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1 Corinthians 10:1 - 13
1 Corinthians 10:12-13
1 Corinthians 10:13
1 Corinthians 10:15
1 Corinthians 10:6
1 Corinthians 11:23-26
1 Corinthians 11:24
1 Corinthians 11:26
1 Corinthians 13
1 Corinthians 13:1 - 3
1 Corinthians 13:4
1 Corinthians 13:5 - 7
1 Corinthians 13:8 -11
1 Corinthians 15:1-11
1 Corinthians 15:57
1 Corinthians 15:57 - 58
1 Corinthians 1:10
1 Corinthians 1:18 -25
1 Corinthians 1:4-10
1 Corinthians 1:4-9
1 Corinthians 2:1-2
1 Corinthians 2:16
1 Corinthians 3:1-3
1 Corinthians 3:12 - 15
1 Corinthians 3:18-23
1 Corinthians 6:19 - 20
1 Corinthians 6:9 -11
1 Corinthians 9
1 Corinthians 9:24
1 Corinthians 9:24 - 27
1 Corinthians 9:25
1 John 1:3 - 4, 6 - 7
1 John 1:5-9
1 John 2:15 - 17
1 John 2:3 - 9
1 John 3:1-3
1 John 3:14
1 John 4:7-10
1 John 4:7-21
1 John 5:10-13
1 Kings 15:8 -35
1 Kings 19:1-4
1 Kings 19:11
1 Peter 1:13 - 15
1 Peter 1:22
1 Peter 1:23
1 Peter 1:3 - 7
1 Peter 1:6-9
1 Peter 2:24
1 Peter 2:9 -12
1 Peter 3:13
1 Peter 4:12 - 19
1 Peter 5:10 -11
1 Peter 5:6 - 10
1 Peter 5:8-9
1 Samuel 1
1 Samuel 15:22
1 Samuel 17
1 Samuel 17:1-30
1 Samuel 17:31-51
1 Samuel 17:8-11
1 Samuel 18:5 -16
1 Samuel 1:1 - 18
1 Samuel 1:1 -18
1 Samuel 1:1-18
1 Samuel 1:19-28
1 Samuel 2:1 - 11
1 Samuel 30:1 - 20
1 Thessalonians 2:10 - 12
1 Thessalonians 4:3-8
1 Thessalonians 5:17
1 Thessalonians 5:23
1 Thessalonians 5:23 - 34
1 Timothy 4:12
1 Timothy 4:14-16
1 Timothy 5:8
1 Timothy 6:11-12
1 Timothy 6:17-19
1 Timothy 6:6-16
2 Chronicles 20:1 - 13
2 Chronicles 20:1-13
2 Chronicles 20:14 - 30
2 Chronicles 31:20-21
2 Chronicles 33:1-19
2 Corinthians 11:23-27
2 Corinthians 12:7 - 10
2 Corinthians 13:14
2 Corinthians 1:3 - 6
2 Corinthians 1:3 - 7
2 Corinthians 1:3-7
2 Corinthians 1:8-11
2 Corinthians 2:14-17
2 Corinthians 4:14-18
2 Corinthians 4:7
2 Corinthians 4:8-9
2 Corinthians 5:1 - 9
2 Corinthians 5:14-19
2 Corinthians 5:16-21
2 Corinthians 5:17
2 Corinthians 6:11-16
2 Corinthians 7:1
2 Corinthians 9:6 -15
2 Corinthians 9:6-11
2 Corinthians 9:6-8
2 Kings 6:15-17
2 Peter 1:5-7
2 Peter 2:2
2 Peter 3:14 - 18
2 Peter 3:14-18
2 Samuel 11:1- 5
2 Samuel 7:8 - 22
2 Thessalonians 1:3 - 4
2 Thessalonians 1:3-12
2 Thessalonians 3:3-5
2 Timothy 1:1-6
2 Timothy 1:6 -- 12
2 Timothy 1:7
2 Timothy 1:8-9
2 Timothy 1:9
2 Timothy 2:19 -21
2 Timothy 3:14 - 17
2 Timothy 3:14-17
2 Timothy 4:6-18
Acts 10:1-2
Acts 10:19-20
Acts 10:44
Acts 14:22
Acts 1:11 - 14
Acts 24:24 - 27
Acts 2:1-4
Acts 2:37-40
Acts 2:38-39
Acts 2:42 - 47
Acts 3:12-18
Acts 4:10-12
Acts 8:26-39
Colossians 1:10 - 12
Colossians 1:18
Colossians 1:5
Colossians 1:9 - 14
Colossians 1:9 -14
Colossians 1:9-14
Colossians 2:1 - 9
Colossians 2:9-10
Colossians 3:1 - 3
Colossians 3:1 - 4
Colossians 3:1- 4
Colossians 3:12 - 17
Colossians 3:12-14
Colossians 3:12-17
Colossians 3:18 -21
Colossians 3:18-25
Colossians 3:21
Colossians 3:23-25
Corinthians 15:35 - 42a
Daniel 6
Deuteronomy 31:8
Deuteronomy 4:9
Deuteronomy 6:4-7
Deuteronomy 6:4-9
Ecclesiastes 11:4 - 6
Ecclesiastes 12:11
Ephesians 1:1 - 6
Ephesians 1:1 - 8
Ephesians 1:11 - 14
Ephesians 1:15-17
Ephesians 1:16-19a
Ephesians 1:3 - 14
Ephesians 1:3-14
Ephesians 1:3-6
Ephesians 1:5-14
Ephesians 2:1 - 10
Ephesians 2:14
Ephesians 2:19-21
Ephesians 2:4 - 10
Ephesians 3:11 - 21
Ephesians 3:14 - 16
Ephesians 4:1-3
Ephesians 4:1-6
Ephesians 4:11 - 16
Ephesians 4:17 - 32
Ephesians 4:17-18
Ephesians 4:29 - 32
Ephesians 4:29-32
Ephesians 4:31-32
Ephesians 5:1 - 2
Ephesians 5:1 - 4
Ephesians 5:15 - 17
Ephesians 5:15-17
Ephesians 5:20
Ephesians 5:6
Ephesians 5:8-14
Ephesians 6:1 - 4
Ephesians 6:1- 4
Ephesians 6:10
Ephesians 6:10 - 13
Ephesians 6:10 - 18
Ephesians 6:10-13
Ephesians 6:10-17
Ephesians 6:11-13
Ephesians 6:12
Ephesians 6:13-18
Ephesians 6:14 - 17
Ephesians 6:4
Ephesians 6:7-8
Exodus 14
Exodus 20:1-12
Exodus 20:6
Exodus 31:13
Exodus 4:10 -13
Exodus 4:2
Ezekiel 3:15-21
Galatians 2:21
Galatians 5:13
Galatians 5:16-26
Galatians 5:22
Galatians 5:22 - 23
Galatians 5:6
Galatians 6:1 - 8
Genesis 1-3
Genesis 12:1-5
Genesis 1:26-27
Genesis 1:5
Genesis 20:1 - 16
Genesis 24
Genesis 2:4-7
Genesis 2:7 - 3:24
Genesis 39
Genesis 3:1 - 24
Genesis 8:15 - 21
Hebrews 10:1- 4
Hebrews 10:35 - 39
Hebrews 10:38-39
Hebrews 10:5 -14
Hebrews 11:1
Hebrews 11:17 - 19
Hebrews 11:23 - 29
Hebrews 11:23 -28
Hebrews 12:1 - 3
Hebrews 12:1-3
Hebrews 12:11-15
Hebrews 12:21-24
Hebrews 13:15-19
Hebrews 2:14 -18
Hebrews 3:12-13
Hebrews 3:12-19
Hebrews 3:7-11
Hebrews 4:14-16
Hebrews 4:15 - 16
Hebrews 6:9 - 12
Hebrews 7:17-22
Hebrews 7:26 - 27
I Corinthians 10:31-33
I John 3:18-24
I Peter 1:3-9
I Samuel 7:1-12
II Corinthians 13:11-14
Isaiah 12:1-5
Isaiah 14:27
Isaiah 1:18
Isaiah 40:12 - 31
Isaiah 40:27 - 31
Isaiah 40:29 - 31
Isaiah 41:1-9
Isaiah 41:10-13
Isaiah 52:7
Isaiah 53:6
Isaiah 55:6-13
Isaiah 57:10
Isaiah 57:10 - 15
Isaiah 63:7-9
Isaiah 65:18-25
Isaiah 6:1 - 8
James 1:1-8
James 1:12
James 1:12-15
James 1:14-16
James 1:19-21
James 1:2 - 8
James 1:2-3
James 1:22 - 25
James 1:22-25
James 1:5 - 8
James 1:5-8
James 4:7
James 4:7 - 8
James 5:13-18
Jeremiah 29:10-14
Jeremiah 31:10-14
Jeremiah 9:23-24
Job 34:21
John 10:10
John 11:35-44
John 12:24
John 12:35 - 36
John 13:1 - 17
John 13:14-17
John 14:1-6
John 14:13 -15
John 14:13 -17
John 14:13-17
John 14:15-22
John 14:15-24
John 14:16-21
John 14:16-26
John 14:2 - 4
John 14:21 - 24
John 14:21-24
John 14:22-26
John 14:26
John 14:26-27
John 14:27
John 14:27-31
John 14:6
John 14:6-11
John 14:9
John 15:1-11
John 15:1-5
John 15:1-7
John 15:11-17
John 15:14 - 17
John 15:18 - 21
John 16:20-24
John 16:23 - 24
John 17:1 - 3
John 17:1-12
John 17:20
John 17:20 - 26
John 17:5 - 8
John 19:30
John 1:11-12
John 1:12-13
John 1:6 - 11
John 20:30-31
John 21:1-19
John 21:15-19
John 2:1-2
John 3:1-21
John 3:16
John 3:16 - 18
John 3:16-17
John 3:16-18
John 3:9-15
John 4:14
John 6:16-21
John 6:35
John 6:60-65
John 7:14-18
John 8:1 - 11
John 8:25-28
John 8:31-32
John 8:7
John 9:1-7
John 9:13 -25
John17:20
Jonah 1
Jonah 1:1-5
Jonah 4
Joshua 1:5 - 9
Joshua 1:6 - 9
Joshua 6:1-20
Jude 1:24-25
Judges 13:24-25
Judges 16:1-22
Leviticus 23:3-12
Luke 10:38-42
Luke 10:40 - 42
Luke 10:40-42
Luke 11:1
Luke 11:5 -13
Luke 12:16 - 21
Luke 12:28-34
Luke 12:29-34
Luke 12:32
Luke 13:1-5
Luke 15:11 - 24
Luke 15:11 - 4
Luke 15:11-32
Luke 16:10-13
Luke 17:1 - 6
Luke 19:38
Luke 1:39-44
Luke 22:66-71
Luke 23:32 - 43
Luke 24:45-49
Luke 2:1 - 14
Luke 2:1 - 20
Luke 2:1-20
Luke 2:19
Luke 2:39-40
Luke 3:10-11
Luke 4:18
Luke 5:1 - 11
Luke 5:1-5
Luke 5:15 -16
Luke 5:27-28
Luke 6:31-36
Luke 6:46-49
Luke 7:20-23
Luke 9:43
Malachi 3:10
Malachi 3:7-12
Mark 10:17 - 22
Mark 10:46 - 52
Mark 11:1-19
Mark 11:20 - 24
Mark 11:20 - 26
Mark 11:20-26
Mark 11:22-23
Mark 12:28-34
Mark 12:41-44
Mark 14:32-35
Mark 1:16 - 20
Mark 1:32-35
Mark 2:4
Mark 4:35 - 41
Mark 4:35-41
Mark 4:38
Mark 6:1- 5
Matthew 11:23-27
Matthew 11:25
Matthew 11:28
Matthew 11:28-30
Matthew 11:29
Matthew 12:22 - 32
Matthew 12:46-50
Matthew 13:13-14
Matthew 14:22 - 32
Matthew 14:22 - 34
Matthew 16:18
Matthew 16:24 -27
Matthew 16:24-26
Matthew 16:24-27
Matthew 16:24-28
Matthew 18:1-6
Matthew 18:15-20
Matthew 18:18-20
Matthew 1:23
Matthew 20:20 - 28
Matthew 20:28
Matthew 21:20-22
Matthew 21:21-22
Matthew 23:5-12
Matthew 24:36-42
Matthew 25:35-40
Matthew 25:40
Matthew 26:36 - 38
Matthew 26:41
Matthew 27:11- 26
Matthew 28:1-10
Matthew 28:16 - 20
Matthew 28:19 - 20
Matthew 28:19-20
Matthew 3:13 -17
Matthew 4: 21 - 22
Matthew 4:18 - 22
Matthew 4:18-20
Matthew 4:18-22
Matthew 4:19
Matthew 5:1-6
Matthew 5:13 -16
Matthew 5:13-16
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:16
Matthew 5:17 - 19
Matthew 5:23-24
Matthew 5:7 - 12
Matthew 6:13
Matthew 6:19 - 20
Matthew 6:2-4, NLT
Matthew 6:22 - 23
Matthew 6:25-30
Matthew 6:28 - 33
Matthew 6:7, 8
Matthew 6:9-14
Matthew 6:9-15
Matthew 7:24 - 29
Matthew 7:3-5
Matthew 7:9-11
Matthew 8:2-3
Matthew 9:10-13
Nehemiah 1:1 - 2:20
Nehemiah 1:1-11
Nehemiah 2:1-9
Nehemiah 4:1 - 6:16
Nehemiah 4:1-6
Numbers 6:25
OUR TEXTBOOK
Philippians 1:1 - 18
Philippians 1:12 - 14
Philippians 1:12 - 18
Philippians 1:12-14
Philippians 1:19 - 21
Philippians 1:6
Philippians 1:9 - 11
Philippians 1:9-10
Philippians 2:1-11
Philippians 2:14
Philippians 2:3 -11
Philippians 2:3, 14
Philippians 3:10
Philippians 3:10 - 14
Philippians 3:13
Philippians 3:20-21
Philippians 3:7 - 11
Philippians 4:10-13
Philippians 4:13
Philippians 4:19
Philippians 4:5 - 7
Philippians 4:5-7
Philippians 4:6 - 7
Phillipians 4:6
Proverbs 11:24-25
Proverbs 11:27 - 31
Proverbs 14:15 - 21
Proverbs 18:10
Proverbs 19:17
Proverbs 22:1 - 6
Proverbs 22:6
Proverbs 23:4-5
Proverbs 25:2
Proverbs 28:12-14
Proverbs 28:21-28
Proverbs 29:19-24
Proverbs 2:1-5
Proverbs 31:28 - 31
Proverbs 3:1-4
Proverbs 3:13-26
Proverbs 3:5,6
Proverbs 3:5-10
Proverbs 3:5-6
Proverbs 4:14 - 19
Proverbs 5:21
Psalm 1
Psalm 100:1 - 5
Psalm 102:1-7
Psalm 103:1-8
Psalm 103:2
Psalm 107:9
Psalm 10:12-16
Psalm 118:1 - 4
Psalm 118:5 - 9
Psalm 118:5-9
Psalm 119:1 - 7
Psalm 119:1-7
Psalm 119:105-112
Psalm 119:129-136
Psalm 119:15
Psalm 119:41-48
Psalm 119:49
Psalm 119:9 -16
Psalm 119:97 - 104
Psalm 121:7-8
Psalm 139
Psalm 144:2
Psalm 15
Psalm 150:6
Psalm 16:6 - 11
Psalm 16:6-11
Psalm 18:20-26
Psalm 18:30-32
Psalm 19
Psalm 19:1 - 6
Psalm 19:14
Psalm 19:2 - 6
Psalm 19:7-11
Psalm 1:1 - 3
Psalm 23
Psalm 24:1 - 5
Psalm 25:1-5
Psalm 25:15-18
Psalm 25:20 - 21
Psalm 25:4-10
Psalm 27
Psalm 27:1 - 4
Psalm 27:1-3
Psalm 27:14
Psalm 32:1- 5
Psalm 32:1-2
Psalm 32:1-8
Psalm 32:10-11
Psalm 32:8
Psalm 33:12
Psalm 33:12 - 16
Psalm 34:1
Psalm 34:1 - 3
Psalm 34:1 - 7
Psalm 35:1-9
Psalm 37:1 - 8
Psalm 37:1-4
Psalm 37:4
Psalm 3:1-6
Psalm 46
Psalm 46:10
Psalm 48:14
Psalm 49:1-13
PSalm 49:14-20
Psalm 4:3
Psalm 50:7-15
Psalm 51:10-12
Psalm 55:22
Psalm 62:1-2
Psalm 63:1 - 7
Psalm 63:1 - 8
Psalm 63:1-8
Psalm 66:16
Psalm 68:15 - 18
Psalm 68:3-6
Psalm 69:12-14
Psalm 69:13
Psalm 71:9-16
Psalm 78:1-4
Psalm 80:3
Psalm 81:10-16
Psalm 89:15-17
Psalm 91
Psalm 91:1 - 7
Psalm 92:1 - 5
Psalm 9:10 - 14
Psalm 9:10-14
Psalm 9:7-10
Psalms 102:24-28
Revelation 1:1 - 3; 5
Revelation 20-11:15
Revelation 21:22 - 22:7
Revelation 21:22-22:6
Revelation 21:9-21
Revelation 4
Revelation 4:1-11
Revelation 5
Revelation 8:14-17
Romans 10:6 - 10
Romans 10:6-10
Romans 10:8-13
Romans 10:9-13
Romans 11:36
Romans 12:1 - 2
Romans 12:1-3
Romans 12:1-8
Romans 12:17-18
Romans 12:19-21
Romans 12:9-18
Romans 13:9-10
Romans 14:10-12
Romans 14:12
Romans 15:15-21
Romans 16:1 - 20
Romans 16:17 - 18
Romans 1:16 -17
Romans 1:18 - 23
Romans 1:18-25
Romans 1:24 - 32
Romans 1:28-31
Romans 1:8-16
Romans 3:10 - 26
Romans 3:25-31
Romans 3:3,4; Numbers 23:
Romans 5:1 - 2
Romans 5:1 - 9
Romans 5:1-2
Romans 5:1-5
Romans 5:1-8
Romans 5:5 - 8
Romans 5:6 - 21
Romans 5:6-11
Romans 5:6-9
Romans 5:8 - 11
Romans 5:8 -17
Romans 5:8-17
Romans 5:9-15
Romans 6:11
Romans 6:12-18
Romans 6:23
Romans 6:4-14
Romans 7:15 - 20
Romans 7:15 - 25
Romans 7:18-25
Romans 8:1-2
Romans 8:28
Romans 8:28 - 29
Romans 8:28 - 30
Romans 8:3-15
Romans 8:31 - 39
Romans 8:32
Romans 8:33
Romans 8:35-39
Romans 8:9 -14
Song of Solomon 2:15
Titus 1
Titus 2:1 - 8
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Thursday, 6 July 2006
REASONS FOR TAKING RISKS
Mood:  amorous
Topic: Joshua 1:6 - 9
In the first chapter of Joshua, God delivers the greatest "pep talk" in all of Scripture. Moses had just died, and now his successor was called upon to lead the nation of Israel into the Promised Land - a military action that would surely involve significant risk. Joshua was no doubt unsettled by the prospects of facing such a strong army. Therefore, the Lord spoke words of encouragement to him that still ring true for us today.

What would have happened if Joshua had refused this daunting assignment? Most likely, the nation of Israel would have languished in the desert indefinitely. Fortunately, this leader was a man of great faith and courage, and he boldly took up the cause of God.

Like Joshua, we face daily obstacles that seem to push our faith to the breaking point. And yet, it is in the throes of adversity that God hones our faith. (James 1:2 - 4) When we refuse to follow Him into risky situations, the results can be devastating to our spiritual growth. Consider the consequences of disobedience on your life:

1. You will never become the person that God wants you to be.

2. You limit your usefulness to God.

3. You are willing to live a life of rationalized disobedience.

4. You'll be governed by fear rather than faith.

5. You risk losing not only rewards in heaven but also blessings on earth.

Are you in some way refusing God's call? The Lord is trustworthy. Whatever His plan of action for you, be assured He will see you safely through the ordeal.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 1:32 PM CDT
Permalink
Wednesday, 5 July 2006
LETTING GO OF OUR PROCRASTINATING WAYS
Mood:  hug me
Topic: Acts 24:24 - 27
We like to think that our delaying tactics are no big deal. After all, we tell ourselves, no one is really hurt by the things we put off. Over time, however, our choices to postpone action can develop into a lifelong pattern of procrastination. The ruler Felix delayed making a decision about Christ and eventually turned away completely.

To get on track, we must change our attitude about procrastination, admitting it is a serious problem and noticing where we consistently put off action. It's important to identify feelings of doubt and discomfort we may have, confess that procrastination has a hold on us, and then decide in our hearts to turn away from it. Tell God, "I want to live by Your schedule and please You by my obedience."

Repentance should be joined by a commitment to actively embrace new ways of decisive living. USE GOD's WORD to fight against feelings of doubt and discomfort whenever they arise. Who we are in Christ and who He is to us are the truths needed to overcome bad habits. The Bible says that we are new creations, indwelt by God's Holy Spirit, and we are no longer slaves to sin. (Galatians 5:1) Jesus, our Savior, is also our Lord. He provides all we need through His resurrection power. (2 Peter 1:3) His grace turns our weakness into strength. (2 Corinthians 12:9). Victory is ours through Him. (Romans 8:37)

When we order our lives on the BASIS OF SCRIPTURE, we will live by faith rather than feelings. Jesus offers to set us free from the bondage of procrastination. Don't put off accepting His invitation!

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 8:44 AM CDT
Permalink
Tuesday, 4 July 2006
COMMON AREAS OF PROCRASTINATION
Mood:  special
Topic: Romans 12:1 - 2
God has prepared work He wants us to do, and our delays in carrying out His plan constitute disobedience. That makes habitual procrastination a serious problem.

As Christians,we not only put off daily Bible reading and tithing, but we also delay . . .

Serving in the church. We promise to be available to work, but when the call comes, we say no. If asked, we might reply it is the length of service that doesn't suit us. At other times we say the position itself is disagreeable to us. In both cases, if we examine our feelings, we will find we are dodging what we do not like or feel inadequate to do.

Sharing our faith. We can get very anxious about how to express ourselves, what reaction we'll get, and whether we'll be able to answer questions adequately. When insecurity threatens us, we often choose silence and inactivity.

Surrendering our will to the Lord's. Just thinking about giving God control in certain areas makes many of us feel fearful. So we cling to our way and avoid His. True submission says, "Lord, I am willing to do whatever You want in this situation. I will obey Your Word."

After a while, because of our procrastinating ways, our spiritual growth becomes inhibited. Then our usefulness to the Lord and our sense of joy in Him diminish.

The Lord has asked us to be His ambassadors, who represent Him to a hurting world according to His plan and timetable. (2 Corinthians 5:20) Therefore, procrastination has no place in the believer's life. Which areas of your life does this bring to mind?

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 1:49 PM CDT
Permalink
Monday, 3 July 2006
UNDERLYING CAUSES OF PROCRASTINATION
Mood:  hug me
Topic: Psalm 119:97 - 104
Ever wonder why you do not make that crucial decision in your life? Or what keeps you from following through on chores at home or projects at work? The most common excuse for procrastinating is, "I'm too busy right now." The real reasons for repeated delays come not from an outside source but from our own thinking. Procrastination occurs when we want to avoid discomfort or self - doubt.

Let's consider two areas where Christians commonly procrastinate. The first is Scripture reading. For some of us, uncertainty about where to begin or what method to follow can make us feel inadequate. To avoid this uncomfortable emotion, we may stop trying to figure it out. Or, if we do meditate on a Bible passage, the Holy Spirit might point out ungodly attitudes and behaviors in our lives that the Lord wants to change. Then emotions of embarrassment, inadequacy, or shame can surface. To get rid of such uneasy feelings, we simply stop reading.

Avoidance is also too common a practice in the area of tithing. Giving generously to God usually means cutting back on some areas of spending. That can make us feel insecure because we think, How will I live without ___? Most of us wish we had more disposable income, not less; so our mind plays a little trick and tells us, It will be easier to do it next week. But seven days later, it is the same story.

Think about the things you've been putting off. Ask yourself, How competent do I feel to do those tasks? and What negative emotions do I feel in connection with them? Then pray for God to direct you.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 8:41 AM CDT
Permalink
Sunday, 2 July 2006
CHARACTERISTICS OF GODLY LIVING
Mood:  amorous
Topic: Psalm 119:1 - 7
The culture we live in places great emphasis on physical fitness. However, the Word of God tells us that "physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things." 1 Timothy 4:8

There is a simple way to grow in godliness: give Scripture priority in both your personal and professional life. You will know that you have given the Word its proper place when your time of biblical meditation brings deeper satisfaction than your other pleasures. The more you allow scriptural principles to shape your decision - making, the more you will be like a tree firmly planted by a stream, able to withstand the storms of life. (Psalm 1:3) Besides being continually nourished and strengthened, you will also produce abundant spiritual fruit. (Galatians 5:22-23)

Indications that you are maturing in godliness include: accepting God's pruning in order to have increased fruitfulness; demonstrating the patience to live by His timetable; investing yourself professionally and personally for the benefit of others; and being content, even when circumstances are less than optimal. In addition, long periods of worry will diminish, but when fear does arise, you will rest in God's sufficiency. (Philippians 4:13)

As we frame our viewpoint with biblical principles, adjust our behavior to the Lord's standards, and invest ourselves in the life in others, godliness will characterize us more and more. The heavenly Father is pleased as His children's resemblance to Jesus becomes increasingly noticeable. Let's pursue Christlikeness with all our strength.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 9:10 AM CDT
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Saturday, 1 July 2006
FAILURE: THE FIRST STEP TO VICTORY
Mood:  crushed out
Topic: Romans 7:15 - 25
Paul tried to do the right thing, but, like us, sometimes he failed. In his letter to the Romans, Paul seems to agonize over his inability to triumph over sin at every confrontation in his life.

Don't we all feel like Paul at times? We want to do what's right, but our actions don't always represent our true desires.

However, Paul learned that failure shouldn't be condemning - in fact, it taught him one invaluable lesson: "Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong" (2 Corinthians. 12:10).

Here are some things to remember about defeat:

1) Defeat is often engineered by God. God isn't after self - improvement. He is after death - death to our flesh, which leads to life in Him.

2) Defeat is often essential for God to fulfill His purposes in our lives. When we are broken to the point that the only place we can look is up - and see Him - then we begin to see the purposes and plans He has for our lives.

3) Defeat exposes our weaknesses and inadequacies. Our best efforts never match what God can - and wants - to do in us and through us.

Defeat in our lives doesn't mean we are defeated. It's merely God's way of pointing us to ultimate victory.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 3:15 PM CDT
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Friday, 30 June 2006
THE CHARACTER OF A GODLY MAN
Mood:  special
Topic: Psalm 1:1 - 3
WANTED: Christian men willing to answer the Lord's call to live godly lives in an unrighteous world. A man with this mindset will understand the importance of:

Ordering his life with Christian counsel. A God - fearing man is not too self - sufficient or proud to ask for help. He seeks biblical counsel regularly so that he can succeed according to God's principles. He is open to advice based on scriptural truths, whether for his home life, personal finances, or business matters. Many of us, however, are prone to seek opinions from those who appear successful, even if they do not share our faith. How wise can ungodly men be when they have chosen to live without God? How smart are we when we seek their advice?

Limiting his deepest friendships to fellow believers. Only the like - minded - those who love Jesus and desire to follow Him - are suitable to be intimate friends of a believer. Remember, our companions can influence us positively or negatively. Those who reject Jesus will never guide us toward Him. Those who are casual in their faith can influence us away from God's standards. While the Lord expects us to relate to all sorts of people, it is wise to restrict our "inner circle" to Christ - followers.

Being committed to defending the truth. Concerned with the things of the Lord and His church, a godly man will take a stand against the profane use of Jesus' name. Not only will he speak the truth about unrighteous patterns of behavior and their destructiveness; he will also oppose ridicule of the Bible or other Christians.

MEN, THE LORD CALLS YOU TO GODLINESS. WILL YOU SAY YES?

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 9:42 AM CDT
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Thursday, 29 June 2006
THE POWER OF UNCONDITIONAL LOVE
Mood:  on fire
Topic: Colossians 3:21
"Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so that they will not lose heart." Colossians 3:21

Expressing unconditional love empowers parents to raise kids to be confident adults. By accepting each child's unique nature, we lay a foundation for good self - esteem. Too often we unintentionally inflict damage on a young one's ego by confusing actions with personhood - a child might hear criticism as "I'm bad" rather than "my behavior was wrong." Children desperately need parental guidance and discipline, but these must be wrapped in actions and language that convey love.

The alternative - correcting a child with the aim of making him or her the adult Mom or Dad desires instead of the person God intends - promotes a rebellious spirit. Think of the popular child - rearing axiom "Pick your battles" more in these terms: "Pick the battles that affect the child's soul." Passing fads and weird clothing or hair choices are not worthy battles, but issues related to honesty, integrity, and obedience call for a parent's guidance.

The result of unconditional love and its byproducts - self - esteem and obedience - is that children develop good relationships. They will be prepared to accept others with the same attitude their parents showed them. This is critical because a wounded child will one day struggle to express wholehearted love to a marriage partner or to receive it in return.

Conveying acceptance to a child doesn't cost money, but it does take time. Parents love their kids through actions and attitudes - taking an interest in a child's activities, listening with focused attention, offering encouragement, and looking for traits to praise. Do your kids know you love them?

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 10:43 AM CDT
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Wednesday, 28 June 2006
A CHILD'S FIRST IMAGE OF GOD
Mood:  special
Topic: Ephesians 5:1 - 2
A child's first image of God is his earthly father. We Christians spend a lot of time discussing ways to protect or improve our witness. We need to live our faith in front of co - workers and friends, but in the privacy of our home, we also want our family to see Jesus in us. If we show forgiveness, patience, and acceptance, then our children will expect to find those traits in the Lord.

In a similar way, negative behaviors - for example, consistent harshness, busyness, or emotional neglect - also shape a child's view of God. I remember a young man who came to me worried about his salvation. He had received Christ as his personal Savior but wasn't convinced that he was truly forgiven. When I opened the Scriptures to share some assurances with him, he responded, "I believe them, but I'm just not sure God's promises apply to me." He seemed surprised when I then asked about his relationship with his father. During our conversation, it came out that his dad had often made promises he failed to keep. Now, years later, the son lacked certainty that God would keep His word.

Being a reflection of the heavenly Father requires no special skills; the only training guide we need is the Bible. By approaching fatherhood as an area of service and ministry, all men are able to be successful dads. As with any service rendered for God, the Holy Spirit offers fathers wisdom and guidance in the raising of children.

Be attentive to the words of the heavenly Father, and someday your children will rise up and call you blessed.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 7:39 PM CDT
Updated: Wednesday, 28 June 2006 7:45 PM CDT
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Tuesday, 27 June 2006
THE NEGATIVE POWER OF REJECTION
Mood:  happy
Topic: Ephesians 4:29 - 32
As a pastor, I have had many wounded children in my office. They might be adults, but the little boy or girl inside of them still grieves over a parent's lack of acceptance.

Parents have considerable power to negatively shape a child's life by making him or her feel rejected. Without the steady foundation of unconditional parental love, such kids become adults whose entire life experience is shaped by their earliest feelings. These walking wounded cannot trust in others' care for them - they are waiting for the rejection that they believe is inevitable. Friendly advice is often heard as criticism, and even a forgotten birthday may be seen as a sign of dislike.

Right now many parents are saying, "I love my kids; I accept them!" Rejection, however, can be subtle. For example, parents may think they're providing guidance by suggesting more conventional music choices, different clothing styles, or an altered appearance. But this type of criticism is often received as an attack on the child's personhood - an indication that he or she isn't measuring up. The same sort of thing can happen at a Little League game. If Dad says, "You would have hit that pitch if you had watched the ball as I taught you," his son's delicate ego hears, "If you performed better, I'd be happy with you now instead of irritated."

Unwise criticism can be interpreted as rejection, leaving a child feeling unloved or unworthy of love. On the other hand, discipline and instruction, which are necessary for children's maturity, confront their actions and attitudes while communicating a parent's acceptance.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 8:32 AM CDT
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Monday, 26 June 2006
THE NEED FOR EMOTIONAL PROVISION
Mood:  happy
Topic: 1 Thessalonians 2:10 - 12

Material goods are only a small part of providing for one's family. A man is also responsible for giving his household emotional stability. A dad has the power to convey to his sons and daughters that they have tremendous significance.

~ Fathers can offer a sense of belonging. All of us yearn to be part of a group. Parents build strong family ties by listening to kids' opinions and respecting their feelings. When that is the case, children know they have a safe haven from unpleasant circumstances - they feel security in a circle of people who love them unconditionally.

~ Fathers can give their children a sense of worth. So many boys and girls are growing up thinking they have no value. These kids try to compensate for their poor self - image through sex or drug use, but they end up even more disappointed. What a child needs is a dad who makes him or her feel special by his involvement - attending events, making time to talk, and joining in hobbies.

~ Dads can provide a sense of confidence. A father who expresses his support instills good self - worth and assurance in his children. Saying to sons and daughters, "I believe in you no matter what the outcome" lets them know that they are unconditionally loved. Then, even if a child fails, his or her sense of confidence will not waver.

Think about how you talk to and support your kids. Whether they are toddlers, teens, or adults, your children need your emotional provision. How well are you providing?


Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 9:50 AM CDT
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Sunday, 25 June 2006
A FATHER'S PROVISION
Mood:  hug me
Topic: 1 Timothy 5:8
"If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever" (1 Timothy 5:8).

Supplying a family's needs is a tough job, but the Lord calls every father to the task. Sometimes, though, our hard work yields only the barest of necessities.

No parent should be ashamed that he or she cannot give a child more than life's essentials. If we were truly pressed to live on only what we need, we might be surprised by how few requirements we actually have. As a boy, I had two pairs of bib overalls, three shirts, and a single pair of shoes. When the soles of my shoes wore out, I put cardboard in them until my mother, a widow, had the money to resole them. The refrigerator was not full, but we had enough to eat, and we had a small home. I did not need any more than the basic elements my mom could provide.

What might come as a surprise is that a man who offers his family much more than the fundamentals can nevertheless be a poor provider. By giving in to every whim and materially spoiling his children or spouse, the household leader is not practicing good family management.

A wise provider knows that boundaries are important in teaching loved ones self - control and discipline. Consequently, he will set limits that are in keeping with the Lord's purpose for his family.

An old Army slogan said the military was "the toughest job you'll ever love," but fatherhood fits that billing even more aptly. We work hard to provide for our families' needs and, when possible, give well - considered extras. Thankfully, our Father provides us with aid and wisdom to do the job right.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 2:54 PM CDT
Updated: Sunday, 25 June 2006 2:58 PM CDT
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Saturday, 24 June 2006
GOOD THINGS IN LIFE
Mood:  lazy
Topic: Psalm 63:1 - 7
To earnestly seek the Lord, to in your innermost being long to know more about Jesus Christ, you must set your mind to do so. It is not an experiential moment in which you are waiting for a feeling or an emotion to affirm that the Lord has spoken to you.

Rather, it is an intentional, deliberate daily effort at humbly and sincerely trying to find out more about God. If you're going to seek the Lord, you simply must purpose to do it and trust Him to answer your heart's cry.

The primary ways to learn more about God are to read His Word and communicate to Him in prayer. Perhaps you sometimes feel inundated with admonitions to read the Bible and pray, read the Bible and pray. There is a reason. These vital pursuits must be accomplished in earnest before your understanding of Christ is deepened.

The Holy Bible is a product of the mind and heart of God. It is the principal tool He uses to reveal Himself to us. He communicates to us through His Word and His Holy Spirit, and we communicate to Him through prayer.

Yet you also should consciously determine that in your conversations, Scripture study, church attendance, reading, and service you will be tenacious in longing to discover His will and His ways. These are all methods in which we learn more about God. These are also the ways in which we are richly rewarded.


Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 8:26 AM CDT
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Friday, 23 June 2006
RIGHT RELATIONSHIPS
Mood:  crushed out
Topic: Acts 2:42 - 47
Have you ever met someone who claimed to be a Christian but refused to engage with other believers as part of a church body? Such people will often say, "My spiritual life is between me and God. It doesn't involve anyone else." What a tragic, misguided view!

The Lord created each of us for relationship, both with Him and with other believers. We cannot be the complete men and women God wants us to be unless we are actively connected to others. That's what the church is - a place of commonality wherein a collection of individuals forms one body. The benefits of these relationships are staggering. They . . .

1. Build confidence in God and in ourselves.

2. Encourage us when we are down.

3. Motivate us to greatness.

4. Stimulate our creativity.

5. Energize us when we are weary.

6. Comfort us when we are hurting.

7. Defend us when we are attacked.

8. Forgive us when we make mistakes.

9. Love us when we seem unlovable.

10. Accept us just as we are, unconditionally.

Such relationships characterized the early church - there was no concept of faith in isolation. Acts 2:44 is an amazing statement: "All those who had believed were together and had all things in common." It is doubtful that many modern churches could make this claim.

Take stock of the "right relationships" in your life. Who is it that you trust unreservedly? Who challenges you to be your very best and depends on you for the same? Friends are a blessing from the Lord; honor Him in your life today.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 2:32 PM CDT
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Thursday, 22 June 2006
TEACHING CHILDREN ABOUT WORK
Mood:  happy
Topic: Mark 1:16 - 20
Jesus' call to be fishers of men extends to modern believers. In order for anyone to achieve and become all that God has in mind, it is crucial to learn the right attitude toward work, whether it relates to vocation or service to the Lord. As parents, we must teach our children these additional lessons from fishing:

A fisherman must be industrious. The Bible tells us that Zebedee had some hired help. (Mark 1:20) He didn't settle for simply catching enough fish to feed his own family; he built a successful business that could also sustain his employees. It is likely that Zebedee taught his sons to reach for their full potential instead of accepting "good enough."

A fisherman must be disciplined. He doesn't have the option of sleeping in late or leaving the water early. Even though he is tired after a long shift, he recognizes that he must clean the nets to keep them in good repair. Zebedee's sons learned responsibility and self - control on their father's boat.

A fisherman must be persistent. The best catch is often made after everyone else gives up. Zebedee undoubtedly taught James and John not to quit until they gave their fullest effort. This ingrained attitude was essential when Jesus sent the disciples out to evangelize the world.

The order to spread the Gospel is still in effect. The church needs committed believers who teach and demonstrate a biblical mindset. Parents who model industry, discipline, and persistence are most likely to raise children determined to win the world for Jesus Christ.


Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 10:27 AM CDT
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Wednesday, 21 June 2006
MODELING A FISHERMAN?S FAITH
Mood:  lazy
Topic: Matthew 4: 21 - 22
Matthew's gospel would not have mentioned James and John's father so often if he were not a significant influence. Consider how Zebedee's vocation allowed him to model fatherly attributes - and how modern dads might follow his example.

A fisherman must be courageous. The Sea of Galilee is a dangerous body of water, where squalls build quickly and rage terribly. Life can be like that, too - one moment calm and then churning with a painful storm. Backing off when a situation becomes uncomfortable or giving up when we do not like how events are progressing teaches our kids to be quitters. But dads who put their trust in the Lord can face tough times with courage.

A fisherman must be decisive. Good timing is important in fishing and essential in life. Fathers are wise to model prayerfulness and thoughtful planning, but kids must also see us follow through and make a decision. One issue over which we should never hesitate is whether or not to obey God. If we are telling our children that the Lord is good and trustworthy, we ought to be backing up our words with decisive obedience.

A fisherman must be patient. No schedule exists for when fish will give themselves up to a hook or net. In our rushed, instant - everything world, we forget the importance of patience. But we cannot predict God's schedule, either, and parents are wise to show their sons and daughters how to wait upon Him.

Godly children follow the example of a godly father. What are you modeling for your family?

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 9:03 AM CDT
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Tuesday, 20 June 2006
INFLUENCE BY EXAMPLE
Mood:  amorous
Topic: Titus 2:1 - 8
The fathers in the Old Testament serve as a warning to modern dads about the impact of a parent's example. Many godly men were fatherhood failures, and their children paid a hefty price. Jacob's sons mimicked his conniving and manipulative behavior. King David neglected discipline and, as a result, several of his sons were involved in despicable activities. His heir, Solomon, was an equally poor father, whose son joined a rebellion against the king.

In spite of their faith, Jacob, David, and Solomon provided a negative role model for their children. Unfortunately, biblical examples of poor fathers outnumber the good. But the gospels mention a man whose sons reflect well on their dad's parenting skills. No specific details are given to describe how Zebedee brought up the disciples James and John, but he is significant because he did what many Christians try to do today: raise God - following children. Zebedee's training prepared his sons for a life of intimate fellowship with the Messiah. It's a reasonable assumption that he modeled discipline, respect for authority, and persistence, because his sons demonstrated those traits while following Jesus Christ.

Your children will reflect the traits they observe in you. Living in your presence every day, your kids see past any fade that might fool the rest of the world. They monitor your attitude about vocational work and household chores. Little ears pick up on how you talk about others, and little eyes watch your response to difficult circumstances.

What kind of example do your children see?

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 9:49 AM CDT
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Monday, 19 June 2006
A FATHER WHO PRAYS
Mood:  amorous
Topic: Philippians 1:9 - 11
Every child needs a father who calls his or her name before the Lord. By attending their events, getting involved in their interests, and expressing affection, we show our sons and daughters that we care. However, nothing demonstrates our love as powerfully as prayer does.

Praying for and with our children is part of a father's responsibility. No one else will talk to the Lord about them with the same fervor that parents can. That is why it's important to take the time to focus on specific needs. A hasty request like, "Please bless my children and keep them safe," will be honored by God but will not satisfy our kids' need for intercession. If a father prays with his daughter that the Lord would bring to mind the material she has studied, then she can walk into a final examination, confident of God's provision and her dad's love.

Adults often dismiss kids' problems - like tests, sibling squabbles, and bouts of puppy love - as petty, compared to "real world" trials. Situations that seem huge to youth, causing them tears and fears, can look like anthills to us. But one day, they too will have big, adult problems with which to contend, possibly even bigger than our own. The best salve for their hurting hearts will still be a father who bows his head on their behalf. And, more importantly, we will have taught them to be praying men and women themselves.

As Father's Day gets close, commit to giving your children a great gift: Ask your sons and daughters how you can pray for them.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 10:02 AM CDT
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Sunday, 18 June 2006
A FATHER WHO TRAINS
Mood:  amorous
Topic: Proverbs 22:1 - 6
Being a father can be thought of as an "investment opportunity." The spiritual leader of the home pours instruction and discipline into his children so that they mature into men and women after God's heart. At a father's knee, a child learns the importance of confessing failure, serving humbly, and living according to scriptural principles.

Teaching requires that we back up our instruction with sound reasoning. It is easy to say, "I'm your father; do as I tell you, "but don't be fooled into thinking that giving orders is the same as training. Children need to understand why they are expected to behave in a certain way. Taking extra time to explain the reason behind a request or a punishment builds authentic respect for authority and develops a child's recognition of wrong and right.

Children will test the boundaries we set for them, often deliberately misbehaving just to learn what our reaction will be. They will also act obediently and then look to us for support and praise. From the time they are very young, we should train them to expect rewards for obedience and disciplinary consequences for disobedience. This is easily done by discussing the choices made by men and women in Scripture stories or by making an example of a child's daily actions - "You cleaned your room as soon as I asked, so now we have time to play some basketball."

Training takes time and involves a commitment to godly principles. The reward is well worth the investment in consistent instruction: children who will not depart from the Lord's way.


Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 1:09 PM CDT
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Saturday, 17 June 2006
OUR FORGIVING FATHER
Mood:  energetic
Topic: Luke 15:11 - 24
Perhaps you've never noticed a few telling nuances in the parable of the prodigal son.

The wayward son had a true change of heart and decided that being a hired servant for his father was better than living in the hogpen of sin. When the wayward son was approaching, the father could see him from afar. The father ran, embraced him, and kissed him.

Here is a son badly stained from sin. He had just left the filthy job of feeding swine, one of the worst possible assignments for a Jewish lad. He had no change of clothes, nowhere to bathe. But the father saw him coming and ran to him. In the culture of Jesus' day, it was beneath the dignity of Jewish men to be seen running in public. But in Jesus' parable, He indicates that this is just how our heavenly Father responds when believers return from their trysts with sin.

He embraced his son despite his filth and stench. He kissed the boy, which was a sign of forgiveness.

Notice what is missing at this point. The father's silence is deafening. While the son begins asking forgiveness and apologizing, the father is hugging and kissing him affectionately. There is no condemnation from the father, who had forgiven the son long ago and was patiently waiting, arms open wide, for his loved one's return. So, too, does our heavenly Father await with forgiveness and love all who stray from Him.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 7:17 AM CDT
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