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Tears4Us
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Posted: Tue Jun 12th, 2007 02:58 pm |
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"Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand." ~ Isaiah 41:10 Holman CSB
Christian people have every reason to live courageously. After all, the final battle has already been won on the cross at Calvary. But even dedicated followers of Christ may find their courage tested by the inevitable disappointments and fears that visit the lives of believers and non-believers alike.
When you find yourself worried about the challenges of today or the uncertainties of tomorrow, you must ask yourself whether or not you are ready to place your concerns and your life in God's all-powerful, all-knowing, all-loving hands. If the answer to that questions is yes -- as it should be -- then you can draw courage today from the source of strength that never fails: your Heavenly Father.
Today's Prayer ~ Dear Lord, sometimes I face challenges that leave me worried and afraid. When I am fearful, let me seek Your strength. When I am anxious, give me faith. Keep me mindful, Lord, that You are my God. With You by my side, Lord, I have nothing to fear today, tomorrow, or forever. Amen
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mumof7
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Posted: Wed Jun 13th, 2007 01:35 am |
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Thankyou so much for this refreshing strand to our forums. I will be checking it daily for encouragement to press on as it has given me thus far. God knows our needs and todays word for the day has come in His perfect timing.
Blessings
mumof7
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Wed Jun 13th, 2007 01:51 pm |
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Your welcome Mum......
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Wed Jun 13th, 2007 01:54 pm |
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"But the love of the Lord remains forever with those who fear Him. His salvation extends to the children's children of those who are faithful to His covenant, of those who obey His commandments!" Psalm 103:17-18 NLT
Are you anxious about situations that you cannot control? Take your anxieties to God. Are you troubled by changes that threaten to disrupt your life? Take your trouble to Him. Does your corner of the world seem to be shaking beneath your feet? Seek protection from the One who cannot be moved.
The same God who created the universe will protect you if you ask Him ... so ask Him ... and then serve Him with willing hands and a trusting heart. Rest assured that the world may change moment by moment, but God's love -- a love that is unfathomable and unchanging -- endures forever.
Today's Prayer ~ Lord, You sent Your Son to live as a man on this earth, and You know what it means to be completely human. You understand my worries and my fears, Lord, and You forgive me when I am weak. When my faith begins to wane, help me, Lord, to trust You more. Then, with Your Holy Word on my lips and with the love of Your Son in my heart, let me live courageously, faithfully, prayerfully, and thankfully today and every day. Amen
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Thu Jun 14th, 2007 02:36 pm |
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"And everything -- whatever you ask in prayer, believing -- you will receive." ~ Matthew 21:22 Holman CSB
Is prayer an integral part of your daily life, or is it a hit-or-miss habit? Do you "pray without ceasing," or is your prayer life an afterthought? As you consider the role that prayer currently plays in your life -- and the role that you think it should play -- remember that the quality of your spiritual life is inevitably related to the quality of your prayer life.
Prayer changes things and it changes you. So today, instead of running things over in your mind, turn them over to God in prayer. Instead of worrying about your next decision, pray about it. Don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime. Pray often about things great and small. God is listening, and He wants to hear from you. Now.
Today's Prayer ~ O Lord, my Creator, conform me to Your image. Create in me a clean heart, a new heart that reflects Your love for me. When I need to change, change me, Lord, and make me new. Amen
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Fri Jun 15th, 2007 02:18 pm |
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"You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart." ~ Jeremiah 29:13 Holman CSB
The familiar words of Matthew 6 remind us that, as believers, we must seek God and His kingdom. And when we seek Him with our hearts open and our prayers lifted, we need not look far: God is with us always.
Sometimes, however, in the crush of our daily duties, God may seem far away, but He is not. God is everywhere we have ever been and everywhere we will ever go. He is with us night and day; He knows our thoughts and our prayers. And, when we earnestly seek Him, we will find Him because He is here, waiting patiently for us to reach out to Him.
Today, let us reach out to the Giver of all blessings. Let us turn to Him for guidance and for strength. Today, may we, who have been given so much, seek God and invite Him into every aspect of our lives. And, let us remember that no matter our circumstances, God never leaves us; He is here . . . always right here.
Today's Prayer ~ How comforting it is, Dear Lord, to know that if I seek You, I will find You. You are with me, Father, every step that I take. Let me reach out to You, and let me praise You for revealing Your Word, Your way, and Your love. Amen
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Sat Jun 16th, 2007 03:03 pm |
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Saturday, June 16, 2007:
"When the woman saw that she was discovered, she came trembling and fell down before Him. In the presence of all the people, she declared the reason she had touched Him and how she was instantly cured. 'Daughter,' He said to her, 'your faith has made you well. Go in peace.'" ~ Luke 8:47-48 Holman CSB
Until we have been touched by the Savior, we can never be completely whole. Until we have placed our hearts and our lives firmly in the hands of the living Christ, we are incomplete. Until we come to know Jesus, we long for a sense of peace that continues to elude us no matter how diligently we search.
It is only through God that we discover genuine peace. We can search far and wide for worldly substitutes, but when we seek peace apart from God, we will find neither peace nor God.
As believers, we are invited to accept the "peace that passes all understanding" (Philippians 4:7 NIV). That peace, of course, is God's peace. Let us accept His peace, and let us share it today, tomorrow, and every day that we live.
Whoever you are, whatever your condition or circumstance, whatever your past or problem, Jesus can restore you to wholeness. ~ Anne Graham Lotz
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Mon Jun 18th, 2007 11:00 am |
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"Live in Me. Make your home in Me just as I do in you. In the same way that a branch can't bear grapes by itself but only by being joined to the vine, you can't bear fruit unless you are joined with Me. I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you're joined with Me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant." ~ John 15:4-5 MSG
Are you the kind of person who accepts God's spiritual abundance without reservation? If so, you are availing yourself of the peace and the joy that He has promised. Do you sincerely seek the riches that our Savior offers to those who give themselves to Him? Then follow Him. When you do, you will receive the love and the abundance that Jesus offers to those who follow Him.
Seek first the salvation that is available through a personal, passionate relationship with Christ, and then claim the joy, the peace, and the spiritual abundance that the Shepherd offers His sheep.
Today's Prayer ~ Thank You, Father, for the abundant life that is mine through Christ Jesus. Guide me according to Your will, and help me to be a worthy servant in all that I say and do. Give me courage, Lord, to claim the gifts You have promised -- and give me the wisdom to share those gifts, today and every day. Amen
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Tue Jun 19th, 2007 03:37 pm |
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"Blessed is a man who endures trials, because when he passes the test he will receive the crown of life that He has promised to those who love Him." ~ James 1:12 Holman CSB
People of every generation have experienced adversity, and this generation is no different. But, today's people face challenges that previous generations could have scarcely imagined. Thankfully, although the world continues to change, God's love remains constant. And, He remains ready to comfort us and strengthen us whenever we turn to Him.
If you are like most people, it is simply a fact of life: from time to time, you worry. You worry about health, about finances, about safety, about relationships, about family, and about countless other challenges of life, some great and some small. Where is the best place to take your worries? Take them to God. Take your troubles to Him, and your fears and your sorrows. Seek protection from the One who cannot be moved.
Jesus Christ is not a security from storms. He is perfect security in storms. ~ Kathy Troccoli
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Wed Jun 20th, 2007 01:10 pm |
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"If the way you live isn't consistent with what you believe, then it's wrong." ~ Romans 14:23 MSG
We must do our best to make sure that our actions are accurate reflections of our beliefs. Our theology must be demonstrated, not only by our words but, more importantly, by our actions. In short, we should be practical people, quick to act upon the beliefs that we hold most dear.
We may proclaim our beliefs to our hearts' content, but our proclamations will mean nothing -- to others or to ourselves -- unless we accompany our words with deeds that match. The sermons that we live are far more compelling than the ones we preach.
Like it or not, your life is an accurate reflection of your creed. If this fact gives you cause for concern, don't bother talking about the changes that you intend to make -- make them. Now.
You cannot spell God or Gospel until you first spell "go." ~ Anonymous
Today's Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, I believe in You, and I believe in Your Word. Help me to live in such a way that my actions validate my beliefs -- and let the glory be Yours forever. Amen
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mumof7
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Posted: Thu Jun 21st, 2007 04:48 pm |
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Amen, this is the one area that I have had a minute or 2 to quickly check and it has spurred me on for the day, brought a tear to my eye, encouraged me and strengthened me...its been like a mini devotion which is great when Im pressed for time to sit!!! Please keep this thread going...Im sure it is encouraging to others as it is and has been to me.
blessings and christs love
mumof7
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Thu Jun 21st, 2007 05:04 pm |
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Thursday, June 21, 2007:
"Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water." ~ Hebrews 10:22 Holman CSB
It has been said that character is what we are when nobody is watching. How true. When we do things that we know aren't right, we try to hide them from our families and friends. But even then, God is watching.
Few things in life torment us more than a guilty conscience. And, few things in life provide more contentment than the knowledge that we are obeying the conscience that God has placed in our hearts.
If you sincerely want to create the best possible life for yourself and your loved ones, never forsake your conscience. And remember this: when you walk with God, your character will take care of itself . . . and you won't need to look over your shoulder to see who, besides God, is watching.
Today's Prayer ~ Dear Lord, You speak to me through the Bible, through the words of others, and through that still, small voice within. Through my conscience, You reveal Your will for my life. Show me Your plan for this day, Heavenly Father, and let me share the Good News of Your Son. Amen
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Sat Jun 23rd, 2007 02:17 pm |
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"For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment. So don't be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, or of me His prisoner. Instead, share in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God." ~ 2 Timothy 1:7-8 Holman CSB
Wise people understand the importance of discipline. In Proverbs 28:19, the message is clear: "Those who work their land will have plenty of food, but the ones who chase empty dreams instead will end up poor" (NCV).
If we work diligently and faithfully, we can expect a bountiful harvest. But we must never expect the harvest to precede the labor.
Poet Mary Frances Butts advised, "Build a little fence of trust around today. Fill each space with loving work, and therein stay." And her words still apply.
Thoughtful people understand that God doesn't reward laziness or misbehavior. To the contrary, God expects His children (of all ages) to lead disciplined lives . . . and when they do, He rewards them.
Today's Prayer ~ Lord, I want to be a disciplined believer. Let me use my time wisely, and let me teach others by the faithfulness of my conduct, today and every day. Amen
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Sun Jun 24th, 2007 02:54 pm |
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"Do your work with enthusiasm. Work as if you were serving the Lord, not as if you were serving only men and women." ~ Ephesians 6:7 NCV
Do you see each day as a glorious opportunity to serve God and to do His will? Are you enthused about life, or do you struggle through each day giving scarcely a thought to God's blessings? Are you constantly praising God for His gifts, and are you sharing His Good News with the world? And are you excited about the possibilities for service that God has placed before you, whether at home, at work, at church, or at school? You should be.
You are the recipient of Christ's sacrificial love. Accept it enthusiastically and share it fervently. Jesus deserves your enthusiasm; the world deserves it; and you deserve the experience of sharing it.
Enthusiasm, like the flu, is contagious -- we get it from one another. ~ Barbara Johnson
Today's Prayer ~ Dear Lord, the Christian life is a glorious adventure -- let me share my excitement with others. Let me be an enthusiastic believer, Father, and let me share my enthusiasm today and every day. Amen
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Tue Jun 26th, 2007 12:19 am |
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"See to it that no one repays evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good for one another and for all." ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:15 Holman CSB
If we could forgive other people "once and for all," life would be so much simpler, but it doesn't seem to work that way. Forgiveness is seldom a "one-time" decision; usually, forgiveness is a gradual process.
If you're trapped in the emotional quicksand of bitterness, it's time to schedule a daily conference with God. When you visit with the Father, you should ask Him specifically to lift the burdens of the past from your heart.
Each new day is a gift from God, but if your heart is filled with anger or regret, you simply won't be able to enjoy God's blessings. So, if you're struggling to forgive someone who has hurt you, do the right thing: spend a few quiet moments each morning thanking God for His gifts and asking Him to heal your broken heart. He can heal you -- and He will heal you -- if you don't grow tired of asking for His help.
Today's Prayer ~ Dear Lord, today I will choose to forgive those who have hurt me. I will empty my heart of bitterness and fill it with love. I will obey Your Word by offering love and mercy to others, just as You have offered mercy and love to me. Amen
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Tue Jun 26th, 2007 09:20 pm |
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"Let us live in a right way . . . clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ and forget about satisfying your sinful self." ~ Romans 13:13-14 NCV
Excuses are everywhere . . . excellence is not. Whether you're a stay-at-home mom or a corporate CEO, your work is a picture book of your priorities. So whatever your job description, it's up to you, and no one else, to become masterful at your craft. It's up to you to do your job right, and to do it right now.
Because we humans are such creative excuse-makers, all of the best excuses have already been taken -- we've heard them all before.
So if you're wasting your time trying to concoct a new and improved excuse, don't bother. It's impossible. A far better strategy is this: do the work. Now. Then, let your excellent work speak loudly and convincingly for itself.
Never use your problem as an excuse for bad attitudes or behavior. ~ Joyce Meyer
Today's Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, how easy it is to make excuses. But, I want to be a person who accomplishes important work for You. Help me Father, to strive for excellence, not excuses. Amen
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Wed Jun 27th, 2007 01:51 pm |
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"I, therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, urge you to walk worthy of the calling you have received." ~ Ephesians 4:1 Holman CSB
It is terribly important that you heed God's calling by discovering and developing your talents and your spiritual gifts. If you seek to make a difference -- and if you seek to bear spiritual fruit -- you must discover your gifts and begin using them for the glory of God.
Every believer has at least one gift. In John 15:16, Jesus says, "You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you." Have you found your special calling? If not, keep searching and keep praying until you find it. God has important work for you to do, and the time to begin that work is now.
If God has called you, do not spend time looking over your shoulder to see who is following you. ~ Corrie ten Boom
Today's Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, You have called me, and I acknowledge that calling. In these quiet moments before this busy day unfolds, I come to You. I will study Your Word and seek Your guidance. Give me the wisdom to know Your will for my life and the courage to follow wherever You may lead me, today and forever. Amen
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Sun Jul 1st, 2007 04:07 pm |
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"This is my comfort in my affliction: Your promise has given me life." ~ Psalm 119:50 Holman CSB
God's promises are found in a book like no other: the Holy Bible. The Bible is a roadmap for life here on earth and for life eternal. As Christians, we are called upon to trust its promises, to follow its commandments, and to share its Good News.
As believers, we must study the Bible daily and meditate upon its meaning for our lives. Otherwise, we deprive ourselves of a priceless gift from our Creator. God's Holy Word is a transforming, life-changing, one-of-a-kind treasure. And, a passing acquaintance with the Good Book is insufficient for Christians who seek to obey God's Word and to understand His will.
God has made promises to mankind and to you. God's promises never fail and they never grow old. You must trust those promises and share them with your family, with your friends, and with the world.
Today's Prayer ~ Dear God, the Bible contains many promises. Let me trust Your promises, and let me live according to Your Holy Word, not just for today, but forever. Amen
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Mon Jul 2nd, 2007 12:51 pm |
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"Therefore, putting away lying, 'Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,' for we are members of one another." ~ Ephesians 4:25 NKJV
Lasting friendships are built upon a foundation of honesty and trust. It has been said on many occasions that honesty is the best policy. For believers, it is far more important to note that honesty is God's policy. And if we are to be servants worthy of our Savior, Jesus Christ, we must be honest and forthright in all our communications with others.
Sometimes, honesty is difficult; sometimes, honesty is painful; sometimes, honesty makes us feel uncomfortable. Despite these temporary feelings of discomfort, we must make honesty the hallmark of all our relationships; otherwise, we invite needless suffering into our own lives and into the lives of those we love.
Sometime soon, perhaps even today, you will be tempted to bend the truth or perhaps even to break it. Resist that temptation. Truth is God's way . . . and it must be your way, too.
The single most important element in any human relationship is honesty -- with oneself, with God, and with others. -- Catherine Marshall
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Tears4Us
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Posted: Thu Jul 5th, 2007 08:11 pm |
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"Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations." ~ Psalm 100:4-5 NKJV
In the Hebrew version of the Old Testament, the title of the book of Psalms is translated "hymns of praise," and with good reason. Much of the book is a breathtakingly beautiful celebration of God's power, God's love, and God's creation. The psalmist writes, "Let everything that breathes praise the Lord. Hallelujah!" (150:6 Holman CSB).
As Christians, we should continually praise God for all that He has done and all that He will do. His works are marvelous, His gifts are beyond understanding, and His love endures forever.
Do you sincerely desire to be a worthy servant of the One who has given you eternal love and eternal life? Then praise Him. And don't just praise Him on Sunday morning. Praise Him all day long, every day, for as long as you live . . . and then for all eternity.
Preoccupy my thoughts with Your praise beginning today. ~ Joni Eareckson Tada
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