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
Read God's Word
Friday, September 23, 2005
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?
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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.