"Our Father which art in heaven,
Yes?"
Don't interrupt me. I'm praying
"But you called me"
Called you? I didn't call you. I'm praying. "'Our Father which art in heaven",
"There you did it again"
Did what?
"Called me. You said, "Our Father which art in heaven." Here I am. What's on your mind?"
But I didn't mean anything by it. I was, you know, just saying my prayers for the day. I always say the Lord's Prayer. It makes me feel good, kind of like getting a duty done."
All right. Go on.
"Hallowed be Thy name."
Hold it. What do you mean by that?
"By what?"
By "Hallowed be Thy name?"
"It means. It means .... Good grief, I don't know what it means. How should I know? It's just a part of the prayer. By the way, what does it mean?"
It means honored, holy, wonderful.
"Hey that makes sense. I never thought about what 'hallowed' meant before." "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."
Do you really mean that?
" Sure, why not?"
What are you doing about it?
"Doing? Nothing, I guess. I just think it would be kind of neat if you got control of everything down here like you have up there."
Have I got control of you?
" Well, I go to church."
That isn't what I asked you. What about your temper? You've really got a problem there, you know. And then there's the way you spend your money - all on yourself. And what about the kinds of books you readand what you watch on TV?
"Stop picking on me! I'm just as good as the rest of those people at church."
Excuse me. I thought you were praying for my will to be done. If that is to happen, it will have to start with the ones who are praying for it. Like you, for example.
"Oh, all right. I guess I do have some hang-ups. Now that you mention it, I could probably name some others."
So could I!!
"I haven't thought about it very much until now, but I'd really like to cut out some of those things. I would like to, you know, be really free."
Good. Now we're getting somewhere. We'll work together, you and I. Some victories can be truly won. I'm proud of you.
"Look, Lord, I need to finish this up here. This is taking a lot longer than it usually does ... Give us this day our daily bread."
You could cut out the bread. It would help you lose weight.
"Hey, wait a minute! What is this, 'Criticize, ME day?' Here I was doing my religious duty, and all of a sudden you break in and remind me of all my hang-ups."
Praying is a dangerous thing. You could wind up changed, you know. That's what I'm trying to get across to you. Keep praying. I'm interested in the next part of your prayer.
(Pause)
Well, go on.
"I'm scared to."Scared?
Of what?
"I know what you'll say."
Try me and see.
"Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us."
What about Ann?
"See? I knew it! I knew you would bring her up! Why Lord she's told lies about me, spread stories about my family. Shenever paid back the money she owes me. I've sworn to get even with her!"
But your prayer? What about your prayer?
"I didn't mean it."
Well, at least you're honest. But it's not much fun carrying that load of bitterness inside you, is it?
"No. But, I'll feel better as soon as I get even. Boy, have I got some plans for that neighbor. She'll wish she had never moved into this neighborhood."
You won't feel any better. You'll feel worse. Revenge isn't sweet. Think of how unhappy you already are. But, I can change all that.
"You can? How?"
Forgive Ann. Then you'll sense better My forgiveness for you. Then the hate and sin will be Ann's problem and not yours. You will have settled your heart.
"Oh, you're right. You always are. And, more than I want to get revenge against Ann, I want to be right with you. But, (Pause) ... (Sigh) ... All right. I forgive her. Help her to find the right road in life, Lord. She's bound to be awfully miserable now that I think about it. Anybody who goes around doing the things she does to others has to be out of it. Someway, somehow, show her the right way.
There now! Wonderful! How do you feel?
"Hmmm. Well, not bad. Not bad at all. I feel pretty great. You know, I don't think I'll have to go to bed uptight tonight for the first time since I can remember. Maybe I won't be so tired from now on because I'm not getting enough rest."
You're not through with your prayers. Go on.
"Oh, all right. "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil."
Good! Good! I'll do that. Just don't put yourself in a place where you can be tempted.
"What do you mean by that?"
Don't turn the TV on when you know the laundry needs to be done and the house needs to be picked up. Also about the time you spend with your friends, if you can't influence the conversation to positive things,perhaps you should rethink the value of those friendships. Another thing, your neighbors and friends shouldn't be your standard for "keeping up." And please don't use me as an escape hatch.
"I don't understand that last part."
Sure you do. You've done it a lot of times. You get caught in a bad situation. You get in trouble and then you come running to me: "Lord, help me out of this mess, and I promise you I'll never do it again." You remember some of those bargains you tried to make with me?
"Yes, and I'm ashamed, Lord, I really am."
Which bargain are you remembering?
"Well, there was the night that my husband was gone and the children and I were home alone. The wind was blowing so hard I thought the roof would go any minute and tornado warnings were out. I remember saying, 'Oh God, if you spare us, I'll never skip my devotions again."
I protected you, but you didn't keep your promise, did you?
"I'm sorry, Lord I really am. Up until now I thought that if I just prayed the Lord's Prayer every day, then I could do what I liked. I didn't expect anything to happen like this."
Go ahead and finish your prayer.
"For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen"
Do you know what would bring me glory? What would really make me happy?
"No, but I'd like to know. I want to please you. I can see what a mess I've made of my life. And I can see how great it would be to really be one of your followers."
You just answered the question.
"I did?"
Yes. The thing that would bring me glory is to have people like you truly love Me. And I see that happening between us. Now that some of these old sins are exposed and out of the way, there is no telling what we can do together.
"Lord, let's see what we can make of me, OK?"
Yes, let's see.
Read God's Word
Wednesday, December 29, 2004
Sunday, December 26, 2004
THE CENTER OF THE BIBLE
What is the shortest chapter in the Bible?
answer: Psalms 117
What is the longest chapter in the Bible?
answer: Psalms 119
Which chapter is in the center of the Bible?
answer: Psalms 118
Fact: There are 594 chapters before Psalms 118
Fact: There are 594 chapters after Psalms 118
Add these numbers up and you get 1188
What is the center verse in the Bible?
answer: Psalms 118:8
Does this verse say something significant about God's perfect will for our lives?
The next time someone says they would like to find God's perfect will for their lives and that they want to be in the center of His Will, just send them to the center of His word!
"It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man." Psalms 118:8 NKJV
Now isn't that odd how this worked out (or was God in the center of it?)
answer: Psalms 117
What is the longest chapter in the Bible?
answer: Psalms 119
Which chapter is in the center of the Bible?
answer: Psalms 118
Fact: There are 594 chapters before Psalms 118
Fact: There are 594 chapters after Psalms 118
Add these numbers up and you get 1188
What is the center verse in the Bible?
answer: Psalms 118:8
Does this verse say something significant about God's perfect will for our lives?
The next time someone says they would like to find God's perfect will for their lives and that they want to be in the center of His Will, just send them to the center of His word!
"It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man." Psalms 118:8 NKJV
Now isn't that odd how this worked out (or was God in the center of it?)
Saturday, December 25, 2004
A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
You are cordially invited to A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION!
Guest of Honor: Jesus Christ
Date: Every day. Traditionally, December 25 but He's always around, so the date is flexible....
Time: Whenever you're ready.
(Please don't be late, though, or you'll miss out on all the fun!)
Place: In your heart.... He'll meet you there.
(You'll hear Him knock.)
Attire: Come as you are... grubbies are okay. He'll be washing our clothes anyway. He said something about new white robes and crowns for everyone who stays till the last.
Tickets: Admission is free. He's already paid for everyone...
(He says you wouldn't have been able to afford it anyway... it cost Him everything He had. But you do need to accept the ticket!! )
Refreshments: New wine, bread, and a far-out drink He calls "Living Water," followed by a supper that promises to be out of this world!
Gift Suggestions: Your life. He's one of those people who already has everything else.
(He's very generous in return though. Just wait until you see what He has for you!)
Entertainment: Joy, Peace, Truth, Light, Life, Love, Real Happiness, Communion with God, Forgiveness, Miracles, Healing, Power, Eternity in Paradise, Contentment, and much more!
(All "G" rated, so bring your family and friends.)
R.S.V.P. Very Important! He must know ahead so He can reserve a spot for you at the table. Also, He's keeping a list of His friends for future reference. He calls it the "Lamb's Book of Life."
Party being given by His Kids (that's us!!)! Hope to see you there! For those of you whom I will see at the party, share this with someone today!
Guest of Honor: Jesus Christ
Date: Every day. Traditionally, December 25 but He's always around, so the date is flexible....
Time: Whenever you're ready.
(Please don't be late, though, or you'll miss out on all the fun!)
Place: In your heart.... He'll meet you there.
(You'll hear Him knock.)
Attire: Come as you are... grubbies are okay. He'll be washing our clothes anyway. He said something about new white robes and crowns for everyone who stays till the last.
Tickets: Admission is free. He's already paid for everyone...
(He says you wouldn't have been able to afford it anyway... it cost Him everything He had. But you do need to accept the ticket!! )
Refreshments: New wine, bread, and a far-out drink He calls "Living Water," followed by a supper that promises to be out of this world!
Gift Suggestions: Your life. He's one of those people who already has everything else.
(He's very generous in return though. Just wait until you see what He has for you!)
Entertainment: Joy, Peace, Truth, Light, Life, Love, Real Happiness, Communion with God, Forgiveness, Miracles, Healing, Power, Eternity in Paradise, Contentment, and much more!
(All "G" rated, so bring your family and friends.)
R.S.V.P. Very Important! He must know ahead so He can reserve a spot for you at the table. Also, He's keeping a list of His friends for future reference. He calls it the "Lamb's Book of Life."
Party being given by His Kids (that's us!!)! Hope to see you there! For those of you whom I will see at the party, share this with someone today!
The "Upward" Christian
My dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, in the book of Jude we can discover the twelve necessary ingredients that we must include in our walk as a new creation in order to become an UPWARD Christian.
1. STAND UP
2. BUILT UP
3. PRAYED UP
4. KEPT UP
5. LOVED UP
6. LOOKED UP
7. STIRRED UP
8. FILLED UP
9. LIFTED UP
10. CLEANED UP
11. HELD UP
12. TAKEN UP
Jude 1:3 Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend (To contend you must “STAND UP”) for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
Jude 1:20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves (BUILT UP) on your most holy faith, praying in (PRAYED UP) the Holy Ghost,
Jude 1:21 Keep yourselves (KEPT UP) in the love of God (LOVED UP) looking (LOOKED UP) for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
Jude 1:22 And of some (To be considered as “some”, you have to be “STIRRED UP”) have compassion (To have compassion you must be “FILLED UP”), making a difference:
Jude 1:23 And others save with fear, pulling (LIFTED UP) them out of the fire; hating (CLEANED UP) even the garment spotted by the flesh.
Jude 1:24 Now unto him that is able to keep (HELD UP) you from falling, and to present (TAKEN UP) you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,
Elder J. Andres Vazquez
PS. To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
7 REASONS
If you haven't accepted Jesus Christ as Lord of your life, why not?
Here's 7 possible reasons:
Is it because you are afraid of ridicule and what others will say about you?
"For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels." Luke 9:26
Is it because of the inconsistencies of people that claim to be believers in Jesus Christ?
"So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God." Romans 14:12
Is it because you are not willing to give up all for Jesus Christ?
"For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" Mark 8:36
Is it because you are afraid you will not be accepted by Jesus?
"All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out." John 6:37
Is it because you fear you are too great a sinner?
"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." Isaiah 1:18
Is it because you think you are doing the best you can, and God ought to be satisfied with that?
"For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. " James 2:10
Is it because you think there is time enough yet?
"Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth." Proverbs 27:1
Here's 7 possible reasons:
Is it because you are afraid of ridicule and what others will say about you?
"For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels." Luke 9:26
Is it because of the inconsistencies of people that claim to be believers in Jesus Christ?
"So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God." Romans 14:12
Is it because you are not willing to give up all for Jesus Christ?
"For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" Mark 8:36
Is it because you are afraid you will not be accepted by Jesus?
"All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out." John 6:37
Is it because you fear you are too great a sinner?
"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." Isaiah 1:18
Is it because you think you are doing the best you can, and God ought to be satisfied with that?
"For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. " James 2:10
Is it because you think there is time enough yet?
"Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth." Proverbs 27:1
Monday, December 13, 2004
IN JESUS CHRIST...
Our sins are forgiven
Our guilt is removed
Our fear of death is destroyed
Our faith is founded on a personal God
Our search for truth is satisfied
Our security and identity are complete
Our lives are now based on a new hope.
Our guilt is removed
Our fear of death is destroyed
Our faith is founded on a personal God
Our search for truth is satisfied
Our security and identity are complete
Our lives are now based on a new hope.
Lord,Lord...
And why call ye me,
Lord, Lord,
and do not the things which I say? Luke 6:46
Lord, Lord,
and do not the things which I say? Luke 6:46
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, if you call Jesus Lord, you are obligated to do exactly what He tells you to do. Not only are you obligated, but by calling Jesus Lord you are saying that He has every right to rule every part of your life. Folks today are not living in truth, if they call Jesus Lord and then do not do what He says. The question I ask is…
Where do you stand?
I am Master. Do you ask of Me?
I am Almighty. Do you honor Me?
I am Righteous. Do you fear Me?
I am Everlasting. Do you seek Me?
I am Merciful. Do you trust Me?
I am Light. Do you see Me?
I am Love. Do you love Me?
I am the Way. Do you follow me?
I am Truth. Do you believe me?
I am Life. Do you live for me?
I am Rich. Do you lack anything?
I am Lord. Do you worship Me?
I am God. Do you acknowledge Me?
Not every one that saith unto me,
Lord, Lord,
shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Matthew 7:21- 23
Sunday, December 12, 2004
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Happiness keeps you sweet,
Trials keep you strong,
Sorrows keep you human,
Failures keep you humble,
Success keeps you glowing,
But only God keeps you going.
God bless you all!
Trials keep you strong,
Sorrows keep you human,
Failures keep you humble,
Success keeps you glowing,
But only God keeps you going.
God bless you all!
Friday, December 10, 2004
THERE IS POWER IN PRAYER
1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 "pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
For many years, researchers have tried to determine if prayer has any effect on physical healing. An assistant professor at George Washington University School of Medicine says that "trying to scientifically determine prayer's effect on health is nearly impossible."
Even Christians who agree that God heals may differ widely on how, when, and why God does. We struggle to understand why the Lord restores some to health while others suffer and die.
James addressed the matter in a way that's worthy of careful study. He discussed healing in the context of a fellowship of believers and said: "Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous humankind avails much" (James 5:16).
James' purpose was not to stir up controversy or to prove a scientific point. Instead, he focused on the privilege and power of prayer. While speaking of physical healing, he also included a call for restoration to spiritual health through repentance and confession.
Science tries to prove cause and effect. Faith directs us to call on the power of our loving God, whose ways we can rarely understand but can always trust.
Faith in God, to whom we pray, is more important than the wording of the prayer. "Let my children ask in faith, with no doubting, for they who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose [they]... will receive anything from the Lord" (James 1:6-8).
Most people are unaware of the tremendous power that is available to us through prayer. The Devil does. The Devil will do anything to get our mind off of our desire to pray because the he knows the power of prayer and the blessings that God wants to give. When you rediscover that the world around you is both natural and supernatural (regarding that which is not from the observable, tangible or measurable universe, especially regarding divine things/beings/actions/realms), then it makes sense that prayer has great value as spiritual communication. You'll begin to want to pray more, and look forward to prayer time.
Whether you are a Christian or not, one thing is for sure. We all have times of uncertainty, fear, loss, illness, loneliness, but those are the time we just need to pray. And each of us face times of barrenness when nothing is satisfying and we fill empty inside about our work, service, relationships, or our life. It is difficult to pray in faith when we feel so ineffective and so empty. But as Hannah discovered, prayer opens the way for God to work" (1 Samuel 1:19, 20). The Spirit moves you to turn to God in prayer and repentance, brings to your mind that there is hope in doing so, and makes you aware of the truth and the need.
The whole of Scripture is to increase our faith in the purpose, need, essence, weapon, reality, purpose, power and reality of prayer. Take time to pray (Luke 22:40; Col 1:9), take time to listen to God speaking to your heart, and take time to hear what God's Plan for your life might be (Jeremiah 29:11; Psalm 139).
For many years, researchers have tried to determine if prayer has any effect on physical healing. An assistant professor at George Washington University School of Medicine says that "trying to scientifically determine prayer's effect on health is nearly impossible."
Even Christians who agree that God heals may differ widely on how, when, and why God does. We struggle to understand why the Lord restores some to health while others suffer and die.
James addressed the matter in a way that's worthy of careful study. He discussed healing in the context of a fellowship of believers and said: "Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous humankind avails much" (James 5:16).
James' purpose was not to stir up controversy or to prove a scientific point. Instead, he focused on the privilege and power of prayer. While speaking of physical healing, he also included a call for restoration to spiritual health through repentance and confession.
Science tries to prove cause and effect. Faith directs us to call on the power of our loving God, whose ways we can rarely understand but can always trust.
Faith in God, to whom we pray, is more important than the wording of the prayer. "Let my children ask in faith, with no doubting, for they who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose [they]... will receive anything from the Lord" (James 1:6-8).
Most people are unaware of the tremendous power that is available to us through prayer. The Devil does. The Devil will do anything to get our mind off of our desire to pray because the he knows the power of prayer and the blessings that God wants to give. When you rediscover that the world around you is both natural and supernatural (regarding that which is not from the observable, tangible or measurable universe, especially regarding divine things/beings/actions/realms), then it makes sense that prayer has great value as spiritual communication. You'll begin to want to pray more, and look forward to prayer time.
Whether you are a Christian or not, one thing is for sure. We all have times of uncertainty, fear, loss, illness, loneliness, but those are the time we just need to pray. And each of us face times of barrenness when nothing is satisfying and we fill empty inside about our work, service, relationships, or our life. It is difficult to pray in faith when we feel so ineffective and so empty. But as Hannah discovered, prayer opens the way for God to work" (1 Samuel 1:19, 20). The Spirit moves you to turn to God in prayer and repentance, brings to your mind that there is hope in doing so, and makes you aware of the truth and the need.
The whole of Scripture is to increase our faith in the purpose, need, essence, weapon, reality, purpose, power and reality of prayer. Take time to pray (Luke 22:40; Col 1:9), take time to listen to God speaking to your heart, and take time to hear what God's Plan for your life might be (Jeremiah 29:11; Psalm 139).
A LIST TO LIVE BY
The most destructive habit......................Worry
The greatest Joy...............................Giving
The greatest loss................Loss of self-respect
The most satisfying work...............Helping others
The ugliest personality trait.............Selfishness
The most endangered species.........Dedicated leaders
Our greatest natural resource...............Our youth
The greatest "shot in the arm"..........Encouragement
The greatest problem to overcome.................Fear
The most effective sleeping pill........Peace of mind
The most crippling failure disease............Excuses
The most powerful force in life..................Love
The most dangerous pariah..................A gossiper
The world's most incredible computer........The brain
The worst thing to be without................... Hope
The deadliest weapon.......................The tongue
The two most power-filled words..............."I Can"
The greatest asset..............................Faith
The most worthless emotion..................Self-pity
The most beautiful attire......................SMILE!
The most prized possession................Integrity
The most powerful channel of communication.....Prayer
The most contagious spirit.................Enthusiasm
The most important thing in life..................GOD
I truly believe wholeheartedly that everyone needs this list to live by...
Elder J. Andres Vazquez
The greatest Joy...............................Giving
The greatest loss................Loss of self-respect
The most satisfying work...............Helping others
The ugliest personality trait.............Selfishness
The most endangered species.........Dedicated leaders
Our greatest natural resource...............Our youth
The greatest "shot in the arm"..........Encouragement
The greatest problem to overcome.................Fear
The most effective sleeping pill........Peace of mind
The most crippling failure disease............Excuses
The most powerful force in life..................Love
The most dangerous pariah..................A gossiper
The world's most incredible computer........The brain
The worst thing to be without................... Hope
The deadliest weapon.......................The tongue
The two most power-filled words..............."I Can"
The greatest asset..............................Faith
The most worthless emotion..................Self-pity
The most beautiful attire......................SMILE!
The most prized possession................Integrity
The most powerful channel of communication.....Prayer
The most contagious spirit.................Enthusiasm
The most important thing in life..................GOD
I truly believe wholeheartedly that everyone needs this list to live by...
Elder J. Andres Vazquez
THAT'S GOD...
Have you ever been just sitting there and all of a sudden you feel like doing something nice for someone you care for...
THAT'S GOD... He talks to you through the Holy Spirit.
Have you ever been down and out and nobody seems to be around for you to talk to...
THAT'S GOD... He wants you to talk to Him.
Have you ever been thinking about somebody that you haven't seen in a long time and then next thing you know you see them or receive a phone call from them...
THAT'S GOD... there is no such thing as coincidence.
Have you ever received something wonderful that you didn't even ask for, like money in the mail, a debt that had mysteriously been cleared, or a coupon to a department store where you had just seen something you wanted, but couldn't afford...
THAT'S GOD... He knows the desires of your heart...
Have you ever been in a situation and you had no clue how it is going to get better, but now you look back on it...
THAT'S GOD... He passes us through tribulation to see a brighter day...
My fellow Brothers and Sisters in Christ, in all that we do, we should totally give GOD thanks and our blessings will continue to multiply
"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him." -- Colossians 3:17
THAT'S GOD... He talks to you through the Holy Spirit.
Have you ever been down and out and nobody seems to be around for you to talk to...
THAT'S GOD... He wants you to talk to Him.
Have you ever been thinking about somebody that you haven't seen in a long time and then next thing you know you see them or receive a phone call from them...
THAT'S GOD... there is no such thing as coincidence.
Have you ever received something wonderful that you didn't even ask for, like money in the mail, a debt that had mysteriously been cleared, or a coupon to a department store where you had just seen something you wanted, but couldn't afford...
THAT'S GOD... He knows the desires of your heart...
Have you ever been in a situation and you had no clue how it is going to get better, but now you look back on it...
THAT'S GOD... He passes us through tribulation to see a brighter day...
My fellow Brothers and Sisters in Christ, in all that we do, we should totally give GOD thanks and our blessings will continue to multiply
"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him." -- Colossians 3:17
MOMENTS
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I agree wholeheartedly with David when he said, "I will bless the LORD at alltimes: his praise [shall] continually [be] in my mouth" Psalms 34:1.
The question is, will you?
In happy moments, praise God
In difficult moments, seek God
In quiet moments, worship God
In painful moments, trust God
In every moment, thank God
"The Lord Is The Strength Of His People" Psalms 28:8
The question is, will you?
In happy moments, praise God
In difficult moments, seek God
In quiet moments, worship God
In painful moments, trust God
In every moment, thank God
"The Lord Is The Strength Of His People" Psalms 28:8
Thursday, December 09, 2004
THE DEVIL'S BEATITUDES
Whew...talk about the hot seat!!!
This one will make you stop and shudder.
If the devil were to write his beatitudes, they would probably go something like this:
1. Blessed are those who are too tired, too busy, too distracted to spend an hour once a week with their fellow Christians--they are my best workers.
2. Blessed are those Christians who wait to be asked and expect to be thanked -- I can use them.
3. Blessed are the touchy that stop going to church because the pastor didn't give a feel good message or the church is too big -- they are my missionaries.
4. Blessed are the trouble makers -- they shall be called my children.
5. Blessed are the complainers -- I'm all ears to them.
6. Blessed are those who are bored with the minister's mannerism and mistakes -- for they get nothing out of his sermons.
7. Blessed is the church member who expects to be invited to his own church-- for he is a part of the problem instead of the solution.
8. Blessed are those who gossip -- for they shall cause strife and division that please me.
9. Blessed are those who are easily offended by the trivial -- for they will soon get angry and quit.
10. Blessed are those who do not give their offering to carry on God's work-- for they are my helpers.
11. Blessed is he who professes to love God but hates his brother , sister and neighbor -- for he shall be with me forever.
12. Blessed are you who, when you read this, think it is about other people and not yourself -- I've got you too!
13. Blessed are those who claim to be Christians but don't study God's word or have understanding of what it means to be a Christian--for they'll assist me in misleading others.
This one will make you stop and shudder.
If the devil were to write his beatitudes, they would probably go something like this:
1. Blessed are those who are too tired, too busy, too distracted to spend an hour once a week with their fellow Christians--they are my best workers.
2. Blessed are those Christians who wait to be asked and expect to be thanked -- I can use them.
3. Blessed are the touchy that stop going to church because the pastor didn't give a feel good message or the church is too big -- they are my missionaries.
4. Blessed are the trouble makers -- they shall be called my children.
5. Blessed are the complainers -- I'm all ears to them.
6. Blessed are those who are bored with the minister's mannerism and mistakes -- for they get nothing out of his sermons.
7. Blessed is the church member who expects to be invited to his own church-- for he is a part of the problem instead of the solution.
8. Blessed are those who gossip -- for they shall cause strife and division that please me.
9. Blessed are those who are easily offended by the trivial -- for they will soon get angry and quit.
10. Blessed are those who do not give their offering to carry on God's work-- for they are my helpers.
11. Blessed is he who professes to love God but hates his brother , sister and neighbor -- for he shall be with me forever.
12. Blessed are you who, when you read this, think it is about other people and not yourself -- I've got you too!
13. Blessed are those who claim to be Christians but don't study God's word or have understanding of what it means to be a Christian--for they'll assist me in misleading others.
Monday, December 06, 2004
IT DEPEND WHOSE HANDS IT’S IN.
A basketball in my hands is worth about $20. A basketball in Lebron James’ hands is worth about $33 million. It depends whose hands it’s in.
A baseball bat in my hands is worth about $20. A baseball bat in Barry Bond’s hands is worth $20 million. It depends whose hands it’s in.
A tennis racket is useless in my hands. A tennis racket in Serena Williams’ hands is a Wimbledon Championship. It depends whose hands it’s in.
Two fish and five loaves of bread in my hands is a couple of fish sandwiches. Two fish and five loaves of bread in God’s hands will feed thousands. It depends whose hands it’s in.
Nails in my hands might produce a birdhouse. Nails in Jesus Christ’s hands will produce salvation for the entire world. It depends whose hands it’s in.
So my Brothers and Sisters in Christ, put your concerns, your worries, your fears, your hopes, your dreams, your families, and your relationships in God’s hands because---everything depends on whose hands we are in.
A baseball bat in my hands is worth about $20. A baseball bat in Barry Bond’s hands is worth $20 million. It depends whose hands it’s in.
A tennis racket is useless in my hands. A tennis racket in Serena Williams’ hands is a Wimbledon Championship. It depends whose hands it’s in.
Two fish and five loaves of bread in my hands is a couple of fish sandwiches. Two fish and five loaves of bread in God’s hands will feed thousands. It depends whose hands it’s in.
Nails in my hands might produce a birdhouse. Nails in Jesus Christ’s hands will produce salvation for the entire world. It depends whose hands it’s in.
So my Brothers and Sisters in Christ, put your concerns, your worries, your fears, your hopes, your dreams, your families, and your relationships in God’s hands because---everything depends on whose hands we are in.
Sunday, December 05, 2004
A Survival Kit for Everyday Living
Here are the Items Needed:
Toothpick
Rubber Band
Band Aid
Pencil
Eraser
Chewing Gum
Mint
Candy Kiss
Tea Bag
By now you may be asking…Why??
Well, allow me to elucidate.
1) TOOTHPICK - to remind you to pick out the good qualities in others. - Matthews. 7:1
Judge not, that ye be not judged.
2) RUBBER BAND - to remind you to be flexible, things might not always go the way you want, but it will work out. - Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
3) BAND AID - to remind you to heal hurt feelings, yours or someone else's. - Colossians 3:12-14 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
4) PENCIL - to remind you to list your blessings everyday. - Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
5) ERASER - To remind you that everyone makes mistakes, and it's OK. - Genesis 50:15-21 And when Joseph's brethren saw that their father was dead, they said, Joseph will peradventure hate us, and will certainly requite us all the evil which we did unto him.16 And they sent a messenger unto Joseph, saying, Thy father did command before he died, saying, 17 So shall ye say unto Joseph, Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin; for they did unto thee evil: and now, we pray thee, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of thy father. And Joseph wept when they spake unto him. 18 And his brethren also went and fell down before his face; and they said, Behold, we be thy servants. 19 And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God? 20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive. 21 Now therefore fear ye not: I will nourish you, and your little ones. And he comforted them, and spake kindly unto them.
6) CHEWING GUM - to remind you to stick with it and you can accomplish anything.- Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
7) MINT - to remind you that you are worth a mint! - John 3:16-17 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
8) CANDY KISS - to remind you that everyone needs a kiss or a hug everyday. - 1 John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
9) TEA BAG - to remind you to relax daily and go over that list of blessings. - 1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
Toothpick
Rubber Band
Band Aid
Pencil
Eraser
Chewing Gum
Mint
Candy Kiss
Tea Bag
By now you may be asking…Why??
Well, allow me to elucidate.
1) TOOTHPICK - to remind you to pick out the good qualities in others. - Matthews. 7:1
Judge not, that ye be not judged.
2) RUBBER BAND - to remind you to be flexible, things might not always go the way you want, but it will work out. - Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
3) BAND AID - to remind you to heal hurt feelings, yours or someone else's. - Colossians 3:12-14 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
4) PENCIL - to remind you to list your blessings everyday. - Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
5) ERASER - To remind you that everyone makes mistakes, and it's OK. - Genesis 50:15-21 And when Joseph's brethren saw that their father was dead, they said, Joseph will peradventure hate us, and will certainly requite us all the evil which we did unto him.16 And they sent a messenger unto Joseph, saying, Thy father did command before he died, saying, 17 So shall ye say unto Joseph, Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin; for they did unto thee evil: and now, we pray thee, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of thy father. And Joseph wept when they spake unto him. 18 And his brethren also went and fell down before his face; and they said, Behold, we be thy servants. 19 And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God? 20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive. 21 Now therefore fear ye not: I will nourish you, and your little ones. And he comforted them, and spake kindly unto them.
6) CHEWING GUM - to remind you to stick with it and you can accomplish anything.- Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
7) MINT - to remind you that you are worth a mint! - John 3:16-17 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
8) CANDY KISS - to remind you that everyone needs a kiss or a hug everyday. - 1 John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
9) TEA BAG - to remind you to relax daily and go over that list of blessings. - 1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
GO!
For some this means go to the nations. The doors are open...
the nations will receive you.
For some this means go to your neighbors. Their hearts are open...
they will receive My love.
For some this means go to the hugry...
I will give you bread to feed them.
For some this means go to the hurting...
I will give you oil to heal them.
For all, this means go to the lost ones...
I want to save them.
Elder J. Andres Vazquez
the nations will receive you.
For some this means go to your neighbors. Their hearts are open...
they will receive My love.
For some this means go to the hugry...
I will give you bread to feed them.
For some this means go to the hurting...
I will give you oil to heal them.
For all, this means go to the lost ones...
I want to save them.
Elder J. Andres Vazquez
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About Me
- J.A. Vazquez
- I'm just, a nobody, trying to tell everybody, about Somebody who can save anybody. First I want to give love to the Father for giving me the opportunity to be an instrument for him to live in and live through for the glory that belongs to only him and Him alone. I served in the United States Navy for twenty one years and retired September 2003. During the last 3 years of my naval career, I served as co-pastor of Greater New Refuge COGIC in Fallon, Nevada under the tutelage of Pastor Gregory L. Brown. While there, I diligently served my pastor and church with the construction of a new sanctuary, and caring for the needs of all ministries, while simultaneously striving to stay focused on the mandate that the Lord had placed upon my life to preach the Word of God without compromise. I was licensed to preach November 2002 and Ordained June 2003. While stationed in Virginia Beach, Virginia, I proudly served and as constituent of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church for seventeen years under the leadership of Bishop Elect W. D. Scott, Sr. and presently serve under the leadership of Bishop B. Courtney McBath at Calvary Revival Church in Norfolk, Virginia.