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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
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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
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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
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Romans 5:1-2
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Romans 5:5 - 8
Romans 5:6 - 21
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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
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Titus 2:1 - 8
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Tuesday, 12 December 2006
CHANGING OUR FOCUS
Mood:  a-ok
Topic: John 15:18 - 21
Nothing can touch a believer's life unless it comes through the permissive will of God. That means He has complete control, even when it feels like Satan is running rampant through our personal lives. Trapped in Roman confinement, Paul knew that God could rescue him; after all, He had removed Peter's chains. (Acts 12:7) But Paul was not simply waiting around for liberation. Even in his chains, he earnestly continued with his kingdom work because he believed God did everything for a reason.

It is true that the Lord has a purpose for whatever He brings into a person's life. Though we may desperately wish for different circumstances, God allows us to go through a given situation when it will ultimately bring about the most favorable result. If we allow Him to finish the work instead of trying to extricate ourselves, we'll see a positive outcome.

Paul's time in prison proved a benefit for the Gospel, though logically, the spread of the Word should have been severely hindered by the confinement of such a great preacher. In two years, he had been guarded by many of the elite praetorians (Philippians 1:13), and we know what Paul talked to them about Christ during their shifts.

There isn't a single verse in the Bible that says believers are promised an easy life. In fact, the Word warns that the opposite is true. (John 16:33) But we, like Paul, can choose to live above our circumstances by realizing that God has a plan to use our experiences for our good and the benefit others.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 7:58 AM CST
Permalink
Monday, 11 December 2006
LIVING ABOVE YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES
Mood:  a-ok
Topic: Philippians 1:1 - 18
Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians during a long and unjust imprisonment. But, even though Paul is in the midst of suffering, this short epistle is full of rejoicing. Paul never complains or casts blame for his situation because he learned to live above his circumstances.

How do most people respond to difficulty? First, they try blaming others for the problem in order to make themselves feel better. But blaming only results in broken relationships. Second, they may complain, which brings pity from others but only enhances the problem in their own minds. Finally, they search for a way out of the situation and, in the process, usually make things worse.

Paul knew that in order to live above his circumstances, rather than merely muddling through them, he needed to shift his focus. Instead of examining his problem and complaining, he looked to God. He praised God, proclaiming, "I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord" (Philippians 3:8).

God wants to hear our honest concerns, anger, and confusion about our trials, but He also wants us to trust Him. Focusing on the Lord and praising Him doesn't mean that we insincerely pretend to enjoy tough times. Instead, we can honestly acknowledge that He is in control of the situation and will guide our every step just as He promised. (Proverbs 3:5 - 6)

Believers have a simple choice. We can wallow in self - pity, or we can look to Jesus Christ and learn to live above our circumstances.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 10:06 AM CST
Permalink
Sunday, 10 December 2006
PRAISING THE LAMB OF GOD
Mood:  celebratory
Topic: Psalm 34:1 - 3
We must meet three requirements to worship God properly, and there are four ways to express our praise properly.

The first requirement is we must know God. The only way we can get to know God is through His revelation of Himself, which is His Word, the Bible. As we absorb His truths, we learn from and of the Lord. Then our worship can be motivated and directed correctly.

Next, we must be submissive to Him. There is no true praise without obedience. Finally, we must have a pure heart. Since we are human, we are weak and frail. We will make mistakes. But God wants people who understand their weaknesses and are willing to submit to His will and acknowledge they are nothing apart from Him.

The four ways we can properly express our praise is through:

Speaking: We can praise and bless the Lord by telling others about Him or by reading Scripture such as today's verse.

Singing: Some of the most powerful passages of praise are put to music, and we indeed will sing praises to God for eternity in heaven.

Service: It is a contradiction for a believer to say he knows or loves God without offering Him service in some fashion. True faith bears fruit.

Sharing: Another contradiction surfaces when a believer refuses to talk about Jesus with others or to tithe - to give back to God.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 9:56 AM CST
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Saturday, 9 December 2006
HOW TO HAVE INTIMACY WITH GOD
Mood:  flirty
Topic: Ephesians 1:1 - 6
The Lord has called us into an intimate relationship with Him. The greatest tragedy for anyone, but especially for a churchgoer, is to die without knowing the Lord personally. But like any friendship, intimacy with God requires effort.

First, we must spend time with Him. Bible studies and church are good, but they don't count toward this requirement. We need to be alone with God, away from distractions and anything that might interfere with our communion. Susanna Wesley, mother to John, Charles, and seven other living children, had her quiet time on a kitchen stool with her apron pulled over her head. When was the last time you got alone with the Lord and asked Him to speak to your heart?

Second, intimacy with God depends on our ability to listen. Most of the time, He will speak through Scripture. That's why we need to give reading and meditation high priority.

Third, we must speak to God transparently and hold nothing back. A loving relationship is built upon honesty, where each person feels comfortable expressing both positive and negative emotions while still trusting the other's love. Of course, God already knows what is in our heart, but we must learn to trust Him with our deepest secrets.

None of us would dare say that the God who saved us is not worthy of our attention. Yet many Christians act as if this were true. Intimacy with the Lord is a privilege; do not waste the opportunity to be close to Him.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 7:52 AM CST
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Friday, 8 December 2006
PRAISE FOR THE LAMB
Mood:  a-ok
Topic: Revelation 5
From John's description in Revelation 4, we can see that God is clearly set apart from humanity. He is greater than any created being or thing. But the same transcendent God who is praised by heaven hears your prayers. He is not out of reach.

In Revelation 5, heaven turns its attention to the Lamb standing near God's throne. He alone is able to take from His Father's hand the book containing the divine plan for all history; none but the Lamb can break its seals. This is Jesus Christ, who willingly followed that plan to become a sacrifice for our sins, exchanging our imperfection for His righteousness. Clothed in the Savior's righteousness, we can enter God's holy presence.

If the angels and the four creatures praise Jesus and the Father with such exuberance, then we, who are direct recipients of divine mercy and grace, should do the same. Believers in heaven hold nothing back in their unceasing worship. They are unashamed in their adoration.

Worshipping with enthusiasm and a little volume may feel unnatural to those raised in a culture that shuns fanaticism, but God deserves to hear our voices bringing honor and glory to His name. Every word delights Him, and nothing is better for a believer than to know that the Lord is pleased.

God has done so much for you. He created, loved, saved, and sealed you for eternity. He asks for very little in return, but what He does desire is personal and unashamed praise. Does He receive that kind of worship from you?

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 7:33 AM CST
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Thursday, 7 December 2006
A GLIMPSE OF HEAVENLY PRAISE
Mood:  a-ok
Topic: Revelation 4
Why do believers spend so little time praising God? It's because we have an inadequate understanding of Him. We use words like majestic, righteous, and holy, but do we consider their implication? God is above all earthly things and deserves more than the occasional "Hallelujah."

When the disciple John was exiled to Patmos, he received a glimpse of heavenly praise. Within the limits of language and his own experience, he did his best to describe the Holy Spirit's revelations. In that divine vision, John saw a throne, on which was seated the radiance of God's spirit shining like precious gems. This is a description of the Lord's purity and His holiness in poetic form.

Elders were seated around the throne, representing the redeemed throughout history. There were also four creatures, all bowing to the Father and constantly praising Him. These creatures, which were created by God to worship Him, probably represent His attributes: majesty (lion), patience and toil (ox), intelligence and reason (man), and sovereignty and supremacy (eagle). The elders have cast their crowns, their heavenly rewards, at God's feet. All of heaven worships the Lord for who He is.

The only way to adequately worship Him is to praise God for who He is. This kind of praise focuses on Him and recognizes that He transcends all earthly things. Spend time studying and meditating on the Scriptures so that you will hold accurate perceptions of the Lord. Then you will be able to worship in a way that brings Him honor.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 8:20 AM CST
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Wednesday, 6 December 2006
Why Don't I?
Mood:  happy
As a young man, Franklin Graham didn't want to have anything to do with God. But, one day he began to ask himself some tough questions:

Why, why don’t I have peace? Why don’t I have happiness? Why don’t I have joy? Finally, I just got on my knees one night and said, “God, I’ve sinned against you. And I believe Jesus Christ is your Son. And I’m sorry for the life I’ve lived, forgive me. And tonight, I do, I want to turn my life over to Christ. I want Him to come into my heart and into my life and take charge and take control.  But I don’t think I can change, God. I don’t think I can do it. I don’t have the strength in me to do it. You’re going to have to clean me up.” But that night I gave my life to Him. And I meant it.  And that commitment hasn’t changed.

You'll find the peace you're searching for, only when you come to Jesus Christ by faith. We're the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. For a free booklet on how to have peace with God, call us toll-free at 1-866-JESUS-CARES or visit billygraham.org.


Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 11:24 AM CST
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Tuesday, 5 December 2006
WHERE OUR NEEDS ARE MET
Mood:  lyrical
In the most amazing and terrifying moments of Jesus' ministry, He surrounded Himself with His closest friends, Peter, James, and John. While He lived on earth, He did not have favorites, but He did have intimates.

Believers today can have an intimacy with the Lord. In fact, we are called into a loving relationship with Him. (Ephesians 1:4) Too often, people see God as a resource for troubled times but not as a friend for every day. And yet, we are created to "cling" to God in the same way that David described in Psalm 63:8.

Human beings are hard - wired to crave closeness, and most people have "circles" of intimacy. The first circle, which is nearest to the heart, is reserved for God; the second holds a spouse, children, and closest friends; the third is for people who are respected and cared for; and so on. Though some will try to cram another person into that first circle, no one fits except for God. Only He can bring genuine contentment and joy into our lives.

The Lord takes great pleasure in meeting the needs of His intimate followers. He takes the initiative to call us into a relationship, to teach us His ways, and to accomplish His work through us. The last thing He wants is for us to feel anxious about our unmet needs. Trusting in His provision brings a sense of contentment and deepens our relationship with Him. Is God your intimate friend?

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 1:51 PM CST
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Monday, 4 December 2006
PRAISE BUILDS COURAGE
Mood:  amorous
Topic: 2 Chronicles 20:14 - 30
Some believers think of praise as a byproduct of good fortune, but praise is appropriate in any circumstance. Honoring God in the midst of trouble causes the human heart to undergo a dramatic change, from fearful to courageous. We cannot truly claim to understand the power of praise until we have experienced this transformation for ourselves.

When messengers came with warnings of an advancing army, King Jehoshaphat became fearful. (2 Chronicles 20:3) But as he recalled the Lord's sovereignty and past faithfulness, he remembered that God provides solutions to seemingly hopeless situations.

The divine solution seemed strange and rather frightening; "You need not fight in this battle; station yourselves, stand and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf" (v. 17). But in the next instant, the king and his people were on their faces worshiping the Lord. Praise magnifies God's presence, making His followers more aware of Him.

The Israelites knew their Protector was in their midst; they trusted He had a plan because praise had reminded them of God's faithfulness. Celebrating the Lord bolsters faith, evident in the way in which Jehoshaphat's emotions progressed from fearful to helpless to courageous. (2 Chronicles 20:3, 12, 20)

The Lord intervened personally and miraculously for the Israelites. He will do the same for you. The next time you face a troubling situation, choose praise instead of self - pity. God will release His power in your life, giving you courage and filling your heart with joy.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 8:33 AM CST
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Sunday, 3 December 2006
THE SUNDAY RUSH
Mood:  amorous
Topic: Psalm 100:1 - 5
For many believers, Sunday morning goes something like this: Beat the alarm clock into submission because Saturday's late - night fun wasn't compatible with Sunday's early morning responsibilities. Oversleep. Jump out of bed and hit the shower. Yell upstairs to make sure the kids are awake. Run through the house, simultaneously dressing children, letting the pets out, eating a bowl of cereal, and making lunch plans with in - laws. Herd the family into the car. Argue with the spouse about being late to the service. Screech into the church parking lot. Run through the front doors of the sanctuary. Plop down in a pew. Elbow the spouse, who made another crack about being late. Open a hymnal. Sing some songs. Hear a sermon. Leave church to meet the in - laws at the restaurant. Go home and take a nap. Sound familiar?

There's obviously something wrong with this all - too - common Sunday scenario: Where's the worship? This family made it to the service, but praising God and studying His Word were just a few items on their checklist of activities. There was no room for an encounter with God, because worship seems to be an interruption of their Sunday, not the focus of it.

Psalm 100:1 - 5 instructs us to "enter . . . His courts with praise." Does this request characterize your entrance into worship each week? Don't let the "Sunday rush" become a problem for your household. Remember, worship is not something you have to do; it's something you get to do! So, plan ahead and prepare your heart, mind, and family to meet the King.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 9:05 AM CST
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Saturday, 2 December 2006
What do you think the world is going to be like 100 years from now?"
 
"Sing to the LORD, you saints of his; praise his holy name. For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." --Psalm 30:4-5 (NIV)

If you and I had been living 100 years ago and someone had asked us this same question, I'm sure we would have missed the mark almost completely! The advances in technology and science during the last century have been staggering, and we can only speculate on what the next hundred years will bring. Only God knows the future.

But one thing will not be any different 100 years from now -- and that is human nature. Yes, the last century saw enormous progress -- but it also was the bloodiest century in the history of the human race. Even today, some of our greatest technological advances have been turned into our most dangerous threats.

What is the problem? The problem (although we don't like to admit it) is that our hearts are selfish and evil. Jesus put it this way: "Out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander" (Matthew 15:19). Our greatest need is to have our hearts changed from within -- and yet we are incapable of doing this on our own.

This is why we need Christ -- and we will still need Him 100 years from now. Only He can forgive our sins, and only He can change our hearts by the power of His Spirit. Why not open your heart and life to Him today? You will never be the same.

 Billy Graham


Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 9:40 AM CST
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Friday, 1 December 2006
PRAISING IN TROUBLED TIMES
Mood:  hug me
Topic: 2 Chronicles 20:1 - 13
Praise is a celebration of the Lord. But when trouble strikes, celebration seems out of place. The life of faith, though, is frequently contrary to normal human understanding. Jehoshaphat faced his difficulty by applauding God's past work and faithfulness, and by recalling His promises. When we respond in a similar way, we, too, will be able to proceed with courage.

Self - pity is the natural human response to troubled times, and rehashing the details and repercussions of our situation only makes it seem more threatening. Praise focuses our attention on God instead. If we are looking to Him for aid, then we can't help but recognize His sovereignty. Every trial comes through His permissive will, which means He has complete control. Whatever His reasons for allowing trouble into our life, He is faithful to see us through.

Recalling the Lord's gracious acts and focusing on His sovereignty in everyday life reminds us of our dependence upon Him. (vv. 7 - 12) Jehoshaphat expected God to intervene because recorded history showed His willingness to rescue His people. This recognition of Israel's helplessness unleashed God's full power. When believers try to solve problems independently of the Lord, He cannot work freely.

Our praise is limited only by our knowledge. The more we read and study the Bible, the better we understand God's many attributes and assurances. Then, when difficulty comes, we can celebrate His past faithfulness while awaiting His promised help.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 8:18 AM CST
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Thursday, 30 November 2006
THE MOMENTS THAT SUSTAIN US
Mood:  hug me
The moments that sustain us are those moments invested in true devotion and fellowship with the Lord. Meditation on His Word is the passport to wisdom, innumerable blessings, and unspeakable peace. Yet at its foundation, it is a practical exercise:

Setting aside time. It doesn't matter the time of day; more important is your frame of mind.

Stillness. Being still before God means minimizing distractions. Turn off the television, the radio, and the phone. Pray for God to quiet your spirit.

Silence. Meditation involves active listening. As you pray and read God's Word, pause to think and listen for His still, small voice.

Seclusion. It is important that you meditate alone, developing a personal relationship with your Father.

Self - control. We have a responsibility to faithfully seek God, not legalistically but in earnest sincerity. We do not have to answer impulses or rush to less important matters during our quiet time.

You will learn meditation has several effects. Among other benefits, meditation quiets your spirit, purifies your heart, produces a hunger for God and His Word, increases your view of God, increases your discernment, gives you a clear sense of direction for your life, and confirms or cautions you about counsel you've received.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 9:06 AM CST
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Wednesday, 29 November 2006
PREPARATION FOR PRAISE
Topic: Psalm 24:1 - 5
Previously, we dramatized the way in which some families attend church. Sure, the folks in the illustration attended the service, but they failed to genuinely worship God, which is another matter altogether. You see, God is not looking for believers who simply go to church. No, He is looking for worshipers.

In the fourth chapter of John's gospel, Jesus encounters a Samaritan woman with whom He discusses religious observance. Midway through their conversation, He declares, "But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers" (John 4:23).

Do you see the implication here? We often hear much about people "searching for God," but here, we see that God is actually looking for us! Specifically, He is looking for those who worship Him "in spirit and truth."

"Spirit" means our praise can never be just another item on our to - do list. True worship is not an obligation, burden, or scheduling item, but it's a total spiritual recognition of God's grace and loving - kindness.

"Truth" means that genuine praise is not just an emotional high. Unless worship is based on the truth of God's Word, then all we have is a sentimental feeling. And simple feelings will neither last nor promote the life change that God desires for us.

Are you worshiping the Lord "in spirit and truth"? Are you the kind of worshiper God is seeking? Take some time this week to do a spiritual checkup, and discover if your worship is real . . . or routine.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 7:43 AM CST
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Tuesday, 28 November 2006
Years Ago
Mood:  amorous
When he was in his early 20s, Franklin Graham faced a personal crisis. This is how he responded:

I don't know about you or where you stand in life, but I want you to know that I gave my heart and I gave my life to Jesus Christ. One of these days Franklin Graham is going to die. One of these days my life will be over. But I know that I'm going to be in heaven with almighty God because I asked Christ to come into my life. And Christ will come into your heart and He'll come into your life, but you have to invite Him. You've got to be willing to confess your sin and receive Christ by faith. And if you do that, God will forgive you and you can have that hope of eternal life.

We’re the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. For a free booklet on how to have a relationship with Jesus Christ, call us toll-free at 1-866-JESUS-CARES or visit billygraham.org.


Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 8:43 AM CST
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Monday, 27 November 2006
WHY OUR NEEDS REMAIN UNMET
Mood:  amorous
Topic: James 1:5 - 8
If our loving, all - powerful Father really desires to meet His children's needs, then why do so many go unmet? Let's look at a few key reasons why we may lack understanding.

First, we don't ask. If this seems elementary, it is! And yet, it's astonishing how many people fail to raise their concerns to God. Some may think that He has too much to do to worry about their little problems. That is simply not true. God exists outside of time because He created it. He has an eternity to work out problems, and handling your situation will in no way limit His time or ability to work matters out for others.

Second, we may ask, but we doubt that God can or will meet our needs. It's a tragic mischaracterization to go before the all - powerful, sovereign God of the universe and essentially claim that He isn't big enough to handle your needs. James 1:6 - 8 describes such a person as "double - minded" and "unstable." When you approach God, do so knowing that He can meet your needs.

Third, we ask God to address the symptom, not the real need. At times, we pray and pray about something, such as a particular emotional pain, but we never see any change. The reason may be that we are focusing on the symptom instead of the actual need. Talk to the Lord about the whole situation. The root need may be something you have yet to consider.

The heavenly Father wants to meet your needs. If you cannot see His work in your life, be sure to critically look at yourself from His perspective. Are you standing in the way of God's intervention?

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 1:50 PM CST
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Sunday, 26 November 2006
GOD KNOWS YOUR NEEDS
Mood:  amorous
Topic: Matthew 6:7, 8
Have you ever noticed how some mothers can manage three and four energetic children so easily? It's an amazing sight.

In the midst of a whirlwind of activity, this seasoned pro intuitively meets the needs of her kids. A meal is served, spills are avoided, noses are wiped, shoelaces are tied, and hugs are distributed - all at the same time! Clearly, such a mother knows the needs of her family, even when the children cannot express them.

Sometimes it is difficult for us to think of ourselves as children. When we see needy little ones running around, we cannot imagine that we often look and act the same way, only in grown - up bodies. Fortunately, we, too, have a Parent who already knows our needs. And yet, we often explain every detail of our problems to Him so that He can get a more accurate view of how to provide for us.

Isn't it strange? If you asked most Christians whether they thought God was all - knowing, they would respond, "Of course!" However, if you could listen to their prayers you would probably often discover long, complicated explanations of why they need His help.

Jesus reminds us that "your Father knows what you need before you ask Him" (Matthew 6:7 - 8 ). So don't spend all of your prayer time repeating yourself or explaining everything in unnecessary detail to God. Instead, simply ask Him to speak to your listening heart. Remember, He's already got the answer. Give Him the opportunity to share it with you.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 9:38 AM CST
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Saturday, 25 November 2006
MONEY ... MATTERS
Mood:  happy
Topic: Mark 12:41-44
Do you ever feel anxious when the collection plate comes around? Paul somewhat surprisingly tells us that "You must each make up your own mind as to how much you should give." Not only that, but giving should be joyful, not forced: "Don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves the person who gives cheerfully" (2 Corinthians 9:7). Jesus spoke more about money than almost any other topic. According to author Randy Alcorn, about 15% of Jesus' sayings recorded in the Bible relate to money and possessions. Why did Jesus (and the New Testament authors like Paul) speak so often about money? Perhaps because we seem to have so much trouble using money wisely. Thankfully, the New Testament gives us plenty of guidance.

In the story of the widow's offering, Jesus commends her gift of the equivalent of two pennies. She gave "more than all the rest." Paul clarifies that "If you are really eager to give, it isn't important how much you are able to give" (2 Corinthians 8:12). So, clearly the amount given is not most important. Then what is? It is our attitude towards giving.

Often, the Pharisees (the religious zealots of Jesus' time) tried in vain to trap Jesus with tricky questions. On one such occasion, Jesus' reply was "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's" (Matthew 22:21). So what portion of our money is "God's"? In a sense, it all is, since we have been given stewardship over our money. How much should we give to the church or other important causes? Paul answers this question thusly: "Give whatever you can according to what you have" (2 Corinthians 8:11). The widow did just that; she gave what little she could afford and Jesus approved of her.

Finally, note what Jesus says about giving: "Take care! Don't do your good deeds publicly, to be admired ... Give your gifts in secret" (Matthew 6:1,4). We are not in any way "saved" by our good deeds of giving: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works" (Ephesians 2:8-9). Keeping your giving between yourself and God ensures you are giving for the right reason and won't become prideful. As Paul says, "Don't be selfish; don't live to make a good impression on others" (Philippians 2:3).

Follow these biblical principles when giving, and you will be giving joyfully, as the Lord wills you to do.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 9:46 AM CST
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Friday, 24 November 2006
MADE FOR PRAISE
Mood:  happy
Topic: Psalm 34:1
Something is happening in the church today. Something is sweeping through our congregations, stirring worshipers to glorify God in unexpected ways. Something many services around the world had all but eradicated is returning to church in force. That something, surprisingly, is praise.

For a long time, churches were so focused on evangelism and accurate Bible teaching that, somewhere along the way, the art of praise was given less room for expression. In fact, some people today never missed praise, because they had never truly been exposed to it. But the "new" worship that we see exploding around the world today is not really new at all. It is the sound of praise returning to the church.

God's people were made for praise. Embedded in our spirits, praise is something we cannot escape or ignore. The apostle Peter says, "You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9, emphasis added). How beautiful it is to know that we are God's own people, created, chosen, and called by Him so that we may "proclaim . . . [His] excellencies." In other words, our main responsibility is a life of praise to our heavenly Father.

Does your worship reflect genuine adoration and praise for God? Does your heart sing as you lift your hands to heaven, giving glory to the Lord? He is worthy of our praise. Give it to Him today.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 8:04 PM CST
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Thursday, 23 November 2006
OUR PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY
Mood:  amorous
Topic: Romans 14:12
God holds us accountable for our words, actions, and thoughts. In Psalm 139, David writes: "O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar. You scrutinize my path and my lying down, and are intimately acquainted with all my ways" (vv. 1- 3).

There is a mystery to God's love that our human minds cannot understand fully, and that is this: God knows all about us, and yet He loves us. He knows our inner thoughts and how we flash with anger when someone hurts us. He sees how we become jealous, resentful, and critical of others.

The fact that God loves so freely should stir a desire within us to draw closer to the Lord. David wrote: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me . . ." (v. 24). Will you pray this prayer with David, and ask the Lord to reveal anything in your life that is displeasing to Him?

Godly friends are a rich source of accountability. They can help us discern pure motives and right actions, thoughts, and feelings. Be willing to accept this type of accountability from a committed Christian friend. When you do, you will find your spiritual walk with Christ has deepened, and you will gain fresh insight into your own life and habits.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 4:55 PM CST
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