Monday, May 25, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 25, 2009.
Today's verse: Hosea 4:6. My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
How true our verse for today is. How true that we lack knowledge of our God. We probably have knowledge of all things but not what the Supreme Lord and Owner of the universe wants us to have. We have the brilliance, of course given us by God, to harness the minutest parts of substance and create atomic energy. We have the ability to send rockets into space and make satellites hover over the surface of the earth. But, hardly do we give God credit nor do we feel God has made it possible for us to do all we’ve done! Know ye and do not differ, it is by the Lord God of heaven and earth that all knowledge occurs and only by Him does life exist. Contest the one who says it is not by God but by itself that all happens, for lumps of mud hardly know when they’ll return to the earth that they dare talk ill about the One who fashioned them so beautifully and sully His Holy Name.
How lonely and insulted must our God feel, He who treads the circle of the earth, not finding His choice creation interested in Him one bit. Imagine our God looking down, seeing us scurry around doing our own little things, like we sometimes observe little ants moving here and there, doing things; and we find their work so inconsequential for they are as nothing to us; so also would it be with our God no? What Jesus said comes to mind, ‘What does it profit you if you gain the whole world and lose your own soul’ Mk 8:36.
My friend, reading this today, let your heart be stirred to know our God. He is so good which prompts the psalmist to say, ‘Oh taste and see that the Lord is good!’ Ps. 34:8. All your heart’s desires are known to Him and you know what, He loves you and intends to give you your hearts’ desires! Because He is your Father and you are His son/daughter and since He is the owner of the earth, won’t He give you the best that the earth has?
Friday, May 22, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 22, 2009.
Today's verse: Gen. 22:14. And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Sometimes the Lord takes us through a tough time, a mountain so to say. When we obey, He does two things: One, He intervenes personally reassuring us of His fabulous Presence, incomparable to anything else and two, He provides Grace. His Grace transforms into power to fulfill any need we may have, both material or spiritual.
Take Abraham to whom our above verse pertains. Look at the tremendous trial God put him through. And honestly, what a man Abraham was…imagine at his age to be ready to sacrifice his only son that too, whom he begot at such an old age! What might have gone thru’ his mind as he led Isaac to mount Moriah. He sure must have thought, I’ll never ever get another son but anyway, God gave and God wants. And perhaps, that’s how he must have tried to conceal his terrible sorrow. Yet at the same time, He would have been confident about God. His circumstances and wonderful fortune were tremendous and he’d know it was given by God. Be that as it may, the journey to Moriah might have been a weary one yet; he did go to do what the Lord commanded.
The Lord personally intervened and asked him to refrain from slaying Isaac. Then the Lord provided Abraham with an alternate sacrifice, a ram and also promised to bless him abundantly making his descendants countless as the stars of the sky and the sand on the seashore. The lesson for us is that no matter what situation of life we’re in, we need turn to God. For remember it was He who brought about that situation and He knows how to help you make the most of it. And rest assured, He is Jehovah Jireh, the God who provides and, He will provide.
May 22, 2009.
Today's verse: Gen. 22:14. And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Sometimes the Lord takes us through a tough time, a mountain so to say. When we obey, He does two things: One, He intervenes personally reassuring us of His fabulous Presence, incomparable to anything else and two, He provides Grace. His Grace transforms into power to fulfill any need we may have, both material or spiritual.
Take Abraham to whom our above verse pertains. Look at the tremendous trial God put him through. And honestly, what a man Abraham was…imagine at his age to be ready to sacrifice his only son that too, whom he begot at such an old age! What might have gone thru’ his mind as he led Isaac to mount Moriah. He sure must have thought, I’ll never ever get another son but anyway, God gave and God wants. And perhaps, that’s how he must have tried to conceal his terrible sorrow. Yet at the same time, He would have been confident about God. His circumstances and wonderful fortune were tremendous and he’d know it was given by God. Be that as it may, the journey to Moriah might have been a weary one yet; he did go to do what the Lord commanded.
The Lord personally intervened and asked him to refrain from slaying Isaac. Then the Lord provided Abraham with an alternate sacrifice, a ram and also promised to bless him abundantly making his descendants countless as the stars of the sky and the sand on the seashore. The lesson for us is that no matter what situation of life we’re in, we need turn to God. For remember it was He who brought about that situation and He knows how to help you make the most of it. And rest assured, He is Jehovah Jireh, the God who provides and, He will provide.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 21, 2009.
Today's verse: Colossian 3:15. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Peace is generally illusionary and very very elusive. You would’ve had that experience sometime or other and there are many people who yet have to understand what peace is. The Word of God at most times offers the ‘peace’ greeting. Paul in every letter speaks of peace in his greeting or teaching. And we know that Paul was usually in chains and prison. Yet, Paul had the insight to greet with peace; why? Because he knew that without peace a man cannot live a good life, particularly the peace of God. Restlessness and other disturbing virtues make living miserable and worthless.
Come to our own lives; we find many times we aren’t at peace. At these times, weariness grips us and anxiety and fear bring our spirits down. We then go to others seeking this peace and quickly discover that even the seemingly most peaceful people do not have peace in their hearts. Sometimes I feel we act in a way that we rob our own peace and let ourselves drown in misery and sorrow. One thing I could certainly say is that if you go the worldly way, you are bound to destroy your peace. Somewhere down the line, letting go of ruthlessly pursuing pseudo success or trying to destroy others is extremely important in harboring peace.
Apart from all our concepts of peace, there is one refreshing concept in the Bible and that is: Peace in the midst of suffering that’s beyond understanding. Yes, only God has the answer to everlasting peace. Jesus alone can give you peace which none can take from you. And it is a kind of peace which holds its ground even when the ground around you is slipping! That is the power of God’s peace and that is the true peace He alone can give. Anything else is merely an illusion.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 20, 2009.
Today's verse: Philip 4:11,12. for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Think my friend about what Paul says, ‘I have learned in whatsoever state I am, to be content in it…’ Think then about your own rules for contentment (essentially being in a state of happiness). Are you content with what has happened and will you be content with what will happen. As you read this now, give it a good thought for surely it will make the difference between a life of drudgery and a life lived to the full.
It’s only Christianity that gives a person, reason to rejoice even when the chips are down. It’s only in the fallen state that a human being learns about the power of ‘being human’. It’s only in pressing situations that you really learn about your inner strength, no? Life doesn’t always dole out the best. Just yesterday we learnt about a ten year old girl who was diagnosed with ‘breast cancer’! Surely this girl would have the question: WHY? But as I said earlier, life’s great moments are not in the fun of ordinary human victory, but in overcoming the odds sent our way.
Recently, in a chain email, I read about a girl who died from cancer five days after her wedding to her childhood love and friend. Now this guy who married her had this to say about her: that she was full of life and even in overhanging death lived a bold and brave life. And that my friend is the contentment Paul speaks of. That’s the overwhelming statement of a Christian’s life particularly in situations when there’s no other option but to despair and yet, there is the contagion of joy. A Christian is therefore one who learns to be content even when the ship is sinking…(does this ring a bell?) And yes, asking yourself, ‘Are you a Christian?’ at this point may not be out of place.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 19, 2009.
Today's verse: Zech 7:5. When ye fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh month, even those seventy years, did ye at all fast unto me, even to me? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Sometimes when I look at the blessings poured out on me by the Lord, I cannot help but shrink at the thought of what He thinks of me when I do such horrible things to Him. I usually find myself far from where He wants me to be and hardly find the time when I can hear Him gently call me to be with Him. Pity, the person that I am that though He loves me so much and does so much for me, I yet give Him scant attention.
Another aspect of my life is that when I fast for something, do I really strive to honor Him in my fast? Or is it to let the world know that I am fasting so I look good before them and also make them feel I know His ways better? Sometimes I really think we do some things just so that others may see them and glorify us and look at us in awe. Even the sadness I show at times, Is it really a show or sorrow for all the sins I’ve committed or for the thousands of lost souls, hurtling into hell each day. It’s time to introspect, to seek the wrong deep within and correct it to see God.
What we have in our verse is God pointing out to the fallacies of our customs and our doings. See, God sees the very core of our beings and there is nothing hid in His presence. He knows all. So it’s time we stop kidding ourselves about our rhythm with God and work on His tune so that we do not miss on God’s essentials in our lives and our relationship with Him becomes deeper.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 15, 2009.
Today's verse: Phil. 4:13. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Whether at work or at home, I’m a very capable person, do you know why? Because ‘I can do all things through Christ Jesus, who strengthens me.’ If I take this to be true, it morphs into a fact. But if I inject ‘me’ in it, then often there’s disillusionment when things don’t happen and we blame Him even when He isn’t responsible; because, the moment we count on self or others to help in addition to Him, He moves away.
Times are when, it becomes difficult to believe that only Christ can help me achieve all that I need and can achieve. Question is, if I have a particular talent, can I achieve to the fullest if Christ isn’t there. This is particularly relevant to an unbeliever because he can see that there’re many achievers who use their talents without Christ and reach high positions by sheer hard work and contacts. So what about ‘Christ alone can help achieve?’
To understand this we need to wait for time to slip through in that achiever’s life. Holistic achievements, those that take us to the pinnacle of success and keep us always happy, no matter what they are, are transient and do not last without Christ and this is true with anybody and everybody. Some of the so-called ‘high achievers’ have always discovered a void in their lives, which they find impossible to fill. This void is the non existence of Christ. In His mercy, Father God allows happiness to those who have either not heard of Christ or have not accepted Him, because He knows the pressure under which some men are in their ability to accept Christ. But for us, who know Jesus and have accepted Him, it is a glorious thing to also know that in Him alone we can achieve lasting success and happiness.
May 15, 2009.
Today's verse: Phil. 4:13. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Whether at work or at home, I’m a very capable person, do you know why? Because ‘I can do all things through Christ Jesus, who strengthens me.’ If I take this to be true, it morphs into a fact. But if I inject ‘me’ in it, then often there’s disillusionment when things don’t happen and we blame Him even when He isn’t responsible; because, the moment we count on self or others to help in addition to Him, He moves away.
Times are when, it becomes difficult to believe that only Christ can help me achieve all that I need and can achieve. Question is, if I have a particular talent, can I achieve to the fullest if Christ isn’t there. This is particularly relevant to an unbeliever because he can see that there’re many achievers who use their talents without Christ and reach high positions by sheer hard work and contacts. So what about ‘Christ alone can help achieve?’
To understand this we need to wait for time to slip through in that achiever’s life. Holistic achievements, those that take us to the pinnacle of success and keep us always happy, no matter what they are, are transient and do not last without Christ and this is true with anybody and everybody. Some of the so-called ‘high achievers’ have always discovered a void in their lives, which they find impossible to fill. This void is the non existence of Christ. In His mercy, Father God allows happiness to those who have either not heard of Christ or have not accepted Him, because He knows the pressure under which some men are in their ability to accept Christ. But for us, who know Jesus and have accepted Him, it is a glorious thing to also know that in Him alone we can achieve lasting success and happiness.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 14, 2009.
Today's verse: Deut. 10:12,13. And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, To keep the commandments of the LORD, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
God has created us and He wants to take care of and sustain us till we die. There’s no altering this fact. Now from the time, we come to earth and the end of our lives; there are many things that happen. When we’re little, God has full control over us and takes immense care of us. Yes, you may ask, how then do little children suffer? Why do we see so many children on the streets, dirty, unkempt, malnourished, etc. The answer is, the actions of their parents keep them away from the blessings of God, plus the apathy of other human beings. On the one hand you see extreme poverty by which people die for avoidable reasons and on the other you see riches in all its filth, people splurging on food they just toy with or on gadgets and equipment they have no need of. Or splurge on pets; I have seen dogs, primed, coiffured and manicured for thousands of dollars. Hey, I’m not saying you shouldn’t look after animals, their life is precious too, but the extravaganza!!! The fact of the matter is that God does take care of children, else more than half of all children born would be dead considering the perils they’re subject to these days.
But as we grow up we give in to our knowledge, accumulated with the years and one key deliverable of our knowledge is our scant concern for others. Apathy towards human beings is a major reason the world is in such a mess. And I often tell people who come to me with problems, ‘go tend to another’s problem and God will take yours away!’ But how many do it… none! We’re only bothered with our own lives no?
Be that as it may, our above verse provides a clear way by which we are to be under His umbrella of Grace. Moses tells the Israelites they are aware of what’s required of them so they are in good stead. These requirements are valid even today. Centuries have passed, but God is the same. He still wants us to fear Him and walk in His ways, loving and serving Him with all our hearts and our souls; keeping His commands and today, believing in His Son Jesus Christ for eternal life. That my friend is the only way you can live fully on this earth and be a testimony of God’s glory in your life.
May 14, 2009.
Today's verse: Deut. 10:12,13. And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, To keep the commandments of the LORD, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
God has created us and He wants to take care of and sustain us till we die. There’s no altering this fact. Now from the time, we come to earth and the end of our lives; there are many things that happen. When we’re little, God has full control over us and takes immense care of us. Yes, you may ask, how then do little children suffer? Why do we see so many children on the streets, dirty, unkempt, malnourished, etc. The answer is, the actions of their parents keep them away from the blessings of God, plus the apathy of other human beings. On the one hand you see extreme poverty by which people die for avoidable reasons and on the other you see riches in all its filth, people splurging on food they just toy with or on gadgets and equipment they have no need of. Or splurge on pets; I have seen dogs, primed, coiffured and manicured for thousands of dollars. Hey, I’m not saying you shouldn’t look after animals, their life is precious too, but the extravaganza!!! The fact of the matter is that God does take care of children, else more than half of all children born would be dead considering the perils they’re subject to these days.
But as we grow up we give in to our knowledge, accumulated with the years and one key deliverable of our knowledge is our scant concern for others. Apathy towards human beings is a major reason the world is in such a mess. And I often tell people who come to me with problems, ‘go tend to another’s problem and God will take yours away!’ But how many do it… none! We’re only bothered with our own lives no?
Be that as it may, our above verse provides a clear way by which we are to be under His umbrella of Grace. Moses tells the Israelites they are aware of what’s required of them so they are in good stead. These requirements are valid even today. Centuries have passed, but God is the same. He still wants us to fear Him and walk in His ways, loving and serving Him with all our hearts and our souls; keeping His commands and today, believing in His Son Jesus Christ for eternal life. That my friend is the only way you can live fully on this earth and be a testimony of God’s glory in your life.
Thoughts for another day
May 14, 2009.
Today's verse: Deut. 10:12,13. And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, To keep the commandments of the LORD, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
God has created us and He wants to take care of and sustain us till we die. There’s no altering this fact. Now from the time, we come to earth and the end of our lives; there are many things that happen. When we’re little, God has full control over us and takes immense care of us. Yes, you may ask, how then do little children suffer? Why do we see so many children on the streets, dirty, unkempt, malnourished, etc. The answer is, the actions of their parents keep them away from the blessings of God, plus the apathy of other human beings. On the one hand you see extreme poverty by which people die for avoidable reasons and on the other you see riches in all its filth, people splurging on food they just toy with or on gadgets and equipment they have no need of. Or splurge on pets; I have seen dogs, primed, coiffured and manicured for thousands of dollars. Hey, I’m not saying you shouldn’t look after animals, their life is precious too, but the extravaganza!!! The fact of the matter is that God does take care of children, else more than half of all children born would be dead considering the perils they’re subject to these days.
But as we grow up we give in to our knowledge, accumulated with the years and one key deliverable of our knowledge is our scant concern for others. Apathy towards human beings is a major reason the world is in such a mess. And I often tell people who come to me with problems, ‘go tend to another’s problem and God will take yours away!’ But how many do it… none! We’re only bothered with our own lives no?
Be that as it may, our above verse provides a clear way by which we are to be under His umbrella of Grace. Moses tells the Israelites they are aware of what’s required of them so they are in good stead. These requirements are valid even today. Centuries have passed, but God is the same. He still wants us to fear Him and walk in His ways, loving and serving Him with all our hearts and our souls; keeping His commands and today, believing in His Son Jesus Christ for eternal life. That my friend is the only way you can live fully on this earth and be a testimony of God’s glory in your life.
May 14, 2009.
Today's verse: Deut. 10:12,13. And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, To keep the commandments of the LORD, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
God has created us and He wants to take care of and sustain us till we die. There’s no altering this fact. Now from the time, we come to earth and the end of our lives; there are many things that happen. When we’re little, God has full control over us and takes immense care of us. Yes, you may ask, how then do little children suffer? Why do we see so many children on the streets, dirty, unkempt, malnourished, etc. The answer is, the actions of their parents keep them away from the blessings of God, plus the apathy of other human beings. On the one hand you see extreme poverty by which people die for avoidable reasons and on the other you see riches in all its filth, people splurging on food they just toy with or on gadgets and equipment they have no need of. Or splurge on pets; I have seen dogs, primed, coiffured and manicured for thousands of dollars. Hey, I’m not saying you shouldn’t look after animals, their life is precious too, but the extravaganza!!! The fact of the matter is that God does take care of children, else more than half of all children born would be dead considering the perils they’re subject to these days.
But as we grow up we give in to our knowledge, accumulated with the years and one key deliverable of our knowledge is our scant concern for others. Apathy towards human beings is a major reason the world is in such a mess. And I often tell people who come to me with problems, ‘go tend to another’s problem and God will take yours away!’ But how many do it… none! We’re only bothered with our own lives no?
Be that as it may, our above verse provides a clear way by which we are to be under His umbrella of Grace. Moses tells the Israelites they are aware of what’s required of them so they are in good stead. These requirements are valid even today. Centuries have passed, but God is the same. He still wants us to fear Him and walk in His ways, loving and serving Him with all our hearts and our souls; keeping His commands and today, believing in His Son Jesus Christ for eternal life. That my friend is the only way you can live fully on this earth and be a testimony of God’s glory in your life.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 13, 2009.
Today's verse: 2 Chron. 9:23. And all the kings of the earth sought the presence of Solomon, to hear his wisdom, that God had put in his heart. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
There are many not so good things said about king Solomon because of the way he conducted himself while ruling Israel. Because of him idol worship entered the homes of people and the land. But beyond all that’s said about Solomon, there’s one thing that none will skip and that is, he was a wise king.
You know, God gave him the gift of wisdom when God was pleased at what Solomon asked him. Solomon did not ask for riches or a long life for himself or for the death of his enemies. He knew it would be tough for him to rule over the Israelites and therefore asked God for the wisdom needed to rule the people. God was so pleased with his request that God not only gave him wisdom but also riches and a great kingdom.
To avail of God’s favor, it’s essential we work according to His plan for us. For us wealth may have a greater meaning than abstract things like honesty or wisdom. But for God these things are more important. Some of the higher traits in life like honesty, noble behavior, strength of character, compassion, etc. are divine traits and are somehow enwrapped in His Words making their fragrances lasts forever, just the way Jesus said, ‘My Words will last forever.’ When aligned with Him, we come to know what pleases Him and if we ask and live accordingly then He grants us things whereby He will raise us up to be great people. Then will our renown spread over the earth so that we will have audiences of kings and powerful people for they will recognize our talents and confirm them with their own eyes and ears.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 11, 2009.
Today's verse: Eccl. 3:11. He hath made everything beautiful in His time: also He hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Look around the place you are, there’s so much ugliness isn’t it? Looking out of your window, all you find is dust and grime and a lot of noise. The beauty and serenity that were there long ago have vanished and instead the cacophony of inane things fills the senses. Sometimes we reminisce about the past when things were so good. But in the past we heard people elder than us say how good it was in their past and so on. Which means that in almost every generation, there is the ache for things that went by and probably the desire to move back into that time? But it can never happen and if we wear the spectacles of God, we see beauty in everything, everytime.
This takes us to the Bible verse, ‘the earth is filled with the glory of God’, even though you and I cannot see it in the world. You know God is doing so many things at the same time. He is renewing the earth day-by-day and changing things ever so subtly that we don’t even know. That’s what our verse for today tells us. Sadly, we are completely oblivious to God’s work and not able to understand His work.
There are so many things which belong to the realm of which we know or see nothing until of course we veer toward God and see with His eyes. If you have the inclination, just look around. From what seems dirt, God’s glory shines forth. Take the sky: so beautiful and glorious; and even if there are clouds, look at how the clouds black though they be and pregnant with water do not fall down, yet gently stream down in rain. Look at the smiles on little children’s faces, whether rich or poor and see the beauty on their faces. There’s so much life in them. Finally take a look at your hand, see the beauty in it; the nails, the fingers, the nerves outlined on the skin, the bones entwined with the flesh…all so beautiful and unduplicated! Isn’t He our God wonderful! Isn’t He doing so much that we must yearn to see and feel and know! It’s time we took our God seriously and understood the beauty of His hand and the immensity of His work.
May 11, 2009.
Today's verse: Eccl. 3:11. He hath made everything beautiful in His time: also He hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Look around the place you are, there’s so much ugliness isn’t it? Looking out of your window, all you find is dust and grime and a lot of noise. The beauty and serenity that were there long ago have vanished and instead the cacophony of inane things fills the senses. Sometimes we reminisce about the past when things were so good. But in the past we heard people elder than us say how good it was in their past and so on. Which means that in almost every generation, there is the ache for things that went by and probably the desire to move back into that time? But it can never happen and if we wear the spectacles of God, we see beauty in everything, everytime.
This takes us to the Bible verse, ‘the earth is filled with the glory of God’, even though you and I cannot see it in the world. You know God is doing so many things at the same time. He is renewing the earth day-by-day and changing things ever so subtly that we don’t even know. That’s what our verse for today tells us. Sadly, we are completely oblivious to God’s work and not able to understand His work.
There are so many things which belong to the realm of which we know or see nothing until of course we veer toward God and see with His eyes. If you have the inclination, just look around. From what seems dirt, God’s glory shines forth. Take the sky: so beautiful and glorious; and even if there are clouds, look at how the clouds black though they be and pregnant with water do not fall down, yet gently stream down in rain. Look at the smiles on little children’s faces, whether rich or poor and see the beauty on their faces. There’s so much life in them. Finally take a look at your hand, see the beauty in it; the nails, the fingers, the nerves outlined on the skin, the bones entwined with the flesh…all so beautiful and unduplicated! Isn’t He our God wonderful! Isn’t He doing so much that we must yearn to see and feel and know! It’s time we took our God seriously and understood the beauty of His hand and the immensity of His work.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 11, 2009.
Today's verse: Ez. 38:23. Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the LORD. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
When I see the trouble Christians face in the world, I’m reminded of the above verse. I ask, ‘Why do we have to suffer Lord and face shame and fear; is it just because we bear Your Name O God?’ I’m led to believe the god of this world has blinded the minds of the people to what the truth is and to eternal life. When the truth is proclaimed through the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the people are made agitated and they blow venom on the Gospel givers rather than appreciate that they show a way to eternal life. Ask the average evangelist and he’ll tell you the trouble he faces in just giving the Gospel to those who haven’t heard it.
We know of what happened in Orissa, India and we’re appalled. Imagine, even now the people are living in shanties a few paces away from what used to be their homes earlier in great discomfort. But they can’t go back to their destroyed homes, unless they renounce Jesus Christ. Isn’t it amazing? But I’m pleased that thousands have clung to the Lord and have even openly confessed that though they suffer, they will not leave Jesus Christ and are willing to bear the hardships for His Name sake!
It’s at this time I pray to the Lord that what He says in the above verse He do. I pray, ‘Lord, You are the King of the Universe. You control everything. Now Lord, by your great might and mercy, show the people who is God. Magnify Yourself and let the people know there’s only one God and that is YOU! Amen. My friend, add this in your prayer too for when we pray like this, God will make Himself known powerfully to the nations declaring that He alone is God and Jesus is His beloved Son who redeemed us.
Friday, May 08, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 8, 2009.
Today's verse: 1 Kgs. 8:10-12. And it came to pass, when the priests were come out of the holy place, that the cloud filled the house of the LORD, So that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud: for the glory of the LORD had filled the house of the LORD. Then spake Solomon, The LORD said that he would dwell in the thick darkness. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
As we read the Bible, we also read about the marvelous ways in which God manifests Himself to either His servants like Moses, Elijah and others or to His people. In our verses above, we have an interesting action of God where, His Presence comes in the form of a Cloud at the dedication process of the Temple.
The Word of God tells us that the Cloud filled the house of the LORD whereby the priests couldn’t stand to minister. Such is God’s glory, seen by man and in the atmosphere where man is. God is an awesome God. His Presence is a holy Presence. And that is why God tells Moses to remove his footwear for he was standing on Holy ground. Where the Lord is, the ground and everything around it becomes holy and there is an effervescence of His awesome glory around that place. Man cannot stand near it as it can give him the shivers. When God spoke at Mount Sinai, the Israelites could not bear to hear His voice nor behold His presence, Ex. 20:18-19. Even the close apostles of Jesus were scared at His transfiguration, remember?
God’s Nature is so ethereal and powerful that when we feel God in the depth of our worship, God seems but a gentle Presence. Nothing that can be held or beheld; just experienced. No earthly experience can be equal. Sometimes we dread this presence when we are unprepared spiritually to accept it. But God is always there and we need to be holy to revel and enjoy His Presence with us. Even as I write, I have this marvelous feeling of God holding me. You know, I feel so weak and tingle with a ‘different’ sensation. All fear is gone and there seems to be an electric charge over me. I pray that you too will move into the cloud of God’s awesome Presence even as you read this and enjoy Him being melded into every atom of your being, body, mind and spirit.
Thursday, May 07, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 7, 2009.
Today's verse: 1 Sm. 8:7. And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
In the days following Israel’s exit from Egypt and settling down in Palestine, they were led by God. But then they forgot Him and started doing the very things that the people they drove out from the lands they now occupied, did. Sadly, they didn’t bother about God who had done so much for them. They didn’t even obey His commands to destroy all who earlier occupied the territories they now occupied.
The first direct insult to God was that they worshipped the baals and other gods thus provoking Him. The Word of God says, God did not clear away for them any more of the nations Joshua left when he died. This was so that through those people the Israelites were made to prove whether or not they’d keep and continue in the way of the Lord. The more they sinned, the more trouble they faced from the nations around them; yet when they cried out to the Lord, their Savior, the Lord through a judge He raised for them, delivered them from calamity and pain. But the Israelites never recognized God nor gave Him credit as soon as the event passed. Eventually, they completely forgot the fact that God was their King and they needed to follow Him.
So far was God removed from their minds that they asked Samuel the prophet of God to give them a king, the way other nations had a king. Samuel was distressed because of his communion with God and his recognizing that only the Great I AM could defend them. Our above verse comes to us after he prayed to God. I can see God’s tears as He says the Words. Just the way Jesus’ heart was broken by the callousness of the Jews who crucified Him. But God in His mercy, asked Samuel to do as they said and they got a king.
Now what about us today? Don’t you and I completely disregard God and go to men for solutions? Don’t we close our doors to God when in a crunch and open them to human beings? What about our faith in God, when the sky is gloomy? My friend, the God of the Universe who saved us Himself, will He not pay attention to us when we’re in trouble? Will He not care for us when we take Him to be the King of our lives and cry out to Him? Think and then look up to the LORD. See those gentle eyes calling out and asking you to come!
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 6, 2009.
Today's verse: Lev. 22:32,33. Neither shall ye profane my holy name; but I will be hallowed among the children of Israel: I [am] the LORD which hallow you, That brought you out of the land of Egypt, to be your God: I [am] the LORD. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Have you ever gone near something that you were told is sacred? In India, there are many such locations and objects termed ‘sacred’. Those locations/objects which are so termed are where people bend and bow and are very reverent toward those; and the atmosphere around that location/object is also quite reverential. But now, here in our verse we are told by the Ultimate Sacredness…the Being of God, who is the epitome of holiness that He is holy! There is nothing as holy as can be compared with our God. God is the beginning and the end of holiness and all else wanes before His holiness.
Because He is so holy, nothing can stand before Him because nothing is as holy as God. I would perhaps liken His aura and splendor to the sun, not that the sun is in anyway comparable to God’s brilliance, but that our finite understanding can relate to the splendor of the sun because we’ve seen it and so, can you even look up at the sun on a brilliant day? Now, God commands that His holy Name not be profaned or sullied and that is because He is concerned about His Name. He also asks that His Name be kept holy among us for He has brought us out of many situations of strife and redeemed us by His own blood.
You may wonder how this is relevant except perhaps knowing that God is holy and so we are also to be holy. But there’s one thing I must tell you and that is, God’s power works best in an atmosphere of holiness. See, Jesus was holy when on earth and because of His holiness, so great a task like the redemption of the entire human race from the time of Adam to the last human on earth has been accomplished! For you too, if you dwell in a similar atmosphere, you will also see the power of God working in you and through you. And it will be a visible thing for all men to see making them sing glory to God.
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 5, 2009.
Today's verse: Mk. 4:41. And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
God puts us in difficult situations many times, particularly those who profess to be having faith in Him. What then are we to do in those times? Let me tell you very clearly that those times are far removed from the Hallelujah times we have in fellowship at a prayer meeting or a family celebration. At these times we’re often lonely. Our minds are clouded before the ominous situation before us and we are well and truly frightened and anxious about the outcome of the situation.
I’ve seen some pretty ‘strong’ believers wilt. Some, when pointed out tell me, ‘it’s very difficult you know, the suffering is just too much.’ Mind you, these are the very people who go around telling others in difficulties, ‘Brother/sister, don’t worry, God is there you know, just keep faith!’ But honestly I don’t blame them becoz I’ve too experienced difficult situations and I know what it takes to keep faith at that time. It is only by the power of the Holy Spirit that we can keep our cool.
Now, to our above verse and the story in the Bible; a question would be, wasn’t Jesus a man? Then why wasn’t He frightened? A clue can be got from what He asked His disciples, ‘How is it you have no faith?’ Jesus was totally man and He also experienced the same desires, difficulties, etc. we do. But He had cent percent faith in God - the kind that refuses to accept anything, apart from God. Which is, let’s say you lose your job. You immediately understand it is God’s will for you. Now if you accept that, then you also know that God doesn’t want His children to suffer and therefore, you realize that if you have lost your job, you will suffer and God doesn’t like it. So it means, God is going to do something good for you. And now that you have crossed this thought process, you just wait to see God’s hand in your life, even as you wait on Him. And sure enough, soon you discover that God has worked, Blessed be His Name!
My friend, it’s possible you have a faith situation, a traumatic difficulty or impossibility. Don’t worry; the God of the impossible is with you. Just trust Him and He will deliver you. I have gone through this and believe me, He’s worked so wonderfully in my life. He has done it in so many other people’s lives too and He will work for you. Just keep your prayers going.
May 5, 2009.
Today's verse: Mk. 4:41. And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him? (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
God puts us in difficult situations many times, particularly those who profess to be having faith in Him. What then are we to do in those times? Let me tell you very clearly that those times are far removed from the Hallelujah times we have in fellowship at a prayer meeting or a family celebration. At these times we’re often lonely. Our minds are clouded before the ominous situation before us and we are well and truly frightened and anxious about the outcome of the situation.
I’ve seen some pretty ‘strong’ believers wilt. Some, when pointed out tell me, ‘it’s very difficult you know, the suffering is just too much.’ Mind you, these are the very people who go around telling others in difficulties, ‘Brother/sister, don’t worry, God is there you know, just keep faith!’ But honestly I don’t blame them becoz I’ve too experienced difficult situations and I know what it takes to keep faith at that time. It is only by the power of the Holy Spirit that we can keep our cool.
Now, to our above verse and the story in the Bible; a question would be, wasn’t Jesus a man? Then why wasn’t He frightened? A clue can be got from what He asked His disciples, ‘How is it you have no faith?’ Jesus was totally man and He also experienced the same desires, difficulties, etc. we do. But He had cent percent faith in God - the kind that refuses to accept anything, apart from God. Which is, let’s say you lose your job. You immediately understand it is God’s will for you. Now if you accept that, then you also know that God doesn’t want His children to suffer and therefore, you realize that if you have lost your job, you will suffer and God doesn’t like it. So it means, God is going to do something good for you. And now that you have crossed this thought process, you just wait to see God’s hand in your life, even as you wait on Him. And sure enough, soon you discover that God has worked, Blessed be His Name!
My friend, it’s possible you have a faith situation, a traumatic difficulty or impossibility. Don’t worry; the God of the impossible is with you. Just trust Him and He will deliver you. I have gone through this and believe me, He’s worked so wonderfully in my life. He has done it in so many other people’s lives too and He will work for you. Just keep your prayers going.
Monday, May 04, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 4, 2009.
Today's verse: James 4:14. Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Many of us humans behave as if we are going to live forever. Our actions therefore, are commensurate with the way we think and many times crude and high handed, leaving much to be desired. Many people have on their death beds repented of what they did when alive and confessed that had they the time, they would go to the concerned persons and beg their forgiveness. Alas, death claimed them swiftly and their noble intentions, remained but, intentions.
My thinking is, we must at all times be aware of this little fact and behave accordingly. One of the best things we can do is not be presumptuous about our achievements, nor of what we will achieve. Remember God enabled you to achieve what you have thus far and it’s God who will enable you to achieve what you will achieve. Putting people in the right place at the right time and giving people the wisdom to speak the right thing at the right time, is totally a gift of God, which many take to be co-incidence or luck. But as I have held, there is nothing like luck; except that everything is the Divine plan of God unfolding before us day by day.
We’re but like our verse tells us today, vapor, visible for a while and then disappearing. So short is our life on earth, which we count in hours, days, years, that even before an assignment is complete, we are gone. It’s easy to stand on our pride and arrogance, as I too do, and then think that we’re superior so we can do what we want. But, there are moments of helplessness I have seen even in the strongest of men so as to be amazing. The most powerful have within the twinkling of an eye, vanished to be mere mud in the bowels of the ground or as in some customs, ash in an urn. It’s important my friend to consider this and always hold it for then it’s possible our tuning toward God and men would be good.
Friday, May 01, 2009
Thoughts for another day
May 1, 2009.
Today's verse: Amos 4:13. He who forms the mountains, creates the winds, and reveals His thoughts to man, He who turns dawn to darkness, and treads the high places of the earth – the LORD God Almighty is His Name. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)
Here’s an introduction to God that I love and I’m sure you too. Actually, I must confess that when the Bible writers write about the greatness of God, they are constrained because of human words and human understanding. I know God is far greater than any human being can conceive or think. They knew it all along but then they wanted to tell us who came after them and they knew we’d be constrained. As an example, I’d like to quote the writing on the wall that Belshazzar the king of Babylon saw in Ch. 5 of Daniel. Daniel had to explain what it meant for none knew.
So we have to work within our constraints and understand how Great God is. Take for instance, His work of creation. With a Word He formed them all. He forms the winds, the mountains and all things good. He formed the creatures in the sea, on land and in the sky. He made the universe with all its sundry mysteries and He created man with his stupendous brain. Now to those cued to Him constantly, He reveals His thoughts. In fact, so attuned is God to this thing that though He had given great descendents to Abraham, He reflects, ‘shall I hide from Abraham, what I am about to do, now that he is to become a great and populous nation and all the nations of the earth are to find blessing in him?’ Gen. 18:17. See the wonder of God. How good He is to His people.
In fact, it’s time for us to get to know our ‘super God’ and understand His greatness and learn from Him how to live life. For only in Him and because of His Name will we be able to understand the path we are to walk in life on and realize that come what may, no evil can ever strike us for He the Almighty God is with us.
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