Wednesday, 28 February 2007
THE GRACE TO WAIT
Mood:
amorous
Topic: Psalm 62:1-2
For most of us, waiting in line is pure misery. We arrive at a doctor's appointment on time only to sit in a waiting room forever. We go to the grocery store for just a few things, and get stuck in an endless checkout line. And, then, there's the glacially - paced traffic jam at the bank drive through! Nobody in our culture likes to wait, it seems.
When we take something to the Lord in prayer, we bring our human impatience with us. We may make a request and expect an immediate answer. If God doesn't spring into action right away, some people may think prayer doesn't work. They believe God didn't hear them, or He simply wasn't listening.
How tragic! Compare that attitude to King David's. David was only 16 years of age when God sent the prophet Samuel to anoint him as king. Yet 16 more years would pass before that promise was fulfilled. What did David do during that time? Did he moan and groan, shaking his finger at the Lord and demanding his throne now? Not at all. David understood God was trustworthy. He also realized his heavenly Father was not only the God of who and what, but also of when and how. David wanted the kingship only when God was ready for him to have it. So he waited.
Are you waiting on something today? Will you wait on the Lord like you impatiently wait on a bank teller? Or will you, like King David, trust in God's timing and His provision?
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 8:54 AM CST
Tuesday, 27 February 2007
WHAT DO YOU DESIRE?
Mood:
amorous
Topic: John 16:23 - 24
If you were asked to name the desire of your heart, would you have an answer? How long would it take you to express your deepest, most genuine yearning?
Of course, we all have a seemingly endless list of things that we want: a big screen TV, a new car, a promotion at work, respect. Things are added to and removed from our "want list" every day. These desires are frequently dictated by what others have. Sometimes, simply seeing a friend's new vehicle will give us "car fever," even if we have a perfectly fine automobile in the driveway!
Our wants come and go. But what about our true desires? If you've never taken the time to prayerfully meditate on this issue, then you may not even know your heart's desires. And, if that's the case, how can you request them from God? You can't.
Not knowing our true desires leads us to offer a string of prayers for random, inconsistent wants rather than genuine, heartfelt desires. Sometimes, the Lord graciously answers these requests. Other times, He even more graciously protects us by saying no. But if our requests are not grounded in prayer and heartfelt sincerity, we may never understand why they go unanswered.
Are you able to articulate your heart's desire today? If not, dedicate some prayer time to the issue this week. First, ask the Lord to open your eyes to His desires for you. Then, request that He make His desires your own.
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 8:18 AM CST
Monday, 26 February 2007
INTIMACY WITH GOD
Mood:
amorous
Topic: John 14:9
Concerning John 14:9, Oswald Chambers writes: "These words were not spoken as a rebuke, nor even with surprise; Jesus was encouraging Philip to draw closer. Yet the last person we get intimate with is Jesus. Before Pentecost the disciples knew Jesus as the One who gave them power to conquer demons and to bring about a revival (see Luke 10:18 - 20). It was a wonderful intimacy, but there was a much closer intimacy to come. ? . . I have called you friends. . . .' (John 15:15). True friendship is rare on earth. It means identifying with someone in thought, heart, and spirit. The whole experience of life is designed to enable us to enter into this closest relationship with Jesus Christ. We receive His blessings and know His Word, but do we really know Him? . . . .
"It is a joy to Jesus when a disciple takes time to walk more intimately with Him. The bearing of fruit is always shown in Scripture to be the visible result of an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ (see John 15:1 - 4).
"Once we get intimate with Jesus we are never lonely and we never lack for understanding or compassion. We can continually pour out our hearts to Him without being perceived as overly emotional or pitiful. The Christian who is truly intimate with Jesus will never draw attention to himself but will only show the evidence of a life where Jesus is completely in control."
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 8:49 PM CST
Sunday, 25 February 2007
OUR CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE
Mood:
amorous
Topic: Matthew 28:19 - 20
Some of us enjoy being connected to many people, while others prefer limiting their friendships to a small number. The Lord invests in every believer. He's given us talents and abilities to have a godly impact in our circle of influence, no matter how large or small.
To maximize our impact, we must develop a lifestyle of prayer. Talking to God about others is essential for effective ministry. First of all, conversation with Him prepares our minds for communicating to others. The simplest words can have amazing results when He directs. And the Lord has also promised to respond to our requests according to His perfect will.
Our Father wants us to use our spiritual gifts to bless others. Acts of service can speak clearly of the Lord's love and compassion. And financial giving to the local church is a quiet but important way to stretch our sphere of influence.
The Lord intends for our circle of impact to stretch as far and wide as the abilities and opportunities He gives us. Some of us will reach more lives than others. But we all are to make a difference. As we become salt and light, God will expand our sphere of influence beyond what we could imagine.
Take some time today to communicate with God. Pray, "Lord, I give You control over my life so You can affect others through my words and actions. Make my days count for eternity however You choose. Don't let me waste them. Live Your life through me in such a way that many recognize their need for You. Amen."
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 1:00 PM CST
Saturday, 24 February 2007
SHINING LIGHT IN OUR CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE
Mood:
amorous
Topic: John 12:35 - 36
Jesus was the Light of the World. And He commanded His followers to be light, as well. We're to shine with a godly brightness in the hope that people will be drawn to the One who dwells within us.
Light shines most effectively when it is not hidden. As Christians, we are to be transparent about our faith and dependence on the Lord. Light is also brightest when its cover is kept clean. People are quick to spot hypocrisy, so our private actions must match who we are in public. Eliminating sinful habits and practices will brighten our testimony for Jesus. Light also reveals the hidden darkness. The Holy Spirit will use our actions to shine biblical truth into others' lives and to reveal their need for the Savior. Their initial reaction may be discomfort or even guilt. But, as the Spirit moves, they will be drawn to the light you display.
Light also serves to guide and to warn. As we obey God's leading, we'll be equipped to help others understand some key truths: their sinful state, their need for a Savior; and how to reconcile with God through Jesus. We will also function as lanterns to warn people of the dangers along the path they're taking. Finally, our interactions are to bring warmth through an encouraging attitude and servant - like actions.
In order to make a strong impact, we must reflect the light of God's Son. Growing in Christlikeness is the key. Become intentional about shining your light in your circle of influence - namely, your home, workplace, and community.
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 8:26 AM CST
Friday, 23 February 2007
BEING A SALTY INFLUENCE
Mood:
amorous
Topic: Galatians 5:22 - 23
The Lord calls His followers to be the "salt of the earth." What qualities does salt possess that we can exhibit in our spiritual lives?
First, salt is used to flavor. Salt doesn't bring change to itself; it seasons that which needs improved flavor. In the same way, we are to focus on those who don't know Jesus as Savior. Christlike character opens the way for others to hear our message.
Second, salt is a preservative. Salt keeps meat from going bad. In the case of people, our lives are to demonstrate an alternative to the world's ways and point others to Jesus. Our influence can help them leave the destructive path they're on and follow Him.
Third, salt makes an impact. Changes caused by salt may be invisible, but they are still evident. A timely word or act of kindness can speak volumes to someone searching for God. At other times, it's what we avoid doing or saying that catches another's attention. We can be an effective witness to people around us wherever we are: restaurants, grocery lines, doctors' offices, etc.
Last, salt causes thirst. By facing difficulties with calmness, endurance, and hope, we display a godly testimony. When people who are going through hardship and pain see the way we deal with our troubles, they will thirst to know how we do it. Telling them about our reliance on God and His sufficiency will show them how to satisfy their needs.
Functioning as salt provides the opportunity to have a godly impact on someone else. Do the people around you sense something special in your life and thirst to know what it is?
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 7:06 AM CST
Thursday, 22 February 2007
MAKING A LASTING IMPACT
Mood:
amorous
Topic: Matthew 5:13 -16
First Timothy 2:4 says that God "desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth." He plans to use believers to make an impact on the world. It's God's will for each of us to live in such a way that we influence other people for their spiritual good. Jesus used two very distinct words - salt and light - to illustrate our mission.
Salt is an additive used for flavoring and preserving. Its presence penetrates and spreads throughout any food on which it is sprinkled. As a result, there is a significant difference in flavor. Christians are to function the same way as salt: by spreading the appeal of Christ through our interaction with others. But, Jesus warns that the "saltiness" of our lives will decrease if we practice ungodly habits and attitudes. Chronic patterns of sin will render us "tasteless" and ineffective.
Jesus also calls us to be light, just as He was. (John 1:4, 9) Light drives out darkness, reveals what is present, illuminates the path ahead, and warns of danger. We're to do the same by reflecting the Savior's presence through our conversation and conduct. Just as soot on a glass lantern diminishes its light, sin's presence decreases the validity of our testimony and reduces our influence. The more sin there is in our lives, the less divine light we'll reflect.
The composition of salt and the clarity of light are what gives them their power. Our character, which is who we are when no one is looking, can help or hurt our ability to affect our world. Consider the impact you can make by following God!
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 8:04 AM CST
Wednesday, 21 February 2007
THE PROTECTION AND PEACE OF GOD IN THE STORMS OF LIFE
Mood:
amorous
Topic: Philippians 4:6 - 7
Emotional storms of inner turmoil are difficult to handle. Grief, fear, and worry can cause us great distress.
To see us through life's difficulties, God provides His protection and peace. But protection doesn't mean that troubles won't occur. Jesus allowed the disciples to experience the fear and anxiety of being in a boat on a tumultuous sea. He permitted them to suffer because He had something far more important in mind. He wanted to teach them to recognize their own helplessness, His sufficiency, and their dependence on Him.
God's peace is not dependent upon the calming of our circumstances or the removal of external pressures. Nor does it mean the absence of conflict. His promised peace comes in three ways. First, Jesus Himself becomes our peace. Through His death, He reconciled us to the Father. And we are no longer His enemies. (Romans 5:1) In God, we can be at rest. Second, when we're in a right relationship with the Father, we have the ability to live at peace with our fellow man. (Ephesians 2:14) Through God, we have the power to choose forgiveness, to keep no record of wrongs, and to show love to our enemies. Third, the transforming work of the Holy Spirit enables us to experience an increasing sense of inner tranquility. (Galatians 5:22-23)
God provides our spiritual needs to both endure and grow stronger in our Christian faith. What challenges do you face? Are you using what God has provided?
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 11:06 AM CST
Updated: Wednesday, 21 February 2007 11:15 AM CST
Tuesday, 20 February 2007
GOD PROVIDES IN THE STORMS OF LIFE
Mood:
amorous
Topic: Matthew 14:22 - 34
No one enjoys suffering. But, in the hands of almighty God, trials become tools. He uses them to shape believers into the people He intends for us to be.
In our own strength, we lack the sufficient resources and abilities to meet life's challenges. So God provides just what we need. The most important thing He gives us is an awareness of His presence. At first, the disciples believed they were alone in a terrifying storm. When they initially spotted Jesus, their fear increased. They thought He was a ghost. But, as they recognized Him, their fright changed to relief and hope. During a crisis, we may not sense God's presence. But He has promised always to be with us. (Hebrews 13:5 - 6) The assurance that He will never leave provides immediate comfort, an infusion of courage, and a sense of confidence to endure.
Another promise God makes is that He'll provide a path through the trial. The disciples probably wondered how long the storm would last and whether they would make it safely to shore. Like us, they probably wanted it all to end "yesterday." But, had they somehow avoided this storm, they would have missed the demonstration of Jesus' power over the sea and wind. This frightening situation was transformed into a revelation of the Savior's divine nature. God wants to reveal His power through our trials, as well.
Ask God to reveal His abiding presence in the midst of your trouble. He'll provide strength to endure and wisdom to navigate a way out of your troubles.
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 12:06 PM CST
Monday, 19 February 2007
INTIMACY WITH GOD
Mood:
amorous
Topic: Matthew 26:36 - 38
Transparency is an oft - overlooked element in our growing closer to Jesus Christ. Intimacy with the Lord requires our full, humble, and honest openness before Him.
Jesus Himself was a wonderful model of openness as He dealt with His disciples. For instance, we read in today's Bible verse that, in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus shared with the disciples His anguish over His upcoming crucifixion and brief separation from God the Father.
Knowing that the sins of the entire world were about to be cast upon Him, Jesus grieved, even to point of near death. Here was God, clothed in human flesh, being completely honest, open, and forthright about His emotions. This is how Christ would have us react to Him.
A proud, arrogant, egotistical, self - sufficient Christianity bristles at the thought of such transparency. Why should I burden God with this when I can handle it myself? I'm just not going to deal with God about this. Such thinking and behavior goes against everything for which God created us.
However, God cherishes and honors a humble, contrite spirit from someone trying to be himself or herself before the Lord. Confess sin, worry, doubt, and fear. He already knows all, but your willingness to intimately share with Him all the details speaks volumes about the bent of your heart.
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 6:49 AM CST
Sunday, 18 February 2007
REASONS FOR THE STORMS OF LIFE
Mood:
amorous
Topic: 2 Corinthians 1:3 - 6
The Lord is never taken by surprise. He knows everything we are going through. And He is orchestrating our circumstances for both our benefit and His glory, according to His good will.
One purpose for hardship is our cleansing. Because of our own "flesh" nature, and the self - absorbed world we live in, it's easy to develop selfish attitudes, mixed - up priorities, and ungodly habits. The pressures that bear down on us from stormy situations are meant to bring these impurities to our attention and direct us to a place of repentance. Our trials are not designed to sink us but to purify us and guide us back to godliness.
A second reason for difficulties is so that we'll bring comfort to others. God's work in our lives is not intended solely for us. It's designed to reach a world who does not recognize or acknowledge Him. The Lord uses our pressures to equip us for serving others. As we experience suffering, we will learn about God's sufficiency, His comforting presence, and His strength to help us endure. Our testimony during times of difficulty will be authentic. Those we minister to will recognize that we know and understand their pain. What credibility would we have with people in crisis if we never experienced a deep need?
Reflecting on the divine purpose in hardships can help us respond to them in a God - honoring way. Take a moment to fix your attention on the Lord. Seek to understand what He wants you to learn.
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 8:31 AM CST
Saturday, 17 February 2007
THE PURPOSES OF GOD IN OUR DIFFICULTIES
Mood:
amorous
Topic: Romans 8:28 - 29
If we could choose the number of difficulties we want to face in a month, most of us would pick zero. Yet God sees value in difficult times. Through His mighty power, He uses trials to accomplish His plans.
One of God's purposes for us is a growing intimacy in our relationship with Him. But He knows we struggle to put Him first over our own interests. Many of us place higher priority on family and friends than on companionship with God. For others, finances, work, or even pleasures interfere. When the Lord sees that our attention is drifting away from Him, He might use hardships to draw us back so that we'll refocus.
Another reason God allows difficulties is to conform us to the image of Jesus. Pain is a tool that brings areas of ungodliness to the surface. God also uses it to sift, shape, and prune us. The sanctification process, the building of Christlike character into our lives, starts at salvation and ends with our last breath.
A third purpose for stressful circumstances is to reveal true convictions. Our faith is tested in tough times. It's easy to say, "God is good" when things are peaceful. But when everything goes awry, what do we believe about Him? And do our words and actions reveal an attitude of trust?
King David endured many heartaches: a disintegrating family, personal attacks, and betrayal by close friends. But through his trials, he gained deeper intimacy with God, stronger faith, and more godly character. Won't you let God accomplish His purposes in your present situation?
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 7:11 AM CST
Friday, 16 February 2007
PUTTING ASIDE CHILDISH WAYS
Mood:
amorous
Topic: Matthew 6:19 - 20
Have you ever noticed how some people, both adults and teenagers, tend to define themselves by how they compare to their peers? Personal assessment is often based on questions like, Do I own the types of clothing, electronic gadgets, cars, and houses that others have? Am I as popular or successful as my friends? Sadly, many people fail to give up these childish ways, which can sabotage their relationships.
One example is when we confuse security with what we own. This kind of attitude leads us to work longer hours or pressure our spouse to do so. Since material things can't bring lasting security, our search for fancier, newer, or additional possessions doesn't end. Tensions build in our relationships because we're never satisfied. But deriving security from our position as God's adopted children (Ephesians 1:5) can set us free from materialism. Then we'll be able to serve God, regardless of our financial circumstances.
Another example is when we believe we are failures. When we think this way, we crave affirmation but often reject it as unbelievable. Success in business or personal life does not really change our opinion of ourselves. Nor does affirmation from loved ones. Eventually, friendships and marriages suffer under the weight of our negativity. God says He chose us and made us co - heirs with His Son Jesus. (Romans 8:16 -17) Our value comes from belonging to Him.
The Lord wants us to acknowledge our childish thought patterns, surrender them to Him, and intentionally embrace what He has said about us. Begin to take these steps now to move yourself toward greater spiritual maturity.
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 9:52 AM CST
Thursday, 15 February 2007
FORGIVENESS: AN ACT OF LOVE
Mood:
amorous
Topic: 1 Corinthians 13:5 - 7
Forgiving those who wronged us is a tough command to follow. Our human nature finds it easier and more satisfying to hold onto our anger. But, as vessels of God's love, Christians no longer live according to the impulses of the flesh. Thanks to the Holy Spirit, when someone mistreats us, we can not only forgive but also show love to that person.
First Corinthians 13:5 tells us several important aspects of love:
First, love does not seek its own. Many people are preoccupied with their "rights." Yet, the idea of entitlement is a worldly creation, not a biblical mandate. This doesn't mean we allow others to take advantage of us. Rather, our primary concern should not be with our interests. Instead, we're to be focused on showing God's love to our enemy, which is a mandate from Scripture. (Matthew 5:44)
Second, 1 Corinthians 13:5 says that love is not provoked. Maintaining a peaceful spirit when we're irritated is difficult. But the moments when we're persecuted or wronged are precisely the times we most need to be mindful of God's love flowing through us. Think how often Jesus had to face religious leaders who deliberately provoked Him. Yet, on the cross, He sought the Father's forgiveness for them, too.
Finally, 1 Corinthians 13:5 teaches that love does not take into account a wrong suffered. God's love flowing through us can remove a hurt done someone else. But we must let this happen instead of holding onto painful memorys.
People will wrong us. But, if we have an unprovoked, caring attitude that isn't preoccupied with rights, then we can let go of bitterness and forgive with love.
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 7:54 AM CST
Wednesday, 14 February 2007
THE HIDDEN ENEMY OF LOVE
Mood:
amorous
Topic: 1 Corinthians 13:8 -11
Believers are called to live a life of sacrificial love, just as Jesus did. This involves loving God with our whole hearts, forgiving enemies, putting others' interests before our own, and loving one another. In Corinthians, Paul penned a description of biblical love. He said, "When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me" (1 Corinthians 13:11b NIV). What the apostle described to be the hidden enemy of loving relationships: childish thinking.
Our beliefs form a mental "grid" through which we interpret life. Into this system, we incorporate things we learned as children, which may or may not be accurate. One such example of immature thinking equates performance with acceptance and love. Our young minds may have formed the belief that success equals approval or that love is dependent upon achievement. As we grow up, such imbedded assumptions can easily be manifested in our behavior and spill over to our expectations for others. We might pressure coworkers to adhere to our standards or place unreasonable demands on our spouse and children, which can result in tension and disharmony.
Our relationship with God can also be affected by childish thinking if our need to "measure up" keeps us from feeling loved and accepted by Him.
By releasing our inaccurate beliefs about performance and acceptance, we free ourselves to experience God's unconditional love. Then, we're able to accept others the way He has embraced us. Do you believe you are fully accepted and loved by God?
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 9:03 AM CST
Monday, 12 February 2007
HOLDING ON TO OUR HOPE
Mood:
amorous
Topic: 1 Samuel 1:1 - 18
Bob was a Christian with a secular job who labored daily beside an atheist. To avoid contention, Bob began witnessing only when the atheist opened the conversation to Bob's beliefs or to God.
But there was an undercurrent in their relationship: Bob's co - worker was always negative. The atheist launched his criticism constantly - about everybody and everything.
Bob held up well against his co - worker's attitude for a while. But over time Bob began compromising. The co - worker had criticized Bob and his beliefs so often that Bob was losing sight of the legitimate hopes and dreams Christ had placed in his heart. Eventually, Bob became increasingly critical. Finally, it was difficult for their fellow workers to see much difference between Bob and the atheist.
Criticism is a hope - stealer. It sometimes comes even from well - meaning believers. Yet we always should keep our focus on God. We should give weight to the opinions of others only rarely - and then only when convinced the person giving counsel is godly and walking closely with Jesus.
Hannah's response to her nagging rival was appropriate and God - honoring. She never lost hope, never gave in to her rival's ways. Instead, she earnestly prayed to her heavenly Father and trusted in His perfect answer and timing.
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 3:31 PM CST
Sunday, 11 February 2007
LOVE ABOVE ALL ELSE
Mood:
amorous
Topic: 1 Corinthians 13:1 - 3
The Corinthian believers placed more emphasis on the Holy Spirit's gifts than on the fruit of the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23) For this reason, Paul digresses from a discussion of spiritual gifts to write about love. In 1 Corinthians 13, the apostle confronts those who prize eloquence and action over a heart that is genuinely committed to Christ.
Some people speak in a way that could be interpreted as loving. But their pretty words may actually be born of selfishness. Others say mean things, yet claim to do so "for your own good." If those words are flowing only from the mouth and not from a loving heart, they are nothing more than noise in God's ears.
Similarly, an action that appears loving may have an ulterior motive. Paul uses the example of charitable giving. Those who give do so for a variety of reasons: some noble (like believing in a cause), and others more self - serving (like the need to feel good inside). But, unless charity is motivated primarily by love, the deed will not count toward a believer's eternal reward. That person already received "compensation" in the form of whatever advantage was sought.
It's easy to hide our true motivation from others. But God knows that if our love for Him isn't compelling us to act on His behalf, then acting and speaking in a religious manner are empty gestures. Believers are called to be conformed to Christ. But we are like Him only when we love as He does.
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 9:44 AM CST
Saturday, 10 February 2007
THE EXPRESSIONS OF THE LOVE OF GOD
Mood:
happy
God's unconditional love guarantees that He, like the Prodigal Son's father, is always waiting to welcome back sinners. (Luke 15:20) He accepts us no matter how dirty we are from sin or how disgraced from failure.
In The Five Love Languages, Dr. Gary Chapman identifies several common styles of communicating love. These same "languages" describe some of the ways God expresses His care for us:
God's first way of expression is through touch. Our heavenly Father reaches out to physically reassure us through the arms and hands of fellow believers.
Second, is quality time. We need intimacy with the Lord in order for our relationship to grow. He is always ready to spend time with us.
Third, God expresses Himself through service. Jesus said that He came to serve. (Mark 10:45) The Lord goes before us to protect, provide, and guide us onto the correct path for our lives.
Fourth, is gift giving. "Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above" (James 1:17). Each blessing in our lives is an expression of God's care.
And the final way God expresses his love to us is through words of encouragement. The Scriptures are packed with the Lord's inspiring and encouraging messages for believers. He also sends people into our lives to offer praise and godly counsel.
These are some of the ways God shows us His love. In turn, we must allow His love to flow through us to others. Ultimately, we'll discover that every person will respond to one or more of these methods of communicating God's love.
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 11:22 AM CST
Friday, 9 February 2007
HOW GOD EXPRESSES LOVE
Mood:
amorous
Topic: Romans 5:5 - 8
God loves every person He created. We could spend an entire day talking about the ways He expresses His love, and we'd still be unable to mention every one. But let's take a look at a few examples from Scripture.
Creation is a tangible love message. God made a beautiful world for us to enjoy. He didn't have to make the earth interesting to observe or explore. But He did so because He delights in our pleasure. He also enjoys meeting our needs, which He often accomplishes through other people. For that reason, He formed the body of Christ. He made believers into a family so that we could look to each other for encouragement and support.
People can DECIDE whether or not to join the family of believers. That freedom is an expression of God's love, too. FREE WILL allows us to choose obedience, which makes us grow into mature followers who bear Christ's image. Another important example of God's love is that He causes all things, even hardships, to work for our ultimate good. And, of course, His greatest expression of love is the CROSS, where Jesus paid our sin - debt and purchased our salvation.
God could have chosen to offer salvation and nothing more. But He did not stop there. He provided each believer with the Holy Spirit as a comforter and guide. We have the uninterrupted presence of God in our lives because He wants to spend time with us!
Everything God does is an expression of His love. Take a moment to list a few of the blessings He has poured into your life recently. Let your gratitude be heard.
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 9:38 AM CST
Thursday, 8 February 2007
ORIGIN OF OUR NEEDS
Mood:
amorous
Topic: Ephesians 3:11 - 21
The youngster ran out the door to join his friends. Twenty minutes later he was back. "I thought you were meeting your friends down at the ball field," his Mother commented.
But before he could answer, she noticed the look of hurt on his face and asked: "Honey, what happened?"
"Mom, they didn't choose me to play on either one of their teams. Nobody likes me."
Disappointments like this one may seem trivial from an adult's perspective, but they're not. Rejection can leave a person feeling left out and disillusioned. Incidents like this also have the power to shape our personalities and self - images.
"I'm sorry, you were not chosen," replied the boy's mother. "Sometimes things happen that are hurtful, but always remember you mean a lot to me and your Dad."
One of the greatest needs of our society is the need to belong. We want to know we matter to someone else. How we choose to meet this need is critical to our sense of self - worth and to our relationship with God.
Jesus Christ holds the greatest amount of acceptance you could ever hope to find. No matter what turns your life has taken or who has rejected you, God promises to love and accept you when you come to Him. And the fact remains that He will always choose you to be on His team!
Posted by Prophecies Of Revelation
at 9:49 AM CST
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