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Soaring Like Eagles
John McCort
Giving power to the faint,
and to the incapable He giveth strength in abundance. And youths grow faint and weary, and young men suffer and fall. But
they who wait for Jehovah gain fresh strength; they shall lift up their wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint." (Isaiah 40:29-31)
Everyone encounters tragedy in their lives at one time or another.
The question is not whether we will suffer pain, heartache and death; the real question is how can we triumphantly deal with
those tragic times in life. The prophet Isaiah begins the 40th chapter
of his book with a declaration of how to obtain comfort in those moments of pain and madness. "Comfort,
comfort, oh Israel." (Isaiah 40:1) The chapter climaxes with the statement that Jehovah
gives strength in abundance to those who are incapable. (Isaiah 40:29) Jehovah,
however, limits the comfort and strength only He can give to those who wait on him. The word "wait" is also translated
as "hope". The word in Hebrew is quavah which literally means "to look eagerly, a hopeful expectation".
It is derived from a Hebrew root word that refers to the stretching of a rope that does not break. It can also be translated
as "strong endurance." We cannot expect to receive comfort
from God unless we are willing to endure. Those who suffer faithfully and eagerly look for the Lord to deliver them from their
pain. They will be able to lift their wings high like eagles and fly into the spiritual heavens. The term "wait" is not passive in nature. In the Hebrew, the term does not indicate we
are to passively wait for the Lord to do His will. It is in the active voice, which means we are to work while we wait, build
our faith, and selflessly labor in His vineyard.
Why
Should We Become Like Eagles?
Eagles fly toward storms. Eagles are unique in the kingdom of
birds because they do not hide during storms. Falconers (those who study falcons, with eagles being classified as such) report
that eagles are the only birds to be found around tornadoes. Those who study the migratory habits of eagles chase strong storms
(especially those that contain tornadoes) because there they will find eagles in abundance. They fly towards storms because
the updrafts of the storm provide them an opportunity to fly higher than usual. They fly toward the storm, spreading their
wings and lifting them high, allowing the powerful updrafts to rocket them into the sky until they are soaring above the storm.
These updrafts can reach wind speeds of 150 miles an hour and shoot the eagles up to heights of 60,000 feet. Like eagles,
we should not fear the storms of life. We should embrace them as an opportunity to fly high spiritually. If we spread our
wings of faith and let storms of life provide the wind beneath our wings, we can turn tragedy into opportunity.
Eagles Soar Above Storms.
Paralyzed by fear, all other birds hide under trees and cower in fear until the strong storms are past. But eagles not
only fly toward the storms, they soar above them. Once the eagles top the storm, they simply soar above the clouds until the
storm has passed. Instead of being on the ground midst the mud and the rain, the eagles gracefully float above the storm,
where the view is spectacular. Like those eagles we should not allow life's fears to paralyze our spirits. We can soar
above the storms and use their power to our advantage.
Eagles Fly Through The
Storms. Kim Newman, falconer at Zoo Atlanta, reports that eagles fly down through violent storms to catch
their prey. They not only soar above the storms, they use them as an opportunity to feed their young. Like those eagles, we
can use the storms of life as an opportunity; to feed ourselves spiritually and to provide an example to others and feed them
spiritually. Why should we be like the sparrows, paralyzed by fear?
Eagles Congregate in Groups
During Storms. Eagles fly toward storms in groups. One eagle will fly into the storm to find the strong
thermal updrafts. When the lone eagle finds a strong updraft, the other eagles will follow it into the same updraft until
they are all above the storm. They soar above the storm, forming what is known as a kettle. They soar in a counterclockwise
motion as if they were forming their own tornado. They congregate and cooperate with each other during the storms instead
of fighting and bickering. The people of God should mimic the habits of eagles. We should not be argumentative or divisive.
We should rise above the storms in unison and soar together.
Eagles Use The Storms To
Travel More Quickly. During migration, when eagles need to cover a lot of territory quickly, they will
find a strong storm to allow them to travel at high speeds. The thermal updrafts allow them to be propelled into the steering
currents of the jet stream. The winds aloft at 30,000 feet are often 130-150 miles per hour. When the eagles get into the
jet stream, they lift their wings high (usually at a 30 degree angle), lock them in place, and glide effortlessly using the
winds of the storm to propel them forward. However, the only way they can use these powerful winds is to soar high into the
heavens.
Eagles Fly Long Distances
Without Getting Tired. Recently, an eagle was tagged in Greenland. Thirteen days later, the same eagle
was caught and tagged in extreme southern New Jersey. How is it that this eagle was able to fly thousands of miles in a very
short period of time? When they find a strong storm moving in the direction they desire, eagles use the strength of the storm
to glide effortlessly. Isaiah 40:29-31 states, "But they who wait on Jehovah shall gain fresh strength; they
shall lift up their wings like eagles; they shall run, and not grow weary; they go forward and do not faint." It also
states, "Giving power to the faint, and to the incapable, He giveth strength in abundance." Soaring
into the heavens and riding the storm's winds takes faith and courage. God instructs us not to fear, but to have faith.
"We have not been given a spirit of fear, but of strength and courage and a sound mind." (II Timothy
1:7) Strength during storms does not come from ourselves alone, but from allowing God to transform us into spiritual eagles
and then following the other eagles of God into the heavens where we can soar.
Eagles That Survive Follow
Older, Experienced Eagles. Eagle watchers are always amused by younger inexperienced eagles during migration.
The older eagles find they must migrate over land rather than the ocean. Typically, younger male eagles often venture out
on their own the first year of migration. They will leave the pack, fly out over the ocean, and find themselves lost with
no place to land and rest. They also find there is little food they can catch because the ocean waters are so deep. The fish
tend to swim deeper because the water is calmer at deeper depths. One of the greatest causes of death during the first two
years of an eagle's existence is its failure to follow the lead of the older, more experienced eagles. Eagle watchers
refer to the young male eagles as "the stupid eagles." Once they survive the first three years, younger eagles will
follow the older eagles during migration until they memorize landmarks for themselves and establish their own nest with a
mate.
How Eagles Avoid Conflict
And Tragedy. Even though golden eagles are strong predators, they are a relatively peaceful bird. They
avoid conflict by following a number of habits. (1) They are monogamous. They have one mate until their mate dies. They establish
one nest high in the mountains. Each year they return to the same nest and mate with the same eagle. Eagles do not kill or
maim each other during mating season because they are not competing with each other for dominance. Unlike many animals, male
eagles do not fight for the right to mate with all the female eagles. The only time eagles fight is when one eagle accidentally
flies too close to the nest of another eagle. (2) Eagles do not generally fight over food. In fact they often hunt in pairs,
especially when the prey is large. Smaller but faster male golden eagles will often chase wolves toward the stronger female
eagles. When the wolf has tired, the female eagle will swoop down and carry it off. All this strength is packed into a mere
15 pounds!
Eagles Protect Their Own By Nesting
High in The Mountains. Eagles do not build their nests on the ground or in normal treetops. They build
their nests high in the mountain trees, where other birds and ground-based predators cannot eat their young. In fact, for
the most part, eagles live most of their lives above the dangers that lies on the ground. They journey to the valleys and
the plains when they want to feed, but they are frequently poisoned when they eat rodents and small animals which have fed
on the poisons man has placed on the earth. Bald eagles nearly became extinct because of the poison DDT. It was placed by
man to eradicate mice and rats. It was also used as a herbicide to kill weeds. The small birds and rodents that fed on the
DDT were eaten by the bald eagles. This caused them to die in large numbers. In contrast, golden eagles only eat live rodents,
birds and fish and are not easily poisoned. It is very interesting that environmentalists often use eagles to determine where
the environment has been poisoned. Eagles will not live in an environmentally poisoned area.
Eagles Possess Great Eyesight.
Eagles possess eyesight that is up to ten times stronger that humans. They have been known to fly at an altitude
of 30,000 feet during a strong storm, fly down through the storm and catch a mouse. It is thought that some species of falcons
possess infrared capabilities, Experienced falconers report that some falcons hunt exclusively at night. When rodents urinate
their urine is warmer than the ground around it. The falcons track the urine streams of the rodents to track them down. The
people of God possess much greater spiritual eyesight. The apostle Paul spoke of "having the eyes of your
heart enlightened". (Ephesians 1:18)
The Feathers of an Eagle Give
it Strength. What makes an eagle unique among birds are its feathers. Its feathers not only protect it
from extreme cold, they also provide the ability of the eagle to fly high and long. Once a year the eagle sheds its feathers
in a process called molting. The feathers are shed in a very precise pattern. Not all of them are shed at once because the
eagle could not fly and would become vulnerable to predators. Geese, on the other hand, shed all of their feathers at once
before they grow new feathers. During this time they cannot fly and as a result, are vulnerable to predators who take advantage
of their incapacity to fly.
The Feathers of an Eagle Require
blood. If you examine the feather of an eagle closely, it has a hollow end. Until 200 years ago, before
the invention of the printing press and typewriter, men used eagle feathers as writing quills. They would fill the hollow
end with ink and use it as a fountain pen. But before the feather was shed by the eagle it was filled with blood. As long
as the feather had an abundant supply of blood it would remain healthy and give the eagle the capacity to fly. When the eagle
sheds its feathers, the supply of blood to the feather is cut off.; the feather literally dies and falls off the body of the
eagle. Likewise, the people of God must stay in contact with the blood of Christ or they will die spiritually. Their spiritual
feathers will fall out and they will not be able to fly above the storms of their lives. They will be overcome by their enemies
because they cannot fly.
 "Trust
Him when doubts assail thee,
Trust Him when thy strength is small,
Trust Him when to simply trust Him
Seems
the hardest thing of all. Trust Him, He is ever faithful.
Trust Him, His dear will is best.
Trust Him, for thy Father's
heart
Is thy surest place for rest. Trust Him in storm or sunshine,
All thy cares upon Him cast,
'Til
this term of life is over,
And thy trusting days are past."
The
Serenity Prayer
God grant me the serenity to accept the
things I can not change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
An 18th Century theologian by the name of Reinhold Neibuhr
is considered to be the author of the famous Serenity prayer. It has been quoted, printed and memorized by many people. While
it is not inspired Scripture, it does illustrate Bible principles. Unknown to many is the fact this is only part of
the prayer. There is more. Here is the remainder of the prayer:
Living
one day at a time,
Enjoying one moment at a time,
Accepting hardship as the pathway to peace.
Taking,
as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would
have it.
Trusting that He will make all things right if
I surrender to His will.
That I may be reasonably
happy in this life,
And supremely happy with Him forever in
the next.
Amen.
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“Peace I leave with you;
My peace I give to you;
not
as the world gives,
do I give to you.
Let not your heart be troubled,
nor let it be fearful.”
John 14:27 “Therefore
I am well
content with weaknesses,
with insults,
with distresses, with
persecutions, with difficulties,
for Christ's sake;
for when I am
weak, then I am strong.”
2 Corinthians 12:10
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“Therefore, being always of good courage,
and knowing that while we are at home in
the body we are absent from the
Lord — for we walk by faith, not
by sight — we are of good
courage, I say, and prefer rather to be absent from the
body and to be at home with
the Lord.”
2 Corinthians 5:6-8
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“But solid food is for the mature,
who because of practice
have their senses trained to
discern good and evil.”
Hebrews 5:14
“And this I pray, that your love
may abound
still more and
more in real knowledge and all
discernment”
Philippians
1:9
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Dealing With Discouragement
by Gene Taylor
Discouragement is universal. No one is exempt from the
dark cloud it casts over our lives. Great men of God -- David, Job, Jeremiah, and even Jesus -- became discouraged. Discouragement
can take many forms and be caused by many things. •
Family Matters. Possibly a marriage is not working out as the man and woman had hoped and dreamed that it would.
Children may cause concern and constant anxiety to parents. There may be illness of loved ones, financial insecurity, etc. • Moral Failure. In the battle between the flesh and
spirit, many times the flesh keeps winning. One may have, among other things, a weakness to alcohol, drugs, sex, dishonesty
or laziness. When we lose a battle, we lose heart and often become discouraged. • Spiritual Matters. For example, there are wives who try to keep the lamp of faith burning
in spite of the unbelief of a husband who has no interest in spiritual things. It could be that one becomes stagnant in his
spiritual growth and his zeal begins to wane and Christ may not mean as much as He did or as He should, prayer seems to get
him nowhere, church attendance seems flat and worship assemblies are boring. Some get discouraged because their convictions
for truth cause them to be at odds with relatives or friends. Some may become disappointed in preachers, elders or other influential
Christians because of their hypocrisy, carnality or apostasy. Discouragement in spiritual matters may result from a lack of
success in the church in converting the world and building up the local body. As shocking as it may seem, faithfulness to God and His word do not guarantee that one will not become discouraged.
As a matter of fact, the more one is involved in the work of the Lord, the greater, at times, his discouragement may be. Those
who endeavor to teach God's truth or live faithfully as a Christian encounter many and varied discouragements. What faithful
teacher and Christian has not asked himself at one time or another, "What's the use?" when his efforts to teach
others and to set a proper example seem not only to accomplish nothing but also to be unappreciated. Discouragement also comes
to preachers. The pulpit provides no insulation from it. We
must remember that others before us have had their disappointments and discouragements also. Jeremiah was met with almost
unimaginable discouragements (Jer. 9:2). Yet, in spite of all his longings to leave, he stood at his post of duty through
the weary years, faithful to God even to the last. Jesus and His apostles faced many discouragements. So must we. Discouragement, though, is not sin within and of itself. While it may be defined
as to deprive of courage or confidence, to hinder by disfavoring, to attempt to dissuade; it may also be defined as deep and
sober concern because of real problems. The person who is never discouraged is of no real value. The real issues and grim
realities of life are too deep to pretend that nothing is ever bad enough for heartache and tears. Discouragement will come. We must know how to deal with it. Discouragements When Teaching Others
We are not able to effectively consider all the discouragements
that plague the one who is endeavoring to be spiritual because of space restrictions. But we can look at one aspect of Christianity
that often is very discouraging to people. That is the area of teaching others. Many children of God fail to be involved in personal evangelism and others who are doing it quit because of the discouragements
connected with it. Because a work can be discouraging, though, is no reason not to be doing it if God wants it done. Paul,
as the apostle to the Gentiles, was often discouraged in his labors but he did not allow it to stop him from doing what he
knew to be right. Nothing, including discouragements, moved him from his work of evangelism (Acts 20:24). Neither should anything
keep us from our work for the Lord. It has been said that the
person who is forewarned is forearmed. Perhaps if we can anticipate some of the discouragements that typically arise when
one attempts to teach others the gospel, we will be able to deal with and overcome them. A few of them follows. • Dull Minds. The writer of Hebrews was hindered in
his efforts to teach some because they were "dull of hearing" (Heb. 5:11-14). While He was upon the earth, people,
because of dull minds, failed to comprehend what Jesus said (John 7:33-36; 8:21-27; 8:38-43; Matt. 13:10-16). Even His most
dedicated followers sometimes missed the point of His teachings (Matt. 15:10-20; 16:21-23). • Closed Minds. There are those who neither try to nor want to understand. They want to have
things their way. The apostle Paul foretold of this attitude in 2 Timothy 4:3-4. Jesus also encountered this attitude when
teaching. Consider those who would take His loaves and fishes but not His teaching (John 6:24-29). They put their personal
desires ahead of the truth He taught (John 11:47-50; Matt. 12:22-24). When He would not serve their purpose and teach them
what they wanted to hear, they had no time for Him but, rather, closed their eyes and hardened their hearts to the truth (Matt.
15:13). • Opposition. Any
kind of opposition is discouraging but when opposition seems to triumph, real conviction and genuine dedication are needed
to stand against it. Jesus faced successful opposition. Many were determined to destroy His influence and defeat His purpose.
They resorted to perversions, misrepresentations and lies in an effort to destroy His reputation (Luke 23:1-2; John 19:12).
His good works infuriated them so they sought to pervert them in order to turn others against Him. They were wrong but they
temporarily got the upper hand (Matt. 27:20-23). But He ultimately triumphed. • An Antagonistic Environment. We live in a power-mad, pleasure-crazed world. Materialism,
secularism, skepticism, pessimism, degeneracy and hypocrisy offer little encouragement for the spread of the gospel. Remember,
though, the spiritual condition of the world in which Jesus lived and taught. Both Gentiles (Rom. 1:18-32) and Jews (Rom.
2:1,17-24; 3:9-10; Eph. 2:1-3) were extremely sinful. The people were ignorant and vile, their rulers were bigoted and politically
motivated, and the priests were oppressive and unmerciful. Skepticism, traditionalism and hypocrisy prevailed. Yet, amid such
undesirable conditions, Jesus launched and continued His work refusing to be deterred in His efforts. • Waning Interest. We feel elated when interest is
growing and enthusiasm is high but what happens when interest lags? Some become despondent and say, "What's the use?"
Jesus experienced the disappointment of decreasing interest. Great crowds followed Him at first but when they considered His
teaching "too hard" they dropped out and lost interest. At the end of His three year ministry, only a handful remained.
He understood that even one soul was worth more than all the wealth in the world (Matthew 16:26). Dealing With
Discouragements
Jesus is our perfect example
as we live our lives before God (1 Pet. 2:21), the proper standard for conduct and attitudes. The apostle Paul encouraged
the members of the church in Corinth to imitate him as he imitated Christ (1 Cor. 11:1). While He was on the earth, Jesus had to face discouragements. We must ask, "How did Jesus handle His discouragements?"
In learning how He dealt with them, we can learn how we ought to react to those discouragements that come our way. The following
are some ways that Jesus dealt with those things that disappointed and discouraged Him. • He Did Not Give Up. Jesus recognized that the key to any situation was in Him, not in the
obstacles He faced. Discouragement, you see, is a condition of mind not one of outside circumstances. Happiness does not depend
upon where you are but upon what you are. Keeping in good spirit is not a question of circumstances about us but, rather,
a question of what we are within ourselves. •
He Took a Wider View. The higher up you are, the farther you can see. Jesus saw things from the Godward side and
that side is not discouraging. He encouraged His disciples to have that same perspective. In John 4:35 He told them to "lift
up your eyes." No matter what happens in our lives, all will ultimately turn out well if we are faithful in doing the
Lord's will. The promise is made to faithful Christians in Romans 8:28 that "all things work together for good to
those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." • He Kept Working. When He was blocked in one direction, Jesus patiently looked in another.
When nothing was left for Him to do but to die, He went to the cross willingly and confidently. Sometimes in life, things
may not turn out as we have planned or as we would like them to and we may feel like giving up. Whenever you feel that way,
look to Jesus and follow His example. Keep doing the will of God. Persevere with all your heart. • He Always Prayed. When faced with a crisis situation,
Jesus gained strength through prayer unto His Father (Matt. 14:23; Luke 5:16; 6:12; Matt. 26:36-42). We must be people of
prayer (Luke 18:1; 1 Thes. 5:17). In times of despondency, discouragement and disappointment, prayer is the answer. Conclusion
In the midst of many discouragements, Jesus calmly, serenely
and thoughtfully, kept right on proclaiming the great truths of heaven, doing the will of God and living the proper life.
So must we. "And let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not" (Gal. 6:9).
TEMPTATIONS OF DISCOURAGEMENT}
Negative Attitude/Pessimism
Despondency
Despair
Self-pity
Misjudgment of others
Lack of prayer
Lack of trust in God
Cry out to God and tell Him of your pain -- Psalm
69:1-2 says, “Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck. I sink in
the deep mire, where there is no standing. I have come into deep waters; where the floods overflow me.”
Give God your anxiety -- 1 Peter
5:7 says, “Cast all your care upon Him because he cares for you.”
Ask Him for peace – John 16:33 says, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will
have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
A young man was relating some
of his experiences in the Great War. With a company of his comrades he was separated from the main body of troops. Surrounded
by the enemy for days, their food ran out and their water was exhausted.
Knowing they were without food and water, the enemy sent a messenger every little while, suggesting that they would
be wise to surrender. One night, with no food and no water and
with only one shell left, they held a consultation as to what steps to take next. They decided to pray to God for His help,
then to fire their last shell into the night as a signal to their comrades. After the shell had exploded, the only thing to
do was to wait. In the morning they heard the hum of a motor overhead. It was a plane from their own headquarters. Flying
over the surrounded boys, it dropped packages of food and canteens of water. On one of the packages was a note, "Don't give up. We are coming." For some days the planes passed overhead and the bread and water were dropped down, always accompanied with the message,
"Hold on." Then there was the roaring of artillery and the march of infantry, and the lost battalion was rescued
and taken back to their own lines safely. We, too, are surrounded
by the enemy. When we are in a tight place, he whispers, "Better surrender. Why not give up? It is hopeless to fight
on." But when the devil says, "Surrender," God
sends along a message of hope, "Don't give up, I'm coming."
by C. L. Paddock, Signs
of the Times, 1937
If you faint in the day of adversity,
Your strength is small.
Proverbs 24:10
Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing,
yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for
us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the
things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are
eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
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 has sat down at the right hand of the throne
of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in
your souls. Hebrews 12:2-3
A Letter to My Body
by E.M. Cameron
(Rogers Reflector)
You and I have been together for a long time in a most
intimate and valuable relationship. Now you have grown old. Your hearing and strength are failing. Your resistance to cold
is diminishing. You cannot climb and run as you once did. In a word, you are running down. In a short time you will cease
to breathe and your heart will stop beating. When you can go no further, I will have to leave you and be free. When we separate,
you will be returned to the substance of which you were made, and I shall continue on in that life where you are not needed.
A Power greater than you and I started us on this journey together. Now, I recognize that you are aware of the fact that your
journey is nearing its end, while my journey has scarcely begun. I know this to be true, for while you are feeble, I have
never been more alive. Our separation, therefore, cannot be one of sadness, but will be one of joy. You are weary and want
to stop. I am longing to alight from this slowing vehicle and go on without you. Death will mean that your desire to stop
is granted, and my longing is satisfied. “Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed
day by day… we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which
are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is
destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens” (2 Cor. 4:16-5:1).
Homesick
for Heaven
author unknown
Until I learned to trust,
I never learned
to pray.
I never learned to fully trust
Till sorrows came my way.
Until I felt my weakness,
His
strength I never knew;
Nor dreamed till I was stricken
That He would see me through.
Who deepest drinks
of sorrow,
Drinks deepest, too, of grace.
He allows the storm so He Himself
Can be our Hiding Place.
The touch that heals the wounded heart,
Is never felt above.
His angels know His blessedness,
His wayworn
saints, His love.
His heart that seeks our highest good
Knows well when things annoy.
We would not long
for heaven,
If this earth held only joy.
I shall soon be with Christ in Glory,
And His radiant beauty
behold.
I will then know the rest of the story;
The half that has never been told.
I'm getting quite
homesick for heaven,
Where Jesus my Savior is gone.
His promise to me He has given;
I'll see God some day
on the throne.
And then, in the regions of Glory,
In His wonderful likeness I'll shine.
Oh, how
I long to be with Him and like Him:
This wonderful Savior divine!
HAPPINESS IS:
by Dot Holladay
1. “Happy are the people whose God is the Lord!”(Psalm 144:15).
The world is full of people who do not know God. “The fool has said in his heart
‘There is no God.’ They are corrupt, and have done abominable iniquity; there is none who does good.”
(Psalm 53:1). People spend their lives on things of the world and refuse to believe there is a higher being even though He
manifests His power when we look at the wonderful things that surround us. How we view God and honor Him will have a direct
effect on our ability to be happy. “Blessed (happy) is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways” (Psalm 128:1).
2. “Happy is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding” (Prov.3:13). James 3:13 tells us that one who is wise and understanding is one whose conduct is good and meek.
We must seek this knowledge in God’s word and thus learn happiness.
3. “Happy is he who trusts in the Lord” (Prov.16:20). Happiness
comes when we learn to adapt to change in our lives. My husband traveled a lot with the company for which
he worked. Sometimes it meant moving our family to Europe and other places in the States. In the beginning
I thought, “I cannot do this!” I did not want to leave my family and friends; but I made a
decision to be happy. So many wives of military men were miserable because they did not develop an attitude toward happiness.
They did not want to take advantage of the opportunity to experience the beauty and the history Europe has to offer. Every
where we went we made Christian friends, and as I look back I realize what a blessing it was. When changes come, don’t
isolate yourself and get into a state of self-pity. We can always make a difference in the
lives of others, just by our attitude toward God and our attitude toward happiness. Yes, there are times when things do not
go the way we want them to; but it is then that we need to change our attitude about things that bother us. We must be willing
to put God first in our lives and trust that He is able to keep His promises if we keep His commands and do His will.
4. Happy is the patient man. “...but
we glory in tribulations also; knowing that tribulation works patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope; and
hope makes not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us”
(Rom.5:3-5). Someone wrote about a young woman who visited an aged saint and asked her to pray that she might become more
patient. The older woman agreed to pray. The two knelt together and the woman of God began to pray: “Lord, send this
young woman tribulation in the morning, and send her tribulation in the afternoon...”The young woman nudged the older,
saying, “No, not tribulation, patience!” “But,” said the old saint, “It is tribulation
that works patience. If you would know patience, you must have tribulation”
5. “Happy is he that has mercy on the poor” (Prov.14:21). There
are so many ways that we can help people in need. This doesn’t always mean giving money, we must be willing
to give of ourselves. Some people just need the companionship of another Christian. Some may need advice
or transportation. Sit down sometime and make a list of things that you can do and it might surprise you
how much you can give to others.
6. “Blessed (happy) is he whose way is blameless” (Psalm 32:1). This man
is honest, pure, and of good report. If any wrong has been committed he tries to make it right. Do you have a problem saying,
“I’m sorry?” So many times we could save ourselves much unhappiness by saying these two
simple words. Husbands and wives could have better marriages if they would say these words to each other. Children need to
say these words to their parents. Christians need to say these words to their brethren. Keeping communication open in our relationships is
very important to one’s happiness. Talk about things that matter in a peaceable way.
Don’t have grudges and shouting matches. Remember, none of us are perfect. In a ladies’ class I once asked
them to make a list of the good and bad things about their husbands. It surprised some to find that the good far outweighed
the bad. We need to think on the positive things and appreciate our mate. Words can be painful. I have seen couples ridicule
each other in front of others. This is damaging and irreparable. “If anyone among
you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one=s religion is useless” (James 1:26).
7. “Blessed (happy) are you even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake”(1 Pet.3:14).
We are not promised a life with no problems. Life is too short to spend it in self pity. You will only wind up regretting
all those things that you could have changed with an attitude of trusting in the Lord and an attitude toward happiness.
Some people say they cannot change their attitude. They blame their parents or some thing for their unhappiness. I
grew up in a home with an alcoholic father and it wasn’t a happy situation; but instead of blaming and being upset,
I decided when quite young that there was something I could do to make my life better.
The key to happiness is so simple. It comes
through having the right attitude toward life. Solomon said, “For as a man thinks
in his heart, so is he” (Prov.23:7). The Christian should be the happiest person on earth because he has
forgiveness of sins and the Word of God to guide his thinking.
I Met a Man with Character This Week
Paul R. Blake
I volunteered to help out at the Columbiana County Workshop
for the Disabledone day this week. I met over 100 people who had every apparent reason to bemoan their lot, but instead,
they have chosen to make good, happy lives within the confines of their mental and physical limitations. Often, the children
of this world shame the professed children of God.
I met a man with character this week; let's call him Michael.
He and I have some things in common, we are both 35 year old men. But there, the similarity ends.
Michael works
in a place where the only jobs to be had are menial, repetitive labor. He does the same thing, hour after hour, day after
day, performing tasks that most people would find dull, doing work that many folk would deem unnecessary.
I do
not.
Michael has a severe physical disability. He is confined to a wheelchair and must be strapped in an upright
position. He cannot walk without the assistance of someone who will walk with him, holding him upright. If he wants to stand
alone he must do so in a corner, supported by two walls. His right arm is contracted into the shape of the letter "Z"
and completely unusable. Michael must depend on the kindness of others just to move.
I do not.
Michael
can only say one word, "Yeahhhh!" He simply says, "yes," to any question asked of him for he cannot hold
a conversation with anyone. He has never passed the time of day talking about the weather or his favorite
sports team. He has never been able to say, "I love you,"
to his mother or, "Thank you," to a caring friend or, "Isn't that a beautiful sunset," to a passing
stranger. He endures the frustration of never being able to express himself and be understood by others.
I do not.
Michael works to the uttermost limit of his capacity. When asked to use his shriveled right arm, he glares intently
at it as if by sheer force of will he can unbind the contracted muscles. Trembling all over, he struggles with the frozen
joints and the twisted arm jerks back and forth, up and down. So Herculean are his efforts that his left arm is extended out
in the air with the first clenched in white knuckled defiance of his limitations.
When requested to reach overhead
to perform a task, he pressed his head and shoulders back against a sharply curved spine and works with his left arm upraised
until he doesn't have the strength to lift it from the table. And all the while, Michael looks warmly into the eyes of
his companion and keeps a pleasant smile on his face. As I watched his intense efforts, my eyes clouded with tears and a lump
formed in my throat, because Michael strives to the absolute limit of his existence to do what is asked of him.
And
I...I...I met a man with character this week...
Solomon: "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your
might," (Eccl. 9:10). Apostle Paul: "And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing
that from the Lord you will receive the reward," (Col. 3:23-24).
Dear Lord change not Thy will in my life,
Or trial and sorrows to be;
Renew
my faith and make me strong,
Change not Thy will, change me.
Though teardrops fall when trouble comes,
Like storms on a rolling sea;
Let Thy beacon guide my ship to port,
Change not the storm, change me.
When Thy Holy Word I don't understand
And Thy glory I cannot see;
Teach my eyes, give me sight and wisdom,
Change not Thy Word, change me.
If the fruit Thou hast given me to eat,
Taste bitter and sour, I plea;
Let not my will but Thine be done,
Change not the fruit, change me.
If sometime I murmur and grumble,
dear Lord,
About the cross I carry for Thee;
Keep it firm on my shoulders, but hold my hand,
Change not the
cross, change me.
If You change Thy ways to please me, dear Lord,
I would soon grow cold and turn from Thee;
That You may hear my prayers, dear Lord,
Change not Thy ways, change me.
There's a valley that I must
cross,
Someday Thy face to see;
Lest I forget what power is Thine,
Change not the valley, change me.
Not that I speak from want, for I
have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how
to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both
of having abundance and suffering need. Phil. 4:11-12
? What was Paul's
secret in being content whether he had plenty or suffered need?
»
I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Phil. 4:13
The Heavenly Places
David Powlas
QUESTION: "Several times in the book of Ephesians, Paul used
the phrase 'the heavenly places'. Do those words refer to heaven? Or, does that phrase have
a different meaning?" ANSWER: The New Testament book known today
as "Ephesians" is a divinely-inspired epistle [letter] from the apostle Paul. According to Ephesians
1:1, the letter was written to the "saints" [holy ones; saved persons] in Ephesus. Five times in that
epistle (1:3; 1:20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12), Paul used the phrase "the heavenly places" which describes the spiritual realm –
not this physical, material, earthly world. Since the spiritual realm is invisible to physical eyes, what the Bible
reveals is the only reliable source of information about that domain. Please note what these verses teach about
"the heavenly places"... • Ephesians 1:3-6 – All
spiritual [not physical] blessings are in "the heavenly places" [the spiritual realm]. However, these
blessings are available only to those persons who are "in Christ" (Romans 6:1-6; Galatians 3:26-28). • Ephesians 1:19-23 – Jesus Christ occupies the position of power/authority
in "the heavenly places" [the spiritual realm]. He is the only "head" of the church "which
is His body" (Matthew 28:18; Colossians 1:13-18). • Ephesians 2:4-7 – Christians
are part of a spiritual assembly in "the heavenly places" [the spiritual realm]. One thing which they
all have in common is a spiritual resurrection from the dead (Isaiah 59:1-2 & Colossians 2:11-13). • Ephesians 3:8-12 – The Lord’s church demonstrates the awesome
wisdom of God to all of the spirit beings [holy angels; Satan; demons; etc.] in "the heavenly places" [the spiritual
realm]. None of them really understood God’s "eternal purpose" until He fully revealed it (1 Peter
1:10-12; 1 Corinthians 2:6-8). • Ephesians 6:10-18 – All
Christians [saved persons] are involved in spiritual warfare against the "wickedness" [Satan and his demons] in
"the heavenly places" [the spiritual realm]. God provides spiritual armor to protect them against that
"wickedness" (2 Corinthians 10:3-6; 1 John 4:4). Human beings have physical bodies which
God designed for living in a physical world. Hence, physical eyes cannot literally see "the heavenly places"
[the spiritual realm]. Only spiritual "eyes", i.e., the "eyes" of faith, can view that domain – "For
we walk by faith, not by sight." (2 Corinthians 5:7)
No matter your trial this coming
month, remember as you walk in "heavenly places" that your spirit soars above this earth and its disappointments.
Lift your spirit to your King and Prince of Peace and find all your spiritual blessings there.
A hug can break down barriers that sometimes words cannot do. At times,
it can speak more than any words can say. We bond with a hug. We find comfort with a hug. We greet and separate from each
other with a hug. We establish human contact and interaction with a hug. The beauty of a hug is in its simplicity. The gesture
towards another human being, known or unknown, is easy. It costs nothing but a simple act of caring and kindness. -selected
"A
silent hug means a thousand words to an unhappy heart."
"Hugging closes the door to hate."
There’s something
in a simple hug
That always warms the heart;
That welcomes us back home
And makes it easier to part. A hug is a way to
share the joy
And sad times we go through,
Or just a way for friends to say
They like you ‘cause you’re
you’. Hugs are meant for anyone
For whom we really care,
From your grandma to your neighbour,
Or
a cuddly teddy bear. A hug is an amazing thing –
It’s just the perfect way
To show the love we’re
feeling
But can’t find the words to say. It’s funny how a little hug
Makes everyone feel good;
In every place and language,
It’s always understood. And hugs don’t need equipment
Special
batteries or parts –
Just open up your arms
And open up your hearts.
unknown
Greet one another with a kiss of love.
Peace to you
all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.
1 Peter 5:14
Greet your brothers and sisters in Christ
"with a holy kiss" or a hug.
When?
♥ when
you're proud of someone.
♥ when you feel someone's pain.
♥ when you don't know what to
say but want to comfort.
♥ when you are happy for someone.
♥ when you have to admonish.
♥
when you want to encourage.
♥ when you are hugged.
♥ when you are just happy and thankful to see them.
♥ when you know they are in need of affection.
♥ when you say hello or say goodbye.
Why?
♥ It is an expression of unity in Christ.
♥ It is an expression of love in Christ.
♥ It is a language of care and concern.
♥ It is an expression of joy.
♥ It is comfort.
♥ It is peace.
♥ It is understanding.
♥ It makes others feel welcomed and love.
♥
It is commanded!
...A time to embrace and a time to refrain from
embracing... Eccl. 3:5
And they began to weep aloud and embraced Paul, and repeatedly kissed him. Acts 20:37
After the uproar had ceased, Paul called the disciples to himself, embraced them, and departed to
go to Macedonia. Acts 20:1
I'd
like to submit a poem in memory of my mother, Clara Choate who died at 90 years old in February, 2008. She and our dad were
happily married for more than 60 years and together that had us 7 children. They were Christian parents and all the children
also became Christians at an early age. Mother developed dementia during the last few years of her life. It was so sad and
very hurtful when she could no longer call us by our names. I wrote this poem in her memory. -Alma
Memories
Each day brings
another memory
To place within your heart and mind
Was it evil or unpleasant
Or something good or kind?
Many times we're in control
Of the memories that we've made
By the things we see, say or do
Hoping
someday they'll never fade.
Memories can bring us comfort
Or they can sometimes make us sad
But even
when we've grown old
Precious happy memories can make us glad.
Not knowing when your memories may grow
dim
Ravish them each day with joy
As you replay them in your mind
Allowing them to become your new found toy.
Alma
Norman
copyright 2008
"Memories of our lives, of our works and our deeds
will continue in others."
The Garden City
by
Jon W. Quinn
It is the future. Mankind has
been raised from the dead. The living have been changed and now, with those who have been raised, possess immortal, eternal
spiritual bodies. The final judgment has been concluded, and now you approach your final, eternal home for the first time. In the present time,
we read the Scripture for glimpses of what that home shall be. We realize that the things described in the pages of God's
word are often symbolic and figurative. We understand that there are things too marvelous and wonderful for us to grasp presently.
As we, in our imaginations, attempt to picture heaven, we know we fall far short of the beauty and wonder of the real thing. But, back to the future,
not everyone is entering the gates of the heavenly city with you. At judgment, mercy and peace were available only for those
who had sought for it in their lives by obedient faith. Those who had walked in other ways than God's way had ended up
at another destination than the one God's way leads to. Some had denied there would be a severe side to judgment at all.
There would be no grace for those who had refused it on earth. (Hebrews 10:31; 2 Peter 3:9; Matthew 23:37,38; 2 Thessalonians
1:9). The Eternal Garden City “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for
the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem,
coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne,
saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He shall dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and
God Himself shall be among them, and He shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there shall no longer be any death;
there shall no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away. And He who sits on the
throne said, "Behold, I am making all things new." And He said, "Write, for these words are faithful and true."
And He said to me, "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give to the one who thirsts
from the spring of the water of life without cost. "He who overcomes shall inherit these things, and I will be his God
and he will be My son.”... And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me the holy
city, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, having the glory of God. Her brilliance was like a very costly stone,
as a stone of crystal-clear jasper... And I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God, the Almighty, and the Lamb, are its temple...
And the city has no need of the sun or of the moon to shine upon it, for the glory of God has illumined it, and its lamp is
the Lamb. And he showed me a river of the water of life, clear as crystal, coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb,
in the middle of its street. And on either side of the river was the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit, yielding
its fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall no longer be
any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His bond-servants shall serve Him; and they shall
see His face, and His name shall be on their foreheads. And there shall no longer be any night; and they shall not have need
of the light of a lamp nor the light of the sun, because the Lord God shall illumine them; and they shall reign forever and
ever.” (Revelation 21:1-8; 10-11; 22,23; 22:1-5). The First
Step Inside Heaven
You took your first step into your everlasting hometown and you were filled with an awe that would never cease. You
knew at that moment that you were where you really belonged. The world had not been your home, but this was! It was just right
in every respect. It was obvious that you would never tire of this place and that nothing would ever spoil it or diminish
from its beauty and wonder. You realize now that you had never really been “home” until this moment! (Hebrews
11:8-10; 13-16).
Even now, those years you had spent on the earth seemed very fleeting. All those days and experiences now seem as a wisp of
vapor that has vanished away (James 4:14). Though you knew it to be so before, you see even more clearly what a waste it would
have been to give up all of this for brief pleasures and riches earthly life could have afforded you had you not been as diligent
to do the Father's will. The First Desire Inside Heaven Your new body has many
new capacities. In the old body, to see God would have been fatal. But now, that is no longer true (Exodus 33:13; 18-23).
Jesus had said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” (Matthew 5:8). Now you can approach God's
throne and see first hand the source of all you are. He is your origin. Your spirit is His offspring. So, you join with the
multitudes (Revelation 7:9-17) around the throne of God and see Him in His eternal form and join in praise with complete peace
and confidence, sharing with others joys to the extent you have never known before. And though you are a part of a vast multitude,
you are with the Father on an intimate level, for His “eyes are in every place” (Proverbs 15:3; Psalm 17:14,15). Other Aspects of the Paradise City The size of the city was great (Revelation 21:6). The word “paradise”
means “park” or “garden” and refers to the restoration of Eden-like qualities (Revelation 2:7;
22:2). There is the “River of Life” flowing through it, and the “tree of life” growing everywhere.
There was
also your special place. Jesus had promised you a dwelling place, or “mansion” (KJV). The word simply means “abiding
places” (John 14:1-3). Its a place prepared just for you. It needs no lock and key. It has no light fixtures for obvious
reasons. Light is everywhere.
Your neighbors are righteous people made perfect just like you are (Hebrews 12:23). Old things such as envy and hate are gone.
Nothing like that in this city. The old things have passed away. New things have come. Welcome home!
QUESTION: "I've
noticed that the Bible mentions 'the Book of Life'. Is it a literal or figurative book? Is it
important for people today?" ANSWER: To
answer your questions concerning "the Book of Life", I'll ask and note the Bible answers to five important questions
about that unique volume. The answers will be the same whether "the Book of Life" is a literal book [scroll]
or a figurative record... WHAT
IS IT?
It's a list of the names of all righteous human beings – all persons who "fear",
"serve", and are "workers" for God (Malachi 3:16-18; Philippians 4:2-3). WHERE IS IT KEPT?
The list is not stored in any earthly archives,
library, museum, or vault; instead, it is kept "in heaven" (Luke 10:17-20; Hebrews 12:22-24). HOW DO I GET MY NAME IN IT?
My
name is written in it if I am righteous – if I am either a flawless lawkeeper or a forgiven sinner (Acts 10:34-35;
Romans 4:1-8). CAN MY NAME BE
REMOVED FROM IT?
God can and will "blot out" [erase or wipe away] my name if I become unfaithful
(Exodus 32:30-33; Revelation 3:1-6). WHAT
WILL BE ITS FUTURE ROLE?
It will perform an essential function when the final judgement of all human
beings takes place (Revelation 20:11-15; 21:10,27). Who will
spend eternity in heaven? Every person whose name was written in and not later erased from "the Book of Life". Who
will spend eternity in hell? Every person whose name was never recorded in or was blotted out of "the Book
of Life". Is your name written in it?
But
thou hast a few names in Sardis that did not defile their garments:
and they shall walk with me in white; for they are
worthy.
He that overcometh shall thus be arrayed
in white garments;
and I will in no wise blot his name out of the book of life,
and I will confess his name before
my Father, and before his angels.
Revelation
3:4-5
Is your name written in the book of life?
Strong Only in Appearance In the movie Beau Geste, the
Arabs were attacking a Legionnaire fort where only four Legionnaires were left alive. If the Arabs had known this, they could
have easily taken the fort. However, the Legionnaires devised a plan to disguise their weak condition. They set up bodies
of their dead comrades along the wall of the fort and ran back and forth, firing off the guns of their dead friends. From
the outside, it all looked very convincing, but from the inside, there were only four men. No doubt, there
are many churches today which have the appearance of strength. However, if the truth were known, they have only a few who
are righteous, are doing the work, and, through teaching and encouragement, are keeping the church together. “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, These
things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: I know your works, that you have a name that you are
alive, but you are dead...You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with
Me in white, for they are worthy” (Rev. 3:1-4) -selected
While the purpose
of the writer was to encourage more Christians to do the work and not leave it up to the few, I would like to add, look what
a few can do. Let's look what we can do as individuals, even with physical limitations.
How can I be a worker when I'm so limited physically?
Remember,
foremost, Christ strengthens us. Through Christ, we all have power in us, even with the most extreme physical limitations.
Know the Bible and grow in wisdom and love. Be ready to gently, with a submissive
attitude, teach others the truth, including Christians who may sway from the teachings of the Lord. (A letter would be fine.)
Always remember, "truth in love." The
kingdom of Christ desperately needs encouragers. Why there is such a drought in the church when it comes to spiritual refreshing,
I don't know. We of all people should be building up one another in the faith because we all have our daily battles with
this world. Encourage in whatever form you are able to: Your presence at the worship (when possible), pleasant words when
you're with others, emails or handwritten notes to all, even to those who don't come across as needing encouragement.
Pray about this and then look for the opportunities to encourage.
Pray.
There is power in prayer. Others need you.
Our Hope can be as medium
to help others. Our readers need you.
Remain faithful, resist discouragement.
This is an important work of the Lord and on some days the only work we are capable of doing. Have undefiled garments when
the Lord comes.
Be a pillar of the church, even if your body is incapable
of getting out of bed. This is the extraordinary power we have in Christ - the power that is apart from our body - the power
of a spiritual being that walks in heavenly places!
-Pat Gates
Alone With Our Thoughts
by Pat Gates
What
do we think about when we are alone? What are our thoughts focused on when our spirit is greatly burdened by
trials? Our strengths and weaknesses become apparent in our private thoughts and meditations. This is
a time of self-examination to see what we dwell on and the emotions these thoughts may evoke; it is a time of revelation of
our true self.
What do we dwell on during times of adversity?
Thoughts
on self?
Thinking about self is normal and perfectly fine as adversity affects us emotionally
and sometimes physically. Afterall, adversity is a problem that presents difficulty to ourselves and we must find
a way to deal with it. However, thoughts on self can be beneficial or detrimental.
• Are
we over-worrying and our thoughts anxious to where they are continually filled with fear? • Are we allowing grief to continually consume us to the point we give up
and quit functioning as a Christian? • Are
we counting our misfortunes over and over and forgetting to count our blessings? • Do we try our best to keep depression from gaining total control by not
continually dwelling on our adversities? • Are
we being fair with ourselves or are our thoughts filled with how worthless we are and there is nothing good in ourselves? • Do we dwell on how unfair life is? • Do we think about what we have learned from our adversity?
♦ Be
anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Phil. 4:6-7
♦ Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever
things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything
praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do,
and the God of peace will be with you. Phil. 4:8-9
♦ And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which
also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Col. 3:15
♦ But what things were gain to me, these I have
counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord,
for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ. Phil. 3:7-8
Thoughts on God?
Meditating on God has to be a good thing during trials, right? Absolutely, if our thoughts about
God are in line with what He has revealed about Himself. If we choose to give God man's characteristics then we will
create a god who in uncaring, unfair, and flawed. Misjudging God leads to turning away from Him and finding comfort in
one's emotions and opinions that will only bring confusion and bitterness. However, if we meditate on what the word
of God has revealed, we will take comfort and find strength knowing we have a God who cares about His creation.
• Are we only
dwelling on God's power and feeling anger that He doesn't use it to answer our prayer? If we are tempted
with this thought, let's ask ourselves: How do we know God isn't using His power? He works according to His wisdom
and created laws in His time. Our Father is also seeking our spiritual good as He wants all men
to be saved.
• Do we meditate on all the characteristics of God: His nearness,
mercy, power, wisdom, justice, love, desire for our salvation, and compassion?
• Do
we remember scriptures and meditate on them?
• Do we dwell on the greatness
of God and the insignificance of ourselves without God? Do we dismiss God from our thoughts and continually dwell on what
are we going to do and worry about the future?
♦ The wicked in his proud countenance does
not seek God; God is in none of his thoughts. Psa. 10:4
♦ When I remember You on my bed, I meditate on You
in the night watches. Because You have been my help, Therefore in the shadow of Your wings I will rejoice. Psa. 63:6-7
♦ I will remember the works of the LORD; Surely I will remember Your wonders of old. I will also meditate on
all Your work, And talk of Your deeds. Your way, O God, is in the sanctuary; Who is so great a God as our God? Psa. 77:11-13
♦ Therefore my spirit is overwhelmed within me; My heart within me is distressed. I remember the
days of old;
I meditate on all Your works; I muse on the work of Your hands. I spread out my hands to You;
My soul longs for You like a thirsty land. Ps 143:4-6
♦ Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares
for you. 1 Pet. 5:7
Thoughts on Others?
• Do we re-live the
bad things others have done to us or said to us?
• Are we filled with bitterness and
continually think how others have ignored us in our time of need?
• Are we meditating
on what we have gained in our loss and making plans to help others in the future who may be suffering in a similar way?
• Does envy take over our thinking?
• Do we remember
the good others have done for us and have gratitude in our hearts?
♦ A sound heart is life to the body, But
envy is rottenness to the bones. Proverbs 14:30
♦ You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself?
You who preach that a man should not steal, do you steal? You who say, “Do not commit adultery,” do you commit
adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor God through breaking
the law? Romans 2:21-23 (We could add, "You who say no one does anything for you, do you do for others?")
♦
Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Phil. 2:4
Thoughts on God's word?
• Do we meditate on
comforting scriptures of hope and peace?
• Do we ignore God's word in our thoughts
and think about advice we heard on Oprah or read in a magazine?
• Do we lift ourselves
up from the ravages of our tribulations with spiritual thoughts?
• Are we examining
ourselves, according to scriptures, to see where our heart is placed, whether tied to this earth or to heaven?
• Do our thoughts reflect a faithful child of God or the worldliness of being self-reliant?
♦ I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,
As much as in all riches. I will meditate on Your precepts, And contemplate Your ways. I will delight myself in Your statutes;
I will not forget Your word. Ps. 119:14-16
♦ The wicked in his proud countenance does
not seek God; God is in none of his thoughts. Psa. 10:4
♦ I have
more understanding than all my teachers, For Your testimonies are my meditation. Ps 119:99
Let the words of my mouth and the
meditation of my heart
Be acceptable in Your sight,
O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.
Ps 19:14
What we think
about in those dark, lonely
hours may be just what we become.
My Mama's Spoons
Joyce
Coffield Jamerson
Mama’s spoons were and still are a curiosity for me.
For many years, I knew she had some silver spoons in a safety deposit box. She would mention them now and then and just
a few years ago, as we both were setting some of her affairs in order, a trip was made to the bank and I got to see the spoons.
I remember they were wrapped in a silver cloth to avoid the tarnish that the years can bring, but that was not the primary
reason for our visit, so the spoons only had a brief viewing.
As best I can remember, my grandpa had purchased these spoons for my grandmother
when he was traveling out west. There are spoons from Los Angeles and San Diego as well as San Francisco and New Orleans.
There are two from Missouri and the one from Kansas City has pictures engraved in the bowl, featuring the convention hall,
post office and the new union depot. The reason for the trip is unknown, but since he was in education, a teacher as
well as an administrator, I assume it had something to do with his chosen profession. Certainly, he wouldn’t be
traveling without my grandmother if it had been a pleasure trip.
Mama inherited these spoons as she cared for my grandmother in her later years.
I’ve wondered why she didn’t have them out where she could enjoy looking at them, but mama was a depression child
– and a very grateful one at that. She didn’t take chances with something that was precious to her, including
her family.
Now
these spoons are precious to me. I don’t think they are of any great value monetarily, and unlike mama, I have
them out where I can enjoy looking at them. They make me think of piece of sheet music that mama had and as a girl,
I really liked that song. It was kind of a dreamy, wishful melody.
Far Away Places
by Alex Kramer and Joan Whitney
Far away places with strange sounding names; far
away over the sea. Those far away places with the strange sounding names are callin’, callin’ me. Goin' to China or maybe Siam; I wanna see for myself. Those far away places
I've been readin' about, in a book that I took from the shelf.
I start getting restless whenever I hear, the whistle of a train. I pray for the day I can get underway, and look for those castles in Spain.
They call me a dreamer, well, maybe I am, but I know that I'm burnin' to see Those far away places with the strange-sounding names, callin', callin' me.
Travel wasn’t as convenient when my grandpa made this
trip. Wouldn’t he be surprised if he knew I had been blessed to travel overseas to Israel, Romania, Hungary and
Bulgaria? Who knows what travels may still lay ahead!
It’s a little sad that mama only saw these spoons once or twice a year,
as she took care of business at the bank. They probably gave her some sort of security to have them in a place of safety,
but aren’t the possessions we’re blessed with to be enjoyed? Solomon said it’s good and fitting to
eat, drink and enjoy oneself; this is a reward from God! Ecclesiastes 3:12, 13; 5:18.
But mama was fiercely protective of anything she loved. Eternity was set
in her heart and she knew that at some point, she would leave these possessions. Things are just that – things.
Things are nice to have but they shouldn’t stand in the way of more important goals. Heaven is my goal –
just as it was mama’s. It’s the only far away place I’m truly concerned with!
Are your possessions a joy? Or a stumbling
block? How would you react if those possessions were taken away?
Mama’s spoons are a reminder – not only of my earthly heritage –
but of my eternal goals. Paul was speaking of his heritage when he said “whatever things were gain to me, those
things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ,” Philippians 3:7.
What is your reminder?
The Value of Hope by Dee Bowman
The
Scriptures have considerable to say on the subject of hope. And yet I am convinced that many of us are not enjoying and appreciating
our hope as we should, simply out of a failure to really understand what it is and how it affects us. Hope is that which reaches off into the future and attaches itself on to that which we both desire and expect to
receive. It is not necessarily affected by externalities, but is a mental persuasion which, even in the face of extreme persecution
or intense pain, remains strong and active. As such, it becomes at once a strong and vital force in fighting such things as
discouragements, failures of various sorts, frustrations, even death itself. Is it any wonder that the Hebrew writer calls
it "the anchor for the soul"? Hope is composed of
two ingredients -- desire and expectation. In the absence of either, there is no real hope. For instance, I may desire a thing
which I cannot possibly expect to receive; such would not be hope. I may expect a thing which is not at all desirable; such,
likewise, would not be hope. But when I greatly desire a thing and have a warm expectation of receiving that thing, that is
hope. And what a blessing! It is hope which keeps us on the
right course. Just as an electronic homing signal keeps the pilot of the aircraft on course, our hope keeps us following the
proper heading. It is our hope which gives us the point of fixation needed to "keep our bark aright." Without it
we would not have the goal we need to look to. Hope lightens
our load. It is our hope which makes us unaware of even the hardest burden. The presence of hope makes it possible for us
to overcome seemingly insuperable obstacles, It causes us to have a healthy disposition toward trials and hardships, too,
giving us the fuel to overcome and the virtue to persevere. When a person can see the journey's end, the path toward it
somehow seems far less severe. And even though the path may be strewn with obstacles of various sorts, hope makes it possible
for us to see far less of them than we do the light at the end of the way. And hope intensifies our desires, too. When we conclude that a thing is possible, we suddenly realize the strength
to carry on so as to achieve the goal. In fact, our conviction becomes a far more workable tool once we have realized the
possibility of success. Hope is like a "second wind" to an athlete who needs it to finish a long and difficult run.
Is it any wonder that hope and faith are connected together (Cf. Hebrews 11:1)? Hope provides confidence. In II Peter 1:4 Peter says, "Whereby are given to us exceeding great and precious
promises, that by these ye might become partakers of the divine nature...." Notice that it is the promises which provide
us with the confidence we need. What a balm for the weary! And
hope is our connection to heaven. Without it we would not be able to visualize the joy that awaits the faithful. Truly, "hope
springs eternal"!
. For Everything There Is A Season
Kent
Heaton
Solomon understood more about life than
any man who walked the fleshly vale of sin. His wisdom and understanding was “exceeding much, and largeness of heart,
even as the sand that is on the sea-shore. And Solomon's wisdom excelled the wisdom of all the children of the east, and
all the wisdom of Egypt. For he was wiser than all men … and there came of all peoples to hear the wisdom of Solomon,
from all kings of the earth, who had heard of his wisdom” (1 Kings 4:29-34). In the gift given to him by Jehovah, Solomon
gained great wisdom, wealth and knowledge far above all men. His wisdom is declared in three thousand proverbs and his songs
were a thousand and five (1 Kings 4:32). The greatest declaration of his wisdom is set forth in the book of Ecclesiastes.
From the pen of a man who
gained the fullness of knowledge, the height of fame and power and the enjoyment of every imaginable pleasure known to man;
wisdom is established in the frailty of life and the certainty of the life to come. His conclusion is arresting with its simplicity
and forcefulness: “This is the end of the matter; all hath been heard: fear God, and keep his commandments; for this
is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every work into judgment, with every hidden thing, whether it be good, or whether
it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).
Life is not about wisdom, fame, power and pleasure. The essence of life’s flow is bound upon the single
strand of knowledge sent from the hand of God. The purpose of living is the purpose of life. All things remain the same (Ecclesiastes
1:2-11). Seeking after the alluring riches of wealth, fame and power are vain – without purpose. Delving into the deep
seasons of passion are without reward. Life has a way of interrupting the best plans set forth by man. “For everything
there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a
time to pluck up that which is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather
stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep,
and a time to cast away; a time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and
a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8).
There is a time for everything
and man cannot change that. The cycle of life is constant for all men and our task is to see life in its proper understanding
and respond with worship to the Creator. Solomon’s conclusion is that life is not about riches as you take none with
you (Ecclesiastes 2:18-23; 5:10-17). Wisdom is found in a good name and in the knowledge of death (Ecclesiastes 7). Pleasure
should remain at home (Ecclesiastes 9:9). Life is not fair (Ecclesiastes 3:16-4:16). Age will happen to all men (Ecclesiastes
12). There are so many lessons in this great book of life.
What is your life at this moment? What goals are you
seeking? How do you measure your life with the book of Ecclesiastes? So many men live all their lives seeking what they cannot
find and losing what was so near – life eternal. The conclusion of the whole matter is Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14. What
conclusion is your life? In death nothing else will matter.
Fill
My Cup Lord
When I am tired and weary
And I have lost my zeal,
Fill my cup Lord;
For I long
to do thy will.
When I get discouraged,
And my spirit needs to be renewed,
Fill my cup Lord
So
my soul may be rescued.
When Satan tempts me
With any of his schemes,
Fill my cup Lord;
So I
may see your light
For it so brightly ever beams.
When sickness and sorrow
Comes my way,
Fill
my cup Lord
So, I may know you're in control
And they'll not forever stay.
Then, when I've
resisted
Any temptations to do wrong,
You've filled my cup Lord!
For, I know you abide in me and I in
you;
And You have made me strong!
Alma Norman
Copyright 2003
During these times of economic unrest, overt immorality,
and unqualified, ungodly world leaders, we Christians need to remember God is in control and He is merciful to His people.
It is not a time for panic, but rather a time for prayer.
 Jeremiah not only went through great emotional and physical
persecution when he prophesied to an unrepentant Judah, but after Judah fell, he was consumed with grief for the great nation
of Judah: "How lonely sits the city that was full of people! How like a widow is sh, who was great among the nations!
The princess among the provinces has become a slave! Lam. 1:1 In chapter 3
Jeremiah speaks of his anguish:
"You
have moved my soul far from peace; I have forgotten prosperity. And I said, "My strength and my hope have perished from
the Lord." Remember my affliction and roaming, the wormwood and the gall. My souls still remembers and sinks within me."
Lam. 3:17-20
Jeremiah
now changes his thinking from dwelling on his anguish to remembering the Lord's mercies:
This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. Through the Lord's mercies we
are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. "The Lord
is my portion," says my soul, therefore I hope in Him!" The
Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him. It is good that one should hope and wait quietly for the
salvation of the Lord. Lam. 3:21-26
This coming month, let's all remember:
"His compassions fail not."
I Am Weak—He Is Strong
By Steve Niemeier
Jesus offers all that man needs.
We could stop there, but
many are unwilling to accept that fact. We look for strength in strange places---alcohol, tobacco, narcotics, pornography,
fornication, man-made doctrines, and the list can go on and on. Yet, no matter how long the list is, the fact remains the
same--Jesus offers everything that man needs. It is plain and simple, no matter how complex we might try to make it. Jesus came to this earth to do His Father's will (Matthew 6:38),
as well as to fulfill the Old Covenant (Matthew 5: 17-18). He also came to fulfill prophecy (Isaiah 7:14; 53:4-7)
and to establish His kingdom (John 18:37). He came to save sinners (Luke 5:32; 19:10) and to leave us a
perfect/complete example to follow (Colossians 2:9-10). We should be so thankful that He came to this earth for us
(Philippians 2:6-8), for we are weak but He is strong. God sent His Son to this earth with an offer for everyone (John 3:16) and an invitation for everyone to accept
His offer (Matthew 11:28- 30). Jesus offers salvation (Mark 16:15-16), eternal life (John 14:6),
love beyond compare (Romans 8:31-39), peace such as we could never have imagined (John 14:27), and beyond
the grave, hope that can overcome all obstacles here on earth (Hebrews 6:18-20). Yes, He came because we are weak
and He is strong. He offers
so much, and He is available for all to come to Him (John 5:40). If we are willing to recognize our weaknesses and humble ourselves
before Him, we will find ourselves renewed. He is so strong that He offers those who obey Him a new relationship (Galatians
3:26-27), a new name (Acts 11:26; 26:28), a new interest (Ephesians 4:1; Matthew 6:33), a new attitude
(Galatians 5:22-24), a great responsibility (1 Corinthians 10:31), and once again, a new hope (Romans
8:24-25). We can be new creatures in Christ, new creatures that gain strength from the One who is so strong, while we
are so weak. Yes, Jesus
the Christ is strong, and we are weak. We can do all things through Him because of the strength He has and is willing to give (Philippians
4:13). Yet, He will give His strength only to those who desire it (James 4:10), those who seek it (Hebrews
4:14-16), those who have faith in Him (John 6:35), those who obey His directions (1 John 1:7), those
who retain His type of attitude (Philippians 2:5), and those who will not turn away from Him (John 6:66-69).
We can all gain strength from Him, strength that we need to face this life’s issues, strength to guide us over the valley
of the shadow of death into His loving arms. Oh we are so weak, and He is so strong! He knew of our weakness and our need for the strength He could
offer. In John
17:20-26, He prayed for our strength. He also prayed that we would be united with Him and His Father. He knew that we
would face trials and tribulations, because He faced trials and tribulations (Hebrews 2:17-18; 4:15). He overcame
them so we could look to Him for an example of how we can prevail. We need this strength because we are weak. We can do all things through Christ because
He is the one who strengthens us. Oh, that we would yield ourselves to Him so we, like Him, can be strong. When will we learn this? When will we stop
looking elsewhere for strength? When will His Father tire of our looking somewhere other than to His Son whom He gave so we
could be strong?
http://www.knollwoodchurch.org
It was evening as I climbed aboard the jumbo jet. I was tired. It had been a hectic, emotionally stormy week. I had
endured more than the usual schedule changes, telephone calls, interruptions, children's activities, and arguments.
I settled into my seat, relieved to see the plane was nearly empty. Maybe I could get some much needed rest. The giant
plane took off and climbed up over the condominium complexes hugging the white stretch of beach bordering the deep blue sea
of the Atlantic Ocean.
As we passed over Fort Lauderdale, I looked down at the twinkling lights reflected in the
many canals and waterways and realized why our city is referred to as the Venice of America. I never tire of the beauty of
South Florida.
I settled down, grateful for the quiet, Suddenly I noticed dark, ominous clouds off the left side
of the wing. Soon bolts of lightning began to streak across the dark clouds.
I sat mesmerized by this vicious storm
only a few miles away. It was frightening, yet fascinating. It brought to mind many of the tempests I had experienced in my
life.
Financial storms, physical storms, emotional storms, relational storms, So many different types of storms
with varying degrees of intensity.
Some had been as fearful and terrifying as this large thunderhead, others had
been sudden, Some storms had resembled a weather front that moves in and wont go away.
As I sat there contemplating
the severity of the weather outside the window, and the storm that had raged within my own life, I suddenly saw beyond the
storm.
There, along the horizon, was one of the most magnificent sunsets I had ever been privileged to witness,
Brilliant gold blending with deep crimson fading into multiple shades of yellow, peach, apricot, and rose. What absolute,
breathtaking beauty.
I watched with wonder and awe.
From the vantage point of 42,000 feet up, I knew
that at any moment this formidable thunderstorm would probably hit our home west of Fort Lauderdale.
But I could
also see beyond the storm, and knew that in just a short space of time, those who would be hit by the storm, would also experience
incredible beauty. I was suddenly aware of how God must look upon the storms that hit our lives.
Often I have been
in the midst of a fearful squall, and like the disciples, cried out, " Lord don't you care? Don't you see that
I can't take any more?"
Of course He cares. In 1 Peter He reminds us that He cares for us. We are His
personal concern. But, from His vantage point, He also sees the glory that is to follow.
His message? Don't
be discouraged in the midst of life's storms. Be assured that God cares and that His plans for us include a future and
a hope.
Author Unknown
1 Peter 5:7 casting all your care upon Him, for
He cares for you.
"I am like
a broken vessel." Psa. 31:12
My Savior specializes in mending broken things,
He takes the heart
that's shattered, and gives it songs to sing.
He pieces it together with His sweet gracious touch;
He mends
the heart that's broken because He loves so much. He mends the broken spirit, then
lifts that spirit up,
And pours the oil of gladness into the upturned cup.
The broken lives He reshapes... those
lives so wrecked by sin,
When in their crushed condition they turn in faith to Him. The broken dreams that crumble to ashes at our feet,
That seemed so fair and lovely, that made life taste more
sweet.
Those broken dreams He rebuilds and fashions them anew...
Then gives us faith to trust Him to see new dreams
come true. What of the broken plans then? The broken health that comes?
Is He not ever mindful when life's swift pendulum
Dashes to scattered pieces the plans that we have made?
Above
it all, He whispers- "I shall come to your aid."
He restores broken spirits, binds broken hearts, and dreams,
Repairs the shattered pages of
lives that He redeems.
He stands ready to help us no matter what life brings
Because He specializes in mending broken
things! Author Unknown
Be strong, and
let your heart take courage, All ye that hope in Jehovah. Psa. 31:24
Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober,
and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 1 Peter 1:13
-Pat
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