This an eye opener; probably we never thought nor looked at this Psalm in this way, even though we say it over and over again.
The Lord is my Shepherd
That's Relationship!
I shall not want
That's Supply!
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures
That's Rest!
He leadeth me beside the still waters
That's Refreshment!
He restoreth my soul
That' s Healing!
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness
That's Guidance!
For His name sake
That's Purpose!
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
That's Testing!
I will fear no evil
That' s Protection!
For Thou art with me
That's Faithfulness!
Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me
That's Discipline!
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies
That's Hope!
Thou annointest my! head with oil
That's Consecration!
My cup runneth over
That's Abundance!
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life
That's Blessing!
And I will dwell in the house of the LordThat's Security!
ForeverThat's Eternity!
Face it, the Lord is crazy about you.
Read God's Word
Sunday, January 22, 2006
You arx a kxy pxrson
Xvxn though my typxwritxr is an old modxl, it works vxry wxll – xxcxpt for onx kxy. You would think that with all thx othxr kxys functioning propxrly, onx kxy not working would hardly bx noticxd; but just onx kxy out of whack sxxms to ruin thx wholx xffort.
You may say to yoursxlf, 'Wxll, I'm only onx pxrson. No onx will noticx if I don't do my bxst.' But it doxs makx a diffxrxncx, bxcausx an xffxctivx organization nxxds activx participation by xvxry onx to thx bxst of his or hxr ability.
So, thx nxxt timx you think you arx not important, rxmxmbxr my old typxwritxr.
You arx a kxy pxrson.
You may say to yoursxlf, 'Wxll, I'm only onx pxrson. No onx will noticx if I don't do my bxst.' But it doxs makx a diffxrxncx, bxcausx an xffxctivx organization nxxds activx participation by xvxry onx to thx bxst of his or hxr ability.
So, thx nxxt timx you think you arx not important, rxmxmbxr my old typxwritxr.
You arx a kxy pxrson.
Emergency Phone Numbers
When in sorrow, call John 14
When men fail you, call Psalm 27
If you want to be fruitful, call John 15
When you have sinned, call Psalm 51
When you worry, call Matthew 6:19-34
When you are in danger, call Psalm 91
When God seems far away, call Psalm 139
When you faith needs stirring, call Hebrews 11
When you are lonely and fearful, call Psalm 23
When you grow bitter and critical, call I Corinthians 13
For Paul's secret to happiness, call Colossians 3:12-17
For understanding of Christianity, call II Corinthians 5:15-19
When you feel down and out, call Romans 8:31
When you want peace and rest, call Matthew 11:25-30
When the world seems bigger than God, call Psalm 90
When you want Christian assurance, call Romans 8:1-30
When you leave home for labour or travel, call Psalm 121
When your prayers grow narrow or selfish, call Psalm 67
For a great invention/opportunity, call Isaiah 55
When you want courage for a task, call Joshua 1
For how to get along with your fellow man, call Romans 12
When you think of investments and returns, call Mark 10
If you are depressed, call Psalm 27
If your pocketbook/wallet is empty, call Psalm 37
If you are losing confidence in people, call I Corinthians13
If people seem unkind, call John 15
If you are discouraged about your work, call Psalm 126
If you find the world growing small & yourself great, call Psalm 19
ALTERNATE NUMBERS
For dealing with fear, call Psalm 34:7
For security, call Psalm 121:3
For assurance, call Mark 8:35
For reassurance, call Psalm 145:18
NOTE: ALL LINES TO HEAVEN ARE OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY!!
When men fail you, call Psalm 27
If you want to be fruitful, call John 15
When you have sinned, call Psalm 51
When you worry, call Matthew 6:19-34
When you are in danger, call Psalm 91
When God seems far away, call Psalm 139
When you faith needs stirring, call Hebrews 11
When you are lonely and fearful, call Psalm 23
When you grow bitter and critical, call I Corinthians 13
For Paul's secret to happiness, call Colossians 3:12-17
For understanding of Christianity, call II Corinthians 5:15-19
When you feel down and out, call Romans 8:31
When you want peace and rest, call Matthew 11:25-30
When the world seems bigger than God, call Psalm 90
When you want Christian assurance, call Romans 8:1-30
When you leave home for labour or travel, call Psalm 121
When your prayers grow narrow or selfish, call Psalm 67
For a great invention/opportunity, call Isaiah 55
When you want courage for a task, call Joshua 1
For how to get along with your fellow man, call Romans 12
When you think of investments and returns, call Mark 10
If you are depressed, call Psalm 27
If your pocketbook/wallet is empty, call Psalm 37
If you are losing confidence in people, call I Corinthians13
If people seem unkind, call John 15
If you are discouraged about your work, call Psalm 126
If you find the world growing small & yourself great, call Psalm 19
ALTERNATE NUMBERS
For dealing with fear, call Psalm 34:7
For security, call Psalm 121:3
For assurance, call Mark 8:35
For reassurance, call Psalm 145:18
NOTE: ALL LINES TO HEAVEN ARE OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY!!
Simply Stated
The best mathematical equation I have ever seen:
1 cross
+ 3 nails
----------
4 given
That's the whole gospel message simply stated
1 cross
+ 3 nails
----------
4 given
That's the whole gospel message simply stated
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
The New School Prayer
Now I sit me down in school
Where praying is against the rule
For this great nation under
God Finds mention of Him very odd.
If Scripture now the class recites,
It violates the Bill of Rights.
And anytime my head I bow
Becomes a Federal matter now.
Our hair can be purple, orange or green,
That's no offense; it's a freedom scene.
The law is specific, the law is precise.
Prayers spoken aloud are a serious vice.
For praying in a public hall
Might offend someone with no faith at all
In silence alone we must meditate,
God's name is prohibited by the state.
We're allowed to cuss and dress like freaks,
And pierce our noses, tongues and cheeks.
They've outlawed guns, but FIRST the Bible.
To quote the Good Book makes me liable.
We can elect a pregnant Senior Queen,
And the 'unwed daddy,' our Senior King.
It's "inappropriate" to teach right from wrong,
We're taught that such "judgments" do not belong.
We can get our condoms and birth controls,
Study witchcraft, vampires and totem poles.
But the Ten Commandments are not allowed,
No word of God must reach this crowd.
It's scary here I must confess,
When chaos reigns the school's a mess.
So, Lord, this silent plea I make:
Should I be shot; My soul please take!
Amen
Thank you sister Beckie Porter for such an awesome message.
Where praying is against the rule
For this great nation under
God Finds mention of Him very odd.
If Scripture now the class recites,
It violates the Bill of Rights.
And anytime my head I bow
Becomes a Federal matter now.
Our hair can be purple, orange or green,
That's no offense; it's a freedom scene.
The law is specific, the law is precise.
Prayers spoken aloud are a serious vice.
For praying in a public hall
Might offend someone with no faith at all
In silence alone we must meditate,
God's name is prohibited by the state.
We're allowed to cuss and dress like freaks,
And pierce our noses, tongues and cheeks.
They've outlawed guns, but FIRST the Bible.
To quote the Good Book makes me liable.
We can elect a pregnant Senior Queen,
And the 'unwed daddy,' our Senior King.
It's "inappropriate" to teach right from wrong,
We're taught that such "judgments" do not belong.
We can get our condoms and birth controls,
Study witchcraft, vampires and totem poles.
But the Ten Commandments are not allowed,
No word of God must reach this crowd.
It's scary here I must confess,
When chaos reigns the school's a mess.
So, Lord, this silent plea I make:
Should I be shot; My soul please take!
Amen
Thank you sister Beckie Porter for such an awesome message.
Monday, January 16, 2006
Happy Birthday Reverend King
Martin Luther King, Jr.
You faced injustice, hate and strife.
You fought for what should be.
You risked and finally gave your life,
So others could be free.
You could have hated, but you chose
To love and understand,
Rejecting violence to oppose
An evil in our land.
You'd not inflame, but still inspire,
With hope that wouldn't yield.
You called for boycotts, not for fire,
With faith your only shield.
You marched in protest for the poor
Of every shade and hue.
So many hardships you'd endure
For those who needed you.
You stirred a nation's heart and mind;
Your message still is clear:
That color's not how we're defined.
Your memory's always near.
Each year your birth's a holiday.
The nation honors you,
And wonders when we'll see the day
Your dream at last comes true.
REFLECTION
I ran into a stranger as he passed by,"
Oh, excuse me Please" was my reply.
He said, "Please excuse me too;
Wasn't even watching for you.
We were very polite, this stranger and I.
We went on our way and we said good-bye.
But at home a different story is told,
How we treat our loved ones, young and old.
Later that day, cooking the evening meal,
My daughter stood beside me very still.
When I turned, I nearly knocked her down.
"Move out of the way," I said with a frown.
She walked away, her little heart was broken.
I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken.
"While dealing with a stranger, common courtesy you use,
But the children you love, you seem to abuse.
Look on the kitchen floor,
You'll find some flowers there by the door.
Those are the flowers she brought for you.
She picked them herself, pink, yellow and blue.
She stood quietly not to spoil the surprise,
and you never saw the tears in her eyes."
By this time, I felt very small
and now my tears began to fall.
I quietly went and knelt by her bed;
"Wake up, little girl, wake up," I said."
Are these the flowers you picked for me?
"She smiled, "I found 'em, out by the tree.
I picked 'em because they're pretty like you.
I knew you'd like 'em, especially the blue.
"I said, "Daughter, I'm sorry for the way I acted today;
I shouldn't have yelled at you that way."
She said, "Oh, Mom, that's okay.
I love you anyway."
I said, "Daughter, I love you too,
and I do like the flowers, especially the blue."
Brothers and sisters in Christ, 1 Timothy 5:8 says, But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
Almost everyone has relatives, family of some kind. Family relationships are so important in God’s eyes, Paul says, that a person who neglects his or her family responsibilities has denied the faith. Are you doing your part to meet the needs of those included in your family circle?
Are you aware that:
If we die tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days. But the family we left behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more into work than to our family - an unwise investment indeed.
So what is behind the story?You know what the letters mean for the full word of family?
FAMILY=(F)ATHER (A)ND (M)OTHER, (I) (L)OVE (Y)OU?
It is worthwhile to share more time with them as they are getting older. Make balance among all things.
Fill life with love and bravery and we shall live a life uncommon.
Oh, excuse me Please" was my reply.
He said, "Please excuse me too;
Wasn't even watching for you.
We were very polite, this stranger and I.
We went on our way and we said good-bye.
But at home a different story is told,
How we treat our loved ones, young and old.
Later that day, cooking the evening meal,
My daughter stood beside me very still.
When I turned, I nearly knocked her down.
"Move out of the way," I said with a frown.
She walked away, her little heart was broken.
I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken.
"While dealing with a stranger, common courtesy you use,
But the children you love, you seem to abuse.
Look on the kitchen floor,
You'll find some flowers there by the door.
Those are the flowers she brought for you.
She picked them herself, pink, yellow and blue.
She stood quietly not to spoil the surprise,
and you never saw the tears in her eyes."
By this time, I felt very small
and now my tears began to fall.
I quietly went and knelt by her bed;
"Wake up, little girl, wake up," I said."
Are these the flowers you picked for me?
"She smiled, "I found 'em, out by the tree.
I picked 'em because they're pretty like you.
I knew you'd like 'em, especially the blue.
"I said, "Daughter, I'm sorry for the way I acted today;
I shouldn't have yelled at you that way."
She said, "Oh, Mom, that's okay.
I love you anyway."
I said, "Daughter, I love you too,
and I do like the flowers, especially the blue."
Brothers and sisters in Christ, 1 Timothy 5:8 says, But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
Almost everyone has relatives, family of some kind. Family relationships are so important in God’s eyes, Paul says, that a person who neglects his or her family responsibilities has denied the faith. Are you doing your part to meet the needs of those included in your family circle?
Are you aware that:
If we die tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days. But the family we left behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more into work than to our family - an unwise investment indeed.
So what is behind the story?You know what the letters mean for the full word of family?
FAMILY=(F)ATHER (A)ND (M)OTHER, (I) (L)OVE (Y)OU?
It is worthwhile to share more time with them as they are getting older. Make balance among all things.
Fill life with love and bravery and we shall live a life uncommon.
Monday, January 09, 2006
How to Get Rich
Luke 12:16-21
And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: 17And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? 18And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. 19And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. 20But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? 21So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.
To become rich, one must learn to make wise investments:
Exodus 19:5, Invest in God's people
Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine:
Psalm 119:127, Invest in God's word,
Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.
Proverbs 16:16, Invest in wisdom
How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!
Proverbs 22 1A, Invest in a good name
GOOD name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.
Proverbs 22:4, Invest in humility and fearing God
By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life.
James 2:5, Invest in faith
Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?
1 Timothy 6:18, Invest in good works
That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;
And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: 17And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? 18And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. 19And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. 20But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? 21So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.
To become rich, one must learn to make wise investments:
Exodus 19:5, Invest in God's people
Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine:
Psalm 119:127, Invest in God's word,
Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.
Proverbs 16:16, Invest in wisdom
How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!
Proverbs 22 1A, Invest in a good name
GOOD name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.
Proverbs 22:4, Invest in humility and fearing God
By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life.
James 2:5, Invest in faith
Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?
1 Timothy 6:18, Invest in good works
That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;
Saturday, December 31, 2005
I'M NOT GOING TO SUE
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
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
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!
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About Me
- Elder Vazquez
- I'm just a nobody, trying to tell everybody about Somebody who can save anybody. I give all honor to the Father for the privilege of being His instrument, through whom He lives and works for His glory alone. I served in the U.S. Navy for 21 years, retiring in September 2003. In my final three years, I was co-pastor at Greater New Refuge COGIC in Fallon, Nevada, under Pastor Gregory L. Brown. I supported my pastor and church by helping with a new sanctuary's construction and caring for all ministry needs while staying true to my mandate to preach the Word of God without compromise. In November 2002, I was licensed to preach and ordained in June 2003. While stationed in Virginia Beach, I served at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church for 17 years under Bishop-Elect W.D. Scott, Sr., and now I serve at Calvary Revival Church in Norfolk, VA, under Bishop B. Courtney McBath. I also earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Religion from Saint Leo University, deepening my foundation and commitment to this path of faith.