I don't believe in Santa Claus, but I'm not going to sue somebody for singing a Ho-Ho-Ho song in December. I don't agree with Darwin, but I didn't go out and hire a lawyer when my high school teacher taught his theory of evolution.
Life, liberty or your pursuit of happiness will not be endangered because someone says a 30-second prayer before a football game. So what's the big deal? It's not like somebody is up there reading the entire book of Acts. They're just talking to a God they believe in and asking him to grant safety to the players on the field and the fans going home from the game.
"But it's a Christian prayer," some will argue. Yes, and this is the United States of America, a country founded on Christian principles. According to our very own phone book, Christian churches outnumber all others better than 200-to-1. So, what would you expect-somebody chanting Hare Krishna? If I went to a football game in Jerusalem, I would expect to hear a Jewish prayer. If I went to a soccer game in Baghdad, I would expect to hear a Muslim prayer. If I went to a ping pong match in China, I would expect to hear someone pray to Buddha. And, I wouldn't be offended. It wouldn't bother me one bit. When in Rome...
"But, what about the atheists?" is another argument. What about them? Nobody is asking them to be baptized. We're not going to pass the collection plate. Just humor us for 30 seconds. If that's asking too much, bring a Walkman or a pair of ear plugs. Go to the bathroom. Visit the concession stand. Call your lawyer. Unfortunately, one or two will make that call. One or two will tell thousands what they can and cannot do. I don't think a short prayer at a football game is going to shake the world's foundations.
Christians are just sick and tired of turning the other cheek while our courts strip us of all our rights. Our parents and grandparents taught us to pray before eating, to pray before we go to sleep. Our Bible tells us to pray without ceasing. Now, a handful of people and their lawyers are telling us to cease praying. God, help us. And, if that last sentence offends you, well..........just sue me.
The silent majority has been silent too long. It's time we let that one or two who scream loud enough to be heard, that the vast majority don't care what they want. It is time the majority rules!
It's time we tell them, you don't have to pray. You don't have to say the pledge of allegiance, you don't have to believe in God or attend services that honor Him. That is your right, and we will honor your right but, by golly, you are no longer going to take our rights away. We are fighting back. . .and we WILL WIN!
God bless us one and all, especially those who denounce Him... God bless America, despite all her faults, she is still the greatest nation of all...
God bless our service men who are fighting to protect our right to pray and worship God!
May 2004 be the year the silent majority is heard and we put God back as the foundation of our families and institutions.
Keep looking up...... "In God WE Trust."
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, it's always interesting when people who presumably admire Paul Harvey for being a champion of faith and morals fraudulently attach his name to a forwarded email in order to give it credibility.
This commentary is not from Paul Harvey. It's from the pen of Nick Gholson, a columnist for the Times Record News in Wichita Falls, Texas, published in September of 1999.
Thank you Brother Nick Gholson for such a beautiful commentary.
Elder J.A. Vazquez
Read God's Word
Saturday, December 31, 2005
Thursday, November 24, 2005
THE SPIRIT OF THE LORDS PRAYER
After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 11. Give us this day our daily bread. 12. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. Matthew 6:9-13
Surely this is an overwhelming model prayer given to us by the lover of our souls, Jesus.
But you see…
you can't say “Our” if you only live for your self- because the word “Our” reflects an unselfish spirit with an unselfish attitude.
You can't say “Father” if you're not trying to act like His child- because “Father” denotes a family spirit.
You can't say “Who art in Heaven if you're not laying up no treasure there- because “Who art in Heaven” exposes trusting spirit.
You can't say “Hallowed be Thy Name” if you're not striving for holiness- because “Hallowed” indicates a reverent spirit.
You can't say “Thy Kingdom come” if you're not doing all can to usher in that event- because “Thy kingdom comes” expresses a loyal spirit.
You can't say “Thy will be done” if you're disobedient to God's Word- because “Thy will be done” articulates a submissive spirit.
You can't say “in earth as it is in Heaven” if you don't serve Him in the here and now- because “in earth as it is in Heaven” unveil a believing spirit.
You can't say “give us our daily bread” if you are dishonest or seeking gain by deception- because “give us” indicates a dependent spirit.
You can't say “forgive us our debts” if you harbor grudges against others- because “forgive us” reveals a penitent spirit.
You can't say “lead us not into temptation” if you deliberately place yourself in the path of sin- because “lead us” reflects a humble spirit.
You can't say “deliver us from evil” if you don't put on the whole armor of God- because “deliver us from evil” reveals a faithful spirit.
You can't say “Thine is the kingdom” if you don't give the King loyalty that is due to Him- because “Thine is the kingdom” reflects a triumphant spirit.
You can't attribute to Him “power” if you fear what men can do- because “power” is recognized by a confident spirit.
You can't ascribe to Him “glory” if you seek honor only for yourself- because “and the glory” unveils an exultant spirit.
You can't say “forever” if the horizon of your life is bounded completely by time- because “Forever” shows an eternal spirit.
You can’t say Amen if you don’t agree with God’s Word – because “Amen” reflects a cooperate spirit.
Surely this is an overwhelming model prayer given to us by the lover of our souls, Jesus.
But you see…
you can't say “Our” if you only live for your self- because the word “Our” reflects an unselfish spirit with an unselfish attitude.
You can't say “Father” if you're not trying to act like His child- because “Father” denotes a family spirit.
You can't say “Who art in Heaven if you're not laying up no treasure there- because “Who art in Heaven” exposes trusting spirit.
You can't say “Hallowed be Thy Name” if you're not striving for holiness- because “Hallowed” indicates a reverent spirit.
You can't say “Thy Kingdom come” if you're not doing all can to usher in that event- because “Thy kingdom comes” expresses a loyal spirit.
You can't say “Thy will be done” if you're disobedient to God's Word- because “Thy will be done” articulates a submissive spirit.
You can't say “in earth as it is in Heaven” if you don't serve Him in the here and now- because “in earth as it is in Heaven” unveil a believing spirit.
You can't say “give us our daily bread” if you are dishonest or seeking gain by deception- because “give us” indicates a dependent spirit.
You can't say “forgive us our debts” if you harbor grudges against others- because “forgive us” reveals a penitent spirit.
You can't say “lead us not into temptation” if you deliberately place yourself in the path of sin- because “lead us” reflects a humble spirit.
You can't say “deliver us from evil” if you don't put on the whole armor of God- because “deliver us from evil” reveals a faithful spirit.
You can't say “Thine is the kingdom” if you don't give the King loyalty that is due to Him- because “Thine is the kingdom” reflects a triumphant spirit.
You can't attribute to Him “power” if you fear what men can do- because “power” is recognized by a confident spirit.
You can't ascribe to Him “glory” if you seek honor only for yourself- because “and the glory” unveils an exultant spirit.
You can't say “forever” if the horizon of your life is bounded completely by time- because “Forever” shows an eternal spirit.
You can’t say Amen if you don’t agree with God’s Word – because “Amen” reflects a cooperate spirit.
OUR GOD IS
This Thanksgiving I was wondering what to thank God for and realized that even if I had ten thousand tongues, I could not thank Him enough. The Bible says in 1 Chronicles 16:4 “And he appointed certain of the Levites to minister before the ark of the Lord, and to record, and to thank and praise the Lord God of Israel” You see, Certain Levites were selected to give constant praise and thanks to God. Praise and thanksgiving should be a normal part of our everyday lives, not held in reserve only for celebrations. Praise God continually, and you will find that you won’t take his blessings for granted. You see our God is not only good, He's more than good.
He is...
Too holy to be defiled
Too eternal to be an a transient
Too free to be bound
Too invincible to be conquered
Too sure to fail
Too truthful to lie
Too real to be a myth
Too exact to error--
Too true to be false-
Too all knowing to be a learner--
Too wise to be deceived--
Too infallible to make a mistake--
Too strong to be defeated--
Too powerful to be dethroned-
Too competent to be disqualified--
Too alert to be surprised--
Too near to be far away-
Too punctual to be late--
Too watchful to sleep--
Too mindful to forget--
Too right to be wrong--
Too great to be challenged--
Too good to be mean--
Too pure to be contaminated--
Too high to be brought down--
Too rich to become bankrupt-
Too stable to be moved--
Too everlasting to vanish--
Too big to get around--
Too perfect to have defects--
Too merciful to be mean--
Too loving to be unkind--
Too secure not to be trusted and I tell you the God we serve is a too God, and so we need to learn to call the Lord by His right name.
During the Thanksgiving holiday, we focus on our blessings and express our gratitude to God for them. But thanks should be on our lips every day. We can never say thank you enough to parents, friends, leaders, and especially to God. When thanksgiving becomes an integral part of your life, you will find that your attitude toward life will change. You will become more positive, gracious, loving, and humble.
"It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: [2] To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night" Psalm 92:1-2
Happy Thanksgiving
He is...
Too holy to be defiled
Too eternal to be an a transient
Too free to be bound
Too invincible to be conquered
Too sure to fail
Too truthful to lie
Too real to be a myth
Too exact to error--
Too true to be false-
Too all knowing to be a learner--
Too wise to be deceived--
Too infallible to make a mistake--
Too strong to be defeated--
Too powerful to be dethroned-
Too competent to be disqualified--
Too alert to be surprised--
Too near to be far away-
Too punctual to be late--
Too watchful to sleep--
Too mindful to forget--
Too right to be wrong--
Too great to be challenged--
Too good to be mean--
Too pure to be contaminated--
Too high to be brought down--
Too rich to become bankrupt-
Too stable to be moved--
Too everlasting to vanish--
Too big to get around--
Too perfect to have defects--
Too merciful to be mean--
Too loving to be unkind--
Too secure not to be trusted and I tell you the God we serve is a too God, and so we need to learn to call the Lord by His right name.
During the Thanksgiving holiday, we focus on our blessings and express our gratitude to God for them. But thanks should be on our lips every day. We can never say thank you enough to parents, friends, leaders, and especially to God. When thanksgiving becomes an integral part of your life, you will find that your attitude toward life will change. You will become more positive, gracious, loving, and humble.
"It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: [2] To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night" Psalm 92:1-2
Happy Thanksgiving
Sunday, November 13, 2005
THE BIBLE SPEAKS
I am the Bible, God's wonderful library.
I am always-and above all-the truth.
To the weary pilgrim,
I am a strong staff,
To the one who sits in darkness,
I am glorious light.
To those who stumble beneath heavy burdens,
I am sweet rest.
To him who has lost his way,
I am a safe guide.
To those who are sick in sin,
I am healing strength and forgiveness.
To those who are tossed about by the storms of life,
I am a steadfast anchor.
To those who search for salvation,
I reveal the Savior of the world.
I am the Bible,
God's wonderful gift to mankind.
I am always-and above all-the truth.
To the weary pilgrim,
I am a strong staff,
To the one who sits in darkness,
I am glorious light.
To those who stumble beneath heavy burdens,
I am sweet rest.
To him who has lost his way,
I am a safe guide.
To those who are sick in sin,
I am healing strength and forgiveness.
To those who are tossed about by the storms of life,
I am a steadfast anchor.
To those who search for salvation,
I reveal the Savior of the world.
I am the Bible,
God's wonderful gift to mankind.
Saturday, November 12, 2005
Ten things God won't ask:
1...God won't ask what kind of car you drove;
He'll ask how many people you drove who didn't have transportation.
2...God won't ask the square footage of your house,
He'll ask how many people you welcomed into your home.
3...God won't ask about the clothes you had in your closet,
He'll ask how many you helped to clothe.
4...God won't ask what your highest salary was;
He'll ask if you compromised your character to obtain it.
5...God won't ask what your job title was;
He'll ask if you performed your job to the best of your ability.
6...God won't ask how many friends you had;
He'll ask how many people to whom you were a friend.
7...God won't ask in what neighborhood you lived,
He'll ask how you treated your neighbors.
8...God won't ask about the color of your skin,
He'll ask about the content of your character.
9...God won't ask why it took you so long to seek Salvation;
He'll lovingly take you to your mansion in heaven, and not to the gates of Hell.
10...God won't ask how many people you spoke to about Jesus;
He'll ask if you were ashamed of His Son.
He'll ask how many people you drove who didn't have transportation.
2...God won't ask the square footage of your house,
He'll ask how many people you welcomed into your home.
3...God won't ask about the clothes you had in your closet,
He'll ask how many you helped to clothe.
4...God won't ask what your highest salary was;
He'll ask if you compromised your character to obtain it.
5...God won't ask what your job title was;
He'll ask if you performed your job to the best of your ability.
6...God won't ask how many friends you had;
He'll ask how many people to whom you were a friend.
7...God won't ask in what neighborhood you lived,
He'll ask how you treated your neighbors.
8...God won't ask about the color of your skin,
He'll ask about the content of your character.
9...God won't ask why it took you so long to seek Salvation;
He'll lovingly take you to your mansion in heaven, and not to the gates of Hell.
10...God won't ask how many people you spoke to about Jesus;
He'll ask if you were ashamed of His Son.
Saturday, October 29, 2005
TIME
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, surely time is too precious to waste.
To realize the value of ONE YEAR,
ask a student who failed a grade.
To realize the value of ONE MONTH,
ask a mother who gave birth to a premature baby.
To realize the value of ONE WEEK,
ask the editor of a weekly newspaper.
To realize the value on ONE HOUR,
ask the loving couple that is waiting to meet.
To realize the value of ONE MINUTE,
ask a person who missed the train, bus, or plane
To realize the value of ONE SECOND,
ask a person who just avoided an accident.
To realize the value of ONE MILLISECOND,
ask the athlete who just won a silver medal in the Olympics.
Treasure every moment that you have!
And treasure it more because you shared it with someone special, special enough to spend your time.
And remember that time waits for no one.
Yesterday is history.
Tomorrow is mystery.
Today is a gift…that's why it's called the present!
To realize the value of ONE YEAR,
ask a student who failed a grade.
To realize the value of ONE MONTH,
ask a mother who gave birth to a premature baby.
To realize the value of ONE WEEK,
ask the editor of a weekly newspaper.
To realize the value on ONE HOUR,
ask the loving couple that is waiting to meet.
To realize the value of ONE MINUTE,
ask a person who missed the train, bus, or plane
To realize the value of ONE SECOND,
ask a person who just avoided an accident.
To realize the value of ONE MILLISECOND,
ask the athlete who just won a silver medal in the Olympics.
Treasure every moment that you have!
And treasure it more because you shared it with someone special, special enough to spend your time.
And remember that time waits for no one.
Yesterday is history.
Tomorrow is mystery.
Today is a gift…that's why it's called the present!
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
The Christian Checklist
1. Is it right?
1 John 5:17 All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death.
2. Will this bring me near some temptation?
Rom. 13:14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
3. Does this give place to the devil?
Eph. 4:27 Neither give place to the devil.
4. Is there anything in scripture contrary to it?
Isa. 8:20 To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.
5. Am I trusting God or depending in my own strength?
Prov. 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all
thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
6. Is it doubtful?
Rom. 14:23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
7. Will it cause someone to stumble?
Rom. 14:21 It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.
8. Does it appear evil to anyone?
1 Ths. 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
9. Would the Lord Jesus Christ do this?
1 Pet. 2:21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Rom. 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
10. Will it please God?
John 8:29 And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.
11. Am I trying to impress others with my spirituality?
Acts 5:1-11 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, andlaid it, at the apostles' feet. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power?why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him. And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband. And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things.
12. Do I hope somebody notices me?
Gal. 5:26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
13. Does it edify?
1 Cor. 14:26 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
14. Am I being selfish?
Phil. 2:3-4 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in
lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
15. Am I denying the flesh?
Luke 14:26 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. Luke 9:23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
16. Am I putting Christ first?
Col. 1:18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.
17. Is it expedient?
1 Cor. 10:23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.
18. Will it bring glory to God?
1 Cor. 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
19. Am I deceiving myself or being deceived?
1 Cor. 3:18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.
20. Do I know better?
1 Cor. 8:10 For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols.
21. Am I searching for an excuse to justify what I want to do?
Luke 16:15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.
22. Do I have to hide it from anyone?
Sneak around? 2 Cor. 4:2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
23. Did I handle the word of God deceitfully?
2 Cor. 4:2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
24. Will this in anyway defile God's body?
1 Cor. 3:17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. 1Cor. 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
25. Can I sincerely thank God for it?
1 Thess. 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
26. Can I do this in Jesus' name?
Col. 3:17 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.
27. Can I go all the way with it?
Col. 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Eccl. 9:10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.
28. Have I prayed about it?
Ps. 66:18 If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: Phil. 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
29. Will it increase or hinder my prayer life?
1 Pet. 3:7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
30. Am I breaking one commandment in order to keep another?
Jer. 48:10 Cursed be he that doeth the work of the LORD deceitfully, and cursed be he that keepeth back his sword from blood.
31. What does my pastor think about it?
Hebr. 13:7 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. Hebr. 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
32. What does my church brethren think about it?
Prov. 11:14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety. Prov. 15:22 Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.
33. Would I like to be doing this when Jesus Christ returns?
1 John 2:28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. 1 John 3:1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
34. How will it appear at the Judgment Seat of Christ?
Rom. 14:10-12 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. 1 Cor. 3:11-15 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
Thank you Brother Steve Sturgeon for such a lovely checklist.
Elder J. Andres Vazquez
Steve Sturgeon is Pastor of Dillon Bible Church, Dillon, Montana
1 John 5:17 All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death.
2. Will this bring me near some temptation?
Rom. 13:14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
3. Does this give place to the devil?
Eph. 4:27 Neither give place to the devil.
4. Is there anything in scripture contrary to it?
Isa. 8:20 To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.
5. Am I trusting God or depending in my own strength?
Prov. 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all
thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
6. Is it doubtful?
Rom. 14:23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
7. Will it cause someone to stumble?
Rom. 14:21 It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.
8. Does it appear evil to anyone?
1 Ths. 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
9. Would the Lord Jesus Christ do this?
1 Pet. 2:21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Rom. 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
10. Will it please God?
John 8:29 And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.
11. Am I trying to impress others with my spirituality?
Acts 5:1-11 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, andlaid it, at the apostles' feet. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power?why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him. And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband. And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things.
12. Do I hope somebody notices me?
Gal. 5:26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
13. Does it edify?
1 Cor. 14:26 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
14. Am I being selfish?
Phil. 2:3-4 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in
lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
15. Am I denying the flesh?
Luke 14:26 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. Luke 9:23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
16. Am I putting Christ first?
Col. 1:18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.
17. Is it expedient?
1 Cor. 10:23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.
18. Will it bring glory to God?
1 Cor. 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
19. Am I deceiving myself or being deceived?
1 Cor. 3:18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.
20. Do I know better?
1 Cor. 8:10 For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols.
21. Am I searching for an excuse to justify what I want to do?
Luke 16:15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.
22. Do I have to hide it from anyone?
Sneak around? 2 Cor. 4:2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
23. Did I handle the word of God deceitfully?
2 Cor. 4:2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
24. Will this in anyway defile God's body?
1 Cor. 3:17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. 1Cor. 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
25. Can I sincerely thank God for it?
1 Thess. 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
26. Can I do this in Jesus' name?
Col. 3:17 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.
27. Can I go all the way with it?
Col. 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Eccl. 9:10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.
28. Have I prayed about it?
Ps. 66:18 If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: Phil. 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
29. Will it increase or hinder my prayer life?
1 Pet. 3:7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
30. Am I breaking one commandment in order to keep another?
Jer. 48:10 Cursed be he that doeth the work of the LORD deceitfully, and cursed be he that keepeth back his sword from blood.
31. What does my pastor think about it?
Hebr. 13:7 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. Hebr. 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
32. What does my church brethren think about it?
Prov. 11:14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety. Prov. 15:22 Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.
33. Would I like to be doing this when Jesus Christ returns?
1 John 2:28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. 1 John 3:1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
34. How will it appear at the Judgment Seat of Christ?
Rom. 14:10-12 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. 1 Cor. 3:11-15 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
Thank you Brother Steve Sturgeon for such a lovely checklist.
Elder J. Andres Vazquez
Steve Sturgeon is Pastor of Dillon Bible Church, Dillon, Montana
Sunday, October 09, 2005
CHANGE
And Pharaoh sent, and called for Moses and Aaron, and said unto them, I have sinned this time: the Lord is righteous, and I and my people are wicked. Exodus 9:27
After promising to let the Hebrews go, Pharaoh immediately broke his promise and brought even more trouble upon the land. His actions reveal that his repentance was not real. We do damage to ourselves and to others if we pretend to change but don’t mean it.
We all need change.
When I was a young man, I wanted to change the world. I found it was difficult to change the world, so I tried to change my nation. When I found I couldn't change the nation, I began to focus on my town. I couldn't change the town and as an older man, I tried to change my family.
Now, as an old man, I realize the only thing I can change is myself, and suddenly I realize that if long ago I had changed myself, I could have made an impact on my family. My family and I could have made an impact on our town. Their impact could have changed the nation and I could indeed have changed the world.
After promising to let the Hebrews go, Pharaoh immediately broke his promise and brought even more trouble upon the land. His actions reveal that his repentance was not real. We do damage to ourselves and to others if we pretend to change but don’t mean it.
We all need change.
When I was a young man, I wanted to change the world. I found it was difficult to change the world, so I tried to change my nation. When I found I couldn't change the nation, I began to focus on my town. I couldn't change the town and as an older man, I tried to change my family.
Now, as an old man, I realize the only thing I can change is myself, and suddenly I realize that if long ago I had changed myself, I could have made an impact on my family. My family and I could have made an impact on our town. Their impact could have changed the nation and I could indeed have changed the world.
Saturday, October 01, 2005
BREATH
Air surrounds us all.
It may be clean and fresh in the country,
it may be polluted in big cities,
but its life giving presence is all around us.
Air is just a mixture of gases containing roughly 21% oxygen and 79% nitrogen.
Air is air but it becomes something entirely different when inhaled and exhaled by a living creature.
It becomes breath.
It literally changes in both chemical composition and potential.
Words are breath.
Words are simply air set in motion by a living soul.
All of us on earth have virtually the same 21/79% mixture.
But oh, how the words differ. All carried by the same air.
Hate or love spoken, same air.
Encouragement or discouragement spoken, same air.
Compliments or criticisms spoken, same air.
Curses or blessings spoken, same air.
Can do or can't do spoken, same air.
The beauty or misery of life spoken, same air.
Faith or doubt spoken, same air.
Laughter or sighs expressed, same air.
Same air, but different breath.
Air comes into us all with the same potential,
we change it,
we charge it,
we shape it,
we make it,
then we send it forth.
Changed.
Regardless of what you have been through,
no matter what your parents did,
no matter what is or isn't in your bank account,
no matter what hurts,
YOU have a decision to make about the next breath.
God not only breathed the breath of life into man and he became a living soul,
He gave us the choice of what to do with every breath.
He literally gave you the power to breathe life into people and situations, all with the power of your words.
He gave you the power of good and evil,
life and death,
with breath.
Take a deep breath
...and decide.
It may be clean and fresh in the country,
it may be polluted in big cities,
but its life giving presence is all around us.
Air is just a mixture of gases containing roughly 21% oxygen and 79% nitrogen.
Air is air but it becomes something entirely different when inhaled and exhaled by a living creature.
It becomes breath.
It literally changes in both chemical composition and potential.
Words are breath.
Words are simply air set in motion by a living soul.
All of us on earth have virtually the same 21/79% mixture.
But oh, how the words differ. All carried by the same air.
Hate or love spoken, same air.
Encouragement or discouragement spoken, same air.
Compliments or criticisms spoken, same air.
Curses or blessings spoken, same air.
Can do or can't do spoken, same air.
The beauty or misery of life spoken, same air.
Faith or doubt spoken, same air.
Laughter or sighs expressed, same air.
Same air, but different breath.
Air comes into us all with the same potential,
we change it,
we charge it,
we shape it,
we make it,
then we send it forth.
Changed.
Regardless of what you have been through,
no matter what your parents did,
no matter what is or isn't in your bank account,
no matter what hurts,
YOU have a decision to make about the next breath.
God not only breathed the breath of life into man and he became a living soul,
He gave us the choice of what to do with every breath.
He literally gave you the power to breathe life into people and situations, all with the power of your words.
He gave you the power of good and evil,
life and death,
with breath.
Take a deep breath
...and decide.
Friday, September 23, 2005
Pray for them
Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. 1 Peter 3:9
Dear Brothers and Sisters, in our fallen world, it is often deemed acceptable by some to tear people down verbally, physically, spiritually or even cyberlistically to get back at them if we feel hurt. Peter, remembering Jesus’ teaching to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39), encourages us to pay back wrongs by praying for the offenders. In God’s kingdom, revenge is an unacceptable behavior, as is insulting a person, no matter how indirectly it is done.
Rise above getting back at those who hurt you. Instead of reacting angrily to these people, pray for them.
I love you all,
Elder J.A. Vazquez
Dear Brothers and Sisters, in our fallen world, it is often deemed acceptable by some to tear people down verbally, physically, spiritually or even cyberlistically to get back at them if we feel hurt. Peter, remembering Jesus’ teaching to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39), encourages us to pay back wrongs by praying for the offenders. In God’s kingdom, revenge is an unacceptable behavior, as is insulting a person, no matter how indirectly it is done.
Rise above getting back at those who hurt you. Instead of reacting angrily to these people, pray for them.
I love you all,
Elder J.A. Vazquez
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
TELL THE DEVIL
Tell the devil today, he is a liar!; He will not take your joy,
your peace or disturb your spirit.
Tell him he cannot sleep in your bed
there's not enough cover.
Tell him he cannot sit in your chair
you will not give him a cushion of comfort.
Tell him he can't touch your body
it's covered with the blood.
Tell him he cannot audit your finances
you've changed accountants.
Tell him he cannot enter your home
the locks have been changed.
Tell him to leave your workplace
he's not on your list of things to do for today.
Tell him to take his hands off your children
because you've had hands laid on them.
Tell him you have no time for his nonsense, criticism or fears
you are on a mission, and you walk by faith.
Tell him no more tears, heartaches, or headaches
because there's another, He, that restoreth your soul.
Tell him; Tell him; Tell him; Tell him.
Tell him, today, you have a gentle, powerful inner peace within that
consumes you and leaves no room for confusion.
Tell him, today you will - respond soothingly to a crying child, a
tense spouse, or an impatient friend.
Tell him, today, you will find no fault with a relative, friend, or
colleague.
Tell him to leave your tongue alone - for today you will not talk of
anyone, before placing God at the beginning of your thought.
Tell him, wherever you are, that God Is.
Tell him, God said, "My people will abide in a peaceful
habitation...and in quiet resting places." [Isaiah 32:18]
Today, Tell him he is a liar!!!, Amen
your peace or disturb your spirit.
Tell him he cannot sleep in your bed
there's not enough cover.
Tell him he cannot sit in your chair
you will not give him a cushion of comfort.
Tell him he can't touch your body
it's covered with the blood.
Tell him he cannot audit your finances
you've changed accountants.
Tell him he cannot enter your home
the locks have been changed.
Tell him to leave your workplace
he's not on your list of things to do for today.
Tell him to take his hands off your children
because you've had hands laid on them.
Tell him you have no time for his nonsense, criticism or fears
you are on a mission, and you walk by faith.
Tell him no more tears, heartaches, or headaches
because there's another, He, that restoreth your soul.
Tell him; Tell him; Tell him; Tell him.
Tell him, today, you have a gentle, powerful inner peace within that
consumes you and leaves no room for confusion.
Tell him, today you will - respond soothingly to a crying child, a
tense spouse, or an impatient friend.
Tell him, today, you will find no fault with a relative, friend, or
colleague.
Tell him to leave your tongue alone - for today you will not talk of
anyone, before placing God at the beginning of your thought.
Tell him, wherever you are, that God Is.
Tell him, God said, "My people will abide in a peaceful
habitation...and in quiet resting places." [Isaiah 32:18]
Today, Tell him he is a liar!!!, Amen
He Is
He is the First and Last, the Beginning and the End! He is the keeper of Creation and the Creator of all! He is the Architect of the universe and The Manager of all times. He always was, He always is, and He always will be...Unmoved, Unchanged, Undefeated, and never Undone!
He was bruised and brought healing! He was pierced and eased pain! He was persecuted and brought freedom! He was dead and brought life! He is risen and brings power! He reigns and brings Peace! The world can't understand him, The armies can't defeat Him, The schools can't explain Him, and The leaders can't ignore Him, so they tried to but couldn't kill Him, The Pharisees couldn't confuse Him, and The people couldn't hold Him! The New Age can't replace Him, and Donahue can't explain Him away! He is light, love, longevity, and Lord. He is goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God. He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure. His ways are right, His word is eternal, His will is unchanging, and His mind is on me.
He is my Redeemer, He is my Savior, He is my guide, and He is my peace! He is my Joy, He is my comfort, He is my Lord, and He rules my life! I serve Him because His bond is love, His burden is light, and His goal for me is abundant life. I follow Him because He is the wisdom of the wise, The power of the powerful, The ancient of days, the ruler of rulers, The leader of leaders, the overseer of the overcomers, and The sovereign Lord of all that was and is and is to come. And if that seems impressive to you, try this for size.
His goal is a relationship with ME! He will never leave me, Never forsake me, Never mislead me, Never forget me, Never overlook me, and Never cancel my appointment in His appointment book! When I fall, He lifts me up! When I fail, He forgives! When I am weak, He is strong! When I am lost, He is the way! When I am afraid, He is my courage! When I stumble, He steadies me! When I am hurt, He heals me! When I am broken, He mends me! When I am blind, He leads me! When I am hungry, He feeds me! When I face trials, He is with me! When I face persecution, He shields me! When I face problems, He comforts me! When I face loss, He provides for me! When I face Death, He carries me Home!
He is everything for everybody, everywhere, Every time, and every way. He is God, He is faithful. I am His, and He is mine! My Father in heaven can whip the father of this world. So, if you're wondering why I feel so secure, understand this...He said it and that settles it. God is in control, I am on His side, and that means all is well with my soul. Everyday is a blessing for GOD Is!
He was bruised and brought healing! He was pierced and eased pain! He was persecuted and brought freedom! He was dead and brought life! He is risen and brings power! He reigns and brings Peace! The world can't understand him, The armies can't defeat Him, The schools can't explain Him, and The leaders can't ignore Him, so they tried to but couldn't kill Him, The Pharisees couldn't confuse Him, and The people couldn't hold Him! The New Age can't replace Him, and Donahue can't explain Him away! He is light, love, longevity, and Lord. He is goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God. He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure. His ways are right, His word is eternal, His will is unchanging, and His mind is on me.
He is my Redeemer, He is my Savior, He is my guide, and He is my peace! He is my Joy, He is my comfort, He is my Lord, and He rules my life! I serve Him because His bond is love, His burden is light, and His goal for me is abundant life. I follow Him because He is the wisdom of the wise, The power of the powerful, The ancient of days, the ruler of rulers, The leader of leaders, the overseer of the overcomers, and The sovereign Lord of all that was and is and is to come. And if that seems impressive to you, try this for size.
His goal is a relationship with ME! He will never leave me, Never forsake me, Never mislead me, Never forget me, Never overlook me, and Never cancel my appointment in His appointment book! When I fall, He lifts me up! When I fail, He forgives! When I am weak, He is strong! When I am lost, He is the way! When I am afraid, He is my courage! When I stumble, He steadies me! When I am hurt, He heals me! When I am broken, He mends me! When I am blind, He leads me! When I am hungry, He feeds me! When I face trials, He is with me! When I face persecution, He shields me! When I face problems, He comforts me! When I face loss, He provides for me! When I face Death, He carries me Home!
He is everything for everybody, everywhere, Every time, and every way. He is God, He is faithful. I am His, and He is mine! My Father in heaven can whip the father of this world. So, if you're wondering why I feel so secure, understand this...He said it and that settles it. God is in control, I am on His side, and that means all is well with my soul. Everyday is a blessing for GOD Is!
Friday, September 16, 2005
THUS SPEAKETH
It amazes me that a high percentage of Americans expect to go to heaven when they die. However, many of them hardly ever pray, read the Bible, or attend church. They admit that they live to please themselves instead of God. I often wonder why these people would want to go to heaven. It brings to mind Isaiah 55: 6 and 7 which says, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.”
If you think that scripture hits the bull’s-eye…
Take in verse 8 and imagine what God’s thoughts are pertaining to this dilemma.
Verse 8 say, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.”
There’s an engraving on the Cathedral of Lubeck, Germany which remind me of what I’d assume the Lord thus speaketh.
"Ye call Me Master and obey Me not,
Ye call Me Light and see Me not,
Ye call Me Way and walk not,
Ye call Me Life and desire Me not,
Ye call Me Wise and follow Me not,
Ye call Me Fair and love Me not,
Ye call Me Rich and ask Me not,
Ye call Me Eternal and seek Me not,
Ye call Me Gracious and trust Me not,
Ye call Me Noble and serve Me not,
Ye call Me Mighty and honor Me not,
Ye call Me Just and fear Me not;
If I condemn you, blame Me not.
Thus speaketh Christ our Lord unto us."
If you think that scripture hits the bull’s-eye…
Take in verse 8 and imagine what God’s thoughts are pertaining to this dilemma.
Verse 8 say, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.”
There’s an engraving on the Cathedral of Lubeck, Germany which remind me of what I’d assume the Lord thus speaketh.
"Ye call Me Master and obey Me not,
Ye call Me Light and see Me not,
Ye call Me Way and walk not,
Ye call Me Life and desire Me not,
Ye call Me Wise and follow Me not,
Ye call Me Fair and love Me not,
Ye call Me Rich and ask Me not,
Ye call Me Eternal and seek Me not,
Ye call Me Gracious and trust Me not,
Ye call Me Noble and serve Me not,
Ye call Me Mighty and honor Me not,
Ye call Me Just and fear Me not;
If I condemn you, blame Me not.
Thus speaketh Christ our Lord unto us."
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Is Jesus Enough?
"After they had eaten, Jesus asked Simon Peter, 'Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these other things?'" (John 21:15).
If Jesus was all you had, would Jesus be enough for you?
Many precious believers are in love with the things of the Lord, but they are not in love with the Lord Himself.
Many Christian workers and ministers are in love with the Lord's work. Almost without realizing it, the work of the Lord becomes more important than the Lord of the work.
There are prophets and teachers who hold words from God in higher esteem than the God Who speaks the words they attribute as being from Him. People seek these words and teachings. The more they receive, the more they want. Before one word is digested they are craving another. They are seeking "things" - words, prophecies, teachings, visions, dreams - but they are not seeking the Lord Himself.
Is Jesus enough?
When the saints gather together most of the activity is focused on "one another". This is important, but it is not the most important thing. Fellowship is good: but is Jesus enough? Gatherings are good: but is Jesus enough? Meetings are good: but is Jesus enough? Special speakers and special music are good: but is Jesus enough?
Even with praise and worship it is possible to sing "about" Jesus and not truly worship Jesus. With preaching and teaching it is possible to talk "about" Jesus and not truly meet Jesus in what is shared. In prayer it is possible to talk "about" our needs and never actually commune with Jesus Himself.
Among Christians I have discovered something. There is Jesus, and then there are all the things ABOUT Jesus that are NOT Jesus. Jesus Himself occupies only a small portion of what is said and done in Christian circles. Most of what is said and done is merely ABOUT Jesus, but it is NOT Jesus.
I have learned that stress, strife, disillusionment, dissatisfaction, bitterness, anger, hurt, misunderstanding, and confusion comes from everything said and done by religious people ABOUT the Lord, and IN THE NAME of the Lord, that does not, in fact, have anything to do with Jesus Himself.
How much of your focus is directed to the things of God, and not to God Himself? How much of your discussion centers on things about Jesus, and not Jesus Himself?
Just look around. This brother is focused on end-time events, and that sister is devoted to inner healing. This brother is primarily concerned with prophetic things, while another sister is keenly interested in spiritual warfare. That brother is deeply involved with theological discussions, while that sister is in love with Christian music. One movement emphasizes this particular thing, and another group stands for another thing.
There may be diversities of gifts and callings. There may be various and sundry things to be involved with. There may be many topics to study and discuss. Many things compete for our time, attention, affection, energy, and money.
But there is only one Lord Jesus.
Just as some people cannot see the forest for the trees, I believe most sinners cannot see Jesus for the Christians. And I believe most Christians cannot see Jesus for the "church".
Is Jesus enough?
Whenever I am ministering to pastors, whatever they think their calling is, I always have them turn to Mark 3:14:
"And he ordained twelve, that they should BE WITH HIM, and that He might send them forth to preach."
You are called to be with Jesus. That is your calling. That is the primary thing, the highest ministry. Going forth to preach or do anything else is of secondary importance. We should be with Jesus; after that, He might send us forth to preach. But before Jesus said, "Go into all the world" He said, "Be with Me."
The call of the Lord is not more important than the Lord of the call. The work of the Lord must not replace the Lord of the work. No amount of ministering FOR the Lord will make up for a lack of ministering TO the Lord. And knowing the Word of God does not necessarily mean that we know the God of the Word.
Everyone wants to go and do something for God, but few people are willing to stay and do "nothing" for Him.
Jesus asked Peter, "Am I enough for You? Do you love Me more than everything else? Do you love Me more than you love the things about Me?"
A few weeks later, when Peter stood with John before the religious rulers to explain the healing of a man who had never walked, "...they marveled; and they took knowledge of [Peter and John], that THEY HAD BEEN WITH JESUS" (Acts 4:13b).
If we will be with Jesus, then Jesus will be with us.
The reason the New Testament church had power was not because they spoke in tongues, or held meetings in their living rooms, or had a certain system for planting churches. The secret was they had been with Jesus.
But some Christians are more in love with methods and ministries than they are in love with the Man.
The prophets and teachers in the church of Antioch were gathered together: not to have a house church conference, not to begin a new ministry, not to discuss the latest prophetic word or the newest teaching, not to exchange ideas on how to grow the church, not to fellowship, not to share a meal, not to minister to one another. But "as they ministered TO THE LORD, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said..." (Acts 13:2a).
Paul and his fellow workers had many souls to save, many disciples to make, many churches to plant, many places to visit, many messages to deliver, many letters to write. There were many needs to be met, many doors of opportunity before them.
But the work was suspended. Activity ceased. Ministry came to a standstill. Fellowship and food were forgotten. The prophets were there, but the prophets did not prophesy. The teachers were there, but the teachers did not teach.
Instead, they ministered to the Lord. The focus shifted from horizontal to vertical. The emphasis was directed away from man and man's needs, and onto the Lord and His Need. They were busy being with Jesus. They were at His feet. So when the Holy Ghost finally spoke, they were ready to go forth. Thus began the first missionary journey of Paul.
When apostles love church planting and mission work more than Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When prophets love their prophecies, dreams, and visions more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When evangelists love traveling, preaching, and holding meetings more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When pastors love their church services and building programs more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When teachers love their teachings more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When preachers love their preaching more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When ministers love their ministry more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When musicians love their music more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When writers love their writings more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
And when the simplest disciples grow tired of "just" being with Jesus, and begin to long for something bigger, something better, something greater, something more powerful, something other than what they have in Jesus already, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
If Jesus was all you had, would Jesus be enough for you? Or do you have to have all the "trappings" of Christianity, all the bells and whistles, all the toys and trinkets?
Make no mistake: there is no life in the things that are ABOUT Jesus. There is life only in Jesus Himself.
May I speak candidly? If you are dissatisfied and disappointed with your Christian walk today, it is only because of one thing: Jesus is not enough for you. Somewhere along the line, something else became more important than Jesus. Maybe you have become focused on the things ABOUT Jesus that are NOT Jesus.
There is only one solution. You do not need more of the Lord, because He has already given Himself completely to you already. You just need less of everything else.
Remember.
Remember what it was like to hear His Voice, to be so filled with passion and love for Him, that you wanted nothing more than to sit at His feet, and hear His Word.
Remember when you were so infatuated with Him that you did not want to do anything else.
Remember what it was like to just be with Jesus.
Go back to when Jesus first called you to be with Him.
Go back to the time when all you had was Him.
Go back to the time before you were planting churches, speaking prophetic words, preaching to the unsaved, pastoring the congregation, teaching the people, or leading worship.
Go back to the time when there was no work, no ministry, no vision, no special calling - except Jesus calling you to be with Him.
Remember when you said, "He's all I need!"
So what happened?
I pray the Lord will draw us after Himself and make us thoroughly sick and tired of things - especially the things that are ABOUT Him, but are NOT Him.
God so loved the world that He gave His Only Son, Jesus.
Well... is Jesus enough?
Thank you brother Chip Brogden for such rousing word.
Elder J.A. Vazquez
If Jesus was all you had, would Jesus be enough for you?
Many precious believers are in love with the things of the Lord, but they are not in love with the Lord Himself.
Many Christian workers and ministers are in love with the Lord's work. Almost without realizing it, the work of the Lord becomes more important than the Lord of the work.
There are prophets and teachers who hold words from God in higher esteem than the God Who speaks the words they attribute as being from Him. People seek these words and teachings. The more they receive, the more they want. Before one word is digested they are craving another. They are seeking "things" - words, prophecies, teachings, visions, dreams - but they are not seeking the Lord Himself.
Is Jesus enough?
When the saints gather together most of the activity is focused on "one another". This is important, but it is not the most important thing. Fellowship is good: but is Jesus enough? Gatherings are good: but is Jesus enough? Meetings are good: but is Jesus enough? Special speakers and special music are good: but is Jesus enough?
Even with praise and worship it is possible to sing "about" Jesus and not truly worship Jesus. With preaching and teaching it is possible to talk "about" Jesus and not truly meet Jesus in what is shared. In prayer it is possible to talk "about" our needs and never actually commune with Jesus Himself.
Among Christians I have discovered something. There is Jesus, and then there are all the things ABOUT Jesus that are NOT Jesus. Jesus Himself occupies only a small portion of what is said and done in Christian circles. Most of what is said and done is merely ABOUT Jesus, but it is NOT Jesus.
I have learned that stress, strife, disillusionment, dissatisfaction, bitterness, anger, hurt, misunderstanding, and confusion comes from everything said and done by religious people ABOUT the Lord, and IN THE NAME of the Lord, that does not, in fact, have anything to do with Jesus Himself.
How much of your focus is directed to the things of God, and not to God Himself? How much of your discussion centers on things about Jesus, and not Jesus Himself?
Just look around. This brother is focused on end-time events, and that sister is devoted to inner healing. This brother is primarily concerned with prophetic things, while another sister is keenly interested in spiritual warfare. That brother is deeply involved with theological discussions, while that sister is in love with Christian music. One movement emphasizes this particular thing, and another group stands for another thing.
There may be diversities of gifts and callings. There may be various and sundry things to be involved with. There may be many topics to study and discuss. Many things compete for our time, attention, affection, energy, and money.
But there is only one Lord Jesus.
Just as some people cannot see the forest for the trees, I believe most sinners cannot see Jesus for the Christians. And I believe most Christians cannot see Jesus for the "church".
Is Jesus enough?
Whenever I am ministering to pastors, whatever they think their calling is, I always have them turn to Mark 3:14:
"And he ordained twelve, that they should BE WITH HIM, and that He might send them forth to preach."
You are called to be with Jesus. That is your calling. That is the primary thing, the highest ministry. Going forth to preach or do anything else is of secondary importance. We should be with Jesus; after that, He might send us forth to preach. But before Jesus said, "Go into all the world" He said, "Be with Me."
The call of the Lord is not more important than the Lord of the call. The work of the Lord must not replace the Lord of the work. No amount of ministering FOR the Lord will make up for a lack of ministering TO the Lord. And knowing the Word of God does not necessarily mean that we know the God of the Word.
Everyone wants to go and do something for God, but few people are willing to stay and do "nothing" for Him.
Jesus asked Peter, "Am I enough for You? Do you love Me more than everything else? Do you love Me more than you love the things about Me?"
A few weeks later, when Peter stood with John before the religious rulers to explain the healing of a man who had never walked, "...they marveled; and they took knowledge of [Peter and John], that THEY HAD BEEN WITH JESUS" (Acts 4:13b).
If we will be with Jesus, then Jesus will be with us.
The reason the New Testament church had power was not because they spoke in tongues, or held meetings in their living rooms, or had a certain system for planting churches. The secret was they had been with Jesus.
But some Christians are more in love with methods and ministries than they are in love with the Man.
The prophets and teachers in the church of Antioch were gathered together: not to have a house church conference, not to begin a new ministry, not to discuss the latest prophetic word or the newest teaching, not to exchange ideas on how to grow the church, not to fellowship, not to share a meal, not to minister to one another. But "as they ministered TO THE LORD, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said..." (Acts 13:2a).
Paul and his fellow workers had many souls to save, many disciples to make, many churches to plant, many places to visit, many messages to deliver, many letters to write. There were many needs to be met, many doors of opportunity before them.
But the work was suspended. Activity ceased. Ministry came to a standstill. Fellowship and food were forgotten. The prophets were there, but the prophets did not prophesy. The teachers were there, but the teachers did not teach.
Instead, they ministered to the Lord. The focus shifted from horizontal to vertical. The emphasis was directed away from man and man's needs, and onto the Lord and His Need. They were busy being with Jesus. They were at His feet. So when the Holy Ghost finally spoke, they were ready to go forth. Thus began the first missionary journey of Paul.
When apostles love church planting and mission work more than Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When prophets love their prophecies, dreams, and visions more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When evangelists love traveling, preaching, and holding meetings more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When pastors love their church services and building programs more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When teachers love their teachings more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When preachers love their preaching more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When ministers love their ministry more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When musicians love their music more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
When writers love their writings more than they love Jesus, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
And when the simplest disciples grow tired of "just" being with Jesus, and begin to long for something bigger, something better, something greater, something more powerful, something other than what they have in Jesus already, then they are saying that Jesus is not enough.
If Jesus was all you had, would Jesus be enough for you? Or do you have to have all the "trappings" of Christianity, all the bells and whistles, all the toys and trinkets?
Make no mistake: there is no life in the things that are ABOUT Jesus. There is life only in Jesus Himself.
May I speak candidly? If you are dissatisfied and disappointed with your Christian walk today, it is only because of one thing: Jesus is not enough for you. Somewhere along the line, something else became more important than Jesus. Maybe you have become focused on the things ABOUT Jesus that are NOT Jesus.
There is only one solution. You do not need more of the Lord, because He has already given Himself completely to you already. You just need less of everything else.
Remember.
Remember what it was like to hear His Voice, to be so filled with passion and love for Him, that you wanted nothing more than to sit at His feet, and hear His Word.
Remember when you were so infatuated with Him that you did not want to do anything else.
Remember what it was like to just be with Jesus.
Go back to when Jesus first called you to be with Him.
Go back to the time when all you had was Him.
Go back to the time before you were planting churches, speaking prophetic words, preaching to the unsaved, pastoring the congregation, teaching the people, or leading worship.
Go back to the time when there was no work, no ministry, no vision, no special calling - except Jesus calling you to be with Him.
Remember when you said, "He's all I need!"
So what happened?
I pray the Lord will draw us after Himself and make us thoroughly sick and tired of things - especially the things that are ABOUT Him, but are NOT Him.
God so loved the world that He gave His Only Son, Jesus.
Well... is Jesus enough?
Thank you brother Chip Brogden for such rousing word.
Elder J.A. Vazquez
31 WAYS TO PRAISE!
1. God the Creator. “Creator God, I praise You because ‘You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you’” (Neh. 9:6).
2. The Only God. “God, I praise You because You are ‘the LORD, and there is no other; apart from [You] there is no God’” (Is. 45:5).
3. The Almighty God. “‘O LORD, God Almighty, who is like You?You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you’” (Ps. 89:8).
4. The Everlasting Father, the Ancient of Days. “I praise You, Lord, as the ‘Ancient of Days’
(Dan. 7:9), the ‘Everlasting Father’ (Is. 9:6), who lives forever and ever.”
5. A Loving God. “I praise You because You are a loving God, whose very nature is love” (1 Jn. 4:16).
6. A God of Justice. “Lord, I praise and magnify You, who is ‘just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus’” (Ro. 3:26).
7. A Faithful God. “Heavenly Father, I give You my praise and adoration, because You are a ‘faithful God, keeping [Your]covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love [You] and keep [Your] commands’” (Dt. 7:9).
8. A Merciful God. “‘You are a gracious and merciful God’ (Neh. 9:31), and I praise You for Your great mercy.”
9. God, My Refuge, My Fortress. “I praise You, Lord, for You are ‘my mighty rock, my refuge’”
(Ps. 62:7).
10. A Patient, Persevering God. “Father, I praise You because You are ‘patient with [Your children], not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance’ (2 Pet. 3:9). Thank You for Your patience with me.”
11. Eternal, Saving God. “I give praise to You, Father, ‘the only God our Savior.’ To You ‘be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore’” (Jude 25).
12. The Holy One. “Holy, holy, holy [are You] Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come” (Rev. 4:8).
13. A Personal God. “I praise You, God, because You are a personal God, who gives me the honor of knowing You personally, even inviting me to feast at Your kingdom’s table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob” (Mt. 8:11).
14. A Giving God. “All praise and honor be Yours, O God, because You are a generous God, who did not even stop short of giving Your own Son” (Jn. 3:16).
15. A Provider God. “I praise You today, Lord, as my Jehovah-Jireh (the Lord Will Provide), who makes all grace abound in me and generously provides all I need” (2 Cor. 9:8).
16. God, My Shepherd. “I bless Your name and praise You as my Jehovah-Rohi (The Lord My Shepherd), who will shepherd me and guide me in the paths of righteousness for Your name’s sake” (Ps. 23:1-3).
17. God, My Victory. “Praise to You, my God, because You are my Jehovah-Nissi (The Lord My Banner), God, my victory, ‘who always leads [me] in triumphal procession in Christ’” (2 Cor. 2:14).
18. God, My Peace. “I praise You with all my heart, Lord, because You are my Jehovah-Shalom (The Lord Our Peace), ‘the God of peace [who] will soon crush Satan under [my] feet’” (Ro. 16:20).
19. The God Who Heals. “Father, I praise You because You are the Lord who heals me” (Ex. 15:26).
20. The God of All Comfort. “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort” (2 Cor. 1:3).
21. The God of Miracles. “Lord, I praise You because ‘you are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples’” (Ps. 77:14).
22. A Forgiving God. “I want to bless You with praise, Father, because ‘you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love’” (Neh. 9:17).
23. The Burden Bearer. “Praise be to the Lord, to God [my] Savior, who daily bears [my] burdens” (Ps. 68:19).
24. A Faithful God. “I praise You because ‘your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies’ (Ps. 36:5), and ‘great is your faithfulness’” (Lam. 3:23).
25. King of Kings and Lord of Lords. “All honor and praise be to You, my God, ‘the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light’” (1 Tim. 6:15).
26. God the Liberator. “I will praise You because ‘you are my help and my deliverer; O LORD’”
(Ps. 70:5).
27. The Lifter of My Head. “Father God, I praise You because ‘you are a shield around me, O LORD; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head’ when I am weary or despised” (Ps. 3:3).
28. God of Light. “I praise You, Lord, because You are ‘my light and my salvation’ (Ps. 27:1), and because You know ‘what lies in darkness, and light dwells with [You]’” (Dan. 2:22).
29. God of Joy. “I give You praise, O LORD, because ‘you have granted [me] eternal blessings and made [me] glad with the joy of your presence’” (Ps. 21:6).
30. The God Who Answers Prayer. “I praise and honor You, Father, because You are a God who loves to answer prayer and who begins to answer even before I pray” (Is. 65:24).
31. The God of All the Earth. “I praise and adore You, Lord, as ‘the Holy One of Israel . . . [my] Redeemer . . . the God of all the earth’” (Is. 54:5).
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, this “program of praise” that has proven wonderfully helpful. I know it will opened a door for you, and your praises to God will flow freely from your heart and lips during prayer. Focus on one attribute of our awesome God and Father each day, using the Scripture-based sentences as “praise starters.” At the end of each month, start the list over, combining traits when the month is shorter than 31 days.
(Excerpted from Pray! Magazine issue #12. )
2. The Only God. “God, I praise You because You are ‘the LORD, and there is no other; apart from [You] there is no God’” (Is. 45:5).
3. The Almighty God. “‘O LORD, God Almighty, who is like You?You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you’” (Ps. 89:8).
4. The Everlasting Father, the Ancient of Days. “I praise You, Lord, as the ‘Ancient of Days’
(Dan. 7:9), the ‘Everlasting Father’ (Is. 9:6), who lives forever and ever.”
5. A Loving God. “I praise You because You are a loving God, whose very nature is love” (1 Jn. 4:16).
6. A God of Justice. “Lord, I praise and magnify You, who is ‘just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus’” (Ro. 3:26).
7. A Faithful God. “Heavenly Father, I give You my praise and adoration, because You are a ‘faithful God, keeping [Your]covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love [You] and keep [Your] commands’” (Dt. 7:9).
8. A Merciful God. “‘You are a gracious and merciful God’ (Neh. 9:31), and I praise You for Your great mercy.”
9. God, My Refuge, My Fortress. “I praise You, Lord, for You are ‘my mighty rock, my refuge’”
(Ps. 62:7).
10. A Patient, Persevering God. “Father, I praise You because You are ‘patient with [Your children], not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance’ (2 Pet. 3:9). Thank You for Your patience with me.”
11. Eternal, Saving God. “I give praise to You, Father, ‘the only God our Savior.’ To You ‘be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore’” (Jude 25).
12. The Holy One. “Holy, holy, holy [are You] Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come” (Rev. 4:8).
13. A Personal God. “I praise You, God, because You are a personal God, who gives me the honor of knowing You personally, even inviting me to feast at Your kingdom’s table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob” (Mt. 8:11).
14. A Giving God. “All praise and honor be Yours, O God, because You are a generous God, who did not even stop short of giving Your own Son” (Jn. 3:16).
15. A Provider God. “I praise You today, Lord, as my Jehovah-Jireh (the Lord Will Provide), who makes all grace abound in me and generously provides all I need” (2 Cor. 9:8).
16. God, My Shepherd. “I bless Your name and praise You as my Jehovah-Rohi (The Lord My Shepherd), who will shepherd me and guide me in the paths of righteousness for Your name’s sake” (Ps. 23:1-3).
17. God, My Victory. “Praise to You, my God, because You are my Jehovah-Nissi (The Lord My Banner), God, my victory, ‘who always leads [me] in triumphal procession in Christ’” (2 Cor. 2:14).
18. God, My Peace. “I praise You with all my heart, Lord, because You are my Jehovah-Shalom (The Lord Our Peace), ‘the God of peace [who] will soon crush Satan under [my] feet’” (Ro. 16:20).
19. The God Who Heals. “Father, I praise You because You are the Lord who heals me” (Ex. 15:26).
20. The God of All Comfort. “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort” (2 Cor. 1:3).
21. The God of Miracles. “Lord, I praise You because ‘you are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples’” (Ps. 77:14).
22. A Forgiving God. “I want to bless You with praise, Father, because ‘you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love’” (Neh. 9:17).
23. The Burden Bearer. “Praise be to the Lord, to God [my] Savior, who daily bears [my] burdens” (Ps. 68:19).
24. A Faithful God. “I praise You because ‘your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies’ (Ps. 36:5), and ‘great is your faithfulness’” (Lam. 3:23).
25. King of Kings and Lord of Lords. “All honor and praise be to You, my God, ‘the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light’” (1 Tim. 6:15).
26. God the Liberator. “I will praise You because ‘you are my help and my deliverer; O LORD’”
(Ps. 70:5).
27. The Lifter of My Head. “Father God, I praise You because ‘you are a shield around me, O LORD; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head’ when I am weary or despised” (Ps. 3:3).
28. God of Light. “I praise You, Lord, because You are ‘my light and my salvation’ (Ps. 27:1), and because You know ‘what lies in darkness, and light dwells with [You]’” (Dan. 2:22).
29. God of Joy. “I give You praise, O LORD, because ‘you have granted [me] eternal blessings and made [me] glad with the joy of your presence’” (Ps. 21:6).
30. The God Who Answers Prayer. “I praise and honor You, Father, because You are a God who loves to answer prayer and who begins to answer even before I pray” (Is. 65:24).
31. The God of All the Earth. “I praise and adore You, Lord, as ‘the Holy One of Israel . . . [my] Redeemer . . . the God of all the earth’” (Is. 54:5).
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, this “program of praise” that has proven wonderfully helpful. I know it will opened a door for you, and your praises to God will flow freely from your heart and lips during prayer. Focus on one attribute of our awesome God and Father each day, using the Scripture-based sentences as “praise starters.” At the end of each month, start the list over, combining traits when the month is shorter than 31 days.
(Excerpted from Pray! Magazine issue #12. )
STILL HE WALKED
He could hear the crowds screaming "crucify" "crucify"...
He could hear the hatred in their voices,
These were his chosen people.
He loved them,
And they were going to crucify him.
He was beaten, bleeding and weakened... his heart was broken,
But still He walked.
He could see the crowd as he came from the palace.
He knew each of the faces so well.
He had created them.
He knew every smile, laugh, and shed tear,
But now they were contorted with rage and anger...his heart broke,
But still He walked.
Was he scared?
You and I would have been
So his humanness would have mandated that he was.
He felt alone.
His disciples had left, denied, and even betrayed him.
He searched the crowd for a loving face and he saw very few.
Then he turned his eyes to the only one that mattered
And he knew that he would never be alone.
He looked back at the crowd, at the people who were spitting
At him, throwing rocks at him and mocking him and he knew
That because of him, they would never be alone.
So for them, He walked.
The sounds of the hammer striking the spikes echoed through
The crowd. The sounds of his cries echoed even louder,
The cheers of the crowd, as his hands and feet
Were nailed to the cross, intensified with each blow.
Loudest of all was the still small voice inside his
Heart that whispered "I am with you, my son",
And God's heart broke.
He had let his son walk.
Jesus could have asked God to end his suffering,
But instead he asked God to forgive.
Not to forgive him, but to forgive the ones who were persecuting him.
As he hung on that cross, dying an unimaginable death,
He looked out and saw, not only the faces in the crowd,
But also, the face of every person yet to be,
And his heart filled with love.
As his body was dying, his heart was alive.
Alive with the limitless, unconditional love he feels for each of us.
That is why He walked.
When I forget how much My God loves me,
I remember his walk.
When I wonder if I can be forgiven,
I remember his walk.
When I'm reminded of how to live like Christ,
I think of his walk.
And to show him how much I love him,
I wake up each morning, turn my eyes to him,
And I walk.
He could hear the hatred in their voices,
These were his chosen people.
He loved them,
And they were going to crucify him.
He was beaten, bleeding and weakened... his heart was broken,
But still He walked.
He could see the crowd as he came from the palace.
He knew each of the faces so well.
He had created them.
He knew every smile, laugh, and shed tear,
But now they were contorted with rage and anger...his heart broke,
But still He walked.
Was he scared?
You and I would have been
So his humanness would have mandated that he was.
He felt alone.
His disciples had left, denied, and even betrayed him.
He searched the crowd for a loving face and he saw very few.
Then he turned his eyes to the only one that mattered
And he knew that he would never be alone.
He looked back at the crowd, at the people who were spitting
At him, throwing rocks at him and mocking him and he knew
That because of him, they would never be alone.
So for them, He walked.
The sounds of the hammer striking the spikes echoed through
The crowd. The sounds of his cries echoed even louder,
The cheers of the crowd, as his hands and feet
Were nailed to the cross, intensified with each blow.
Loudest of all was the still small voice inside his
Heart that whispered "I am with you, my son",
And God's heart broke.
He had let his son walk.
Jesus could have asked God to end his suffering,
But instead he asked God to forgive.
Not to forgive him, but to forgive the ones who were persecuting him.
As he hung on that cross, dying an unimaginable death,
He looked out and saw, not only the faces in the crowd,
But also, the face of every person yet to be,
And his heart filled with love.
As his body was dying, his heart was alive.
Alive with the limitless, unconditional love he feels for each of us.
That is why He walked.
When I forget how much My God loves me,
I remember his walk.
When I wonder if I can be forgiven,
I remember his walk.
When I'm reminded of how to live like Christ,
I think of his walk.
And to show him how much I love him,
I wake up each morning, turn my eyes to him,
And I walk.
NEVER AGAIN
NEVER AGAIN will I confess, "I can't" for "I can do all things through Christ Jesus which strengtheneth me" Philippians 4:13
NEVER AGAIN will I confess lack, for " My God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in Glory by Christ Jesus" Philippians 4:19.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess fear, for "God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind" II Timothy 1:7
NEVER AGAIN will I confess doubt and lack of faith, for " God hath given to every man the measure of faith" Romans 12:3.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess weakness, for "The Lord is the strength of my life" Psalm 27:1
NEVER AGAIN will I confess supremacy of Satan over my life, for "Greater is He that is in me that he that is in the world" I John 4:4.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess defeat, for "God always causeth me to triumph in Christ Jesus"
II Corinthians 2:14
NEVER AGAIN will I confess lack of wisdom, for "Christ Jesus is made unto me wisdom from God" I Corinthians 1:30
NEVER AGAIN will I confess sickness, for "with His stripes I am healed" Isaiah 53:5, and Jesus Himself took my infirmities and bare my sickness" Matthew 8:17.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess worries and frustrations, for I am "Casting all my cares upon Him who careth for me" I Peter 5:7.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess bondage, for "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty" II Corinthians 3:17.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess condemnation, for "There is no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus" Romans 8:1.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess loneliness, for Jesus said "Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world" Matthew 28:20.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess insecurity because "When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid; yea, thou shalt lie down, and they sleep shall be sweet…for the Lord shall be they confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken" Proverbs 3:24-26
NEVER AGAIN will I confess failure because, "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us" Romans 8:37
NEVER AGAIN will I confess frustration, for "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee" Isaiah 26:3
NEVER AGAIN will I confess fear of the future, "But it is written, eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him, but God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit". I Corinthians 2:9-10
NEVER AGAIN will I confess troubles because Jesus said, "In the world ye shall have tribulations: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world". John16: 33
NEVER AGAIN will I confess unworthiness because "He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him" II Corinthians 5:21
NEVER AGAIN will I confess confusion because "God is not the author of confusion, but of peace" I Corinthians 14:33.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess persecution, for "If God be for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31
NEVER AGAIN will I confess the Dominion of sin over my Life because, "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." Romans 8:2, and "As far as the east is from the west, so far hath He removed our transgressions from us." Psalms 103:12
NEVER AGAIN will I confess Insecurity because "When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet...for the Lord shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken." Proverbs 3:24-26
NEVER AGAIN will I confess Failure because, "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loves us." Romans 8:37
NEVER AGAIN will I confess Frustration, for "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on the: because he trusteth in thee." Isaiah 26:3
NEVER AGAIN will I confess Fear of the Future,"But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by the Spirit..."I Corinthians 2:9-10
NEVER AGAIN will I confess Troubles because Jesus said, "...In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." John 16:33
The confession of our mouths will eventually bring forth the things we speak.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess lack, for " My God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in Glory by Christ Jesus" Philippians 4:19.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess fear, for "God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind" II Timothy 1:7
NEVER AGAIN will I confess doubt and lack of faith, for " God hath given to every man the measure of faith" Romans 12:3.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess weakness, for "The Lord is the strength of my life" Psalm 27:1
NEVER AGAIN will I confess supremacy of Satan over my life, for "Greater is He that is in me that he that is in the world" I John 4:4.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess defeat, for "God always causeth me to triumph in Christ Jesus"
II Corinthians 2:14
NEVER AGAIN will I confess lack of wisdom, for "Christ Jesus is made unto me wisdom from God" I Corinthians 1:30
NEVER AGAIN will I confess sickness, for "with His stripes I am healed" Isaiah 53:5, and Jesus Himself took my infirmities and bare my sickness" Matthew 8:17.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess worries and frustrations, for I am "Casting all my cares upon Him who careth for me" I Peter 5:7.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess bondage, for "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty" II Corinthians 3:17.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess condemnation, for "There is no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus" Romans 8:1.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess loneliness, for Jesus said "Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world" Matthew 28:20.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess insecurity because "When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid; yea, thou shalt lie down, and they sleep shall be sweet…for the Lord shall be they confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken" Proverbs 3:24-26
NEVER AGAIN will I confess failure because, "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us" Romans 8:37
NEVER AGAIN will I confess frustration, for "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee" Isaiah 26:3
NEVER AGAIN will I confess fear of the future, "But it is written, eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him, but God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit". I Corinthians 2:9-10
NEVER AGAIN will I confess troubles because Jesus said, "In the world ye shall have tribulations: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world". John16: 33
NEVER AGAIN will I confess unworthiness because "He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him" II Corinthians 5:21
NEVER AGAIN will I confess confusion because "God is not the author of confusion, but of peace" I Corinthians 14:33.
NEVER AGAIN will I confess persecution, for "If God be for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31
NEVER AGAIN will I confess the Dominion of sin over my Life because, "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." Romans 8:2, and "As far as the east is from the west, so far hath He removed our transgressions from us." Psalms 103:12
NEVER AGAIN will I confess Insecurity because "When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet...for the Lord shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken." Proverbs 3:24-26
NEVER AGAIN will I confess Failure because, "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loves us." Romans 8:37
NEVER AGAIN will I confess Frustration, for "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on the: because he trusteth in thee." Isaiah 26:3
NEVER AGAIN will I confess Fear of the Future,"But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by the Spirit..."I Corinthians 2:9-10
NEVER AGAIN will I confess Troubles because Jesus said, "...In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." John 16:33
The confession of our mouths will eventually bring forth the things we speak.
DO ONE THING THIS DAY
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this ONE THING I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Everyday we start our day with so many things to do. Sometimes our “things to do list” seems so long, and there just doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day to do all that needs to be done. I hear the Lord saying “DO ONE THING THIS DAY”
God is only asking us to do ONE THING this day….LOVE HIM, with all of our heart, all of our soul, and all of our mind. ONE THING. And if you love Him you won’t have a problem with the ONE THING list below. Didn’t He say we could cast our cares upon Him for He careth for us, and that His yoke is easy and the burden light?
Mat 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Well trade your list for His list today. Take a pick, choose ONE THING from the list and see how much better your day will be. I dare you to take a chance and do ONE THING FOR JESUS THIS DAY!
ONE THING LIST
Joshua 23:14 And, behold, this day I am going the way of all the earth: and ye know in all your hearts and in all your souls, that not ONE THING hath failed of all the good things which the LORD your God spake concerning you; all are come to pass unto you, and not ONE THING hath failed thereof. ---
Trust Him, Step out in Faith today and know that He won’t fail you
Psalm 27:4 ONE THING have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple. --
See His Kingdom this day and watch Him give you peace in your temple
Everyday we start our day with so many things to do. Sometimes our “things to do list” seems so long, and there just doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day to do all that needs to be done. I hear the Lord saying “DO ONE THING THIS DAY”
God is only asking us to do ONE THING this day….LOVE HIM, with all of our heart, all of our soul, and all of our mind. ONE THING. And if you love Him you won’t have a problem with the ONE THING list below. Didn’t He say we could cast our cares upon Him for He careth for us, and that His yoke is easy and the burden light?
Mat 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Well trade your list for His list today. Take a pick, choose ONE THING from the list and see how much better your day will be. I dare you to take a chance and do ONE THING FOR JESUS THIS DAY!
ONE THING LIST
Joshua 23:14 And, behold, this day I am going the way of all the earth: and ye know in all your hearts and in all your souls, that not ONE THING hath failed of all the good things which the LORD your God spake concerning you; all are come to pass unto you, and not ONE THING hath failed thereof. ---
Trust Him, Step out in Faith today and know that He won’t fail you
Psalm 27:4 ONE THING have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple. --
See His Kingdom this day and watch Him give you peace in your temple
Luke 10:41-42 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But ONE THING is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.--
Break open your alabaster box and give Jesus your most precious gift …. YOU
Luke 18:22 Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou ONE THING: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me. --
Share with those who are less fortunate, and watch treasures from Heaven fall upon you
John 9:24-25 Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give God the praise: we know that this man is a sinner. He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: ONE THING I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see. --
Ask the Lord to remove the blinders from your eyes so you can see every way the enemy is tempting, hindering, lying and distorting the truth in your life.
2Peter 3:8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this ONE THING, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.---
This is your day; cherish it as though it were your last.
And now for my ONE THING:
Philippians 3:13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this ONE THING I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. ----
Yesterday is gone, you can’t change it, forget it and all your past mistakes. I have. Now remember the vision I gave you and reach for it, keep it in front of you, and as you seek My face, press your way until it comes to pass.
Did you notice this ONE THING list, all fall under one category? Yes, LOVING THE LORD!
BE BLESSED,
Elder J.A. Vazquez
Break open your alabaster box and give Jesus your most precious gift …. YOU
Luke 18:22 Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou ONE THING: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me. --
Share with those who are less fortunate, and watch treasures from Heaven fall upon you
John 9:24-25 Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give God the praise: we know that this man is a sinner. He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: ONE THING I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see. --
Ask the Lord to remove the blinders from your eyes so you can see every way the enemy is tempting, hindering, lying and distorting the truth in your life.
2Peter 3:8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this ONE THING, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.---
This is your day; cherish it as though it were your last.
And now for my ONE THING:
Philippians 3:13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this ONE THING I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. ----
Yesterday is gone, you can’t change it, forget it and all your past mistakes. I have. Now remember the vision I gave you and reach for it, keep it in front of you, and as you seek My face, press your way until it comes to pass.
Did you notice this ONE THING list, all fall under one category? Yes, LOVING THE LORD!
BE BLESSED,
Elder J.A. Vazquez
Ten Guidelines From God
Effective immediately, please be aware that there are changes YOU need to make in YOUR life. These changes need to be completed in order that I may fulfill My promises to you to grant you peace, joy and happiness in this life. I apologize for any inconvenience, but after all that I am doing, this seems very little to ask of you. Please, follow these 10 guidelines
1. QUIT WORRYING: Life has dealt you a blow and all you do is sit and worry. Have you forgotten that I am here to take all your burdens and carry them for you? Or do you just enjoy fretting over every little thing that comes your way?
2. PUT IT ON MY LIST: Something needs done or taken care of. Put it on the list. No, not YOUR list. Put it on MY to-do-list. Let ME be the one to take care of the problem. I can't help you until you turn it over to Me. And although My to-do-list is long, I am after all...God. I can take care of anything you put into My hands. In fact, if the truth were ever really known, I take care of a lot of things for you that you never even realize.
3. TRUST ME: Once you've given your burdens to Me, quit trying to take them back. Trust in Me. Have the faith that I will take care of all your needs, your problems and your trials. Problems with the kids? Put them on My list. Problem with finances? Put it on My list. Problems with your emotional roller coaster? For My sake, put it on My list. I want to help you. All you have to do is ask.
4. LEAVE IT ALONE: Don't wake up one morning and say, "Well, I'm feeling much stronger now, I think I can handle it from here." Why do you think you are feeling stronger now? It's simple. You gave Me your burdens and I'm taking care of them. I also renew your strength and cover you in my peace. Don't you know that if I give you these problems back, you will be right back where you started? Leave them with Me and forget about them. Just let Me do my job.
5. TALK TO ME: I want you to forget a lot of things. Forget what was making you crazy. Forget the worry and the fretting because you know I'm in control. But there's one thing I pray you never forget. Please, don't forget to talk to Me - OFTEN! I love YOU! I want to hear your voice. I want you to include Me in on the things going on in your life. I want to hear you talk about your friends and family. Prayer is simply you having a conversation with Me. I want to be your dearest friend.
6. HAVE FAITH: I see a lot of things from up here that you can't see from where you are. Have faith in Me that I know what I'm doing. Trust Me; you wouldn't want the view from My eyes. I will continue to care for you, watch over you, and meet your needs. You only have to trust Me. Although I have a much bigger task than you, it seems as if you have so much trouble just doing your simple part. How hard can trust be?
7. SHARE: You were taught to share when you were only two years old. When did you forget? That rule still applies. Share with those who are less fortunate than you. Share your joy with those who need encouragement. Share your laughter with those who haven't heard any in such a long time. Share your tears with those who have forgotten how to cry. Share your faith with those who have none.
8. BE PATIENT: I managed to fix it so in just one lifetime you could have so many diverse experiences. You grow from a child to an adult, have children, change jobs many times, learn many trades, travel to so many places, meet thousands of people, and experience so much. How can you be so impatient then when it takes Me a little longer than you expect to handle something on My to-do-list? Trust in My timing, for My timing is perfect. Just because I created the entire universe in only six days, everyone thinks I should always rush, rush, rush.
9. BE KIND: Be kind to others, for I love them just as much as I love you. They may not dress like you, or talk like you, or live the same way you do, but I still love you all. Please try to get along, for My sake. I created each of you different in some way. It would be too boring if you were all identical. Please, know I love each of your differences.
10. LOVE YOURSELF: As much as I love you, how can you not love yourself? You were created by me for one reason only -- to be loved, and to love in return. I am a God of Love. Love Me. Love your neighbors. But also love yourself. It makes My heart ache when I see you so angry with yourself when things go wrong. You are very precious to me. Don't ever forget......
1. QUIT WORRYING: Life has dealt you a blow and all you do is sit and worry. Have you forgotten that I am here to take all your burdens and carry them for you? Or do you just enjoy fretting over every little thing that comes your way?
2. PUT IT ON MY LIST: Something needs done or taken care of. Put it on the list. No, not YOUR list. Put it on MY to-do-list. Let ME be the one to take care of the problem. I can't help you until you turn it over to Me. And although My to-do-list is long, I am after all...God. I can take care of anything you put into My hands. In fact, if the truth were ever really known, I take care of a lot of things for you that you never even realize.
3. TRUST ME: Once you've given your burdens to Me, quit trying to take them back. Trust in Me. Have the faith that I will take care of all your needs, your problems and your trials. Problems with the kids? Put them on My list. Problem with finances? Put it on My list. Problems with your emotional roller coaster? For My sake, put it on My list. I want to help you. All you have to do is ask.
4. LEAVE IT ALONE: Don't wake up one morning and say, "Well, I'm feeling much stronger now, I think I can handle it from here." Why do you think you are feeling stronger now? It's simple. You gave Me your burdens and I'm taking care of them. I also renew your strength and cover you in my peace. Don't you know that if I give you these problems back, you will be right back where you started? Leave them with Me and forget about them. Just let Me do my job.
5. TALK TO ME: I want you to forget a lot of things. Forget what was making you crazy. Forget the worry and the fretting because you know I'm in control. But there's one thing I pray you never forget. Please, don't forget to talk to Me - OFTEN! I love YOU! I want to hear your voice. I want you to include Me in on the things going on in your life. I want to hear you talk about your friends and family. Prayer is simply you having a conversation with Me. I want to be your dearest friend.
6. HAVE FAITH: I see a lot of things from up here that you can't see from where you are. Have faith in Me that I know what I'm doing. Trust Me; you wouldn't want the view from My eyes. I will continue to care for you, watch over you, and meet your needs. You only have to trust Me. Although I have a much bigger task than you, it seems as if you have so much trouble just doing your simple part. How hard can trust be?
7. SHARE: You were taught to share when you were only two years old. When did you forget? That rule still applies. Share with those who are less fortunate than you. Share your joy with those who need encouragement. Share your laughter with those who haven't heard any in such a long time. Share your tears with those who have forgotten how to cry. Share your faith with those who have none.
8. BE PATIENT: I managed to fix it so in just one lifetime you could have so many diverse experiences. You grow from a child to an adult, have children, change jobs many times, learn many trades, travel to so many places, meet thousands of people, and experience so much. How can you be so impatient then when it takes Me a little longer than you expect to handle something on My to-do-list? Trust in My timing, for My timing is perfect. Just because I created the entire universe in only six days, everyone thinks I should always rush, rush, rush.
9. BE KIND: Be kind to others, for I love them just as much as I love you. They may not dress like you, or talk like you, or live the same way you do, but I still love you all. Please try to get along, for My sake. I created each of you different in some way. It would be too boring if you were all identical. Please, know I love each of your differences.
10. LOVE YOURSELF: As much as I love you, how can you not love yourself? You were created by me for one reason only -- to be loved, and to love in return. I am a God of Love. Love Me. Love your neighbors. But also love yourself. It makes My heart ache when I see you so angry with yourself when things go wrong. You are very precious to me. Don't ever forget......
FORGIVEN
One day awhile back, a man, his heart heavy with grief, was walking in the woods. As he thought about his life this day, he knew many things were not right. He thought about those who had lied about him back when he had a job.
His thoughts turned to those who had stolen his things and cheated him.
He remembered family that had passed on. His mind turned to the illness he had that no one could cure. His very soul was filled with anger, resentment and frustration.
Standing there this day, searching for answers he could not find, knowing all else had failed him, he knelt at the base of an old oak tree to seek the one he knew would always be there. And with tears in his eyes, he prayed:
"Lord- You have done wonderful things for me in this life. You have told me to do many things for you, and I happily obeyed. Today , you have told me to forgive. I am sad, Lord, because I cannot. I don't know how. It is not fair Lord. I didn't deserve these wrongs that were done against me and I shouldn't have to forgive. As perfect as your way is Lord, this one thing I cannot do, for I don't know how to forgive. My anger is so deep Lord, I fear I may not hear you, but I pray that you teach me to do this one thing I cannot do - Teach me To Forgive."
As he knelt there in the quiet shade of that old oak tree, he felt something fall onto his shoulder. He opened his eyes. Out of the corner of one eye, he saw something red on his shirt.
He could not turn to see what it was because where the oak tree had been was a large square piece of wood in the ground. He raised his head and saw two feet held to the wood with a large spike through them.
He raised his head more, and tears came to his eyes as he saw Jesus hanging on a cross. He saw spikes in His hands, a gash in His side, a torn and battered body, deep thorns sunk into His head. Finally he saw the suffering and pain on His precious face. As their eyes met, the man's tears turned to sobbing, and Jesus began to speak.
"Have you ever told a lie?" He asked?
The man answered - "yes, Lord."
"Have you ever been given too much change and kept it?"
The man answered - " yes. Lord." And the man sobbed more and more.
"Have you ever taken something from work that wasn't yours?" Jesus asked?
And the man answered - "yes, Lord."
"Have you ever sworn, using my Father's name in vain? "
The man, crying now, answered - "yes, Lord."
As Jesus asked many more times, "Have you ever"? The man's crying became uncontrollable, for he could only answer - "yes, Lord."
Then Jesus turned His head from one side to the other, and the man felt something fall on his other shoulder. He looked and saw that it was the blood of Jesus. When he looked back up, his eyes met those of Jesus, an d there was a look of love the man had never seen or known before.
Jesus said, "I didn't deserve this either, but I forgive you."
It may be hard to see how you're going to get through something, but when you look back in life, you realize how true this statement is.
Read the following first line slowly and let it sink in.
If God brings you to it - He will bring you through it.
Lord I love You and I need You, come into my heart, today.
For without You I can do nothing.
His thoughts turned to those who had stolen his things and cheated him.
He remembered family that had passed on. His mind turned to the illness he had that no one could cure. His very soul was filled with anger, resentment and frustration.
Standing there this day, searching for answers he could not find, knowing all else had failed him, he knelt at the base of an old oak tree to seek the one he knew would always be there. And with tears in his eyes, he prayed:
"Lord- You have done wonderful things for me in this life. You have told me to do many things for you, and I happily obeyed. Today , you have told me to forgive. I am sad, Lord, because I cannot. I don't know how. It is not fair Lord. I didn't deserve these wrongs that were done against me and I shouldn't have to forgive. As perfect as your way is Lord, this one thing I cannot do, for I don't know how to forgive. My anger is so deep Lord, I fear I may not hear you, but I pray that you teach me to do this one thing I cannot do - Teach me To Forgive."
As he knelt there in the quiet shade of that old oak tree, he felt something fall onto his shoulder. He opened his eyes. Out of the corner of one eye, he saw something red on his shirt.
He could not turn to see what it was because where the oak tree had been was a large square piece of wood in the ground. He raised his head and saw two feet held to the wood with a large spike through them.
He raised his head more, and tears came to his eyes as he saw Jesus hanging on a cross. He saw spikes in His hands, a gash in His side, a torn and battered body, deep thorns sunk into His head. Finally he saw the suffering and pain on His precious face. As their eyes met, the man's tears turned to sobbing, and Jesus began to speak.
"Have you ever told a lie?" He asked?
The man answered - "yes, Lord."
"Have you ever been given too much change and kept it?"
The man answered - " yes. Lord." And the man sobbed more and more.
"Have you ever taken something from work that wasn't yours?" Jesus asked?
And the man answered - "yes, Lord."
"Have you ever sworn, using my Father's name in vain? "
The man, crying now, answered - "yes, Lord."
As Jesus asked many more times, "Have you ever"? The man's crying became uncontrollable, for he could only answer - "yes, Lord."
Then Jesus turned His head from one side to the other, and the man felt something fall on his other shoulder. He looked and saw that it was the blood of Jesus. When he looked back up, his eyes met those of Jesus, an d there was a look of love the man had never seen or known before.
Jesus said, "I didn't deserve this either, but I forgive you."
It may be hard to see how you're going to get through something, but when you look back in life, you realize how true this statement is.
Read the following first line slowly and let it sink in.
If God brings you to it - He will bring you through it.
Lord I love You and I need You, come into my heart, today.
For without You I can do nothing.
Cans of Success
Why should I say I can't when the Bible says 1 can do all things through Christ who gives me strength (Phil. 4:13)?
Why should I lack when I know that God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:19)?
Why should I fear when the Bible says God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind (2 Tim. 1:7)?
Why should I lack faith to fulfill my calling knowing that God has allotted to me a measure of faith (Rom. 12:3)?
Why should I be weak when the Bible says that the Lord is the strength of my life and that I will display strength and take action because I know God (Psa. 27:1; Dan. 11:32)?
Why should I allow Satan supremacy over my life when He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4)?
Why should I accept defeat when the Bible says that God always leads me in triumph (2 Cor. 2:14)?
Why should I lack wisdom when Christ became wisdom to me from God and God gives wisdom to me generously when I ask Him for it (1 Cor. 1:30; Jas. 1:5)?
Why should I be depressed when I can recall to mind God's loving kindness, compassion and faithfulness and have hope (Lam. 3:21-23)?
Why should I worry and fret when I can cast all my anxiety on Christ who cares for me (1 Pet. 5: 7)?
Why should I ever be in bondage knowing that there is liberty where the Spirit of the Lord is (Gal. 5:1)?
Why should I feel condemned when the Bible says I am not condemned because I am in Christ (Rom. 8:1)?
Why should I feel alone when Jesus said He is with me always and He will never leave me nor forsake me (Matt. 28:20; Heb. 13:5)?
Why should I feel accursed or that I am the victim of bad luck when the Bible says that Christ redeemed me from the curse of the law that I might receive His Spirit (Gal. 3:13,14)?
Why should I be discontented when I, like Paul, can learn to be content in all my circumstances (Phil. 4:11)?
Why should I feel worthless when Christ became sin on my behalf that I might become the righteousness of God in Him (2 Cor. 5:21)?
Why should I lack when I know that God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:19)?
Why should I fear when the Bible says God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind (2 Tim. 1:7)?
Why should I lack faith to fulfill my calling knowing that God has allotted to me a measure of faith (Rom. 12:3)?
Why should I be weak when the Bible says that the Lord is the strength of my life and that I will display strength and take action because I know God (Psa. 27:1; Dan. 11:32)?
Why should I allow Satan supremacy over my life when He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4)?
Why should I accept defeat when the Bible says that God always leads me in triumph (2 Cor. 2:14)?
Why should I lack wisdom when Christ became wisdom to me from God and God gives wisdom to me generously when I ask Him for it (1 Cor. 1:30; Jas. 1:5)?
Why should I be depressed when I can recall to mind God's loving kindness, compassion and faithfulness and have hope (Lam. 3:21-23)?
Why should I worry and fret when I can cast all my anxiety on Christ who cares for me (1 Pet. 5: 7)?
Why should I ever be in bondage knowing that there is liberty where the Spirit of the Lord is (Gal. 5:1)?
Why should I feel condemned when the Bible says I am not condemned because I am in Christ (Rom. 8:1)?
Why should I feel alone when Jesus said He is with me always and He will never leave me nor forsake me (Matt. 28:20; Heb. 13:5)?
Why should I feel accursed or that I am the victim of bad luck when the Bible says that Christ redeemed me from the curse of the law that I might receive His Spirit (Gal. 3:13,14)?
Why should I be discontented when I, like Paul, can learn to be content in all my circumstances (Phil. 4:11)?
Why should I feel worthless when Christ became sin on my behalf that I might become the righteousness of God in Him (2 Cor. 5:21)?
Monday, September 12, 2005
SOMETHING TO PONDER
If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof overhead and a place to sleep ... you are richer than 75% of this world.
If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish someplace ... you are among the top 8% of the world's wealthy.
If you woke up this morning with more health than illness ... you are more blessed than the million who will not survive this week.
If you have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation... you are ahead of 500 million people in the world.
If you can attend a church meeting without fear of harassment, arrest, torture, or death ... you are more blessed than three billion people in the world.
If your parents are still alive and still married ... you are very rare, even in the United States.
If you hold up your head with a smile on your face and are truly thankful... you are blessed because the majority can, but most do not.
If you can hold someone's hand, hug them or even touch them on the shoulder ....... you are blessed because you can offer healing touch.
If you can read this message, you just received a double blessing in that someone was thinking of you, you are wealthy enough to have an internet connection and power on, and furthermore, you are more blessed than over two billion people in the world that cannot read at all.
Have a good day, count your blessings
If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish someplace ... you are among the top 8% of the world's wealthy.
If you woke up this morning with more health than illness ... you are more blessed than the million who will not survive this week.
If you have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation... you are ahead of 500 million people in the world.
If you can attend a church meeting without fear of harassment, arrest, torture, or death ... you are more blessed than three billion people in the world.
If your parents are still alive and still married ... you are very rare, even in the United States.
If you hold up your head with a smile on your face and are truly thankful... you are blessed because the majority can, but most do not.
If you can hold someone's hand, hug them or even touch them on the shoulder ....... you are blessed because you can offer healing touch.
If you can read this message, you just received a double blessing in that someone was thinking of you, you are wealthy enough to have an internet connection and power on, and furthermore, you are more blessed than over two billion people in the world that cannot read at all.
Have a good day, count your blessings
IF I COULD
I looked at you today and never felt so proud before.
I listened to you dream out loud and wanted to make your dreams come true so you didn't have to wait. For there is nothing I wouldn't do for you, ...if I could.
If I could, I would make sure you never lost at anything.
But what would you learn from winning all the time? Losing keeps you humble.
If I could, I would catch you when you fell.
But then you'd never know the power of rising up again.
If I could, I would take you directly to your life's destination.
But then, you'd never know the thrill of getting lost along the way.
If I could, I would find the love you long for, the love of your life.
But then you'd never know that the joy of true love is in the journey it takes to find it.
If I could, I'd make your days all sunny.
But then you'd never know the cleansing of the rain.
If I could, I'd surround you with the treasures of the world you live in.
But then you'd never appreciate the value of the treasures of the world within you.
If I could, I'd put happiness within your reach.
But then you'd never learn that real growth only comes from reaching for things beyond your grasp.
If I could, and I will...
I'll love you throughout life and through eternity.
Thank you brother Bob Perks for such beautiful words.
I listened to you dream out loud and wanted to make your dreams come true so you didn't have to wait. For there is nothing I wouldn't do for you, ...if I could.
If I could, I would make sure you never lost at anything.
But what would you learn from winning all the time? Losing keeps you humble.
If I could, I would catch you when you fell.
But then you'd never know the power of rising up again.
If I could, I would take you directly to your life's destination.
But then, you'd never know the thrill of getting lost along the way.
If I could, I would find the love you long for, the love of your life.
But then you'd never know that the joy of true love is in the journey it takes to find it.
If I could, I'd make your days all sunny.
But then you'd never know the cleansing of the rain.
If I could, I'd surround you with the treasures of the world you live in.
But then you'd never appreciate the value of the treasures of the world within you.
If I could, I'd put happiness within your reach.
But then you'd never learn that real growth only comes from reaching for things beyond your grasp.
If I could, and I will...
I'll love you throughout life and through eternity.
Thank you brother Bob Perks for such beautiful words.
ALWAYS TO PRAY
My dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, it is my hearts desire to enlighten anyone of the importance of prayer. Just as conversation is a part of any vital and budding relationship, ours is with the Father.
Every now and then we measure the quality of a marriage relationship by how well the couple communicates. Or to state it another way, one of the primary things people summit as evidence that a marriage is in trouble is a lack of communication.
The same is true for our relationship with the Lord. True, honest, heartfelt conversation is the mark of a strong relationship. A lack of conversation or conversation only in public is a sign of a relationship in trouble. As a child of God, it should be planted in our hearts that men ought always to pray, and not to faint.
"Prayer is our lifeline in uncertain times, in the best of times, and in the worst of times."
God bless you all
Elder J.A. Vazquez
Every now and then we measure the quality of a marriage relationship by how well the couple communicates. Or to state it another way, one of the primary things people summit as evidence that a marriage is in trouble is a lack of communication.
The same is true for our relationship with the Lord. True, honest, heartfelt conversation is the mark of a strong relationship. A lack of conversation or conversation only in public is a sign of a relationship in trouble. As a child of God, it should be planted in our hearts that men ought always to pray, and not to faint.
"Prayer is our lifeline in uncertain times, in the best of times, and in the worst of times."
God bless you all
Elder J.A. Vazquez
Saturday, September 10, 2005
Where is the love?
Brothers and Sisters of Christ, in the book of Matthew, chapter six and verse twenty four, Jesus declared to his disciples “No one can serve two masters”. However, we Christians have spent the greater portion of the past two millenniums apparently trying to prove Jesus wrong. We have told ourselves that we can indeed have both the things of God and the things of this world. Many of us live our lives no differently than do conservative non-Christians, except for the fact that we attend church regularly each week.
We watch the same entertainment.
We share the same concerns about the problems of this world.
And we are frequently just as involved in the world’s commercial and materialistic pursuits.
Though Jesus tells us “These things I command you, that ye love one another. If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.Often, our being not of this world exists in theory more than in practice”. Often, our being not of this world exists in theory more than in practice.
But the church was not originally like that. The first Christians lived under an entirely different set of principles and values than the rest of mankind. They rejected the world’s entertainment, honors, and riches. They were already citizens of another kingdom, and they listened to the voice of a different Master. This was as true of the second century church as it was of the first.
The notion of God’s love coming to us free of charge, no strings attached, seems to go against every instinct of humanity.
The Buddhist eight-fold path,
The Hindu doctrine of Karma,
The Jewish covenant,
And the Muslim code of law…each of these offers a way to earn approval.
Only Christianity dares to make God’s love unconditional.
In other words…a love without a condition.
Where is the love?
We watch the same entertainment.
We share the same concerns about the problems of this world.
And we are frequently just as involved in the world’s commercial and materialistic pursuits.
Though Jesus tells us “These things I command you, that ye love one another. If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.Often, our being not of this world exists in theory more than in practice”. Often, our being not of this world exists in theory more than in practice.
But the church was not originally like that. The first Christians lived under an entirely different set of principles and values than the rest of mankind. They rejected the world’s entertainment, honors, and riches. They were already citizens of another kingdom, and they listened to the voice of a different Master. This was as true of the second century church as it was of the first.
The notion of God’s love coming to us free of charge, no strings attached, seems to go against every instinct of humanity.
The Buddhist eight-fold path,
The Hindu doctrine of Karma,
The Jewish covenant,
And the Muslim code of law…each of these offers a way to earn approval.
Only Christianity dares to make God’s love unconditional.
In other words…a love without a condition.
Where is the love?
Monday, August 29, 2005
BECAUSE THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD
Because The LORD is my Shepherd,
I shall not lack any provision of needs in my life.
Because He makes me lie down in green pastures,
I shall not lack nourishment.
Because He leads me beside quiet waters,
I shall not lack rest.
Because He restores my soul,
I shall not lack forgiveness and restoration.
Because He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name sake,
I shall not lack a right relationship with God.
Because I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, and
I shall not lack encouragement and hope.
Because Thou art with me,
I shall not lack for a constant companion.
Because Thy rod and Thy staff comfort me,
I shall not lack guidance and protection.
Because Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of my enemies,
I shall not lack honor and respect.
Because Thou hast anointed my head with oil,
I shall not lack power and authority,
Because My cup overflows,
I shall not lack joy, and abundant life.
Because goodness and loving-kindness will follow me all the days of my life,
I shall not lack contentment.
Because I dwell in the house of the LORD forever,
I shall not lack assurance of eternal security.
I shall not lack any provision of needs in my life.
Because He makes me lie down in green pastures,
I shall not lack nourishment.
Because He leads me beside quiet waters,
I shall not lack rest.
Because He restores my soul,
I shall not lack forgiveness and restoration.
Because He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name sake,
I shall not lack a right relationship with God.
Because I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, and
I shall not lack encouragement and hope.
Because Thou art with me,
I shall not lack for a constant companion.
Because Thy rod and Thy staff comfort me,
I shall not lack guidance and protection.
Because Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of my enemies,
I shall not lack honor and respect.
Because Thou hast anointed my head with oil,
I shall not lack power and authority,
Because My cup overflows,
I shall not lack joy, and abundant life.
Because goodness and loving-kindness will follow me all the days of my life,
I shall not lack contentment.
Because I dwell in the house of the LORD forever,
I shall not lack assurance of eternal security.
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
WISDOM
Wisdom is the ability to understand how to apply the knowledge and truths of the Word of God.
My respect and reverence for God is the beginning of obtaining the knowledge of God. This knowledge of God brings an understanding of God to me. By understanding the knowledge of God, I have the beginning of the understanding of the wisdom of God. Wisdom instructs me to respect and reverence God. (circular thought)
After my beginning above, my respect and reverence for God leads to life, abiding or steadfast satisfaction, and protection from evil. Also, because of my respect and reverence for God - riches, honor and life are mine.
Knowing the Wisdom of God shall multiply the days and years of my life. I am a happy man because I have found and understand the wisdom of God!
The Wisdom of God far exceeds the accumulation of silver, rubies or fine gold.
Wisdom is more precious than pearls.
WHY?
Wisdom brings the longevity, the riches and the honor. Further, there is nothing I can dream of or desire that can be compared to the value of the Wisdom of God.
Lastly, I will hear and heed reproof by the Word of God which renders life. This will help me to receive the understanding of God. Consequently, reproof will cause me to remain wise.
In Summary:
Fear (respect) and reverence for God in humility
leads to knowledge in me
which
leads to understanding in me
which
leads to wisdom in me
which
brings me life, riches and honor!
Scriptures: Proverbs 1:7; 2:3-5; 3:13-16; 8:11; 9:10-11; 14:24; 15:31-33; 19:23; 22:4
My respect and reverence for God is the beginning of obtaining the knowledge of God. This knowledge of God brings an understanding of God to me. By understanding the knowledge of God, I have the beginning of the understanding of the wisdom of God. Wisdom instructs me to respect and reverence God. (circular thought)
After my beginning above, my respect and reverence for God leads to life, abiding or steadfast satisfaction, and protection from evil. Also, because of my respect and reverence for God - riches, honor and life are mine.
Knowing the Wisdom of God shall multiply the days and years of my life. I am a happy man because I have found and understand the wisdom of God!
The Wisdom of God far exceeds the accumulation of silver, rubies or fine gold.
Wisdom is more precious than pearls.
WHY?
Wisdom brings the longevity, the riches and the honor. Further, there is nothing I can dream of or desire that can be compared to the value of the Wisdom of God.
Lastly, I will hear and heed reproof by the Word of God which renders life. This will help me to receive the understanding of God. Consequently, reproof will cause me to remain wise.
In Summary:
Fear (respect) and reverence for God in humility
leads to knowledge in me
which
leads to understanding in me
which
leads to wisdom in me
which
brings me life, riches and honor!
Scriptures: Proverbs 1:7; 2:3-5; 3:13-16; 8:11; 9:10-11; 14:24; 15:31-33; 19:23; 22:4
Sunday, August 14, 2005
THE LORD'S PRAYER (Prayerfully Expounded)
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, prayer is an indispensable part of the Christian life and can be a foundation of great strength and comfort, but it can also be daunting to the newcomer and at times frustrating to the mature Christian.
Jesus Himself taught His disciples to pray using this example prayer. (Matthew 6:9-13) (Actual prayer from the Bible is in bold) the rest below it is an illustration prayer in order to give further details about on that beautiful example prayer. I pray you enjoy.
OUR FATHER WHO ART IN HEAVEN HALLOWED BE THY NAME
Almighty God, it is only through what Jesus has done that we are able to call you Father. Because of Jesus we are admitted to your intimate family circle, and unlike our earthly fathers, you are perfect, willing to be with us and listen to us at all times. We do not, however, forget who you are Lord; we acknowledge you as almighty, all knowing, all seeing, all powerful God of the universe.
THY KINGDOM COME THY WILL BE DONE ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN
We commit ourselves to following Jesus. We receive the forgiveness made available through Jesus and are therefore citizens of your kingdom, now, and in the time to come. We choose to do your will, to obey your commands and live as Christ did. In so doing we open the door through which light streams into our dark world.
GIVE US TODAY OUR DAILY BREAD
We promise not to worry about tomorrow, instead we will let tomorrow worry about itself, because we trust you to provide us with all our needs and we acknowledge that everything comes from you.
AND FORGIVE US OUR TRESPASSES AS WE FORGIVE THOSE WHO TRESPASS AGAINST US
We acknowledge that through Jesus, a way out of sin has been provided. Jesus paid the price for our sin and thus enables us to receive your forgiveness. We are, however, mindful that we receive only the measure of forgiveness that we forgive other people. Please Lord help us to let go of any grudges we hold against those who have wronged us, so that we can truly begin to make forgiveness a permanent attitude, not just an occasional whim!
LEAD US NOT INTO TEMPTATION BUT DELIVER US FROM EVIL
Lord we seek your protection from temptation and evil. We pray that we can learn from you without having to go through temptation, although we accept that at times you allow us to be tempted in order that we might learn.
THINE IS THE KINGDOM THE POWER AND THE GLORY
Almighty God, it is your kingdom and as children of your kingdom we thank you for bringing us out of darkness into the light. We thank you that yours is not just a kingdom of words, but of power and action. The power of the Holy Spirit poured out on us to reach the world.
FOREVER AND EVER
Finally, Almighty God, Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit, we give you all the honour and glory. We take none of it for ourselves, because it was you Lord Jesus, who suffered death for our salvation. We give you glory forever.
AMEN
So be it.
Jesus Himself taught His disciples to pray using this example prayer. (Matthew 6:9-13) (Actual prayer from the Bible is in bold) the rest below it is an illustration prayer in order to give further details about on that beautiful example prayer. I pray you enjoy.
OUR FATHER WHO ART IN HEAVEN HALLOWED BE THY NAME
Almighty God, it is only through what Jesus has done that we are able to call you Father. Because of Jesus we are admitted to your intimate family circle, and unlike our earthly fathers, you are perfect, willing to be with us and listen to us at all times. We do not, however, forget who you are Lord; we acknowledge you as almighty, all knowing, all seeing, all powerful God of the universe.
THY KINGDOM COME THY WILL BE DONE ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN
We commit ourselves to following Jesus. We receive the forgiveness made available through Jesus and are therefore citizens of your kingdom, now, and in the time to come. We choose to do your will, to obey your commands and live as Christ did. In so doing we open the door through which light streams into our dark world.
GIVE US TODAY OUR DAILY BREAD
We promise not to worry about tomorrow, instead we will let tomorrow worry about itself, because we trust you to provide us with all our needs and we acknowledge that everything comes from you.
AND FORGIVE US OUR TRESPASSES AS WE FORGIVE THOSE WHO TRESPASS AGAINST US
We acknowledge that through Jesus, a way out of sin has been provided. Jesus paid the price for our sin and thus enables us to receive your forgiveness. We are, however, mindful that we receive only the measure of forgiveness that we forgive other people. Please Lord help us to let go of any grudges we hold against those who have wronged us, so that we can truly begin to make forgiveness a permanent attitude, not just an occasional whim!
LEAD US NOT INTO TEMPTATION BUT DELIVER US FROM EVIL
Lord we seek your protection from temptation and evil. We pray that we can learn from you without having to go through temptation, although we accept that at times you allow us to be tempted in order that we might learn.
THINE IS THE KINGDOM THE POWER AND THE GLORY
Almighty God, it is your kingdom and as children of your kingdom we thank you for bringing us out of darkness into the light. We thank you that yours is not just a kingdom of words, but of power and action. The power of the Holy Spirit poured out on us to reach the world.
FOREVER AND EVER
Finally, Almighty God, Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit, we give you all the honour and glory. We take none of it for ourselves, because it was you Lord Jesus, who suffered death for our salvation. We give you glory forever.
AMEN
So be it.
Sunday, August 07, 2005
I AM THE WORD
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1
In Genesis, He is the seed of the woman.
In Exodus, He is the passover lamb.
In Leviticus, He is our high priest.
In Numbers, He is the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night.
In Deuteronomy, He is the prophet like unto Moses.
In Joshua, He is the captain of our salvation.
In Judges, He is our judge and lawgiver.
In Ruth, He is our kinsman redeemer.
In 1 & 2 Samuel, He is our trusted prophet.
In Kings and Chronicles, He is our reigning king.
In Ezra and Nehemiah, He is the rebuilder of the broken down walls of human life.
In Esther & Job, He is our ever-living redeemer.
In Psalms, He is our shepherd.
In Proverbs & Ecclesiastes, He is our wisdom.
In Song of Solomon, He is our lover and bridegroom.
In Isaiah, He is the prince of peace.
In Jeremiah, He is the righteous branch.
In Lamentations, He is our weeping prophet.
In Ezekiel, He is our wonderful four faced man.
In Daniel, He is the fourth man in life's firey furnace.
In Hosea, He is the faithful husband.
In Joel, He is the baptizer with the Holy Ghost and fire.
In Amos, He is our burden-bearer.
In Obadiah, He is the mighty to save.
In Johah, He is our great missionary.
In Micah, He is the messenger of beautiful feet.
In Nahum, He is the avenger of God's elect.
In Habakkuk, He is God's evangelist.
In Zephaniah, He is our Savior.
In Haggai, He is the restorer of God's lost heritage.
In Zechariah, He is the fountain opened in the house of David.
In Malachi, He is the sun of righteousness, rising with healing in His wings.
In Matthew, He is the Messiah.
In Mark, He is the wonder worker.
In Luke, He is the son of man.
In John, He is the Son of God.
In Acts, He is the Holy Ghost.
In Romans, He is our justifier.
In 1 & 2 Corinthians, He is our santifier.
In Galatians, He is our redeemer.
In Ephesians, He is the Christ of unsearchable riches.
In Philippians, He is the God who supplies all our needs.
In Colossians, He is the fullness of God, bodily.
In 1 & 2 Thessalonians, He is our coming king.
In 1 & 2 Timothy, He is our mediator between God and man.
In Titus, He is our faithful pastor.
In Philemon, He is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
In Hebrews, He is the blood of the everlasting covenant.
In James, He is our great physician.
In 1 & 2 Peter, He is our chief shepherd.
In 1, 2 & 3 John, He is love.
In Jude, He is the Lord coming with ten thousands of His saints.
In Revelation, He is the KING OF KINGS AND THE LORD OF LORDS!
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. John 1:14
In Genesis, He is the seed of the woman.
In Exodus, He is the passover lamb.
In Leviticus, He is our high priest.
In Numbers, He is the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night.
In Deuteronomy, He is the prophet like unto Moses.
In Joshua, He is the captain of our salvation.
In Judges, He is our judge and lawgiver.
In Ruth, He is our kinsman redeemer.
In 1 & 2 Samuel, He is our trusted prophet.
In Kings and Chronicles, He is our reigning king.
In Ezra and Nehemiah, He is the rebuilder of the broken down walls of human life.
In Esther & Job, He is our ever-living redeemer.
In Psalms, He is our shepherd.
In Proverbs & Ecclesiastes, He is our wisdom.
In Song of Solomon, He is our lover and bridegroom.
In Isaiah, He is the prince of peace.
In Jeremiah, He is the righteous branch.
In Lamentations, He is our weeping prophet.
In Ezekiel, He is our wonderful four faced man.
In Daniel, He is the fourth man in life's firey furnace.
In Hosea, He is the faithful husband.
In Joel, He is the baptizer with the Holy Ghost and fire.
In Amos, He is our burden-bearer.
In Obadiah, He is the mighty to save.
In Johah, He is our great missionary.
In Micah, He is the messenger of beautiful feet.
In Nahum, He is the avenger of God's elect.
In Habakkuk, He is God's evangelist.
In Zephaniah, He is our Savior.
In Haggai, He is the restorer of God's lost heritage.
In Zechariah, He is the fountain opened in the house of David.
In Malachi, He is the sun of righteousness, rising with healing in His wings.
In Matthew, He is the Messiah.
In Mark, He is the wonder worker.
In Luke, He is the son of man.
In John, He is the Son of God.
In Acts, He is the Holy Ghost.
In Romans, He is our justifier.
In 1 & 2 Corinthians, He is our santifier.
In Galatians, He is our redeemer.
In Ephesians, He is the Christ of unsearchable riches.
In Philippians, He is the God who supplies all our needs.
In Colossians, He is the fullness of God, bodily.
In 1 & 2 Thessalonians, He is our coming king.
In 1 & 2 Timothy, He is our mediator between God and man.
In Titus, He is our faithful pastor.
In Philemon, He is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
In Hebrews, He is the blood of the everlasting covenant.
In James, He is our great physician.
In 1 & 2 Peter, He is our chief shepherd.
In 1, 2 & 3 John, He is love.
In Jude, He is the Lord coming with ten thousands of His saints.
In Revelation, He is the KING OF KINGS AND THE LORD OF LORDS!
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. John 1:14
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Words of Wisdom
Life is an opportunity, benefit from it.
Life is beauty, admire it.
Life is bliss, taste it.
Life is a dream, realize it.
Life is a challenge, meet it.
Life is a duty, complete it.
Life is a game, play it.
Life is a promise, fulfill it.
Life is sorrow, overcome it.
Life is a song, sing it.
Life is a struggle, accept it.
Life is a tragedy, confront it.
Life is an adventure, dare it.
Life is luck, make it.
Life is too precious, do not destroy it.
Life is life, fight for it.
Thank you Mother Teresa for such beautiful words.
Elder J.A. Vazquez
Life is beauty, admire it.
Life is bliss, taste it.
Life is a dream, realize it.
Life is a challenge, meet it.
Life is a duty, complete it.
Life is a game, play it.
Life is a promise, fulfill it.
Life is sorrow, overcome it.
Life is a song, sing it.
Life is a struggle, accept it.
Life is a tragedy, confront it.
Life is an adventure, dare it.
Life is luck, make it.
Life is too precious, do not destroy it.
Life is life, fight for it.
Thank you Mother Teresa for such beautiful words.
Elder J.A. Vazquez
Monday, July 18, 2005
A COLLECTION OF ATTITUDES
To the expert in the law, the wounded man was a subject to discuss.
To the robbers, the wounded man was someone to use and exploit.
To the religious men, the wounded man was a problem to be avoided.
To the innkeeper, the wounded man was a customer to serve for a fee.
To the Samaritan, the wounded man was a human being worth being cared for and loved.
To Jesus, all of them and all of us were worth dying for.
Confronting the needs of others brings out various attitudes in us. Jesus used the story of the good but despised Samaritan to make clear what attitude was acceptable to him. If we are honest, we often will find ourselves in the place of the expert in the law, needing to learn again who our neighbor is. Note these different attitudes toward the wounded man.
To the robbers, the wounded man was someone to use and exploit.
To the religious men, the wounded man was a problem to be avoided.
To the innkeeper, the wounded man was a customer to serve for a fee.
To the Samaritan, the wounded man was a human being worth being cared for and loved.
To Jesus, all of them and all of us were worth dying for.
Confronting the needs of others brings out various attitudes in us. Jesus used the story of the good but despised Samaritan to make clear what attitude was acceptable to him. If we are honest, we often will find ourselves in the place of the expert in the law, needing to learn again who our neighbor is. Note these different attitudes toward the wounded man.
Wednesday, July 06, 2005
Father's Love Letter
My Child ~
You may not know me, but I know everything about you ~ Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up ~ Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways ~ Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered ~ Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in my image ~ Genesis 1:27
In me you live and move and have your being ~ Acts 17:28
For you are my offspring ~ Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived ~ Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation ~ Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book ~ Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live ~ Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made ~ Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb ~ Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born ~ Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me ~ John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love ~ 1 John 4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you ~ 1 John 3:1
Simply because you are my child and I am your father ~ 1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could ~ Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect father ~ Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand ~ James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs ~ Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope ~ Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love ~ Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore ~ Psalm 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing ~ Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you ~ Jeremiah 32:40
For you are my treasured possession ~ Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul ~ Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things ~ Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me ~ Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart ~ Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires ~ Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine ~ Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager ~ 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles ~ 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you ~ Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart ~ Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes ~ Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth ~ Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus ~ John 17:23
For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed ~ John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my being ~ Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you ~ Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins ~ 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled ~ 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you ~ 1 John 4:10
I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love ~ Romans 8:31-32
If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me ~ 1 John 2:23
And nothing will ever separate you from my love again ~ Romans 8:38-39
Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen ~ Luke 15:7
I have always been Father, and will always be Father ~ Ephesians 3:14-15
My question is ~ Will you be my child? ~ John 1:12-13
I am waiting for you ~ Luke 15:11-32
Love, Your Dad, Almighty God
A Father's Love Letter is owned and copyrighted by Barry Adams.
Thank you Brother Barry Adams for such beautiful words.
You may not know me, but I know everything about you ~ Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up ~ Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways ~ Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered ~ Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in my image ~ Genesis 1:27
In me you live and move and have your being ~ Acts 17:28
For you are my offspring ~ Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived ~ Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation ~ Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book ~ Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live ~ Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made ~ Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb ~ Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born ~ Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me ~ John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love ~ 1 John 4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you ~ 1 John 3:1
Simply because you are my child and I am your father ~ 1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could ~ Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect father ~ Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand ~ James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs ~ Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope ~ Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love ~ Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore ~ Psalm 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing ~ Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you ~ Jeremiah 32:40
For you are my treasured possession ~ Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul ~ Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things ~ Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me ~ Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart ~ Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires ~ Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine ~ Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager ~ 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles ~ 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you ~ Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart ~ Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes ~ Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth ~ Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus ~ John 17:23
For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed ~ John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my being ~ Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you ~ Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins ~ 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled ~ 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you ~ 1 John 4:10
I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love ~ Romans 8:31-32
If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me ~ 1 John 2:23
And nothing will ever separate you from my love again ~ Romans 8:38-39
Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen ~ Luke 15:7
I have always been Father, and will always be Father ~ Ephesians 3:14-15
My question is ~ Will you be my child? ~ John 1:12-13
I am waiting for you ~ Luke 15:11-32
Love, Your Dad, Almighty God
A Father's Love Letter is owned and copyrighted by Barry Adams.
Thank you Brother Barry Adams for such beautiful words.
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Children Learn What They Live
If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn.
If children live with hostility, they learn to fight.
If children live with fear, they learn to be apprehensive.
If children live with pity, they learn to feel sorry for themselves.
If children live with ridicule, they learn to feel shy.
If children live with jealousy, they learn to feel envy.
If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty.
If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence.
If children live with tolerance, they learn patience.
If children live with praise, they learn appreciation.
If children live with acceptance, they learn to love.
If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves.
If children live with recognition, they learn it is good to have a goal.
If children live with sharing, they learn generosity.
If children live with honesty, they learn truthfulness.
If children live with fairness, they learn justice.
If children live with kindness and consideration, they learn respect.
If children live with security, they learn to have faith in themselves and in those about them.
If children live with friendliness, they learn the world is a nice place in which to live.
This beautiful poem in which I hold near and dear to my heart is an excerpted from the book CHILDREN LEARN WHAT THEY LIVE was beautiful written by Dorothy Law Nolte and Rachel Harris.
Thank you Dorothy and Rachel
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, please, please, please heed to God's Word and "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not turn from it." Proverbs 22:6
Elder J. Andres Vazquez
If children live with hostility, they learn to fight.
If children live with fear, they learn to be apprehensive.
If children live with pity, they learn to feel sorry for themselves.
If children live with ridicule, they learn to feel shy.
If children live with jealousy, they learn to feel envy.
If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty.
If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence.
If children live with tolerance, they learn patience.
If children live with praise, they learn appreciation.
If children live with acceptance, they learn to love.
If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves.
If children live with recognition, they learn it is good to have a goal.
If children live with sharing, they learn generosity.
If children live with honesty, they learn truthfulness.
If children live with fairness, they learn justice.
If children live with kindness and consideration, they learn respect.
If children live with security, they learn to have faith in themselves and in those about them.
If children live with friendliness, they learn the world is a nice place in which to live.
This beautiful poem in which I hold near and dear to my heart is an excerpted from the book CHILDREN LEARN WHAT THEY LIVE was beautiful written by Dorothy Law Nolte and Rachel Harris.
Thank you Dorothy and Rachel
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, please, please, please heed to God's Word and "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not turn from it." Proverbs 22:6
Elder J. Andres Vazquez
God's Total Quality Management Questionnaire
God would like to thank you for your belief and patronage. In order to better serve your needs, He asks that you take a few moments to answer the following questions.
Please keep in mind that your responses will be kept completely confidential, and that you need not disclose your name or address unless you prefer a direct response to comments or suggestions.
How did you find out about God?
__ Newspaper
__ Television
__ Word of mouth
__ Torah
__ Bible
__ Koran
__ Other Book
__ Divine Inspiration
__ Near Death Experience
__ Friend or Relative
__ Other: ____________
Are you currently using any other source of inspiration in addition to God? Please check all that apply.
__ Tarot
__ Horoscope
__ Fortune cookies
__ Self-help books
__ Biorythms
__ Mantras
__ Insurance policies
__ Lottery
__ Television
__ Ann Landers
__ Sex
__ Alcohol or drugs
__ Other: ____________
__ None
God employs a limited degree of Divine Intervention to preserve the balanced level of felt presence and blind faith. Which would you prefer (circle one)?
a. More Divine Intervention
b. Less Divine Intervention
c. Current level of Divine Intervention is just right
d. Don't know
God also attempts to maintain a balanced level of disasters and miracles. Please rate on a scale of 1 - 5 his handling of the following (1=unsatisfactory, 5=excellent):
a. Disasters (flood, famine, earthquake, war)
1 2 3 4 5
b. Miracles (rescues, spontaneous remission of disease, sports upsets)
1 2 3 4 5
Do you have any additional comments or suggestions for improving the quality of God's services? (Attach an additional sheet if necessary):
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
Bless you!
PS. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6
Brothers and Sisters is Christ, we as Christians should not go around drenched by our hands in worry. Worry is lack of confidence or for a better word, lack of faith. We should trust the Lord in every facet of our lives. Now the word “Supplication”, in the verse above, means petition. Prayer should not be just a time to demand or request things of God that we want but rather should go to God in prayer, thanking Him for all He has already done for us. We ought to praise Him for who He is, and then make our request known. God is a loving God and He will give you the desire of your heart, if you love Him as He loves you.
"Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart." Psalms 37:4
Please keep in mind that your responses will be kept completely confidential, and that you need not disclose your name or address unless you prefer a direct response to comments or suggestions.
How did you find out about God?
__ Newspaper
__ Television
__ Word of mouth
__ Torah
__ Bible
__ Koran
__ Other Book
__ Divine Inspiration
__ Near Death Experience
__ Friend or Relative
__ Other: ____________
Are you currently using any other source of inspiration in addition to God? Please check all that apply.
__ Tarot
__ Horoscope
__ Fortune cookies
__ Self-help books
__ Biorythms
__ Mantras
__ Insurance policies
__ Lottery
__ Television
__ Ann Landers
__ Sex
__ Alcohol or drugs
__ Other: ____________
__ None
God employs a limited degree of Divine Intervention to preserve the balanced level of felt presence and blind faith. Which would you prefer (circle one)?
a. More Divine Intervention
b. Less Divine Intervention
c. Current level of Divine Intervention is just right
d. Don't know
God also attempts to maintain a balanced level of disasters and miracles. Please rate on a scale of 1 - 5 his handling of the following (1=unsatisfactory, 5=excellent):
a. Disasters (flood, famine, earthquake, war)
1 2 3 4 5
b. Miracles (rescues, spontaneous remission of disease, sports upsets)
1 2 3 4 5
Do you have any additional comments or suggestions for improving the quality of God's services? (Attach an additional sheet if necessary):
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
Bless you!
PS. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6
Brothers and Sisters is Christ, we as Christians should not go around drenched by our hands in worry. Worry is lack of confidence or for a better word, lack of faith. We should trust the Lord in every facet of our lives. Now the word “Supplication”, in the verse above, means petition. Prayer should not be just a time to demand or request things of God that we want but rather should go to God in prayer, thanking Him for all He has already done for us. We ought to praise Him for who He is, and then make our request known. God is a loving God and He will give you the desire of your heart, if you love Him as He loves you.
"Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart." Psalms 37:4
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
GOOD TIDINGS
My dear beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, follow this advice and you can improve your life. Always remember that you are loved, even when it doesn't seem like it. Believe in yourself and your values. Don't sell out when things go wrong. Don't let anything get you down; always bounce back up. Set goals for your future and never settle for anything less. Realize that there are others in the world with much bigger problems than you. Appreciate the good things in your life, and be thankful for the time you have with your loved ones. Spend more time with your family and friends. Appreciate the simple things in life, and don't get caught up in material things. If you follow that advice you can't go wrong!
So the next time you're looking at a situation in your life...
Simply ask yourself, “Is the cup half empty? Or is the cup half full?” Be an optimist and see the cup as being half full. Better yet, as a child of God not only is your cup half full, it’s more than full, it Runneth over. Trust me before long, your attitude will rub off on others. You can make the world a better place by simply making yourself a happier person. So soldiers of the living God go out there and let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours. And if you don’t have one…the Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; I, Andres, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an elder, hereby give you one of my smiles to get you started.
To all the beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Yours because of Calvary,
In service of the King,
Elder J.A. Vazquez
So the next time you're looking at a situation in your life...
Simply ask yourself, “Is the cup half empty? Or is the cup half full?” Be an optimist and see the cup as being half full. Better yet, as a child of God not only is your cup half full, it’s more than full, it Runneth over. Trust me before long, your attitude will rub off on others. You can make the world a better place by simply making yourself a happier person. So soldiers of the living God go out there and let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours. And if you don’t have one…the Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; I, Andres, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an elder, hereby give you one of my smiles to get you started.
To all the beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Yours because of Calvary,
In service of the King,
Elder J.A. Vazquez
Friday, June 24, 2005
I SHALL
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, in the book of Philippians chapter four verse thirteen the Bible states "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." And because of this fact...
I am capable. I am worthwhile.I am beautiful. I am lovable.I shall accept both my strengthsand my weaknesses for they are me.
I shall never again believe the "lie"that if I make a mistake,I am a mistake.My mistakes are the learning toolsthat I shall encounter on my life journey.
When I learn from my mistakes,I give them meaningWhen I give my mistakes meaning,I can begin to forgive myself,I can begin to heal.
I shall not use my mistakes as excusesto give up on me.....My mistakes are not me.
I shall seek the wisdom to nurturemy heart, mind, body, and soulso that I may feel more centered
providing an energy reserve that allowsme to climb the mountains in my own life
providing an energy reserve that allowsme to love and support otherswho are climbing a different mountain
providing an energy reserve that allowstime for friends, playand the celebration of life.
I shall allow myself to feel capable
so that I may seek excellence.
I shall allow myself to feel sadness
so that joy may return.
I shall allow myself to feel joy
so that I may be revitalized.
I shall allow myself to feel afraid
so that I may find courage.
I shall allow myself to feel alone
so that I may know me.
I shall allow myself to feel beautiful
so that I may feel free.
I shall allow myself to feel lovable
so that the loving may seek me.
I shall allow myself to feel pain
so that I may heal.
I shall allow myself to feel worthy
so that I may fulfill my purpose.
When I am centered,I see the perfection in the world,myself and others.
When I find the world to be imperfect,I will take responsibilityfor painting it that way.
I will look into the heart of a rose,or the eyes of a newborn babyand again know perfection.
I take responsibilityfor creating my own life storythrough the choices I have made;to blame others is to give awaymy personal power.
Who will I allow to writethe next chapter of my life?
I shall seek the courage to believein a God or Higher Powerwho will laugh with me in the sunlightor cry with me in the darkness.
I shall make a small difference on this planetthrough the work I do.When I leave I will have done my share.
I shall live, love, laugh,and learn on my journey.
My dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, in the same book and chapter of Philippians but this time verse six the Bible states "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God", therefore we shall.
I am capable. I am worthwhile.I am beautiful. I am lovable.I shall accept both my strengthsand my weaknesses for they are me.
I shall never again believe the "lie"that if I make a mistake,I am a mistake.My mistakes are the learning toolsthat I shall encounter on my life journey.
When I learn from my mistakes,I give them meaningWhen I give my mistakes meaning,I can begin to forgive myself,I can begin to heal.
I shall not use my mistakes as excusesto give up on me.....My mistakes are not me.
I shall seek the wisdom to nurturemy heart, mind, body, and soulso that I may feel more centered
providing an energy reserve that allowsme to climb the mountains in my own life
providing an energy reserve that allowsme to love and support otherswho are climbing a different mountain
providing an energy reserve that allowstime for friends, playand the celebration of life.
I shall allow myself to feel capable
so that I may seek excellence.
I shall allow myself to feel sadness
so that joy may return.
I shall allow myself to feel joy
so that I may be revitalized.
I shall allow myself to feel afraid
so that I may find courage.
I shall allow myself to feel alone
so that I may know me.
I shall allow myself to feel beautiful
so that I may feel free.
I shall allow myself to feel lovable
so that the loving may seek me.
I shall allow myself to feel pain
so that I may heal.
I shall allow myself to feel worthy
so that I may fulfill my purpose.
When I am centered,I see the perfection in the world,myself and others.
When I find the world to be imperfect,I will take responsibilityfor painting it that way.
I will look into the heart of a rose,or the eyes of a newborn babyand again know perfection.
I take responsibilityfor creating my own life storythrough the choices I have made;to blame others is to give awaymy personal power.
Who will I allow to writethe next chapter of my life?
I shall seek the courage to believein a God or Higher Powerwho will laugh with me in the sunlightor cry with me in the darkness.
I shall make a small difference on this planetthrough the work I do.When I leave I will have done my share.
I shall live, love, laugh,and learn on my journey.
My dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, in the same book and chapter of Philippians but this time verse six the Bible states "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God", therefore we shall.
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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.