Do you ever get that weird feeling sometimes that someone is watching you? You know, that
feeling that makes the hairs on your neck stand up, and goose bumps appear on your arms.
I have, its not a nice feeling. If you're like me, you quickly turn around trying to find those
eyes that have given you the willies.
The truth is, we are being watched! Proverbs 5:21 "For the ways of man are before the
eyes of the LORD, and He pondereth all his goings." God is watching us. He sees when
we cheat someone, complain about things, steal, lie, behave selfishly. He also sees when we
help someone without thought of reward, when we refrain from demanding our own way,
when we turn the other cheek, when we refuse to seek recompense for unfair treatment. He
sees when we are hurt by unkind remarks, when we cry in secret because of a broken and
sorrowful heart, when we put others first without thought to ourselves. Yes, God see's all.
Psalms 56:8 "Thou tellest my wanderings: put Thou my tears into Thy bottle: are
they not in Thy book? The Psalmist knew that God even keeps track of the tears that we
shed, they are important to Him. Why? Because anything that affects His child affects Him.
He see's our tears, He feels our pain and sorrow. His heart aches when our heart aches.
Psalms 139:1 - 4 "O LORD, Thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest
my down sitting and mine uprising, Thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou
compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For
there is not a word in my tongue, but lo, O LORD, Thou knowest it altogether."
Our God is watching us. This should be a comfort to the believer! It should compel us to
live in a different way, the Spirit filled way. It should propel us to witness more and to let
others see through our conduct, speech and dress that we belong to the King of Kings, that
our citizenship is in Heaven, that we are a child of the most High God.
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Monday, February 24, 2014
Minute Musings...The Cost
If you stop and think about it, most of us live from day to day oblivious to the cost of our faith.
Yes, our faith is not free. Salvation is a gift, but its cost was steep. Romans 5:8 "But God
commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."
Our salvation has the price tag of the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ on it. Have you
ever wondered what God thinks when He see's how carelessly, thoughtlessly we treat His
gift of salvation which cost Him His Son's life? You are probably thinking, "I don't do that!"
But if you honestly judge yourselves, we are all guilty of dismissing the cost.
Every time we ignore the Spirit's urgings; the times we get angry and think unkind thoughts.
How about the pride that slips into our lives, the selfishness. Each time we act in the flesh
instead of the Spirit, we are ignoring the cost of our faith. Romans 6:12 exhorts us, "Let
not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof."
This is not saying that we will be sin free on this earth...it's saying that we need to commit
our lives to the Holy Spirit, to let Him have control. Will we fail, yes, unfortunately as long
as we have the old nature we will have this battle. But when we fail, we repent and keep on!
We find that the Apostle Paul had this battle, he speaks of it in Romans 7:18 & 19, "For I
know that in me (that is, in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing; for to will is present with
me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do
not: but the evil which I would not, that I do." But Paul did not quit and give up when
hemfailed, for he knew the cost of his salvation. Romans 8:1 "There is therefore now no
condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but
after the Spirit."
Yes, salvation is free...but there was a great cost to Jesus Christ. And there is also a cost
to us, not in the gift but in the walk. To "walk not after the flesh" involves a sacrifice on
our part! Are you willing to give up whatever it is that is keeping you walking in the flesh
instead of the Spirit? Honestly examine your life in comparison to the cost of your faith;
then repent, make the changes needed to walk "after the Spirit" and become a vibrant,
living testimony for the Author of our faith.
Yes, our faith is not free. Salvation is a gift, but its cost was steep. Romans 5:8 "But God
commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."
Our salvation has the price tag of the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ on it. Have you
ever wondered what God thinks when He see's how carelessly, thoughtlessly we treat His
gift of salvation which cost Him His Son's life? You are probably thinking, "I don't do that!"
But if you honestly judge yourselves, we are all guilty of dismissing the cost.
Every time we ignore the Spirit's urgings; the times we get angry and think unkind thoughts.
How about the pride that slips into our lives, the selfishness. Each time we act in the flesh
instead of the Spirit, we are ignoring the cost of our faith. Romans 6:12 exhorts us, "Let
not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof."
This is not saying that we will be sin free on this earth...it's saying that we need to commit
our lives to the Holy Spirit, to let Him have control. Will we fail, yes, unfortunately as long
as we have the old nature we will have this battle. But when we fail, we repent and keep on!
We find that the Apostle Paul had this battle, he speaks of it in Romans 7:18 & 19, "For I
know that in me (that is, in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing; for to will is present with
me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do
not: but the evil which I would not, that I do." But Paul did not quit and give up when
hemfailed, for he knew the cost of his salvation. Romans 8:1 "There is therefore now no
condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but
after the Spirit."
Yes, salvation is free...but there was a great cost to Jesus Christ. And there is also a cost
to us, not in the gift but in the walk. To "walk not after the flesh" involves a sacrifice on
our part! Are you willing to give up whatever it is that is keeping you walking in the flesh
instead of the Spirit? Honestly examine your life in comparison to the cost of your faith;
then repent, make the changes needed to walk "after the Spirit" and become a vibrant,
living testimony for the Author of our faith.
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Minute Musings...Friendship
Do you want to know what I've discovered? If we were meant to walk this pilgrim pathway
alone, God would not have given us the yearning for friendship. I was reminded again today
of just how important friends can be. I received a call from a friend in North Carolina, we
have been friends for 46 years! A call like that from out of the blue really does lift one's
spirits. Tonight I called the friend I told you about yesterday. She lives in the southern U.S.
This was the first time we have actually talked. What a wonderful 20 minutes. Not only did
my call cheer her up, but it blessed me in return. It is amazing, that although we have never
met, that bond of being "sisters in the Lord" was so strong...it felt like we've known each other
for years! Friendship is one of God's most precious gifts to us.
Life is hard. The Lord Jesus walked this earthly path for 33 years, but He did not walk alone.
He had 12 disciples that He fellowshipped with, taught and guided...and loved. The Bible tells
us in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, "Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another
even as also ye do." And also in Hebrews 10:23 - 25, "Let us hold fast the profession of
our faith without wavering: (for He is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one
another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of our
selves together, as the manner of some is: but exhorting one another: and so much the
more, as ye see the day approaching."
We need each other. We need the encouragement from others to keep going when we face
trials; we need the comfort from others when we have sorrowful hearts; we need the fellowship
with others as we face hardships and the last days. We are told in Romans 12:15 to "Rejoice
with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep." To do this you must have a
personal relationship with each other...you need that bond of fellowship and friendship!
As you go about your daily chores today, remember your friends, thank God for them, stop
and pray for them! And, thank God for our greatest friend, the Lord Jesus Christ, whom has
promised to be with us even unto the end of the world!
alone, God would not have given us the yearning for friendship. I was reminded again today
of just how important friends can be. I received a call from a friend in North Carolina, we
have been friends for 46 years! A call like that from out of the blue really does lift one's
spirits. Tonight I called the friend I told you about yesterday. She lives in the southern U.S.
This was the first time we have actually talked. What a wonderful 20 minutes. Not only did
my call cheer her up, but it blessed me in return. It is amazing, that although we have never
met, that bond of being "sisters in the Lord" was so strong...it felt like we've known each other
for years! Friendship is one of God's most precious gifts to us.
Life is hard. The Lord Jesus walked this earthly path for 33 years, but He did not walk alone.
He had 12 disciples that He fellowshipped with, taught and guided...and loved. The Bible tells
us in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, "Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another
even as also ye do." And also in Hebrews 10:23 - 25, "Let us hold fast the profession of
our faith without wavering: (for He is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one
another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of our
selves together, as the manner of some is: but exhorting one another: and so much the
more, as ye see the day approaching."
We need each other. We need the encouragement from others to keep going when we face
trials; we need the comfort from others when we have sorrowful hearts; we need the fellowship
with others as we face hardships and the last days. We are told in Romans 12:15 to "Rejoice
with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep." To do this you must have a
personal relationship with each other...you need that bond of fellowship and friendship!
As you go about your daily chores today, remember your friends, thank God for them, stop
and pray for them! And, thank God for our greatest friend, the Lord Jesus Christ, whom has
promised to be with us even unto the end of the world!
Friday, February 21, 2014
Minute Musings...Prayer Warriors
I found out today that a very sweet lady I've met on-line (and have since been writing articles
for) has been in a semi-conscious state for nearly two months! We had only ever "talked" on-
line, so I had no way of knowing why all of a sudden I wasn't hearing from her. During those
couple months the Lord kept bringing her to my mind, and I would pray for her. I was so
thankful to hear from her today and to realize why the Lord kept bringing her to my thoughts
so often.
Have you ever had someone in your thoughts and wondered why you were thinking about them
so much? Perhaps that friend is going through a trial you know nothing about, has a heart-
ache, or is sick. God wants you to pray for them! Yes, God knows their circumstances, but
He works through prayer. Being a prayer warrior is an important job in the Kings service!
I have a little wall plaque that my Aunt gave my dad when he was sick with cancer, it says,
"More things are wrought by prayer, then this world dreams of." Praying for others can be
a full time ministry!
The Apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 4:6, "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing
by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto
God." God wants us to ask Him for things! Be careful however to ask according to His
will! Many people pray for things, then get mad at God for not answering and giving them
what they wanted! 1 John 5:14 & 15 "And this is the confidence that we have in Him,
that, if we ask anything according to His will He heareth us: And if we know that He
hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desire of Him."
I keep a prayer journal, and always mark off when prayers have been answered. What a
blessing to look back through this book and see how faithful my God has been. The next
time the Lord brings someone to your mind, just stop for a minute and commit them to the
love and protection of the Lord...remember, "More things are wrought be prayer, then
this world dreams of."
for) has been in a semi-conscious state for nearly two months! We had only ever "talked" on-
line, so I had no way of knowing why all of a sudden I wasn't hearing from her. During those
couple months the Lord kept bringing her to my mind, and I would pray for her. I was so
thankful to hear from her today and to realize why the Lord kept bringing her to my thoughts
so often.
Have you ever had someone in your thoughts and wondered why you were thinking about them
so much? Perhaps that friend is going through a trial you know nothing about, has a heart-
ache, or is sick. God wants you to pray for them! Yes, God knows their circumstances, but
He works through prayer. Being a prayer warrior is an important job in the Kings service!
I have a little wall plaque that my Aunt gave my dad when he was sick with cancer, it says,
"More things are wrought by prayer, then this world dreams of." Praying for others can be
a full time ministry!
The Apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 4:6, "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing
by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto
God." God wants us to ask Him for things! Be careful however to ask according to His
will! Many people pray for things, then get mad at God for not answering and giving them
what they wanted! 1 John 5:14 & 15 "And this is the confidence that we have in Him,
that, if we ask anything according to His will He heareth us: And if we know that He
hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desire of Him."
I keep a prayer journal, and always mark off when prayers have been answered. What a
blessing to look back through this book and see how faithful my God has been. The next
time the Lord brings someone to your mind, just stop for a minute and commit them to the
love and protection of the Lord...remember, "More things are wrought be prayer, then
this world dreams of."
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Minute Musings...Intertwined
I was reminded again last night of just how much our lives intertwine with others. How
what we've gone through in our lives can be a help to others. But are we letting it? Are
we using the knowledge that we've gained from experience to equip others that are facing
the same challenges? Or are we content to just sit and be glad it's over. The Bible has
something to say about this!
2 Corinthians 1:3 & 4 "Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our
tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the
comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God."
The pain and suffering we go through is not just to teach us and draw us closer to the
Lord; we are to take what we have learned, and the comfort we found in the Lord and
share it with others who are struggling through the same trials that we did. Who better
to help them, then someone who knows what they are dealing with. We experienced
the comforting hand of our loving Heavenly Father in our hardships; it is expected of
us by God, to pass this comfort on to the hurting that surround us every day.
Don't you feel fortified and strengthened when someone comes up to you and gives you
a hug, while telling you that they understand, and that they will pray for you! That always
gives me that little extra bit of encouragement that is needed some days. Just knowing
that someone cares and is thinking about you, can change the course of the day. It doesn't
take that much time out of your day to pick up the phone, or send someone a card or email.
Remember, that the best advice is always to point them to the Lord, He and He alone is
their ultimate encourager, strength and comfort. Matthew 11:28 "Come unto Me, all
ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
what we've gone through in our lives can be a help to others. But are we letting it? Are
we using the knowledge that we've gained from experience to equip others that are facing
the same challenges? Or are we content to just sit and be glad it's over. The Bible has
something to say about this!
2 Corinthians 1:3 & 4 "Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our
tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the
comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God."
The pain and suffering we go through is not just to teach us and draw us closer to the
Lord; we are to take what we have learned, and the comfort we found in the Lord and
share it with others who are struggling through the same trials that we did. Who better
to help them, then someone who knows what they are dealing with. We experienced
the comforting hand of our loving Heavenly Father in our hardships; it is expected of
us by God, to pass this comfort on to the hurting that surround us every day.
Don't you feel fortified and strengthened when someone comes up to you and gives you
a hug, while telling you that they understand, and that they will pray for you! That always
gives me that little extra bit of encouragement that is needed some days. Just knowing
that someone cares and is thinking about you, can change the course of the day. It doesn't
take that much time out of your day to pick up the phone, or send someone a card or email.
Remember, that the best advice is always to point them to the Lord, He and He alone is
their ultimate encourager, strength and comfort. Matthew 11:28 "Come unto Me, all
ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Miniute Musings...Token Christianity
What is "token Christianity" you might ask? It is someone who wants all the benefits
without paying any of the price. You've met these people...they're all around us! You
might be wondering how you can know a real Christian from a fake one. There is one
verse in particular that a fake Christian rejects vehemently, 2 Corinthians 6:17 & 18
"Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and
touch not the unclean thing: and I will receive you, and will a Father unto you, and
ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." For a true child of
God, Biblical separation is a privilege and joy, for it is obedience to our Savior and
Lord.
Our salvation came with a tremendous price, the death, burial and resurrection of the
Lord Jesus Christ. Now don't misunderstand me, the gift of salvation is free, but the
walk of salvation demands a price. "Be ye separate, saith the Lord." Separate from
what? Separate from the world, it's ways, thoughts and morality. Separate from those
that would take the precious Word of God and pervert it to suit themselves. Separate
from the washed down, social Christianity of the day.
A true Christian will, with the help of God, be willing and able to stand for the true
God, in a day and age that will turn on them for doing so! Most people today want to
claim the name without the struggle, want to claim the cross without the fight. It can't
be done. They might have the world fooled, but not God.
In Matthew 25:31 - 34 we find the prophecy of the return of the Good Shepherd, and
how He finds His sheep and separates them from the goats in the last day. "When the
Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He
sit upon the throne of His glory: and before Him shall be gathered all nations: and
He shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth His sheep from
the goats: And He shall set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left.
Then shall the King say unto them on His right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father,
inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world." God knows
who are His, and who are just "token" Christians. Check yourself today; are you merely
talking the talk, or are you truly walking the walk? "Be ye separate, saith the Lord."
without paying any of the price. You've met these people...they're all around us! You
might be wondering how you can know a real Christian from a fake one. There is one
verse in particular that a fake Christian rejects vehemently, 2 Corinthians 6:17 & 18
"Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and
touch not the unclean thing: and I will receive you, and will a Father unto you, and
ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." For a true child of
God, Biblical separation is a privilege and joy, for it is obedience to our Savior and
Lord.
Our salvation came with a tremendous price, the death, burial and resurrection of the
Lord Jesus Christ. Now don't misunderstand me, the gift of salvation is free, but the
walk of salvation demands a price. "Be ye separate, saith the Lord." Separate from
what? Separate from the world, it's ways, thoughts and morality. Separate from those
that would take the precious Word of God and pervert it to suit themselves. Separate
from the washed down, social Christianity of the day.
A true Christian will, with the help of God, be willing and able to stand for the true
God, in a day and age that will turn on them for doing so! Most people today want to
claim the name without the struggle, want to claim the cross without the fight. It can't
be done. They might have the world fooled, but not God.
In Matthew 25:31 - 34 we find the prophecy of the return of the Good Shepherd, and
how He finds His sheep and separates them from the goats in the last day. "When the
Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He
sit upon the throne of His glory: and before Him shall be gathered all nations: and
He shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth His sheep from
the goats: And He shall set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left.
Then shall the King say unto them on His right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father,
inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world." God knows
who are His, and who are just "token" Christians. Check yourself today; are you merely
talking the talk, or are you truly walking the walk? "Be ye separate, saith the Lord."
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Minute Musings...What Design Label Do You Wear?
It feels good to look your best doesn't it, and there is nothing wrong with fixing ourselves up.
Some Christians get a little confused with the following verses though, 1 Peter 3:3 "Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and the wearing of gold,
or of putting on of apparel;" A lot of people stop right at this verse, claiming that it is wrong
to wear jewelry, fine clothes etc. But this is not what this is saying, the verse ends in a semi-
colon, there more to say! Verse 4 "But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which
is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of
God of great price." Why would a God who puts so much beauty in nature, not want His child
to be beautiful? But the world has corrupted beauty, lets take a look at what real beauty looks
like.
That old saying, "It's what's on the inside that counts" really is true! What is the point of an
impeccably dressed person, if they are rotten and corrupt on the inside. What's on the inside
is sure to come out, so it doesn't matter how they're dressed does it? You see, God is more
interested on the inside. The outside will highlight whatever is on the inside, good or bad.
I heard an old saying years ago by a preacher, "What's the point of painting the outside of
the barn if its just used to hold garbage?"
Now, lets just put a word of warning here; while its good to look nice, one needs to be
careful that it doesn't become your number one priority! Serving the Lord in humbleness,
truth and sincerity must still be the most important thing in your life. When your clothes,
makeup and popularity take over your life then they become a sin that must be confessed
and forsaken.
True beauty comes from within. A Christian who loves the Lord, and has His love shining
forth in what they do and say, are the most beautiful people in the world...it has nothing
to do with what they are wearing. For you see, being clothed in the righteousness and
beauty of the Lord Jesus Christ is priceless apparel! What design label do you wear?
Romans 13:14 "But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ,"
Some Christians get a little confused with the following verses though, 1 Peter 3:3 "Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and the wearing of gold,
or of putting on of apparel;" A lot of people stop right at this verse, claiming that it is wrong
to wear jewelry, fine clothes etc. But this is not what this is saying, the verse ends in a semi-
colon, there more to say! Verse 4 "But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which
is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of
God of great price." Why would a God who puts so much beauty in nature, not want His child
to be beautiful? But the world has corrupted beauty, lets take a look at what real beauty looks
like.
That old saying, "It's what's on the inside that counts" really is true! What is the point of an
impeccably dressed person, if they are rotten and corrupt on the inside. What's on the inside
is sure to come out, so it doesn't matter how they're dressed does it? You see, God is more
interested on the inside. The outside will highlight whatever is on the inside, good or bad.
I heard an old saying years ago by a preacher, "What's the point of painting the outside of
the barn if its just used to hold garbage?"
Now, lets just put a word of warning here; while its good to look nice, one needs to be
careful that it doesn't become your number one priority! Serving the Lord in humbleness,
truth and sincerity must still be the most important thing in your life. When your clothes,
makeup and popularity take over your life then they become a sin that must be confessed
and forsaken.
True beauty comes from within. A Christian who loves the Lord, and has His love shining
forth in what they do and say, are the most beautiful people in the world...it has nothing
to do with what they are wearing. For you see, being clothed in the righteousness and
beauty of the Lord Jesus Christ is priceless apparel! What design label do you wear?
Romans 13:14 "But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ,"
Monday, February 17, 2014
Minute Musings...Reach For The Rock
I've been sitting here looking at an empty screen, praying that the Lord would show me what
to write. These are the verses that kept coming to mind, Psalms 9:9 & 10 "The LORD also
will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know Thy
name will put their trust in Thee: for Thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek
Thee."
There are some special promises contained in these two verses; first the Lord will be our
refuge, and secondly, He has not forsaken those that seek Him. Sometimes in the midst of
trials and adversity, it's easy to succumb to the thinking that God must have forgotten about
us. But the reality is that our loving Heavenly Father is right beside us, guiding us through
the troubles! The secret is to remember to seek Him in these times. He will impart the peace
that we so desperately need at those moments when the devil would have us believe that God
doesn't care. Look at this verse once again, the Lord does not forsake those that seek Him!
Jeremiah 29:13 "And ye shall seek Me, and find me, when ye shall search for Me with
all your heart."
Have you ever been out in a sudden downpour and you quickly try to find some place to wait
out the storm? Our God is that refuge in the storm, that place of safety and peace, where we
can wait out the oppression that would try to beat us down. Psalms 27:5 "For in the time of
trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion: in the secret of His tabernacle shall He hide
me; He shall set me up upon a rock."
There is no safer place to be in the storms of life than upon the rock, Christ Jesus. Upon
this Rock, we are secure, safe from the enemy.
Are you floundering in the storm? Reach for that Rock, the Lord Jesus Christ. Let Him
hide you, shelter you and protect you! There is no need to be out in the storm!
to write. These are the verses that kept coming to mind, Psalms 9:9 & 10 "The LORD also
will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know Thy
name will put their trust in Thee: for Thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek
Thee."
There are some special promises contained in these two verses; first the Lord will be our
refuge, and secondly, He has not forsaken those that seek Him. Sometimes in the midst of
trials and adversity, it's easy to succumb to the thinking that God must have forgotten about
us. But the reality is that our loving Heavenly Father is right beside us, guiding us through
the troubles! The secret is to remember to seek Him in these times. He will impart the peace
that we so desperately need at those moments when the devil would have us believe that God
doesn't care. Look at this verse once again, the Lord does not forsake those that seek Him!
Jeremiah 29:13 "And ye shall seek Me, and find me, when ye shall search for Me with
all your heart."
Have you ever been out in a sudden downpour and you quickly try to find some place to wait
out the storm? Our God is that refuge in the storm, that place of safety and peace, where we
can wait out the oppression that would try to beat us down. Psalms 27:5 "For in the time of
trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion: in the secret of His tabernacle shall He hide
me; He shall set me up upon a rock."
There is no safer place to be in the storms of life than upon the rock, Christ Jesus. Upon
this Rock, we are secure, safe from the enemy.
Are you floundering in the storm? Reach for that Rock, the Lord Jesus Christ. Let Him
hide you, shelter you and protect you! There is no need to be out in the storm!
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Minute Musings...In His Steps
"In His Steps" is a best selling book by Charles Monroe Sheldon. It was first published in
1897, and having sold more than 30,000,000 copies, it is ranked as one of the best selling
books of all time. It is one of my favorite books, which I've read countless times.
The plot is set in a small U.S. railroad town of Raymond. The main character is Rev. Henry
Maxwell. The Pastor challenges the members of his small congregation, not to do anything
for one whole year without first asking themselves this simple question, "What would Jesus
do?" Lives are transformed by this simple challenge. Eventually a revival sweeps through
this little church, and the effects are felt throughout the community and beyond, as folks let
the Spirit of God control their actions, decisions, motives, and speech.
Philippians 2:5 "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:"
If you were to stop before every decision you make; before every word you utter; before
every action you take, and ask yourself this simple question, "What would Jesus Do," I
guarantee you that we would be different. There would be things that we would be too
ashamed to say or do, because we would realize that Jesus would not react the way we
are prone too.
We are admonished in the Scriptures to "Let this mind be in you, which was also in
Christ Jesus." What kind of mind did our Lord Jesus have? His mind was filled and
controlled by the Holy Spirit, it was totally committed to doing the Father's will, and it
was completely filled with love and compassion for others.
The challenge from this book has never left my mind since I first read it over 30 years ago.
Do I always succeed in having the mind of Christ in me...sadly no. There are days when
the old nature has control and there are actions, thoughts and words that I'm forced to repent
of. But that doesn't mean that I throw in the towel and give up! Each new dawn is a fresh
start to be Spirit filled and controlled. It's a fresh start to have a vibrant testimony before
others, a fresh start to please our Heavenly Father. I extend the challenge to you today to
ask yourselves... "What would Jesus do."
1897, and having sold more than 30,000,000 copies, it is ranked as one of the best selling
books of all time. It is one of my favorite books, which I've read countless times.
The plot is set in a small U.S. railroad town of Raymond. The main character is Rev. Henry
Maxwell. The Pastor challenges the members of his small congregation, not to do anything
for one whole year without first asking themselves this simple question, "What would Jesus
do?" Lives are transformed by this simple challenge. Eventually a revival sweeps through
this little church, and the effects are felt throughout the community and beyond, as folks let
the Spirit of God control their actions, decisions, motives, and speech.
Philippians 2:5 "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:"
If you were to stop before every decision you make; before every word you utter; before
every action you take, and ask yourself this simple question, "What would Jesus Do," I
guarantee you that we would be different. There would be things that we would be too
ashamed to say or do, because we would realize that Jesus would not react the way we
are prone too.
We are admonished in the Scriptures to "Let this mind be in you, which was also in
Christ Jesus." What kind of mind did our Lord Jesus have? His mind was filled and
controlled by the Holy Spirit, it was totally committed to doing the Father's will, and it
was completely filled with love and compassion for others.
The challenge from this book has never left my mind since I first read it over 30 years ago.
Do I always succeed in having the mind of Christ in me...sadly no. There are days when
the old nature has control and there are actions, thoughts and words that I'm forced to repent
of. But that doesn't mean that I throw in the towel and give up! Each new dawn is a fresh
start to be Spirit filled and controlled. It's a fresh start to have a vibrant testimony before
others, a fresh start to please our Heavenly Father. I extend the challenge to you today to
ask yourselves... "What would Jesus do."
Saturday, February 15, 2014
Minute Musings...Temper Tantrums
Have you ever been in a store and heard a child throwing a wild temper tantrum? I'm sure
that we've all had occasion to witness the frantic parent trying to calm the flailing child down.
Or, perhaps you've been that frantic parent trying to restrain your kicking screaming child, all
the time wondering, what on earth had possessed your little angel! When I was younger...
before children, when I thought I had all the answers, I used to say to myself...never my child!
Well, looking back, I remember an occasion or two, when yes, even my little darlings dared
to try the tantrum! You don't have to teach a child to sin, it comes naturally, from the sin
nature that we are all born with.
But before we are too hard on these little sweethearts, may I tell you that we are all guilty
of throwing temper tantrums...Spiritual temper tantrums. Now, you might be saying, no, not
me! But I think, if your honest, you will have to admit that yes, you have thrown the occasional
Spiritual temper tantrum. A temper tantrum can be passive as well. You'll recognize this with
your children...the crossed arms, turned down lip, evil eyes and seething breath. They might
not say anything, but you know they are very angry with you. We do this with God sometimes.
We defiantly take a stand, that we are not going to talk to that person, we are not going to ask
for forgiveness, we are not... Yes we are guilty.
Jonah 1:2 & 3 "Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their
wickedness is come up before me. But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the
presence of the LORD..." God told Jonah to do something and he said in his heart..NO,
and he fled from the presence of the Lord God. Just as our children cannot disobey us
without consequence, so you cannot disobey God with His judgement falling on you. We
know the story, how God caused a great storm, and Jonah was eventually thrown over-
board in order to save the lives of those on the ship. God had prepared a great fish to
swallow Jonah. It was there, in the belly of that fish, that he came to his senses, repented
and surrendered to the will of God. He went to Nineveh and witnessed a revival in that
city. But wouldn't it have been so much easier on him, if he had just obeyed God in the
first place?
We as grown-ups act as stubborn as little children don't we. We want our way and try to
disregard what God asks of us. The next time God tells you to do something, don't passively
stand there with a temper tantrum seething in your heart! Learn to sweetly submit and say
with Samuel of old, "Speak; for Thy servant heareth." 1 Samuel 3:10
that we've all had occasion to witness the frantic parent trying to calm the flailing child down.
Or, perhaps you've been that frantic parent trying to restrain your kicking screaming child, all
the time wondering, what on earth had possessed your little angel! When I was younger...
before children, when I thought I had all the answers, I used to say to myself...never my child!
Well, looking back, I remember an occasion or two, when yes, even my little darlings dared
to try the tantrum! You don't have to teach a child to sin, it comes naturally, from the sin
nature that we are all born with.
But before we are too hard on these little sweethearts, may I tell you that we are all guilty
of throwing temper tantrums...Spiritual temper tantrums. Now, you might be saying, no, not
me! But I think, if your honest, you will have to admit that yes, you have thrown the occasional
Spiritual temper tantrum. A temper tantrum can be passive as well. You'll recognize this with
your children...the crossed arms, turned down lip, evil eyes and seething breath. They might
not say anything, but you know they are very angry with you. We do this with God sometimes.
We defiantly take a stand, that we are not going to talk to that person, we are not going to ask
for forgiveness, we are not... Yes we are guilty.
Jonah 1:2 & 3 "Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their
wickedness is come up before me. But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the
presence of the LORD..." God told Jonah to do something and he said in his heart..NO,
and he fled from the presence of the Lord God. Just as our children cannot disobey us
without consequence, so you cannot disobey God with His judgement falling on you. We
know the story, how God caused a great storm, and Jonah was eventually thrown over-
board in order to save the lives of those on the ship. God had prepared a great fish to
swallow Jonah. It was there, in the belly of that fish, that he came to his senses, repented
and surrendered to the will of God. He went to Nineveh and witnessed a revival in that
city. But wouldn't it have been so much easier on him, if he had just obeyed God in the
first place?
We as grown-ups act as stubborn as little children don't we. We want our way and try to
disregard what God asks of us. The next time God tells you to do something, don't passively
stand there with a temper tantrum seething in your heart! Learn to sweetly submit and say
with Samuel of old, "Speak; for Thy servant heareth." 1 Samuel 3:10
Friday, February 14, 2014
Minute Musings...Make No Provision
My son called the other night and our conversation turned to the topic of sin. Most people
today tend to categorize sin. It eases their conscience if they convince themselves that their
sin is not really that bad! For instance, they reason that a little white lie is not as bad as
stealing; or, a bad temper doesn't equal murder. Well, the truth of the matter is that sin is
sin, and God doesn't have categories for sin. God views ALL sin very seriously, for it was
our sin that nailed the Lord Jesus Christ, His son, to the cross. While on that cross, the sin
of the world was placed on Jesus, and God had to turn His back on His beloved Son. Sin
separates us from God.
Isaiah 59:1 & 2 "Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save: neither
His ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and
your God, and your sins have hid His face from you, that He will not hear."
Our God is a holy God, and He cannot be in the presence of sin. It puts a whole new twist
on that little white lie or impure thought doesn't it! 1 Samuel 2:2 "There is none holy as
the LORD: for there is none beside Thee: neither is there any rock like our God."
When we allow ourselves to think as the world thinks, we lose the blessed fellowship with
the Lord. I know that I've quoted this verse many times, but it's a verse that comes to my
mind with great frequency, Psalms 19:14 "Let the words of my mouth, and the
meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O LORD, my strength and my
redeemer." Our tongue and what we think on can quickly lead us astray. Do you realize
that we can murder with our thoughts and words? Lustful thoughts are the same as
fornication! This is all sin to God.
Are you easing your conscience by shrugging off sin as non-consequential? Remember,
there are no degree's of sin in God's eyes. All sin sent His Son to the cross. Anything that
breaks our fellowship with Him, must be repented of and forsaken! Pray for the Lord's help
to walk in the Spirit today. Romans 13:14 "But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and
make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof."
today tend to categorize sin. It eases their conscience if they convince themselves that their
sin is not really that bad! For instance, they reason that a little white lie is not as bad as
stealing; or, a bad temper doesn't equal murder. Well, the truth of the matter is that sin is
sin, and God doesn't have categories for sin. God views ALL sin very seriously, for it was
our sin that nailed the Lord Jesus Christ, His son, to the cross. While on that cross, the sin
of the world was placed on Jesus, and God had to turn His back on His beloved Son. Sin
separates us from God.
Isaiah 59:1 & 2 "Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save: neither
His ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and
your God, and your sins have hid His face from you, that He will not hear."
Our God is a holy God, and He cannot be in the presence of sin. It puts a whole new twist
on that little white lie or impure thought doesn't it! 1 Samuel 2:2 "There is none holy as
the LORD: for there is none beside Thee: neither is there any rock like our God."
When we allow ourselves to think as the world thinks, we lose the blessed fellowship with
the Lord. I know that I've quoted this verse many times, but it's a verse that comes to my
mind with great frequency, Psalms 19:14 "Let the words of my mouth, and the
meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O LORD, my strength and my
redeemer." Our tongue and what we think on can quickly lead us astray. Do you realize
that we can murder with our thoughts and words? Lustful thoughts are the same as
fornication! This is all sin to God.
Are you easing your conscience by shrugging off sin as non-consequential? Remember,
there are no degree's of sin in God's eyes. All sin sent His Son to the cross. Anything that
breaks our fellowship with Him, must be repented of and forsaken! Pray for the Lord's help
to walk in the Spirit today. Romans 13:14 "But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and
make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof."
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Minute Musings...Moving Day
I'm sitting here these days surrounded by boxes. My house is torn apart as I prepare to make
the move to Ontario in the next little while. Moving is stressful! I thought when I moved into
this house 9 years ago this week, that it would be my last move. I'm experiencing a wide
spectrum of emotions as I prepare to say goodbye, not only to my friends and family that I
will be leaving behind, but also to my home province of Nova Scotia! There is no other place
in Canada (in my way of thinking!) that is as unique and beautiful as Nova Scotia!
But, there is still one other move that is coming for me down the road at some point! John 14:3
"And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself:
that where I am, there ye may be also." At the end of my journey to Ontario, I will see my
loving son, his beautiful wife and my precious new grandbaby. I'm excited about seeing them,
being in their company, living with them. Am I as excited to make that final move to my heavenly home? I should be excited about seeing my Lord, being in His company, living with Him in Glory...but am I?
1 Corinthians 2:9 "But as it is written, eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have
entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him."
God is preparing MY house! Look around at the beauty of nature, the breathtaking colors in
the rainbows that grace the skies, the different hues of blues and greens that paint the oceans,
the wide array of vibrant colors that clothe the birds! If God took the time to make this earth
so beautiful to our eyes, can you imagine what our heavenly home is going to be like that He is
spending so much time preparing for us!
This final move in my life, will be the best move of all...I'll finally be at my permanent destination.
No more moving again! There will be no tedious packing for that move...my Lord will call and
I'll just go home! John 12:26 "If any man serve Me, let him follow Me; and where I am,
there shall also My servant be;"
the move to Ontario in the next little while. Moving is stressful! I thought when I moved into
this house 9 years ago this week, that it would be my last move. I'm experiencing a wide
spectrum of emotions as I prepare to say goodbye, not only to my friends and family that I
will be leaving behind, but also to my home province of Nova Scotia! There is no other place
in Canada (in my way of thinking!) that is as unique and beautiful as Nova Scotia!
But, there is still one other move that is coming for me down the road at some point! John 14:3
"And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself:
that where I am, there ye may be also." At the end of my journey to Ontario, I will see my
loving son, his beautiful wife and my precious new grandbaby. I'm excited about seeing them,
being in their company, living with them. Am I as excited to make that final move to my heavenly home? I should be excited about seeing my Lord, being in His company, living with Him in Glory...but am I?
1 Corinthians 2:9 "But as it is written, eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have
entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him."
God is preparing MY house! Look around at the beauty of nature, the breathtaking colors in
the rainbows that grace the skies, the different hues of blues and greens that paint the oceans,
the wide array of vibrant colors that clothe the birds! If God took the time to make this earth
so beautiful to our eyes, can you imagine what our heavenly home is going to be like that He is
spending so much time preparing for us!
This final move in my life, will be the best move of all...I'll finally be at my permanent destination.
No more moving again! There will be no tedious packing for that move...my Lord will call and
I'll just go home! John 12:26 "If any man serve Me, let him follow Me; and where I am,
there shall also My servant be;"
Some glad morning, when this life is over
I'll fly away.
To a land where joys will never end,
I'll fly away!
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Minute Musings...Rooted & Built Up
Have you ever tried to move a tree root that is deep in the ground? Years ago we had moved
into a house that did not have any landscaping done. The front yard was easy, just a matter
of getting some topsoil and putting in grass seed. The back yard was a nightmare! There were
3 big tree's that had been cut down by the construction crew for us, but the roots remained.
It took a lot of hard, back-breaking work, plus a truck and chains to pull those monstrosities
out of the ground! Those roots had gone deep into the ground.
Psalms 16:8 "I have set the LORD always before me: because He is at my right hand,
I shall not be moved."
We have the Lord in our hearts and before our eyes, He is at our side...we shall not be moved!
No matter how hard Satan tries to pull us away, we are rooted and built up in Him! Colossians
2:6 & 7 "As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, (in faith) so walk ye in Him:
Rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding
therein with thanksgiving."
We may bend in the storms of life, sway in the winds of adversity, but we will never be pulled
up by the roots and discarded because we are rooted in Christ. Just as a root takes its nutrients
from the soil; so we take our sustenance from the Word of God. Through daily fellowship,
prayer and reading the Word, we will grow strong in the Lord. The fruit of the Spirit will be
present in our lives. However if we neglect our daily bread, don't make time in our day for
devotions, we will become spindly, wimpy "plants," not producing any fruit for the Master.
Let your roots go deep into Christ, let your walk be strong and your service fruitful for the
Lord! Rooted in Christ, we may sway but we will never break.
2 Thessalonians 3:3 "But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you and keep you
from evil."
into a house that did not have any landscaping done. The front yard was easy, just a matter
of getting some topsoil and putting in grass seed. The back yard was a nightmare! There were
3 big tree's that had been cut down by the construction crew for us, but the roots remained.
It took a lot of hard, back-breaking work, plus a truck and chains to pull those monstrosities
out of the ground! Those roots had gone deep into the ground.
Psalms 16:8 "I have set the LORD always before me: because He is at my right hand,
I shall not be moved."
We have the Lord in our hearts and before our eyes, He is at our side...we shall not be moved!
No matter how hard Satan tries to pull us away, we are rooted and built up in Him! Colossians
2:6 & 7 "As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, (in faith) so walk ye in Him:
Rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding
therein with thanksgiving."
We may bend in the storms of life, sway in the winds of adversity, but we will never be pulled
up by the roots and discarded because we are rooted in Christ. Just as a root takes its nutrients
from the soil; so we take our sustenance from the Word of God. Through daily fellowship,
prayer and reading the Word, we will grow strong in the Lord. The fruit of the Spirit will be
present in our lives. However if we neglect our daily bread, don't make time in our day for
devotions, we will become spindly, wimpy "plants," not producing any fruit for the Master.
Let your roots go deep into Christ, let your walk be strong and your service fruitful for the
Lord! Rooted in Christ, we may sway but we will never break.
2 Thessalonians 3:3 "But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you and keep you
from evil."
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Minute Musings...Training To Win
How many times do we think we know better than the Lord what is best for us? We reason
with our finite minds, what we deem the right problems, length of trials and the reason why
we should have to go through these tribulations. May I tell you that we know nothing! We
don't like to hear that do we! Our old nature rises up within us and wants to argue that
point with fervor. Now be honest, if given the choice would any of us choose to go through
the things that we've faced? Definitely not. Our human nature naturally wants the path
of least resistance.
Look for a moment at an athlete. If he did not have resistance training when preparing for
an event, what would his endurance level be? Not very high. He would run into trouble
before he completed the competition. His coach however knows that even though the training
is hard, long and tedious, when the time comes, his athlete will be able to stand up against the
rigors of the course before him.
We find in Hebrews 12:1 & 2 the description of our task in this world. "Wherefore seeing
we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every
weight and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race
that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith; who for
the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down
at the right hand of the throne of God."
It is customary for an athlete to train with weights on his legs. Although this makes the
training difficult, it builds up his leg muscles. The day of the race, the weights are removed
and he can fly down that course!
Our "coach" is familiar with this race, He has run it before us! He knows what is required
to finish the course. What He sends our way is strengthening us, He is giving us the needed
equipment to train in order to finish the course! An athlete has complete trust in his coach,
he does what is asked of him because he knows that it is preparing him for the big race. How
do we react when our "coach" the Lord Jesus Christ adds weights to the training sessions,
when He sends us the needed trials that will give us the added strength we need to complete
the race?
Check your attitude today, and become determined, with God's help, to say with Paul in
these two passages; Philippians 3:14, "I press towards the mark for the prize, of the
high calling of God in Christ Jesus." And 2 Timothy 4:7, "I have fought a good fight, I
have finished my course, I have kept the faith:"
with our finite minds, what we deem the right problems, length of trials and the reason why
we should have to go through these tribulations. May I tell you that we know nothing! We
don't like to hear that do we! Our old nature rises up within us and wants to argue that
point with fervor. Now be honest, if given the choice would any of us choose to go through
the things that we've faced? Definitely not. Our human nature naturally wants the path
of least resistance.
Look for a moment at an athlete. If he did not have resistance training when preparing for
an event, what would his endurance level be? Not very high. He would run into trouble
before he completed the competition. His coach however knows that even though the training
is hard, long and tedious, when the time comes, his athlete will be able to stand up against the
rigors of the course before him.
We find in Hebrews 12:1 & 2 the description of our task in this world. "Wherefore seeing
we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every
weight and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race
that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith; who for
the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down
at the right hand of the throne of God."
It is customary for an athlete to train with weights on his legs. Although this makes the
training difficult, it builds up his leg muscles. The day of the race, the weights are removed
and he can fly down that course!
Our "coach" is familiar with this race, He has run it before us! He knows what is required
to finish the course. What He sends our way is strengthening us, He is giving us the needed
equipment to train in order to finish the course! An athlete has complete trust in his coach,
he does what is asked of him because he knows that it is preparing him for the big race. How
do we react when our "coach" the Lord Jesus Christ adds weights to the training sessions,
when He sends us the needed trials that will give us the added strength we need to complete
the race?
Check your attitude today, and become determined, with God's help, to say with Paul in
these two passages; Philippians 3:14, "I press towards the mark for the prize, of the
high calling of God in Christ Jesus." And 2 Timothy 4:7, "I have fought a good fight, I
have finished my course, I have kept the faith:"
Monday, February 10, 2014
Minute Musings...Dwelling
I thought today that I would just share with you two of my favorite verses. They are found in
Psalms 91:1 & 2 "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under
the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge, and my fortress;
my God: in Him will I trust." What powerful verses, they hold so much promise for the
child of God. I have many days when I just feel overwhelmed by the many problems that are
presenting themselves. My God has a secret place for me, it's a place that is within His shadow.
For there to be a shadow God must be standing beside me! What a marvellous thought.
In the shadow of my God is refuge. God does not leave His precious child defenseless against
the storms that come. He loves us and has provided a safe haven, a place of protection for
us. It also says that He is our fortress. A fortress is impenetrable to the attacks of the enemy.
Its walls are high and solid, and nothing can break down its fortified doors. The occupants
are safe from the arrows of the foe when they run to the shelter of the mighty fortress. God
has said that He is our fortress. When we are in Him, we are safe from the fiery darts of
the enemy.
This passage goes on to say in verses 4 & 5 "He shall cover thee with His feathers, and
under His wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou
shalt not be afraid for the terror by night: nor for the arrow that flieth by day:"
How very thankful I am, that I am a child of God! I can abide in His shadow, He is my
refuge and fortress, He covers me with His feathers and hides me beneath His wings.
He is my shield and bucker, I have no need to fear. What wonderful statements I can
make and precious promises I can claim.
How about you? Do you know God? These wonderful truths are for every child of God.
How very blessed we are to be so loved by our Heavenly Father. Find that secret place
and rest and rejoice in your Savior today!
Psalms 91:1 & 2 "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under
the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge, and my fortress;
my God: in Him will I trust." What powerful verses, they hold so much promise for the
child of God. I have many days when I just feel overwhelmed by the many problems that are
presenting themselves. My God has a secret place for me, it's a place that is within His shadow.
For there to be a shadow God must be standing beside me! What a marvellous thought.
In the shadow of my God is refuge. God does not leave His precious child defenseless against
the storms that come. He loves us and has provided a safe haven, a place of protection for
us. It also says that He is our fortress. A fortress is impenetrable to the attacks of the enemy.
Its walls are high and solid, and nothing can break down its fortified doors. The occupants
are safe from the arrows of the foe when they run to the shelter of the mighty fortress. God
has said that He is our fortress. When we are in Him, we are safe from the fiery darts of
the enemy.
This passage goes on to say in verses 4 & 5 "He shall cover thee with His feathers, and
under His wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou
shalt not be afraid for the terror by night: nor for the arrow that flieth by day:"
How very thankful I am, that I am a child of God! I can abide in His shadow, He is my
refuge and fortress, He covers me with His feathers and hides me beneath His wings.
He is my shield and bucker, I have no need to fear. What wonderful statements I can
make and precious promises I can claim.
How about you? Do you know God? These wonderful truths are for every child of God.
How very blessed we are to be so loved by our Heavenly Father. Find that secret place
and rest and rejoice in your Savior today!
Sunday, February 9, 2014
Minute Musings...Get The Boomerang!
I like to do things for people just for the fun of knowing that they are going to enjoy it. It's
even more fun for if they don't know that it was me. It's nice to surprise people with things
that you know are going to make them happy. I love doing little extra's for my kids, just too
remind them that Mom is thinking about them and loves them very much.
Do you realize that there is someone that loves us very much and likes doing the little extra's
for us each day to remind us that He is thinking about us and loves us very much! Our
Heavenly Father loves to bless us. We read in Psalms 68:19, "Blessed be the Lord, who
daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah." God just doesn't
toss tidbits of blessings our way now and then, it says that He daily loadeth us with these
benefits or blessings.
Are you seeing them? Or are you so caught up in the problems, business and stresses of the
day, that you miss what God sends your way to enjoy. We have a tendency of being blind
to blessings. We need to open our eyes anew at the bounty of benefits that our Heavenly
Father loads us with each day. Are you catching them, are you thanking Him, and are you
passing these blessings along to another who just might need that same encouragement?
We are blessed to bless others! I've seen time and time again, that when you share a
blessing, you are blessed again in return! Blessings, give to the recipient, and also give
back to the giver. Spirit led giving has a boomerang affect!
Luke 6:38 "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and
shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same
measure that ye mete withal, it shall be measured to you again."
We don't give with the intension to receive, we give out of kindness and love for another...
this is the only kind of giving that is blessed by the Lord. So pay attention today to the
benefits that your Heavenly Father has given to brighten your day, then get the
boomerang out and have some fun!
even more fun for if they don't know that it was me. It's nice to surprise people with things
that you know are going to make them happy. I love doing little extra's for my kids, just too
remind them that Mom is thinking about them and loves them very much.
Do you realize that there is someone that loves us very much and likes doing the little extra's
for us each day to remind us that He is thinking about us and loves us very much! Our
Heavenly Father loves to bless us. We read in Psalms 68:19, "Blessed be the Lord, who
daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah." God just doesn't
toss tidbits of blessings our way now and then, it says that He daily loadeth us with these
benefits or blessings.
Are you seeing them? Or are you so caught up in the problems, business and stresses of the
day, that you miss what God sends your way to enjoy. We have a tendency of being blind
to blessings. We need to open our eyes anew at the bounty of benefits that our Heavenly
Father loads us with each day. Are you catching them, are you thanking Him, and are you
passing these blessings along to another who just might need that same encouragement?
We are blessed to bless others! I've seen time and time again, that when you share a
blessing, you are blessed again in return! Blessings, give to the recipient, and also give
back to the giver. Spirit led giving has a boomerang affect!
Luke 6:38 "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and
shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same
measure that ye mete withal, it shall be measured to you again."
We don't give with the intension to receive, we give out of kindness and love for another...
this is the only kind of giving that is blessed by the Lord. So pay attention today to the
benefits that your Heavenly Father has given to brighten your day, then get the
boomerang out and have some fun!
Saturday, February 8, 2014
Minute Musings...Father, I'm Home!
Nothing fills me with more delight then to hear that my children are coming home for a visit!
I immediately start planning their favorite meals and treats. The hours seem to creep by so
slowly once I hear that they are on their way. I watch the clock with great anticipation and
listen for the sound of the door opening and their call, "Mom, I'm home!"
We sorrow when we lose a loved one. It hurts, and it feels as if our broken hearts will never
beat the same again. But if that person was a Christian, then they just went home! When I
hear of the passing of a saint, in my mind I always envision our Heavenly Father waiting at
the door of Heaven, waiting wrap His arms around His child and to hear them say, "Father,
I'm home!" The joy we experience at the home coming of our precious children is nothing
compared to the Fathers joy at the appearance of His child at the gate of Heaven.
Paul exhorts us in 1 Thessalonians 4:13, "But I would not have you to be ignorant,
brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which
have no hope." What is Paul talking about? He is reminding the believer, that while we
sorrow, we sorrow with hope. We will see our dear one again, because they are with the
Lord! He tells us in 2 Corinthians 5:8, "We are confident, I say, and willing rather to
be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord." The Lord Jesus Himself
told the dying thief on the cross, "And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To
day shalt thou be with me in paradise." (Luke 23:43)
Heaven is a real place, prepared for real people. This world is a journey, the destination
is Heaven and eternity with our wonderful Savior. I lost my dad to cancer when I was only
16. Do I still sorrow? Most definitely! In fact it seems that with each passing year I miss
him more and more, but I know that one day I'm going to see him again..."Ye sorrow not,
even as others which have no hope." Death is not the end, it is only the beginning...the
beginning of eternal fellowship with God!
John 14:1 - 3 "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in
Me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told
you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I
will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be
also."
Is your voice one of the voices that the Father is waiting to hear say, "I'm home!"
I immediately start planning their favorite meals and treats. The hours seem to creep by so
slowly once I hear that they are on their way. I watch the clock with great anticipation and
listen for the sound of the door opening and their call, "Mom, I'm home!"
We sorrow when we lose a loved one. It hurts, and it feels as if our broken hearts will never
beat the same again. But if that person was a Christian, then they just went home! When I
hear of the passing of a saint, in my mind I always envision our Heavenly Father waiting at
the door of Heaven, waiting wrap His arms around His child and to hear them say, "Father,
I'm home!" The joy we experience at the home coming of our precious children is nothing
compared to the Fathers joy at the appearance of His child at the gate of Heaven.
Paul exhorts us in 1 Thessalonians 4:13, "But I would not have you to be ignorant,
brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which
have no hope." What is Paul talking about? He is reminding the believer, that while we
sorrow, we sorrow with hope. We will see our dear one again, because they are with the
Lord! He tells us in 2 Corinthians 5:8, "We are confident, I say, and willing rather to
be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord." The Lord Jesus Himself
told the dying thief on the cross, "And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To
day shalt thou be with me in paradise." (Luke 23:43)
Heaven is a real place, prepared for real people. This world is a journey, the destination
is Heaven and eternity with our wonderful Savior. I lost my dad to cancer when I was only
16. Do I still sorrow? Most definitely! In fact it seems that with each passing year I miss
him more and more, but I know that one day I'm going to see him again..."Ye sorrow not,
even as others which have no hope." Death is not the end, it is only the beginning...the
beginning of eternal fellowship with God!
John 14:1 - 3 "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in
Me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told
you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I
will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be
also."
Is your voice one of the voices that the Father is waiting to hear say, "I'm home!"
Friday, February 7, 2014
Minute Musings...Closer Than A Brother
Have you ever had your heart broken by the betrayal of one whom you thought was your
friend, one whom you though would always have your best interests and your back no matter
what? I have, it's a very hard thing to come to grips with the betrayal of one you thought loved
you...one you considered your friend.
This happened to David. Psalms 55:12 - 14 "For it was not an enemy that reproached
me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify him
self against me; then I would have hid myself from him: but it was thou, a man mine
equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together, and walked
unto the house of God in company." David knew what it was to have someone close to
him suddenly turn and betray him. It broke his heart, not only by the betrayal, but the loss
of someone whom he had counted a friend.
We are all familiar with the recounting of Judas betraying Jesus. This did not take the Lord
by surprise, as He knows all. But it still hurt Him, that one who had been in such close
fellowship with Him for three years, would betray Him for 30 pieces of silver. Matthew 26:
20 & 21 "Now when the even was come, He sat down with the twelve. And as they did
eat, He said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me." Jesus knows the
pain of betrayal.
What about you? Have you been betrayed, forsaken by one who had called themselves a
friend. It hurts, I know. But may I direct you to One who will never let you down. It tells
us in Proverbs 18:24, "And there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." Jesus
Christ is a friend that you can count on to be with you all the time. He has promised in
Hebrews 13:5, "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee." This is the friend that you can
place all your faith in, you can tell all your problems too, and you can trust with your very
life.
We are warned about placing our trust in man. Psalms 118:8 "It is better to trust in
the LORD than to put confidence in man." Micah 7:5 "Trust ye not in a friend,
put ye not confidence in a guide:" This is not to mean that the Lord doesn't give us
friends to journey through this world with. What it does mean, is that first and foremost
your trust, reliance and confidence should be placed in the Lord God, not in man. Jesus
Christ is the ultimate guide, comforter and friend.
friend, one whom you though would always have your best interests and your back no matter
what? I have, it's a very hard thing to come to grips with the betrayal of one you thought loved
you...one you considered your friend.
This happened to David. Psalms 55:12 - 14 "For it was not an enemy that reproached
me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify him
self against me; then I would have hid myself from him: but it was thou, a man mine
equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together, and walked
unto the house of God in company." David knew what it was to have someone close to
him suddenly turn and betray him. It broke his heart, not only by the betrayal, but the loss
of someone whom he had counted a friend.
We are all familiar with the recounting of Judas betraying Jesus. This did not take the Lord
by surprise, as He knows all. But it still hurt Him, that one who had been in such close
fellowship with Him for three years, would betray Him for 30 pieces of silver. Matthew 26:
20 & 21 "Now when the even was come, He sat down with the twelve. And as they did
eat, He said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me." Jesus knows the
pain of betrayal.
What about you? Have you been betrayed, forsaken by one who had called themselves a
friend. It hurts, I know. But may I direct you to One who will never let you down. It tells
us in Proverbs 18:24, "And there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." Jesus
Christ is a friend that you can count on to be with you all the time. He has promised in
Hebrews 13:5, "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee." This is the friend that you can
place all your faith in, you can tell all your problems too, and you can trust with your very
life.
We are warned about placing our trust in man. Psalms 118:8 "It is better to trust in
the LORD than to put confidence in man." Micah 7:5 "Trust ye not in a friend,
put ye not confidence in a guide:" This is not to mean that the Lord doesn't give us
friends to journey through this world with. What it does mean, is that first and foremost
your trust, reliance and confidence should be placed in the Lord God, not in man. Jesus
Christ is the ultimate guide, comforter and friend.
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Minute Musings...Create In Me A Clean Heart
When my children were little, there were just some things that no matter how hard I scrubbed,
I couldn't get the stains out. I would sometimes even buy special soaps that promised to get
things sparkling new again...I wasn't expecting sparkle, but for the money they wanted for some
of those products, you would at least expect the stain to disappear! There is no 100% guarantee
on any product, for a complete, brand new look if you use it.
One thing that we can never clean is our own hearts. They are stained with sin, and there is
not a thing that we can do to remove that stain, no matter how hard we try.
Jeremiah 17: 9 tells us that "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately
wicked: who can know it?" There is nothing in our power to make our hearts sin free
and acceptable before a holy and just God. Verse 10 goes on to say that, "I the LORD
search the heart," What does the Lord find when He searches our hearts? Mark 7:21-
23 "For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries,
fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an
evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within and
defile the man."
Doesn't sound very good does it? We try to look good in our own eye, in the eyes of our
family, friends, co-workers, neighbours; but they can't see our hearts. But God can,
nothing is hid from Him, and what He sees is disgusting.
The Psalmist David knew the secret to having a clean heart. Repentance and surrender
are the only antidotes to a corrupt heart. Psalms 51:2,3,10 "Wash me thoroughly from
mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions:
and my sin is ever before me. Create in me a clean heart, O God: and renew a right
spirit within me."
Stop wasting your time and efforts in a futile attempt at cleansing your heart. There is
only one way, give it over to God, and let Him apply the blood of the Lamb on those
stubborn sin stains! Isaiah 1:18 "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the
LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they
be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." Now, that's a guarantee that you can
trust!
I couldn't get the stains out. I would sometimes even buy special soaps that promised to get
things sparkling new again...I wasn't expecting sparkle, but for the money they wanted for some
of those products, you would at least expect the stain to disappear! There is no 100% guarantee
on any product, for a complete, brand new look if you use it.
One thing that we can never clean is our own hearts. They are stained with sin, and there is
not a thing that we can do to remove that stain, no matter how hard we try.
Jeremiah 17: 9 tells us that "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately
wicked: who can know it?" There is nothing in our power to make our hearts sin free
and acceptable before a holy and just God. Verse 10 goes on to say that, "I the LORD
search the heart," What does the Lord find when He searches our hearts? Mark 7:21-
23 "For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries,
fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an
evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within and
defile the man."
Doesn't sound very good does it? We try to look good in our own eye, in the eyes of our
family, friends, co-workers, neighbours; but they can't see our hearts. But God can,
nothing is hid from Him, and what He sees is disgusting.
The Psalmist David knew the secret to having a clean heart. Repentance and surrender
are the only antidotes to a corrupt heart. Psalms 51:2,3,10 "Wash me thoroughly from
mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions:
and my sin is ever before me. Create in me a clean heart, O God: and renew a right
spirit within me."
Stop wasting your time and efforts in a futile attempt at cleansing your heart. There is
only one way, give it over to God, and let Him apply the blood of the Lamb on those
stubborn sin stains! Isaiah 1:18 "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the
LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they
be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." Now, that's a guarantee that you can
trust!
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Minute Musings...A Burnt Toast Kind Of Day
Today has been just one of those days where you keep asking yourself..."Why did I even get
out of bed!" You know the kind of day I'm referring to; you start off by burning your toast,
then cut yourself while your trying to scrap the toast to make it fit to eat! Then you sit down
to eat what remains of the toast, and proceed to spill your juice! Yep...and the day just went
downhill from there. Eventually I just started laughing, just who wrote the action scene for
this day? I quickly realized that the One directing my day was the Lord.
Psalms 37:23 "The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth
in His way."
Our days are pre-ordered by the Lord, and no matter what that day holds for us, we are to
delight in the way that the Lord has taken us. Sometimes this is very hard to do. Not every
day is peaceful and problem free. In fact, most days hold challenges, obstacles and pressing
needs that can't be ignored. So how can we delight in days that seem to beat us down before
we even get started? By keeping our eyes on the Lord and His promises that He will always
be with us, to help and to guide. Sometimes we act like we are traipsing through a wilderness
without a guide, scared of every step, every shadow...the unknown. But we are in fact following
in the footsteps of the One who has framed our days, whom has walked this path before.
So no matter what your day hold in store for you, learn to thank the Lord for it. All things
that come our way are meant to teach us something, draw us closer to our Savior, and to
show to others that our God is faithful no matter what happens.
Proverbs 3:5 & 6 "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart: and lean not unto thine
own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths."
out of bed!" You know the kind of day I'm referring to; you start off by burning your toast,
then cut yourself while your trying to scrap the toast to make it fit to eat! Then you sit down
to eat what remains of the toast, and proceed to spill your juice! Yep...and the day just went
downhill from there. Eventually I just started laughing, just who wrote the action scene for
this day? I quickly realized that the One directing my day was the Lord.
Psalms 37:23 "The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth
in His way."
Our days are pre-ordered by the Lord, and no matter what that day holds for us, we are to
delight in the way that the Lord has taken us. Sometimes this is very hard to do. Not every
day is peaceful and problem free. In fact, most days hold challenges, obstacles and pressing
needs that can't be ignored. So how can we delight in days that seem to beat us down before
we even get started? By keeping our eyes on the Lord and His promises that He will always
be with us, to help and to guide. Sometimes we act like we are traipsing through a wilderness
without a guide, scared of every step, every shadow...the unknown. But we are in fact following
in the footsteps of the One who has framed our days, whom has walked this path before.
So no matter what your day hold in store for you, learn to thank the Lord for it. All things
that come our way are meant to teach us something, draw us closer to our Savior, and to
show to others that our God is faithful no matter what happens.
Proverbs 3:5 & 6 "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart: and lean not unto thine
own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths."
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Minute Musings...Filled With...?
Have you ever watched a little one, trying to put something in a space that is already full?
They eventually become very frustrated with this impossible task. Or perhaps you have even
had times when you've tried to squeeze just a little bit more into a container that is already
too full to start with! What you end up with in a case like this, is a real mess to try to clean
up...at least that's what happens to me. If something is full, there is no room for anything else,
no matter how hard you try!
It is the same in our spiritual lives. What fills your heart? If it is filled with worldly joys,
pursuits and dreams, there will be no room for the Lord. You can't just squeeze Him into
a vessel that is already occupied with other things! We are admonished in Ephesians 5:18b
"...but be filled with the Spirit." And again in John 14:17, "Even the Spirit of truth;
whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him: but
ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you."
In order to be filled, we must first be emptied. We are instructed in Ephesians 4, verse 29
"Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth." Verse 30, "And grieve
not the Holy Spirit of God," Verse 31, "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and
clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you with all malice:" The sweetness,
love, purity and righteousness of our God cannot inhabit the same place in the vessel of
our hearts that the world occupies.
What is filling your heart today? Are the pleasures of this wicked world taking the place
that rightfully belongs to your Lord and Savior? Don't waste your efforts trying to cram
the Lord into this dirty place, it is a futile endeavour. Empty, repent and let the Lord fill
your heart and life with His precious presence and peace.
They eventually become very frustrated with this impossible task. Or perhaps you have even
had times when you've tried to squeeze just a little bit more into a container that is already
too full to start with! What you end up with in a case like this, is a real mess to try to clean
up...at least that's what happens to me. If something is full, there is no room for anything else,
no matter how hard you try!
It is the same in our spiritual lives. What fills your heart? If it is filled with worldly joys,
pursuits and dreams, there will be no room for the Lord. You can't just squeeze Him into
a vessel that is already occupied with other things! We are admonished in Ephesians 5:18b
"...but be filled with the Spirit." And again in John 14:17, "Even the Spirit of truth;
whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him: but
ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you."
In order to be filled, we must first be emptied. We are instructed in Ephesians 4, verse 29
"Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth." Verse 30, "And grieve
not the Holy Spirit of God," Verse 31, "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and
clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you with all malice:" The sweetness,
love, purity and righteousness of our God cannot inhabit the same place in the vessel of
our hearts that the world occupies.
What is filling your heart today? Are the pleasures of this wicked world taking the place
that rightfully belongs to your Lord and Savior? Don't waste your efforts trying to cram
the Lord into this dirty place, it is a futile endeavour. Empty, repent and let the Lord fill
your heart and life with His precious presence and peace.
Monday, February 3, 2014
Minute Musings...How Deep Is Your Root?
I read this quote today, "When the root is deep, there is no need to fear the wind." This really
struck a cord with me. Do you ever wonder why it is that some people seem to be able to
weather great difficulties and heartbreak in their lives, while others seem to wilt under the
slightest dierese? You can trace the reason back to their roots...how deep is their root grounded
upon the Word of God and Jesus Christ Himself? Someone whom is rooted deeply to God
will not be swayed by the howling winds of adversity.
We find this admonishment from Paul in Colossians 2:6 & 7 "As ye have therefore received
Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him: Rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in
the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving." When a plant is
a seedling, you build up the earth around it to protect its tender roots. You make sure that it
has the fertilizer it needs to grow its roots deep into the soil. You watch carefully and get rid
of weeds that spring up, before they do any harm.
This is how we need to protect our faith. We protect it, surround and immerse it in the precious Word of God. We need to be attentive to the wiles of the devil and sin that can so easily beset us. The deeper and stronger our faith grows in the Lord, the less damage will result from trials and tribulations that befall us on our journey through this pilgrim world.
We find the description, in Psalms chapter 1, of the man/woman that follows after God with
their whole heart. Verse 3 tell us, "And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of
water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither, and
whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."
How healthy is your root? Are you beginning to wither and shrivel in your spiritual walk
with the Lord? Or are you fruitful in the service of the King, spiritually prospering in the
place where the He has placed you? If you keep in the Word, and stay in fellowship with
the Lord, you will see the evidence of the fruits of the Spirit in your life; love, joy, peace,
longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance (Galatians 5:6)
If you are not producing fruit...check the root!
struck a cord with me. Do you ever wonder why it is that some people seem to be able to
weather great difficulties and heartbreak in their lives, while others seem to wilt under the
slightest dierese? You can trace the reason back to their roots...how deep is their root grounded
upon the Word of God and Jesus Christ Himself? Someone whom is rooted deeply to God
will not be swayed by the howling winds of adversity.
We find this admonishment from Paul in Colossians 2:6 & 7 "As ye have therefore received
Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him: Rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in
the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving." When a plant is
a seedling, you build up the earth around it to protect its tender roots. You make sure that it
has the fertilizer it needs to grow its roots deep into the soil. You watch carefully and get rid
of weeds that spring up, before they do any harm.
This is how we need to protect our faith. We protect it, surround and immerse it in the precious Word of God. We need to be attentive to the wiles of the devil and sin that can so easily beset us. The deeper and stronger our faith grows in the Lord, the less damage will result from trials and tribulations that befall us on our journey through this pilgrim world.
We find the description, in Psalms chapter 1, of the man/woman that follows after God with
their whole heart. Verse 3 tell us, "And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of
water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither, and
whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."
How healthy is your root? Are you beginning to wither and shrivel in your spiritual walk
with the Lord? Or are you fruitful in the service of the King, spiritually prospering in the
place where the He has placed you? If you keep in the Word, and stay in fellowship with
the Lord, you will see the evidence of the fruits of the Spirit in your life; love, joy, peace,
longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance (Galatians 5:6)
If you are not producing fruit...check the root!
Sunday, February 2, 2014
Minute Musings...The Power To Kill
Have you ever tried to undo something that has been done? It's hard isn't it! But one thing
that is impossible, is to take back something once it has been spoken. I read a story years
ago about someone in a small village who had spread some untrue stories about another. Later
that person tried to undo the damage that had been done with their lies. A wise friend took
that person up to a high point in that village and gave them a bag and proceeded to ask them
to empty all the contents onto the ground. The bag, which was filled with feathers was opened,
and emptied. As the wind took the feathers and scattered them, the person was instructed to
gather them all up again and put them back into the bag. It was impossible, for the wind had
scattered a lot of them out of sight by this time. The lesson was very clearly learned...words
cannot be taken back, the damage caused cannot be undone.
We are in possession of a weapon that can be used for mass destruction! We are instructed
in the Word of God to be very careful with our words, for our words can kill...a persons hopes,
their reputation and their very spirit can be irrevocably damaged by thoughtless cutting words.
Proverbs 18:21 "Death and life are in the power of the tongue:" And again in James
chapter 3 verse 8 it says, "But the tongue can no man tame: it is an unruly evil, full of
deadly poison." We are also instructed in Ephesians 4:29 to, "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may
minister grace unto the hearers."
To this day I still often recall the saying, "If you can't say anything nice, say nothing at all!"
A lot of times angry words spoken in the heat of the moment are said out of pride. Pride and
the tongue are the Christians two worst enemies.
Our tongues are powerful weapons. They can be used for evil or for good. Proverbs 16:24
"Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones." I'm
sure you would all agree that it is better to be instrument of healing and good, then one of
death and destruction! Do you build up or tear down with your words. We are all going to
have to give an account of our words spoken one day. How will your account read? I want
the stamp of approval on my account.
Psalms 19:14 "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable
in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer."
that is impossible, is to take back something once it has been spoken. I read a story years
ago about someone in a small village who had spread some untrue stories about another. Later
that person tried to undo the damage that had been done with their lies. A wise friend took
that person up to a high point in that village and gave them a bag and proceeded to ask them
to empty all the contents onto the ground. The bag, which was filled with feathers was opened,
and emptied. As the wind took the feathers and scattered them, the person was instructed to
gather them all up again and put them back into the bag. It was impossible, for the wind had
scattered a lot of them out of sight by this time. The lesson was very clearly learned...words
cannot be taken back, the damage caused cannot be undone.
We are in possession of a weapon that can be used for mass destruction! We are instructed
in the Word of God to be very careful with our words, for our words can kill...a persons hopes,
their reputation and their very spirit can be irrevocably damaged by thoughtless cutting words.
Proverbs 18:21 "Death and life are in the power of the tongue:" And again in James
chapter 3 verse 8 it says, "But the tongue can no man tame: it is an unruly evil, full of
deadly poison." We are also instructed in Ephesians 4:29 to, "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may
minister grace unto the hearers."
To this day I still often recall the saying, "If you can't say anything nice, say nothing at all!"
A lot of times angry words spoken in the heat of the moment are said out of pride. Pride and
the tongue are the Christians two worst enemies.
Our tongues are powerful weapons. They can be used for evil or for good. Proverbs 16:24
"Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones." I'm
sure you would all agree that it is better to be instrument of healing and good, then one of
death and destruction! Do you build up or tear down with your words. We are all going to
have to give an account of our words spoken one day. How will your account read? I want
the stamp of approval on my account.
Psalms 19:14 "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable
in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer."
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Minute Musings...Spiritual Diet
Rich chocolate cake with buttercream icing, decadent fudge brownies, creamy vanilla
ice-cream topped with succulent butterscotch topping and real whipped cream. Or perhaps
you prefer dark swirl chocolate cheesecake with pecans, or a tasty carrot cake with a thick
cream cheese icing! All of these things are appealing to the eye, tasty in the mouth...but of
no nutritional value to our bodies. In fact, indulging in too many of these treats can lead
to health problems, such as high blood pressure, weight gain, indigestion and heartburn!
Most of us try to be careful of how many empty calories we consume.
How careful are we with what our spiritual bodies ingest each day? Do we nibble at the
"junk food" the world offers? Just as nibbling at empty calories can be injurious to our
physical bodies, the "empty calories" from the worlds buffet table are harmful to our
spiritual health and welfare. What do we watch, listen too and read? These things enter
our minds and corrupt our hearts.
We are warned in Proverbs 23:3, "Be not desirous of his (the worlds) dainties: for they
are deceitful meat." The world offers us nothing that can benefit us. We will not desire
them if we don't look at them! So what should we look at?
1 Peter 2:1 - 3 "Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies,
and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the
word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious."
John 6:51 "I (Jesus) am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man
eat of this bread, he shall live forever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which
I will give for the life of the world."
Are you living on the proper diet? Your health depends on what you fuel your body with.
So your spiritual health is dependant on the type of fuel you use to power it. If you are not
being a productive servant for the Lord, if you've lost your desire to please Him daily...check
what you are consuming...read the labels! Jeremiah 15:16 "Thy words were found, and
I did eat them; and Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I
am called by Thy name, O LORD God of hosts."
ice-cream topped with succulent butterscotch topping and real whipped cream. Or perhaps
you prefer dark swirl chocolate cheesecake with pecans, or a tasty carrot cake with a thick
cream cheese icing! All of these things are appealing to the eye, tasty in the mouth...but of
no nutritional value to our bodies. In fact, indulging in too many of these treats can lead
to health problems, such as high blood pressure, weight gain, indigestion and heartburn!
Most of us try to be careful of how many empty calories we consume.
How careful are we with what our spiritual bodies ingest each day? Do we nibble at the
"junk food" the world offers? Just as nibbling at empty calories can be injurious to our
physical bodies, the "empty calories" from the worlds buffet table are harmful to our
spiritual health and welfare. What do we watch, listen too and read? These things enter
our minds and corrupt our hearts.
We are warned in Proverbs 23:3, "Be not desirous of his (the worlds) dainties: for they
are deceitful meat." The world offers us nothing that can benefit us. We will not desire
them if we don't look at them! So what should we look at?
1 Peter 2:1 - 3 "Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies,
and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the
word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious."
John 6:51 "I (Jesus) am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man
eat of this bread, he shall live forever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which
I will give for the life of the world."
Are you living on the proper diet? Your health depends on what you fuel your body with.
So your spiritual health is dependant on the type of fuel you use to power it. If you are not
being a productive servant for the Lord, if you've lost your desire to please Him daily...check
what you are consuming...read the labels! Jeremiah 15:16 "Thy words were found, and
I did eat them; and Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I
am called by Thy name, O LORD God of hosts."
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