fees like the world does?
Now this is about the things of the world. As to things of God, there can be no charge whatsoever. In the Acts of the Apostles, a magician called Simon offers money to the apostles telling them to give him the power too of being able to lay hands on people such that the Holy Spirit come down on them, Acts 8:18. The apostles are aghast at this and Peter strongly castigates him. It just reinforces that God’s gifts are for free. When you look at it you will notice that they are the greatest gifts without which life itself is not possible. And they are free. God wants that we in turn give them freely to others. God Himself is not selfish and therefore, He does not want us to be selfish nor parsimonious with what He gives us. Could we do that?
Aug. 20, 2007
Today's verse: Mt. 10:8. …freely ye have received, freely give. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
The Grace of God is free. The gift of the Holy Spirit is free. Everything that comes from God is free.
Look at the gifts of nature, it gives us so much but for free, only in the hands of men do they, bear a price. We are supposed to give all that God gives us, freely to others. Despite this, there are so many of us who look for some reward even when we are giving of the gifts that God Himself has given us for free.
God gives talents to us. We make use of them and prosper; then we become proud and we even charge people unreasonably in using them for their benefit. What’s the problem you might say, as there is a charge for everything? But my friend, there are many who do not have the money to buy our talent, and they may be in desperate need, what then should we do? Insist on our fees like the world does?
Now this is about the things of the world. As to things of God, there can be no charge whatsoever. In the Acts of the Apostles, a magician called Simon offers money to the apostles telling them to give him the power too of being able to lay hands on people such that the Holy Spirit come down on them, Acts 8:18. The apostles are aghast at this and Peter strongly castigates him. It just reinforces that God’s gifts are for free. When you look at it you will notice that they are the greatest gifts without which life itself is not possible. And they are free. God wants that we in turn give them freely to others. God Himself is not selfish and therefore, He does not want us to be selfish nor parsimonious with what He gives us. Could we do that?
Friday, August 17, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 17, 2007
Today's verse: Rev. 21:5. Behold, I make all things new. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
See our God comes to renew and free. He takes away our old and He brings in the new. He gives us a sense of unfamiliarity because we ourselves will not recognise what we become when we surrender to the Lord, yet there is familiarity because the Bosom in which we were, is the One we are in, and will be for all time.
We are filled with the stigma and horror of sin. But somehow, in very strange ways, God reaches out to where we are in the garbage dump, if I may use a simile. His blessed Hand reaches out to touch us and help us out. Then He gives us raiment of gold, because you know, how can he deck His bride in anything less?
God’s ways my friend, are different and difficult to understand. I wonder, how can He so pure, reach out to the muck that we are, awful sinners? But Jesus said, ‘I have come to seek and save the lost!’ A promise, He will never back out of. And as sure as the wind blows in the field, I will say, when you cry out to Him in your distress, He will fly out to you and save you. He will make all things new and in His presence you will rejoice ever more.
Aug. 17, 2007
Today's verse: Rev. 21:5. Behold, I make all things new. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
See our God comes to renew and free. He takes away our old and He brings in the new. He gives us a sense of unfamiliarity because we ourselves will not recognise what we become when we surrender to the Lord, yet there is familiarity because the Bosom in which we were, is the One we are in, and will be for all time.
We are filled with the stigma and horror of sin. But somehow, in very strange ways, God reaches out to where we are in the garbage dump, if I may use a simile. His blessed Hand reaches out to touch us and help us out. Then He gives us raiment of gold, because you know, how can he deck His bride in anything less?
God’s ways my friend, are different and difficult to understand. I wonder, how can He so pure, reach out to the muck that we are, awful sinners? But Jesus said, ‘I have come to seek and save the lost!’ A promise, He will never back out of. And as sure as the wind blows in the field, I will say, when you cry out to Him in your distress, He will fly out to you and save you. He will make all things new and in His presence you will rejoice ever more.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 15, 2007
Today's verse: Jn. 8:33. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Freedom is an integral aspect to the happiness of man. He can never be happy unless free. To the bonded, freedom can be like an elixir. To those ransomed and chained, freedom can be like shaking off heavy loads under whose weight their bones creaked. God understands the bondage of shackles and God wants that all men be free.
But is man free today? Are you free? I mean, really really free? Check and see. It is somehow an irony that in this age when we talk about advancement and the amazing fruits that technology has borne, the craving and greed of man has engulfed him in an altogether different bondage: chains of, consumerism, lasciviousness and moral depravity. What is surprising is that it is this very bondage that existed at the time of Jesus’ life on the earth. He utters this statement for them and even to us today. Unfortunately, we want to keep God away from our lives and consequently forsake His Grace of freedom.
You know, getting rid of the bondages of material things can be easier than that of the mind, I mentioned before. You understand your weakness when you grapple with this bondage for you will realize that it is virtually impossible for you to free yourself. This is where the above promise of the Son of God holds good in the lives of human beings.
When human power is incapable of moving even a centimeter of the stone of negative human trait, an oppression he can do nothing about, in comes the power of God in this state of weakness and remedies the situation; for Jesus came precisely to do that; which is why He exclaims what is there in the book of Isaiah, ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, to free the oppressed…’ Take hold of His promise and make it yours and you will live life abundantly.
Aug. 15, 2007
Today's verse: Jn. 8:33. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Freedom is an integral aspect to the happiness of man. He can never be happy unless free. To the bonded, freedom can be like an elixir. To those ransomed and chained, freedom can be like shaking off heavy loads under whose weight their bones creaked. God understands the bondage of shackles and God wants that all men be free.
But is man free today? Are you free? I mean, really really free? Check and see. It is somehow an irony that in this age when we talk about advancement and the amazing fruits that technology has borne, the craving and greed of man has engulfed him in an altogether different bondage: chains of, consumerism, lasciviousness and moral depravity. What is surprising is that it is this very bondage that existed at the time of Jesus’ life on the earth. He utters this statement for them and even to us today. Unfortunately, we want to keep God away from our lives and consequently forsake His Grace of freedom.
You know, getting rid of the bondages of material things can be easier than that of the mind, I mentioned before. You understand your weakness when you grapple with this bondage for you will realize that it is virtually impossible for you to free yourself. This is where the above promise of the Son of God holds good in the lives of human beings.
When human power is incapable of moving even a centimeter of the stone of negative human trait, an oppression he can do nothing about, in comes the power of God in this state of weakness and remedies the situation; for Jesus came precisely to do that; which is why He exclaims what is there in the book of Isaiah, ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, to free the oppressed…’ Take hold of His promise and make it yours and you will live life abundantly.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 14, 2007
Today's verse: Jer 1:19. And they shall fight against thee; but they shall not prevail against thee; for I am with thee, saith the LORD, to deliver thee. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
In the quiet of your soul, could you sit and ponder on the above verse. Ah, precious one of God, see the power in this promise of the Almighty.
God wants to cover us in every way in this world. He is our Sure Foundation. Our portion and strength of heart is He. And it’s so amazing that when you are down and out, that’s the time you realize that He is most there in your life. I remember once a person on stage speaking about a situation of great pain and impossibility in his life. But when God intervened, the situation was taken away. And he spoke of how he came to know God because God had revealed Himself through this situation in the man’s life. An eloquent testimony on how God works.
God is so Almighty that nothing can stand before Him. There is no power that can even compare with a shred of His power and there is nothing that dare stand in arrogance before Him. The devil cringes before Him – you can read of it in the Bible when Jesus in exorcising someone needs to drive him away – for he knows that his dominance of the world is allowed by God, but for a time, before God dispatches him into the pool of sulfur and fire, which is eternal damnation. So why do we cringe before our own troubles?
Realize today who your God is and what He can do. Rise from the pit of your situation and hold His hand. You may not be able to see Him but yet He is and He will advance toward you for sure. Believe in Him my friend and He will Himself fight against anything that comes against you for you are His dear child and He is your Lord, who delivers.
Aug. 14, 2007
Today's verse: Jer 1:19. And they shall fight against thee; but they shall not prevail against thee; for I am with thee, saith the LORD, to deliver thee. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
In the quiet of your soul, could you sit and ponder on the above verse. Ah, precious one of God, see the power in this promise of the Almighty.
God wants to cover us in every way in this world. He is our Sure Foundation. Our portion and strength of heart is He. And it’s so amazing that when you are down and out, that’s the time you realize that He is most there in your life. I remember once a person on stage speaking about a situation of great pain and impossibility in his life. But when God intervened, the situation was taken away. And he spoke of how he came to know God because God had revealed Himself through this situation in the man’s life. An eloquent testimony on how God works.
God is so Almighty that nothing can stand before Him. There is no power that can even compare with a shred of His power and there is nothing that dare stand in arrogance before Him. The devil cringes before Him – you can read of it in the Bible when Jesus in exorcising someone needs to drive him away – for he knows that his dominance of the world is allowed by God, but for a time, before God dispatches him into the pool of sulfur and fire, which is eternal damnation. So why do we cringe before our own troubles?
Realize today who your God is and what He can do. Rise from the pit of your situation and hold His hand. You may not be able to see Him but yet He is and He will advance toward you for sure. Believe in Him my friend and He will Himself fight against anything that comes against you for you are His dear child and He is your Lord, who delivers.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 13, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 51:11. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
There is something wonderful about the Presence of God. We may experience the power of God in many ways and get to know of His awesomeness. We may be completely confounded by the might that God displays in the universe when we ponder on the works of His hands. But, yet there is something better and far more lovelier than His might and His power and that is: His Presence. Marvelous and glorious. Filled with the atmosphere of Heaven where the angels minister unto the Almighty. In It is absolute splendor. It is so lovely to behold that I am unable to bring forth the right expression to describe it, and I know, words cannot fully explain the marvel that is, His Presence.
Across the ages, men and women of God have yearned to be near the throne of His gloriousness and just gaze into His face. People have craved His Presence. For in His Presence the tensions of the world and the heaviness on the soul fade away. Scarce become the barbs of the devil in His Presence. The heart is lifted gently onto higher levels in His Presence and the being of the human floats in the ocean of joy and happiness, known only to those who are counted in His favor.
Yesterday, at a Bible Class, a lady testified how when things were at the worst in her life, His Presence filled her. Midst her tears, she was able to find peace. In the brokenness she lived, a sense of comfort dawned. She lives to relish that Presence. And it is wonderful that His Presence dawns on men and women, not beholding their status or their place. His Presence can dawn in the palace on a king as well as in the slum on the laborer. It can fill you inside out with the choicest things that yet have to dawn in the mind of man.
Pray for His Presence in your life my friend. Pray. And see, when He is pleased and comes and dwells in His Presence, what joy will fill your heart.
Aug. 13, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 51:11. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
There is something wonderful about the Presence of God. We may experience the power of God in many ways and get to know of His awesomeness. We may be completely confounded by the might that God displays in the universe when we ponder on the works of His hands. But, yet there is something better and far more lovelier than His might and His power and that is: His Presence. Marvelous and glorious. Filled with the atmosphere of Heaven where the angels minister unto the Almighty. In It is absolute splendor. It is so lovely to behold that I am unable to bring forth the right expression to describe it, and I know, words cannot fully explain the marvel that is, His Presence.
Across the ages, men and women of God have yearned to be near the throne of His gloriousness and just gaze into His face. People have craved His Presence. For in His Presence the tensions of the world and the heaviness on the soul fade away. Scarce become the barbs of the devil in His Presence. The heart is lifted gently onto higher levels in His Presence and the being of the human floats in the ocean of joy and happiness, known only to those who are counted in His favor.
Yesterday, at a Bible Class, a lady testified how when things were at the worst in her life, His Presence filled her. Midst her tears, she was able to find peace. In the brokenness she lived, a sense of comfort dawned. She lives to relish that Presence. And it is wonderful that His Presence dawns on men and women, not beholding their status or their place. His Presence can dawn in the palace on a king as well as in the slum on the laborer. It can fill you inside out with the choicest things that yet have to dawn in the mind of man.
Pray for His Presence in your life my friend. Pray. And see, when He is pleased and comes and dwells in His Presence, what joy will fill your heart.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 10, 2007
Today's verse: Job 2:10. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
There are many precious phrases and promises in God’s Word, touching the heart. Many of them come from the Lips of the Father. But to a few, He has granted utterance by man. The above of Job, is one such gem.
My friend, when we undergo trials and it seems we are going to go under, our first thought is to curse God. To revile Him for what has happened. I remember once something not so good happened with me and I told the Lord, ‘Lord, You could have easily prevented it no, then why did You allow it?’ Surely this is like the pot asking the potter questions it shouldn’t. But God allows it for the sake of His love and mercy. Nevertheless, should we question Him? Or, be like Job?
To better understand the import of today’s verse, let’s visit Job and see the condition he uttered them in. Well, Job is sitting in the courtyard of his house (or the rubble of his house). From the head to the sole of his feet he is covered with painful boils – smelly and itchy. He, a nobleman who just yesterday, had all the wealth the world could afford a man and today, sitting amid the debris of what he had, in a horrifying and putrid state, the puss in the boils rolling out and marring his skin with unbearable stench. The itching is terrible and Job takes a piece of a broken pot to scratch his back. Rather pitiable condition no, so much so that you can hardly recognise him. And by the way, he knows of no wrong he had done to anyone, so why the calamity?
In this condition comes his wife who tries to sow hatred toward God and Job castigates her and utters the above verse. What a wonderful example of accepting God’s will. It truly amazes me to hear something like this. This is such precious thing and so wonderful. I pray with you asking our Father to give us too the grace to say the same, when we are tossed by the storms and billows of life. Remember God knows what He is doing and what He is doing is always right.
Aug. 10, 2007
Today's verse: Job 2:10. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
There are many precious phrases and promises in God’s Word, touching the heart. Many of them come from the Lips of the Father. But to a few, He has granted utterance by man. The above of Job, is one such gem.
My friend, when we undergo trials and it seems we are going to go under, our first thought is to curse God. To revile Him for what has happened. I remember once something not so good happened with me and I told the Lord, ‘Lord, You could have easily prevented it no, then why did You allow it?’ Surely this is like the pot asking the potter questions it shouldn’t. But God allows it for the sake of His love and mercy. Nevertheless, should we question Him? Or, be like Job?
To better understand the import of today’s verse, let’s visit Job and see the condition he uttered them in. Well, Job is sitting in the courtyard of his house (or the rubble of his house). From the head to the sole of his feet he is covered with painful boils – smelly and itchy. He, a nobleman who just yesterday, had all the wealth the world could afford a man and today, sitting amid the debris of what he had, in a horrifying and putrid state, the puss in the boils rolling out and marring his skin with unbearable stench. The itching is terrible and Job takes a piece of a broken pot to scratch his back. Rather pitiable condition no, so much so that you can hardly recognise him. And by the way, he knows of no wrong he had done to anyone, so why the calamity?
In this condition comes his wife who tries to sow hatred toward God and Job castigates her and utters the above verse. What a wonderful example of accepting God’s will. It truly amazes me to hear something like this. This is such precious thing and so wonderful. I pray with you asking our Father to give us too the grace to say the same, when we are tossed by the storms and billows of life. Remember God knows what He is doing and what He is doing is always right.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 9, 2007
Today's verse: Ps 119:112, 113. Give us help from trouble: for vain is the help of man. Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
There’s something I fail to understand in our approach when a problem besets us. We tend to trust man more than God with it. This trait exists, not only in the common people but also in preachers and others who profess to commune with the Father. Many times I find so called men and women of God who go to pray for someone sick asking questions like, ‘what did the doctor say?’ or ‘what medication is being used?’ Yeah okay, someone might tell me, ‘But brother didn’t God give us the brains to make medicines and doctors to prescribe them?’ Fine, but don’t you see that ultimately it is God who has made this body and He is the best to cure it?’
Then again comes a situation when a person on premature retirement loses all his savings because he invested in a fraudulent scheme and it went bust. Then he runs helter skelter to tell all and sundry to help. You know what people say when they hear this, ‘serves him right, he was so greedy to get that little more interest…’ Does God do that? No, He doesn’t; and He helps you pick up the pieces.
In my life I see the hand of God all around. Yes, I might say that there are times when I feel the yoke of this world heavy and I ask Him, ‘Lord, why You not helping me?’ And believe me, there is no answer. But, in time the problem seems to just melt away without my doing anything. See, He works.
Now recall, the many times in your life, how He gently removed the situation of pain. Recall also those moments of happiness He has granted. My friend, truly our Living God is our Helper. You too like the psalmist may say, ‘Through Him are all my battles won, for He alone shall destroy my enemies and worthless is human help, unless ordained by Him. Amen.
Aug. 9, 2007
Today's verse: Ps 119:112, 113. Give us help from trouble: for vain is the help of man. Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
There’s something I fail to understand in our approach when a problem besets us. We tend to trust man more than God with it. This trait exists, not only in the common people but also in preachers and others who profess to commune with the Father. Many times I find so called men and women of God who go to pray for someone sick asking questions like, ‘what did the doctor say?’ or ‘what medication is being used?’ Yeah okay, someone might tell me, ‘But brother didn’t God give us the brains to make medicines and doctors to prescribe them?’ Fine, but don’t you see that ultimately it is God who has made this body and He is the best to cure it?’
Then again comes a situation when a person on premature retirement loses all his savings because he invested in a fraudulent scheme and it went bust. Then he runs helter skelter to tell all and sundry to help. You know what people say when they hear this, ‘serves him right, he was so greedy to get that little more interest…’ Does God do that? No, He doesn’t; and He helps you pick up the pieces.
In my life I see the hand of God all around. Yes, I might say that there are times when I feel the yoke of this world heavy and I ask Him, ‘Lord, why You not helping me?’ And believe me, there is no answer. But, in time the problem seems to just melt away without my doing anything. See, He works.
Now recall, the many times in your life, how He gently removed the situation of pain. Recall also those moments of happiness He has granted. My friend, truly our Living God is our Helper. You too like the psalmist may say, ‘Through Him are all my battles won, for He alone shall destroy my enemies and worthless is human help, unless ordained by Him. Amen.
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 7, 2007
Today's verse: Zec 14:6,7. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the light shall not be clear, nor dark: But it shall be one day which shall be known to the LORD, not day, nor night: but it shall come to pass, that at evening time it shall be light. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
A deep reading of the above will tell you of the power of the Lord who can bring all things to pass in the right manner and in which we, His choice creation can live and drink of His awesomeness.
In all these things within the Bible which talk about His Power, a purpose has been defined for us mankind. The purpose is to remember with awe the awesomeness of God who calls into being the things that do not exist. God can interject our lives with such marvelous things that they could even surprise us. The Omnipotent Potentate of the earth can create situations of favor in case of despair and moments of happiness where sorrow had assumed it would dwell.
If we but look at the verse above, we find in that one day ordained by the Lord, no day nor night. Difficult to imagine as, we cannot see a third option; yet possible with the Lord. The verse further says that at evening time it shall be light, which means it will be bright as at noontime. Again showing the immensity of the knowledge of the Lord and His wisdom and of course His power. Truly Paul has rightly said, even the foolishness of God (if God were to have even an iota of foolishness…He doesn’t and it is a manner of saying to emphasize His Wisdom.) is wiser than human wisdom.
Go now into your life and look deep inside. Is your being straining toward nighttime? Worry not nor be afraid for the God who dwells on Mount Zion is there with you and in you. Fear should rather shroud your enemy as you stand within the camp of the great I AM.
Aug. 7, 2007
Today's verse: Zec 14:6,7. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the light shall not be clear, nor dark: But it shall be one day which shall be known to the LORD, not day, nor night: but it shall come to pass, that at evening time it shall be light. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
A deep reading of the above will tell you of the power of the Lord who can bring all things to pass in the right manner and in which we, His choice creation can live and drink of His awesomeness.
In all these things within the Bible which talk about His Power, a purpose has been defined for us mankind. The purpose is to remember with awe the awesomeness of God who calls into being the things that do not exist. God can interject our lives with such marvelous things that they could even surprise us. The Omnipotent Potentate of the earth can create situations of favor in case of despair and moments of happiness where sorrow had assumed it would dwell.
If we but look at the verse above, we find in that one day ordained by the Lord, no day nor night. Difficult to imagine as, we cannot see a third option; yet possible with the Lord. The verse further says that at evening time it shall be light, which means it will be bright as at noontime. Again showing the immensity of the knowledge of the Lord and His wisdom and of course His power. Truly Paul has rightly said, even the foolishness of God (if God were to have even an iota of foolishness…He doesn’t and it is a manner of saying to emphasize His Wisdom.) is wiser than human wisdom.
Go now into your life and look deep inside. Is your being straining toward nighttime? Worry not nor be afraid for the God who dwells on Mount Zion is there with you and in you. Fear should rather shroud your enemy as you stand within the camp of the great I AM.
Monday, August 06, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 6, 2007
Today's verse: Mt 15:13. Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
When Jesus uttered this statement, it was meant to take stock in a way of the teaching of the Pharisees. They were the ones who put various things in the minds of the people. Many times, their teachings were full of their own perceptions to the situation because of which error crept in making the observations of the law quite heavy on the people.
Jesus knew about this and He corrected their opinions before the people, which offended them gravely. Of course Jesus’ main interest in this was letting people know the truth. That truth which, would set them free. Not some twisted sayings that enslaved them and made them bear huge burdens. In quoting the above verse, Jesus, as it were, conveyed that everything that was not of the Father would wane and be erased.
We too may be subject to wrong teaching or burdensome tasks emerging from the teaching of the scriptures. What do we do at such times? Instead of rushing and asking people, we need to wait to know whether it is of God or man. Remember this that if it is from God you will not escape from it. Moreover, it will be something that builds you up and edifies. By extension, even if there are things in your life that are not of God and in your heart you despair of them because you do not like them and being weak cannot do anything, bear it gladly for God in His wisdom will step in and correct. God will destroy that which tries to find root in you. He disdains the plans of the evil one and we can rest assured that He will pluck them out of our lives.
Aug. 6, 2007
Today's verse: Mt 15:13. Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
When Jesus uttered this statement, it was meant to take stock in a way of the teaching of the Pharisees. They were the ones who put various things in the minds of the people. Many times, their teachings were full of their own perceptions to the situation because of which error crept in making the observations of the law quite heavy on the people.
Jesus knew about this and He corrected their opinions before the people, which offended them gravely. Of course Jesus’ main interest in this was letting people know the truth. That truth which, would set them free. Not some twisted sayings that enslaved them and made them bear huge burdens. In quoting the above verse, Jesus, as it were, conveyed that everything that was not of the Father would wane and be erased.
We too may be subject to wrong teaching or burdensome tasks emerging from the teaching of the scriptures. What do we do at such times? Instead of rushing and asking people, we need to wait to know whether it is of God or man. Remember this that if it is from God you will not escape from it. Moreover, it will be something that builds you up and edifies. By extension, even if there are things in your life that are not of God and in your heart you despair of them because you do not like them and being weak cannot do anything, bear it gladly for God in His wisdom will step in and correct. God will destroy that which tries to find root in you. He disdains the plans of the evil one and we can rest assured that He will pluck them out of our lives.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 3, 2007
Today's verse: 1 Cor. 15:49. And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Here is a tremendous statement in God’s Word about the guarantee that we will move toward incorruption from the element of our current bodies, which are subject to corruption. We may not get the full import of this statement but let me say that this is an important aspect of the belief we have in Jesus as our Savior. This belief allows us to be like Him and to wear an immortal garment like His: resplendent and shining like a robe of diamonds.
My friend, what we have in this world is going to be left behind by us. There is nothing we will carry into the next. Even all the cares and worries we nursed here and which occupied top of mind in us, we will realize, were mere figments of our imagination wrought while we walked the earth. Free of all our baggage, as we tread eternity, what garment are we going to wear? Heavenly, or earthly? There are many who may tell me, ‘But brother we have no idea of how the next will be.’ I may say that the Bible gives a clue to that, when Jesus talks about the wedding feast and the man who comes in as a guest without a wedding garment, we read what the king does with this man.
So we know that there is need of the festal garment before the throne. If our belief has imaged that Jesus is our Savior, then rest assured we will bear the image of Jesus in our bodies - that is the garb of resplendence which He has provided through His sacrifice before the Father on Calvary. And with it there is none to stop us going into the room Jesus Himself has prepared for us in His Father’s mansion. What a privilege. Imagine the exalted status we will bear…and what is required of us to get into this exalted position, just belief. And belief will help us shed the earthly robe, conceived in sin and move towards the heavenly, which Jesus wore. Praised be the Name of the Lamb of God.
Aug. 3, 2007
Today's verse: 1 Cor. 15:49. And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Here is a tremendous statement in God’s Word about the guarantee that we will move toward incorruption from the element of our current bodies, which are subject to corruption. We may not get the full import of this statement but let me say that this is an important aspect of the belief we have in Jesus as our Savior. This belief allows us to be like Him and to wear an immortal garment like His: resplendent and shining like a robe of diamonds.
My friend, what we have in this world is going to be left behind by us. There is nothing we will carry into the next. Even all the cares and worries we nursed here and which occupied top of mind in us, we will realize, were mere figments of our imagination wrought while we walked the earth. Free of all our baggage, as we tread eternity, what garment are we going to wear? Heavenly, or earthly? There are many who may tell me, ‘But brother we have no idea of how the next will be.’ I may say that the Bible gives a clue to that, when Jesus talks about the wedding feast and the man who comes in as a guest without a wedding garment, we read what the king does with this man.
So we know that there is need of the festal garment before the throne. If our belief has imaged that Jesus is our Savior, then rest assured we will bear the image of Jesus in our bodies - that is the garb of resplendence which He has provided through His sacrifice before the Father on Calvary. And with it there is none to stop us going into the room Jesus Himself has prepared for us in His Father’s mansion. What a privilege. Imagine the exalted status we will bear…and what is required of us to get into this exalted position, just belief. And belief will help us shed the earthly robe, conceived in sin and move towards the heavenly, which Jesus wore. Praised be the Name of the Lamb of God.
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 2, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 68:8. The earth shook, the heavens also dropped at the presence of God: even Sinai itself was moved at the presence of God, the God of Israel. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
God’s presence is an awesome feeling. Without the presence of God in our lives, we are not complete, bereft of His Grace and consequently His mercy and salvation. When the presence of God is thick upon you, there is a stirring in the soul as you get lifted to the heights. A sense of calm descends and a comfort and peace beyond understanding becomes ours.
The Presence of God brings in its wake might and awe. The above verse expresses it best – the earth shook and Sinai was moved – what can cause such motion but extreme power? God’s presence also brings fear in the minds of His enemies as they crouch in terror at His approach. For in a flash, they can be cast asunder and destroyed.
What does His presence mean to us? For me, it means a beautiful Father, fawning over His precious child – however sinful, the child be. It means a safety that the world cannot break in to destroy. It also means the guarantee of eternal life. Nothing can compare to the safety that God’s presence can bring us. It can withstand the barbs of the evil one and destroy his plans in our lives.
Importantly, God’s presence comes with such gentility that we are swept in its soft grip. His presence is able to lift up our spirits and raise us to new heights. His presence gives us the strength to live the way He wants us to live. His presence renews our being and enables us to be close to Him, leading to lives in which victory and glory prevail. Therefore, David cries out, ’Take me not away from Your presence…’ Ps. 51:11 and who better to talk about this than, David? Take a cue from him and yearn for God’s presence in your life.
Aug. 2, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 68:8. The earth shook, the heavens also dropped at the presence of God: even Sinai itself was moved at the presence of God, the God of Israel. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
God’s presence is an awesome feeling. Without the presence of God in our lives, we are not complete, bereft of His Grace and consequently His mercy and salvation. When the presence of God is thick upon you, there is a stirring in the soul as you get lifted to the heights. A sense of calm descends and a comfort and peace beyond understanding becomes ours.
The Presence of God brings in its wake might and awe. The above verse expresses it best – the earth shook and Sinai was moved – what can cause such motion but extreme power? God’s presence also brings fear in the minds of His enemies as they crouch in terror at His approach. For in a flash, they can be cast asunder and destroyed.
What does His presence mean to us? For me, it means a beautiful Father, fawning over His precious child – however sinful, the child be. It means a safety that the world cannot break in to destroy. It also means the guarantee of eternal life. Nothing can compare to the safety that God’s presence can bring us. It can withstand the barbs of the evil one and destroy his plans in our lives.
Importantly, God’s presence comes with such gentility that we are swept in its soft grip. His presence is able to lift up our spirits and raise us to new heights. His presence gives us the strength to live the way He wants us to live. His presence renews our being and enables us to be close to Him, leading to lives in which victory and glory prevail. Therefore, David cries out, ’Take me not away from Your presence…’ Ps. 51:11 and who better to talk about this than, David? Take a cue from him and yearn for God’s presence in your life.
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Thoughts for another day
Aug. 1, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 119:160. Thy word is true from the beginning: (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
God is faithful and true. God the Eternal One can be trusted completely. For what He says, He does. The route of reaching the final destination as set by Him, might be completely opposite to what we imagine it to be. But slowly, we see the light at the end of the tunnel - the light of the vision God has given us, transforming into reality. In the Old Testament, all Joseph would have thought in prison, was how to get out, than being someone big, isn’t it?
Eileen had a tough time making ends meet. Her company suddenly wound up leaving Eileen without a job and means of a livelihood. She prayed fervently and once she heard the Lord saying He will take care of her and her children. But then, no job was in sight. Her bank balance was quickly drying up and sleep had already left her. She wondered how the Bible could be true for it said, ‘ask and you shall receive.’ And also, what about the assurance the Lord had given her personally? Weeks went by and the situation became critical. She hated to borrow money and even the prospect of borrowing was anathema to her. What to do now?
Haven’t you too asked this question in the middle of a dense problem? But then, in Eileen’s life God’s word had not even started (so too may be in your life). One Sunday, as she got out of the church with her two little kids, a stranger approached her. He asked her who the senior priest was so that he could speak to him. She asked him why and he said that He was from the neighboring city and new to this church. Also that he wanted to start a food parlor and needed someone immediately to manage it. Eileen just asked him whether she could do it. He asked her a few questions and was more than satisfied with her answers. He took her and her children in his car to the premises of the food parlor and offered her a salary which she could only dream of. She began work the next day.
Today, Eileen is part owner of the parlor employing more than 60 people, and also a stake-holder in the parent company. She has even formed a small unit to help women in need. Talk about God’s Word! My friend, God is able to do that which He has spoken and even more. You may be in some need. Go to His Word and seek His assurance. Refer this Word again and again and again. It will become true in your life as sure as the sun rises every day. Because, His Word never fails.
Aug. 1, 2007
Today's verse: Ps. 119:160. Thy word is true from the beginning: (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
God is faithful and true. God the Eternal One can be trusted completely. For what He says, He does. The route of reaching the final destination as set by Him, might be completely opposite to what we imagine it to be. But slowly, we see the light at the end of the tunnel - the light of the vision God has given us, transforming into reality. In the Old Testament, all Joseph would have thought in prison, was how to get out, than being someone big, isn’t it?
Eileen had a tough time making ends meet. Her company suddenly wound up leaving Eileen without a job and means of a livelihood. She prayed fervently and once she heard the Lord saying He will take care of her and her children. But then, no job was in sight. Her bank balance was quickly drying up and sleep had already left her. She wondered how the Bible could be true for it said, ‘ask and you shall receive.’ And also, what about the assurance the Lord had given her personally? Weeks went by and the situation became critical. She hated to borrow money and even the prospect of borrowing was anathema to her. What to do now?
Haven’t you too asked this question in the middle of a dense problem? But then, in Eileen’s life God’s word had not even started (so too may be in your life). One Sunday, as she got out of the church with her two little kids, a stranger approached her. He asked her who the senior priest was so that he could speak to him. She asked him why and he said that He was from the neighboring city and new to this church. Also that he wanted to start a food parlor and needed someone immediately to manage it. Eileen just asked him whether she could do it. He asked her a few questions and was more than satisfied with her answers. He took her and her children in his car to the premises of the food parlor and offered her a salary which she could only dream of. She began work the next day.
Today, Eileen is part owner of the parlor employing more than 60 people, and also a stake-holder in the parent company. She has even formed a small unit to help women in need. Talk about God’s Word! My friend, God is able to do that which He has spoken and even more. You may be in some need. Go to His Word and seek His assurance. Refer this Word again and again and again. It will become true in your life as sure as the sun rises every day. Because, His Word never fails.
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