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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
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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
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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 6:23
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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
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Titus 2:1 - 8
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Sunday, 17 December 2006
Because Of My Father
Franklin Graham reflects on his relationship with his father and his own need for Christ:

Hello, I’m Franklin Graham. As the son of Dr. Billy Graham, many people think that I was born a Christian and that somehow I was going to go to heaven because of who my father is. I want you to know that Franklin Graham is a sinner and the Bible says that we have all sinned and come short of God’s glory and that the wages of sin is death. That’s the penalty for breaking God’s law, but the Bible tells us that “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” The gospel is the good news that God loves sinners like me, Franklin Graham. It’s the good news that you can be forgiven. If you’re willing to confess your sin, repent of your sin and receive Jesus Christ into your heart by faith, God will forgive you.

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


Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 5:41 PM CST
Updated: Sunday, 17 December 2006 5:44 PM CST
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Saturday, 16 December 2006
THE RIGHT TO ENTER PARADISE
Mood:  happy
Topic: Revelation 21:22 - 22:7
Death is inevitable. The thief on the cross knew when his would occur, but we can not predict our own. After his death, the crucified criminal went to live in paradise with Jesus. Some of us will also live eternally in God's presence. But others will experience everlasting torment, forever separated from Him.

If we receive Jesus as our Savior, our penalty for sin is paid. We are adopted into God's family, and Heaven is our eternal home. If we reject Jesus, we remain alienated from the Lord and under condemnation for our sin. We are destined to experience eternal judgment. God won't accept any of man's excuses because there is no acceptable defense for unbelief. (Acts 4:12)

Become part of God's family today. Acknowledge your sinfulness, and express your faith in these words:

"God, I have sinned against You. (Romans 3:23) I've followed my own way and refused to give You the right to rule in my life. (Romans 3:10 - 12) I recognize I am separated from You and cannot rescue myself. I do believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I accept the truth of the Scriptures... that His death on the cross paid my sin - debt in full. (1 Corinthians 15:3 - 4) And I ask You to forgive me of my sins. (1 John 1:9) By faith, I receive You, Lord Jesus, as my personal Savior from this moment on."

If you just spoke those words to God, then, like the thief on the cross, you have received salvation... a gift of God's grace. The heavenly Father welcomes every person who comes to Him through His Son, regardless of background, age, or current situation. Through Jesus, the right to enter paradise is yours!

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 8:49 AM CST
Permalink
Friday, 15 December 2006
FACING DEATH
Mood:  amorous
Topic: Luke 23:32 - 43
The thief on the cross - condemned by both God and man - was just hours away from death. But before he took his last breath, something glorious occurred. The criminal, in the very process of dying, was rescued by Jesus right in front of the mocking crowd. The thief's name was written in the Lamb's Book of Life, and all of heaven rejoiced. Jesus promised him a place in paradise in the presence of God.

On those three crosses at Calvary, one robber died in his sin. Another man, the Son of Man, died to pay the penalty for sin. And the third, also a thief, was redeemed from sin. His sin - debt was paid in full, and he became part of God's family.

But what evidence do we have that his deathbed conversion was real? First, there's his change in behavior. Initially, both thieves hurled insults and blasphemies against Jesus. In a total turnaround, the redeemed robber later chastised the first man for his words. (v. 40)

Second, the thief's admission of guilt is evidence of his conversion. He publicly acknowledged being justly punished for his wicked deeds. (v. 41)

The third piece of evidence is the robber's expression of faith in the Lord. The man called Jesus by name, acknowledged He was a king with a kingdom, believed there was life after death, and asked Jesus to rescue him.

The final evidence of his deathbed conversion is Jesus' promise to the thief. The Lord told him in Luke 23:43, "Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise."

Every one of us is just a heartbeat away from dying. It's a sobering thought that should lead you to examine your life. Are you part of God's family? Are you living to please Him?

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 7:37 AM CST
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Thursday, 14 December 2006
THE GLORY OF CHRIST IN TOUGH TIMES
Mood:  amorous
Point a telescope at any star in the night sky. It's amazing how the instrument will magnify the star for you, even though that distant ball of gas is actually millions of times larger than the image your eye sees. Believers are like a telescope for Christ. He is far more radiant than we could ever convey, but the purpose of our life is to magnify Him.

While in Roman custody, Paul said, "Christ will even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death" (Philippians 1:20). In other words, Paul told the Philippians that as long as he served God, even though he could no longer preach or disciple, Christ was being glorified. In this way, Paul fulfilled the God's purpose.

He accepted his imprisonment with grace, and, even in chains, he searched for ways the Lord could use him. He rejoiced that his situation resulted in new ministry to the elite praetorian guard and, even more, that he had the privilege to suffer for Christ's name. (Philippians 3:10) When a believer passes through trials peacefully and praises the Lord, unbelievers notice. The Christian is a telescope, bringing Jesus into focus in a way that the rest of the world can see and understand.

Whatever is happening in your life, good or bad, long - term or short, you have the opportunity to exalt Christ. Let those in your sphere of influence see how He victoriously guides you through tough times. The Lord will work through you if you submit, and, in the process, He will give you the strength and courage to live above your circumstances.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 5:53 AM CST
Permalink
Wednesday, 13 December 2006
THE KEY TO SUCCESSFUL LIVING
Mood:  amorous
Topic: Philippians 1:19 - 21
The devotions for the last two days challenged us to live above our circumstances and focus upon God and His sovereignty. But how do we accomplish this in practical terms? In reality, we are often too weak to properly adjust our mindset to Christ and see the potential for good in painful times. Thankfully, believers are not without help.

In order to focus on God and successfully live above our circumstances, we must understand our unity with Christ through the Holy Spirit. Life is not segregated into neat packages of work, family, church, etc., with no crossover or blurring of the lines between areas. Christ should permeate our entire existence. Paul was in such oneness with the Lord that to live in his earthly body meant to have Christ with him every moment, no matter the situation. No area of the apostle's life could be defined apart from his faith; his mind, heart, and will were completely saturated with Christ.

When Paul wrote, "To live is Christ," he was referring to Jesus living and working through us in the Holy Spirit's power. (Philippians 1:21) That doesn't mean we think of divinity every second of the day, but we do make God's will our first consideration when formulating plans or interacting with others.

Trying circumstances are a reality for everyone, Christian or not. The difference for believers occurs when we recognize our oneness with Christ, when we act by His strength and live according to His precepts. That's when focusing on Him becomes second nature.

Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation at 7:33 AM CST
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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
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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
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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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