Monday, August 23, 2010
Sunday, August 22, 2010
It's Up To You
One song can spark a moment,
One flower can wake the dream.
One tree can start a forest,
One bird can herald spring.
One smile begins a friendship,
One handclasp lifts a soul.
One star can guide a ship at sea,
One word can frame the goal.
One vote can change a nation,
One sunbeam lights a room,
One candle wipes out darkness
One laugh will conquer gloom.
One step must start each journey,
One word must start each prayer.
One hope will raise our spirits,
One touch can show you care.
One voice can speak with wisdom,
One heart can know what's true,
One life can make the difference,
You see, IT'S UP TO YOU!
'For in Him we live, and move and have our being.'- Acts 17:28"
One flower can wake the dream.
One tree can start a forest,
One bird can herald spring.
One smile begins a friendship,
One handclasp lifts a soul.
One star can guide a ship at sea,
One word can frame the goal.
One vote can change a nation,
One sunbeam lights a room,
One candle wipes out darkness
One laugh will conquer gloom.
One step must start each journey,
One word must start each prayer.
One hope will raise our spirits,
One touch can show you care.
One voice can speak with wisdom,
One heart can know what's true,
One life can make the difference,
You see, IT'S UP TO YOU!
'For in Him we live, and move and have our being.'- Acts 17:28"
Saturday, October 18, 2008
*Dao Xiang* - Song of Hope
稻香
对这个世界如果你有太多的抱怨
跌倒了就不敢继续往前走
为什么人要这么的脆弱堕落
请你打开电视看看多少人为生命在努力勇敢的走下去
我们是不是该知足珍惜一切就算没有拥有
还记得你说家是唯一的城堡
随着稻香河流继续奔跑
微微笑小时候的梦我知道
不要哭让萤火虫带着你逃跑
乡间的歌谣永远的依靠
回家吧回到最初的美好
☆☆☆ : )
不要这黱容易就想放弃
就像我说的
追不到的梦想换个梦不就得了
为自己的人生鲜艳上色
先把爱涂上喜欢的颜色
笑一个吧功成名就不是目的
让自己快乐快乐这才叫做意义
童年的纸飞机
现在终於飞回我手里
所谓的那快乐
赤脚在田里追蜻蜓追到累了
偷摘水果被蜜蜂给叮到怕了谁在偷笑呢
我靠着稻草人吹着风唱着歌睡着了
哦哦午后吉它在虫鸣中更清脆
哦哦阳光洒在路上就不怕心碎
珍惜一切就算没有拥有
还记得你说家是唯一的城堡
随着稻香河流继续奔跑
微微笑小时候的梦我知道
不要哭让萤火虫带着你逃跑
乡间的歌谣永远的依靠
回家吧回到最初的美好
:*)
Sunday, October 12, 2008
It's Up To You
One song can spark a moment,
One flower can wake the dream.
One tree can start a forest,
One bird can herald spring.
One smile begins a friendship,
One handclasp lifts a soul.
One star can guide a ship at sea,
One word can frame the goal.
One vote can change a nation,
One sunbeam lights a room,
One candle wipes out darkness
One laugh will conquer gloom.
One step must start each journey,
One word must start each prayer.
One hope will raise our spirits,
One touch can show you care.
One voice can speak with wisdom,
One heart can know what's true,
One life can make the difference,
You see, IT'S UP TO YOU!
'For in Him we live, and move and have our being.'- Acts 17:28
One flower can wake the dream.
One tree can start a forest,
One bird can herald spring.
One smile begins a friendship,
One handclasp lifts a soul.
One star can guide a ship at sea,
One word can frame the goal.
One vote can change a nation,
One sunbeam lights a room,
One candle wipes out darkness
One laugh will conquer gloom.
One step must start each journey,
One word must start each prayer.
One hope will raise our spirits,
One touch can show you care.
One voice can speak with wisdom,
One heart can know what's true,
One life can make the difference,
You see, IT'S UP TO YOU!
'For in Him we live, and move and have our being.'- Acts 17:28
Bridge Over Troubled Water
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYyQcQSqpbI
When you're weary, feeling small
When tears are in your eyes,
I will dry them all I'm on your side
When times get rough
And friends just can't be found
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
When you're down and out
When you're on the street
When evening falls so hard
I will comfort you
I'll take your part
When darkness comes
And pain is all around
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Sail on silver girl Sail on by
Your time has come to shine
All your dreams are on their way
See how they shine
When you need a friend I'm sailing right behind
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind
'For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly.' - Psalm 84:11
When you're weary, feeling small
When tears are in your eyes,
I will dry them all I'm on your side
When times get rough
And friends just can't be found
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
When you're down and out
When you're on the street
When evening falls so hard
I will comfort you
I'll take your part
When darkness comes
And pain is all around
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Sail on silver girl Sail on by
Your time has come to shine
All your dreams are on their way
See how they shine
When you need a friend I'm sailing right behind
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind
'For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly.' - Psalm 84:11
A Pot Of Clay
As God looked down from Heaven one day,
He saw an old pot, it was made of clay.
Dirty and broken it lay there on the ground,
Worthless and ugly, it was kicked around.
Oh, it was so useless, fit for destruction,
Worn and ragged, a horrible obstruction.
Yet laying there, it seemed to catch God's eye,
For He didn't see it as just an ugly sty.
Reaching down He picked up that old pot,
He just couldn't let it lay there and rot.
Slowly He wiped away all the dirt and dust,
Gently He washed away years of earthly rust.
He patched it carefully, filling up each hole,
Making that pot as one, yes, completely whole.
He patched and filled each and every groove,
Then He sanded it until it felt smooth.
He painted with ease, every little detail,
Then He made it shine,
He loved it, you could tell.
He worked so hard on this pot made of clay,
For He saw in it such beauty to display.
This pot I speak of, well, it's really me,
Created by God, His child at His knee.
Created to show that His love knows no bounds,
To tell of His grace, which surely abounds.
Now you may be thinking, you're a dirty pot,
But I want to tell you that you're really not.
God will take and bring out beauty in you,
Know that You are always a 'Special' pot of His.
'We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.' - 2 Cor 4:7
He saw an old pot, it was made of clay.
Dirty and broken it lay there on the ground,
Worthless and ugly, it was kicked around.
Oh, it was so useless, fit for destruction,
Worn and ragged, a horrible obstruction.
Yet laying there, it seemed to catch God's eye,
For He didn't see it as just an ugly sty.
Reaching down He picked up that old pot,
He just couldn't let it lay there and rot.
Slowly He wiped away all the dirt and dust,
Gently He washed away years of earthly rust.
He patched it carefully, filling up each hole,
Making that pot as one, yes, completely whole.
He patched and filled each and every groove,
Then He sanded it until it felt smooth.
He painted with ease, every little detail,
Then He made it shine,
He loved it, you could tell.
He worked so hard on this pot made of clay,
For He saw in it such beauty to display.
This pot I speak of, well, it's really me,
Created by God, His child at His knee.
Created to show that His love knows no bounds,
To tell of His grace, which surely abounds.
Now you may be thinking, you're a dirty pot,
But I want to tell you that you're really not.
God will take and bring out beauty in you,
Know that You are always a 'Special' pot of His.
'We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.' - 2 Cor 4:7
God's Gaze
A man was walking along a secluded road with his young son. On the way he found a golden chain lying on the road. He knew that it belonged to some earlier traveller but decided to steal it. He looked all around him to confirm that no one was watching his action. He picked up the precious chain and put it into his pocket.
As they continued the journey the son asked him innocently, 'Daddy, you looked all around you before picking up the chain. But why didn't you look upwards?'
The innocent words of the child enlightened him. He realized that these words echoed the whisper of his conscience. He confessed that he should have looked upwards, to heaven, and sought the will of God who was watching him.
Transformed by his son's words, he entrusted the chain to the officer in the nearest police station.
'The Lord sees everything you do. Wherever you go, he is watching.'- Proverbs 5:21.
'He watches every step men take. There is no darkness dark enough to hide a sinner from God.' - Job 34:21-22
As they continued the journey the son asked him innocently, 'Daddy, you looked all around you before picking up the chain. But why didn't you look upwards?'
The innocent words of the child enlightened him. He realized that these words echoed the whisper of his conscience. He confessed that he should have looked upwards, to heaven, and sought the will of God who was watching him.
Transformed by his son's words, he entrusted the chain to the officer in the nearest police station.
'The Lord sees everything you do. Wherever you go, he is watching.'- Proverbs 5:21.
'He watches every step men take. There is no darkness dark enough to hide a sinner from God.' - Job 34:21-22
A Buzzard, A Bat, And A Bee
If you put a buzzard in a pen six or eight feet square and entirely open at the top, the bird, in spite of his ability to fly, will be an absolute prisoner. The reason is that a buzzard always begins a flight from the ground with a run of ten or twelve feet. Without space to run, as is his habit, he will not even attempt to fly, but will remain a prisoner for life in a small jail with no top.
The ordinary bat that flies around at night, a remarkably nimble creature in the air, cannot take off from a level place. If it is placed on the floor or flat ground, all it can do is shuffle about helplessly and, no doubt, painfully, until it reaches some slight elevation from which it can throw itself into the air. Then, at once, it takes off like a flash.
A bumblebee if dropped into an open tumbler will be there until it dies, unless it is taken out. It never sees the means of escape at the top, but persists in trying to find some way out through the sides near the bottom. It will seek a way where none exists, until it completely destroys itself.
In many ways, there are lots of people like the buzzard, the bat, and the bee. They are struggling about with all their problems and frustrations, not realizing that the answer is right there “Above” them.
We should never allow ourselves to be burdened with the troubles that come our way, but rather we should seek the Lord and ask for His direction and guidance and lift the burden that is trying to bring us down.
The Bible declares in Jeremiah 29:11-14 'For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then you shall call upon Me, and you shall pray unto Me, and I will hear you. And you shall seek Me, and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. And I will be found by you, says the LORD.'
Always remember that God loves you and wishes for you to be completely whole not lacking any good thing. Call upon Him always and share with God all that is on your heart. (John 16:23-24)
Romans 8:31-34 'What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifies. Who is he that condemns? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.'
Matthew 11:28-30 'Jesus declares “Come unto Me, all you that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.'
Psalm 147:3-5 'He heals the broken in heart, and binds up their wounds. He tells the number of the stars; He calls them all by their names. Great is our Lord, and of great power: His understanding is infinite.'
The ordinary bat that flies around at night, a remarkably nimble creature in the air, cannot take off from a level place. If it is placed on the floor or flat ground, all it can do is shuffle about helplessly and, no doubt, painfully, until it reaches some slight elevation from which it can throw itself into the air. Then, at once, it takes off like a flash.
A bumblebee if dropped into an open tumbler will be there until it dies, unless it is taken out. It never sees the means of escape at the top, but persists in trying to find some way out through the sides near the bottom. It will seek a way where none exists, until it completely destroys itself.
In many ways, there are lots of people like the buzzard, the bat, and the bee. They are struggling about with all their problems and frustrations, not realizing that the answer is right there “Above” them.
We should never allow ourselves to be burdened with the troubles that come our way, but rather we should seek the Lord and ask for His direction and guidance and lift the burden that is trying to bring us down.
The Bible declares in Jeremiah 29:11-14 'For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then you shall call upon Me, and you shall pray unto Me, and I will hear you. And you shall seek Me, and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. And I will be found by you, says the LORD.'
Always remember that God loves you and wishes for you to be completely whole not lacking any good thing. Call upon Him always and share with God all that is on your heart. (John 16:23-24)
Romans 8:31-34 'What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifies. Who is he that condemns? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.'
Matthew 11:28-30 'Jesus declares “Come unto Me, all you that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.'
Psalm 147:3-5 'He heals the broken in heart, and binds up their wounds. He tells the number of the stars; He calls them all by their names. Great is our Lord, and of great power: His understanding is infinite.'
You
Your presence is a present to the world.
You're unique and one of a kind.
Your life can be what you want it to be.
Take the days just one at a time.
Count your blessings, not your troubles.
You'll make it through whatever comes along.
Within you are so many answers.
Understand, have courage, be strong.
Don't put limits on yourself.
So many dreams are waiting to be realized.
Decisions are too important to leave to chance.
Reach for your peak, your goal, your prize.
Nothing wastes more energy than worrying.
The longer one carries a problem, the heavier it gets.
Don't take things too seriously.
Live a life of serenity, not a life of regrets.
Remember that a little love goes a long way.
Remember that a lot goes forever.
Remember that friendship is a wise investment.
Life's treasures are people together.
Realize that it's never too late.
Do ordinary things in an extraordinary way.
Have health and hope and happiness.
Take the time to wish upon a star.
And don't ever forget, for even a day, how very Special you are!
'It is done unto you as you believe.' - Matthew 9:29
You're unique and one of a kind.
Your life can be what you want it to be.
Take the days just one at a time.
Count your blessings, not your troubles.
You'll make it through whatever comes along.
Within you are so many answers.
Understand, have courage, be strong.
Don't put limits on yourself.
So many dreams are waiting to be realized.
Decisions are too important to leave to chance.
Reach for your peak, your goal, your prize.
Nothing wastes more energy than worrying.
The longer one carries a problem, the heavier it gets.
Don't take things too seriously.
Live a life of serenity, not a life of regrets.
Remember that a little love goes a long way.
Remember that a lot goes forever.
Remember that friendship is a wise investment.
Life's treasures are people together.
Realize that it's never too late.
Do ordinary things in an extraordinary way.
Have health and hope and happiness.
Take the time to wish upon a star.
And don't ever forget, for even a day, how very Special you are!
'It is done unto you as you believe.' - Matthew 9:29
Three Little Birds
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtwGyxzxBDg
Dont worry about a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right.
Singin: dont worry about a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right!
Rise up this mornin,
Smiled with the risin sun,
Three little birdsP
itch by my doorstep
Singin sweet songs
Of melodies pure and true,
Sayin, (this is my message to you-ou-ou:)
Singin: dont worry bout a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right.
Singin: dont worry (dont worry) bout a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right!
Rise up this mornin,
Smiled with the risin sun,
Three little birds
Pitch by my doorstep
Singin sweet songs
Of melodies pure and true,
Sayin, this is my message to you-ou-ou:
Singin: dont worry about a thing, worry about a thing, oh!
Every little thing gonna be all right. dont worry!
Singin: dont worry about a thing - I wont worry!
cause every little thing gonna be all right.
Singin: dont worry about a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right - I wont worry!
Singin: dont worry about a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right.
Singin: dont worry about a thing, oh no...
cause every little thing gonna be all right!
'God is with you in all that you do.'- Genesis 21:22
Dont worry about a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right.
Singin: dont worry about a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right!
Rise up this mornin,
Smiled with the risin sun,
Three little birdsP
itch by my doorstep
Singin sweet songs
Of melodies pure and true,
Sayin, (this is my message to you-ou-ou:)
Singin: dont worry bout a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right.
Singin: dont worry (dont worry) bout a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right!
Rise up this mornin,
Smiled with the risin sun,
Three little birds
Pitch by my doorstep
Singin sweet songs
Of melodies pure and true,
Sayin, this is my message to you-ou-ou:
Singin: dont worry about a thing, worry about a thing, oh!
Every little thing gonna be all right. dont worry!
Singin: dont worry about a thing - I wont worry!
cause every little thing gonna be all right.
Singin: dont worry about a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right - I wont worry!
Singin: dont worry about a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right.
Singin: dont worry about a thing, oh no...
cause every little thing gonna be all right!
'God is with you in all that you do.'- Genesis 21:22
Words To Live By
I May Never See Tomorrow,
There's No Written Guarantee,
And Things That Happened Yesterday Belong To History,
I Cannot Predict The Future,
I Cannot Change The Past,
I Have Just The Present Moment.
I Must Treat It As My Last,
I Must Use This Moment Wisely For It Soon Will Pass Away,
And Be Lost To Me Forever As Part Of Yesterday,
I Must Exercise Compassion,
Help The Fallen To Their Feet,
Be A Friend Unto The Friendless,
Make An Empty Life Complete.
The Unkind Things I Do Today May Never Be Undone,
And Friendships That I Fail To Win May Nevermore Be Won,
I May Not Have Another Chance On Bended Knee To Pray,
Whatever Happens, I Thank God With A Humble Heart For Giving Me This Day,
Which I Shall Live To Treasure and Appreciate Every Given Day.
'Behold, I make all things new.'- Revelation 21:5
There's No Written Guarantee,
And Things That Happened Yesterday Belong To History,
I Cannot Predict The Future,
I Cannot Change The Past,
I Have Just The Present Moment.
I Must Treat It As My Last,
I Must Use This Moment Wisely For It Soon Will Pass Away,
And Be Lost To Me Forever As Part Of Yesterday,
I Must Exercise Compassion,
Help The Fallen To Their Feet,
Be A Friend Unto The Friendless,
Make An Empty Life Complete.
The Unkind Things I Do Today May Never Be Undone,
And Friendships That I Fail To Win May Nevermore Be Won,
I May Not Have Another Chance On Bended Knee To Pray,
Whatever Happens, I Thank God With A Humble Heart For Giving Me This Day,
Which I Shall Live To Treasure and Appreciate Every Given Day.
'Behold, I make all things new.'- Revelation 21:5
God's Plan
A king had an earnest and honest minister. The king trusted him but disliked his frequent statement, 'God gives everything for our own good.'
Once they went together for hunting. While making a way through the forest by cutting the bushes with his sword, the king cut off the tip of his middle finger. They treated the wound using medicinal herbs and bandaged the wound to stop bleeding. As they finished the treatment, the minister made his usual remark, 'God gives everything for our own good.' The king was furious. 'You are really cruel', he said, 'I am in great pain and you say it is for good. You will say the same thing when I lose my head!' Filled with rage, he flung the minister into a dirty pit and raced off alone.
In the dense forest, the king was caught by a group of savages. They tied him up and carried him to their chieftain. They were celebrating a religious festival. They wanted to offer the king as a human sacrifice before their deity. As the rituals were progressing, the chief priest examined the 'offering' in detail and found out that the tip of his middle finger was missing. He declared that only perfect bodies without any defect would be acceptable as sacrifice before the deity. Hence the king was released. The king realized that the minister's statement was correct. So he returned to the pit and rescued the minister. The king narrated the events and apologized for his action. The minister repeated, 'God gives everything for our own good.'
The king asked for an explanation for this statement. The minister said, 'If you had not put me in the pit, I would have been with you when the savages attacked and they would have sacrificed me instead of you!' The king now confessed with conviction, 'You are correct. God gives everything for our own good.'
'I alone know the plans I have for you, plans to bring you prosperity and not disaster, plans to bring about the future you hope for.' - Jeremiah 29: 11
Once they went together for hunting. While making a way through the forest by cutting the bushes with his sword, the king cut off the tip of his middle finger. They treated the wound using medicinal herbs and bandaged the wound to stop bleeding. As they finished the treatment, the minister made his usual remark, 'God gives everything for our own good.' The king was furious. 'You are really cruel', he said, 'I am in great pain and you say it is for good. You will say the same thing when I lose my head!' Filled with rage, he flung the minister into a dirty pit and raced off alone.
In the dense forest, the king was caught by a group of savages. They tied him up and carried him to their chieftain. They were celebrating a religious festival. They wanted to offer the king as a human sacrifice before their deity. As the rituals were progressing, the chief priest examined the 'offering' in detail and found out that the tip of his middle finger was missing. He declared that only perfect bodies without any defect would be acceptable as sacrifice before the deity. Hence the king was released. The king realized that the minister's statement was correct. So he returned to the pit and rescued the minister. The king narrated the events and apologized for his action. The minister repeated, 'God gives everything for our own good.'
The king asked for an explanation for this statement. The minister said, 'If you had not put me in the pit, I would have been with you when the savages attacked and they would have sacrificed me instead of you!' The king now confessed with conviction, 'You are correct. God gives everything for our own good.'
'I alone know the plans I have for you, plans to bring you prosperity and not disaster, plans to bring about the future you hope for.' - Jeremiah 29: 11
Don't Forget What Really Matters
Carl Coleman was driving to work one morning when he bumped fenders with another motorist.
Both cars stopped, and a woman driving the other car got out to survey the damage. She was distraught. It was her fault, she admitted, and hers was a new car, less than two days from the showroom. She dreaded facing her husband. Coleman was sympathetic; but he had to pursue the exchange of license and registration data.
She reached into her glove compartment to retrieve the documents in an envelope.
On the first paper to tumble out, written in her husband's distinctive hand, were these words: 'In case of accident, remember, honey, it's you I love, not the car.'
~ Paul Harvey
'Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God, and every one that loves is born of God, and knows God. In this was manifested the love of God towards us, because God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us first, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.' -1 John 4:7-11
Both cars stopped, and a woman driving the other car got out to survey the damage. She was distraught. It was her fault, she admitted, and hers was a new car, less than two days from the showroom. She dreaded facing her husband. Coleman was sympathetic; but he had to pursue the exchange of license and registration data.
She reached into her glove compartment to retrieve the documents in an envelope.
On the first paper to tumble out, written in her husband's distinctive hand, were these words: 'In case of accident, remember, honey, it's you I love, not the car.'
~ Paul Harvey
'Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God, and every one that loves is born of God, and knows God. In this was manifested the love of God towards us, because God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us first, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.' -1 John 4:7-11
The Toe-Tapper
One day a wise man came to a small town. He needed a place to stay so he went to the first church he found. Inside, a small group of people argued about how they could best please God.
'I'll help you,' the man said, 'but you must promise to use what I give you to glorify God.'
'Oh, we will,' the people assured him. 'We will.'
He gave each of them gifts--one was to be a pianist, another a flutist. To one he gave a cello, to another a violin, and to yet another he gave the role of toe-tapper.
The people worked long and hard to prepare a song of praise for the church. The music became more and more beautiful.
One afternoon during practice the violinist said to the pianist, 'I'm so glad I have the important job of playing the violin. I'd sure hate to be only a toe-topper.' The toe-tapper was so hurt that he went home.
The next day, when the group met to practice, nothing came together right. Finally, the flutist said, 'Without that toe-tapper here I don't know when to come in for my part.' They started over time and time again, but the music sounded terrible.
It was then that the violinist spoke up in a very sad voice. 'I'm sorry. This is all my fault. I thought I was so important that I didn't need the help of the toe-tapper. I was wrong!'
So he led the way to the toe-tapper's house and asked him to come back with them. The toe-tapper agreed and once again the music was beautiful.
Then, one Sunday, they play their music in church. God looked down and smiled. I think He even winked at the toe-tapper.
~ Joan Sparks
God has a special position for each of His children. There is no one part that is more important than the other. Whether our job is to drive the church bus, to orchestrate the choir in the church service, or to preach the Gospel to the lost; our position must be looked at as a service unto the Lord and not something where we seek glorification.
Never give up in the area where God has called you, but rather to continue on and stay faithful in that task no matter how hard the enemy may try to discourage you. You are loved by the Lord greatly and only in heaven will you know the reward for being God’s faithful servant. (Jeremiah 31:3) (Matthew 25:21)
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”
1 Corinthians 12:26-28 “And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues.”
2 Timothy 4:6-8 “For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.”
Hebrews 12:1-3 “let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.”
'I'll help you,' the man said, 'but you must promise to use what I give you to glorify God.'
'Oh, we will,' the people assured him. 'We will.'
He gave each of them gifts--one was to be a pianist, another a flutist. To one he gave a cello, to another a violin, and to yet another he gave the role of toe-tapper.
The people worked long and hard to prepare a song of praise for the church. The music became more and more beautiful.
One afternoon during practice the violinist said to the pianist, 'I'm so glad I have the important job of playing the violin. I'd sure hate to be only a toe-topper.' The toe-tapper was so hurt that he went home.
The next day, when the group met to practice, nothing came together right. Finally, the flutist said, 'Without that toe-tapper here I don't know when to come in for my part.' They started over time and time again, but the music sounded terrible.
It was then that the violinist spoke up in a very sad voice. 'I'm sorry. This is all my fault. I thought I was so important that I didn't need the help of the toe-tapper. I was wrong!'
So he led the way to the toe-tapper's house and asked him to come back with them. The toe-tapper agreed and once again the music was beautiful.
Then, one Sunday, they play their music in church. God looked down and smiled. I think He even winked at the toe-tapper.
~ Joan Sparks
God has a special position for each of His children. There is no one part that is more important than the other. Whether our job is to drive the church bus, to orchestrate the choir in the church service, or to preach the Gospel to the lost; our position must be looked at as a service unto the Lord and not something where we seek glorification.
Never give up in the area where God has called you, but rather to continue on and stay faithful in that task no matter how hard the enemy may try to discourage you. You are loved by the Lord greatly and only in heaven will you know the reward for being God’s faithful servant. (Jeremiah 31:3) (Matthew 25:21)
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”
1 Corinthians 12:26-28 “And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues.”
2 Timothy 4:6-8 “For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.”
Hebrews 12:1-3 “let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.”
Beautiful Hands - Dedicated to all Mothers in the World
A young mother in India had a one-year-old baby. As she was employed as a teacher, a girl was hired to look after the baby during day time.
One evening, as she was approaching her house, she saw fire engines speeding towards her home. She ran to reach her house which was on fire. The girl was crying aloud that the baby was still in the cradle in the burning house. The fire broke out when she had gone out of the house leaving the sleeping baby for a while. As the fire was intense, the girl could not enter the house to rescue the child in time. The fire fighters were trying their best to put out the blaze.
Without waiting for even a moment, the mother rushed into the burning house and reached the cradle. She fought the fire around her with her bare hands. Holding the child close to her chest, she came out of the raging fire. The child had only minor injuries as she was rescued in time. But the mother suffered severe burns. Her hands were badly burnt and she was rushed to the hospital. She recovered after prolonged treatment in intense pain but retained wide white patches and permanent deformities on her hands. But she did not disclose the incident to her daughter even when she grew up to adolescence.
Then, one day the daughter told her mother, 'Mommy, your hands are really ugly. I do not want to see them.' The mother was shocked. She knew that it was time to reveal everything. She told her daughter, 'Yes, my hands look ugly and repulsive. But once they were as beautiful as yours. If I had tried to protect their beauty, you would not have been alive today.' She then narrated the whole story.
The daughter was totally upset. She cried and fell down, embracing the feet of her mother. She went on kissing her mother's hand and in tears she said, 'Mommy, you have the most beautiful hands on earth. I failed to see their beauty. Forgive me.'
Thereafter, she never forgot that her life was a gift from her loving mother.
To all Mothers in the world, thank you.
'Jesus accepted the path of the Passion and sacrificed His life to save us from the clutches of sin and the fire of hell. Let us thank Him, praise Him, love Him and adore Him as our Saviour, Lord and God.'
One evening, as she was approaching her house, she saw fire engines speeding towards her home. She ran to reach her house which was on fire. The girl was crying aloud that the baby was still in the cradle in the burning house. The fire broke out when she had gone out of the house leaving the sleeping baby for a while. As the fire was intense, the girl could not enter the house to rescue the child in time. The fire fighters were trying their best to put out the blaze.
Without waiting for even a moment, the mother rushed into the burning house and reached the cradle. She fought the fire around her with her bare hands. Holding the child close to her chest, she came out of the raging fire. The child had only minor injuries as she was rescued in time. But the mother suffered severe burns. Her hands were badly burnt and she was rushed to the hospital. She recovered after prolonged treatment in intense pain but retained wide white patches and permanent deformities on her hands. But she did not disclose the incident to her daughter even when she grew up to adolescence.
Then, one day the daughter told her mother, 'Mommy, your hands are really ugly. I do not want to see them.' The mother was shocked. She knew that it was time to reveal everything. She told her daughter, 'Yes, my hands look ugly and repulsive. But once they were as beautiful as yours. If I had tried to protect their beauty, you would not have been alive today.' She then narrated the whole story.
The daughter was totally upset. She cried and fell down, embracing the feet of her mother. She went on kissing her mother's hand and in tears she said, 'Mommy, you have the most beautiful hands on earth. I failed to see their beauty. Forgive me.'
Thereafter, she never forgot that her life was a gift from her loving mother.
To all Mothers in the world, thank you.
'Jesus accepted the path of the Passion and sacrificed His life to save us from the clutches of sin and the fire of hell. Let us thank Him, praise Him, love Him and adore Him as our Saviour, Lord and God.'
The Cookie Thief
The woman was waiting at the airport one night,
With several long hours before her flight,
She hunted for a book in the airport shop,
Bought a bag of cookies and found a place to drop.
She was engrossed in her book, but happened to see
That the man beside her, as bold as he could be,
Grabbed a cookie or two from the bag between,
Which she tried to ignore, to avoid a scene.
She read, munched cookies and watched the clock,
As the gutsy “cookie thief” diminished her stock.
She was getting more irritated as the minutes ticked by,
Thinking, “If I wasn't so nice, I'd blacken his eye!”
With each cookie she took, he took one, too.
When only one was left, she wondered what he'd do.
With a smile on his face and a nervous laugh,
He took the last cookie and broke it in half.
He offered her half, as he ate the other.
She snatched it from him and thought, “Oh brother,
This guy has some nerve, and he's also rude.
Why he didn't even show any gratitude!”
She had never known when she had been so galled,
And sighed with relief when her flight was called.
She gathered her belongings and headed for the gate,
Refusing to look back at the “thieving ingrate.”
She boarded the plane and sank in her seat,
Then sought her book, which was almost complete.
As she reached in her baggage, she gasped with surprise.
There was her bag of cookies in front of her eyes!
“If mine are here,” she moaned with despair,
“Then the others were his and he tried to share!”
Too late to apologize, she realized with grief
That she was the rude one, the ingrate, the thief!
~ By Valerie Cox
There are many moments in life when we quickly pass judgment on someone else because of something they did either real or imagined. It is important that we remember that we are all imperfect and flawed human beings and have all fallen short at one time or another.
The Bible says it clear in Isaiah 64:6 “But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags...” Knowing that humanity is flawed is important so that we don't place ourselves in a position of authority over someone else and label them in a manner of our perception and liking. (Matthew 7:1-5)
The Lord Jesus declares in Luke 6:37 “Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven.” We are to remember the Lord's command and not be judgmental towards others, but rather we are to think the best of others and love them with the love of the Lord. (1 Corinthians 4:1-6) (James 4:11-12)
1 Peter 3:8-11 “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.”
James 4:11-12 “Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. There is One lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?”
Galatians 6:1-4 “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.”
Hebrews 13:1-3 “Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity as being yourselves also in the body.”
With several long hours before her flight,
She hunted for a book in the airport shop,
Bought a bag of cookies and found a place to drop.
She was engrossed in her book, but happened to see
That the man beside her, as bold as he could be,
Grabbed a cookie or two from the bag between,
Which she tried to ignore, to avoid a scene.
She read, munched cookies and watched the clock,
As the gutsy “cookie thief” diminished her stock.
She was getting more irritated as the minutes ticked by,
Thinking, “If I wasn't so nice, I'd blacken his eye!”
With each cookie she took, he took one, too.
When only one was left, she wondered what he'd do.
With a smile on his face and a nervous laugh,
He took the last cookie and broke it in half.
He offered her half, as he ate the other.
She snatched it from him and thought, “Oh brother,
This guy has some nerve, and he's also rude.
Why he didn't even show any gratitude!”
She had never known when she had been so galled,
And sighed with relief when her flight was called.
She gathered her belongings and headed for the gate,
Refusing to look back at the “thieving ingrate.”
She boarded the plane and sank in her seat,
Then sought her book, which was almost complete.
As she reached in her baggage, she gasped with surprise.
There was her bag of cookies in front of her eyes!
“If mine are here,” she moaned with despair,
“Then the others were his and he tried to share!”
Too late to apologize, she realized with grief
That she was the rude one, the ingrate, the thief!
~ By Valerie Cox
There are many moments in life when we quickly pass judgment on someone else because of something they did either real or imagined. It is important that we remember that we are all imperfect and flawed human beings and have all fallen short at one time or another.
The Bible says it clear in Isaiah 64:6 “But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags...” Knowing that humanity is flawed is important so that we don't place ourselves in a position of authority over someone else and label them in a manner of our perception and liking. (Matthew 7:1-5)
The Lord Jesus declares in Luke 6:37 “Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven.” We are to remember the Lord's command and not be judgmental towards others, but rather we are to think the best of others and love them with the love of the Lord. (1 Corinthians 4:1-6) (James 4:11-12)
1 Peter 3:8-11 “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.”
James 4:11-12 “Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. There is One lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?”
Galatians 6:1-4 “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.”
Hebrews 13:1-3 “Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity as being yourselves also in the body.”
Just Pedal
At first I saw God as my observer, my judge,
keeping track of the things I did wrong, so as to know whether I merited heaven or hell when I die. He was out there sort of like a president. I recognized his picture when I saw it, but I really didn't know Him.
keeping track of the things I did wrong, so as to know whether I merited heaven or hell when I die. He was out there sort of like a president. I recognized his picture when I saw it, but I really didn't know Him.
But later on, when I met God,
it seemed as though life were rather like a bike ride,
but it was a tandem bike, and I noticed that God was at the back, helping me pedal.
I don't know when it was that he suggested
that we change places, but life has not been the same since. When I had control I knew the way. It was rather boring, but predictable. It was the shortest distance between two points. But when he took the lead, He knew delightful long cuts, up mountains, and through rocky places at breakneck speeds. It was all I could do to hang on!
Even though it looked like madness, He said, 'Pedal!'
I worried and was anxious and asked, 'Where are you taking me?' He laughed and didn't answer! and I started to learn to trust. I forgot my boring life and entered into the adventure. And when I'd say 'I'm scared,'
He'd lean back and touch my hand.
He took me to people with gifts that I needed; gifts of healing, acceptance and joy. They gave me gifts to take on my journey. And we were off again. He said, 'Give the gifts away; they're extra baggage, too much weight.' So I did, to the people we met, and I found that in giving I received, and still our burden was light.
I did not trust Him, at first, in control of my life. I thought He'd wreck it; but he knows bike secrets, knows how to make it bend to take sharp corners, knows how to jump to clear high rocks, knows how to fly to shorten scary passages. And I am learning to shut up and pedal in the strangest places, and I'm beginning to enjoy the view and the cool breeze on my face with God as my
delightful constant companion.
And when I'm sure I just can't do anymore, He just smiles and says,
'Pedal!'
I Was Born To Be Loved...by God
Dearest Friends,
The below video clip, kindly shared by a friend, features an adopted 5 year old blind Korean girl playing a piano. Whilst she has never been taught how to play the piano, she was able to play on it any music piece that she hears right after the first time!
The below video clip, kindly shared by a friend, features an adopted 5 year old blind Korean girl playing a piano. Whilst she has never been taught how to play the piano, she was able to play on it any music piece that she hears right after the first time!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSOaLH8vxYw
Please watch the clip till the end as there is a SURPRISE! She sung out a relatively touching song (from 4.43 onwards), which was believed to have been written by herself. Follow through the English translated lyrics and you will know what I mean.
PS : 'I was born to be loved...by God'
Yrs lovingly,
Adele
Just Let Me
Late last night I found myself beside my child's bed;
He was sleeping peacefully as I felt his fevered head.
In my mind debate began as I wondered what was best;
Should I wake him up for medicine or leave him there to rest?
To wait would mean three hours to let the fever rise;
But waking him from peaceful sleep to me seemed less than wise.
So I sat there in the darkness and asked a question silently,'What do I do?'
I asked myself, thinking no one else could see.
And as I asked the question, my Father must have heard;
In a still small voice he answered my silent spoken word.
He said, 'Just let me do it, I'll take care of him for you;
You know that I am capable and you know I love him too.'
So I left the two together and when I got back to my bed;
My mind wandered as I prayed and in my prayer I said,
'Dear Lord, if I've done something spare him pain and let me see;
And my Father gently told me, 'this sickness is not from me.'
My mind still was not focused and my prayer kept rambling on;
Until I said again, 'Dear Lord, have I done something wrong?
Do I not appreciate this son you've blessed me with;
Have I not cared well enough for this most precious gift?'
Again my Father answered with much patience and great love,
'I told you the child's sickness does not come from above.
This isn't me I told you, but if you'll just leave it in my hands;
I'll work it for good like always and fit it into my great plan.'
And as my Father promised, He took care of my son;
The healing wasn't overnight but I know the battle's won.
When my Father comes and asks you to leave someone in His care;
The best thing you could ever do is just to leave them there.
You may not understand it or know exactly what's in store;
But no matter how much you love them, our Father loves them more.
'Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.'-Mark 11:24
A Room For The Night
One stormy night many years ago, an elderly man and his wife entered the lobby of a small hotel in Philadelphia. Trying to get out of the rain, the couple approached the front desk hoping to get some shelter for the night.
“Could you possibly give us a room here?” the husband asked. The clerk, a friendly man with a winning smile, looked at the couple and explained that there were three conventions in town. “All of our rooms are taken,” the clerk said. “But I can't send a nice couple like you out into the rain at one o'clock in the morning... would you perhaps be willing to sleep in my room? It's not exactly a suite, but it will be good enough to make you folks comfortable for the night!”
When the couple declined, the young man pressed on. “Don't worry about me; I'll make out just fine,” the clerk told them. So the couple agreed.
As he paid his bill the next morning, the elderly man said to the clerk,“You are the kind of manager who should be the boss of the best hotel in the United States. Maybe someday I'll build one for you.”
The clerk looked at them and smiled. The three of them had a good laugh. As they drove away, the elderly couple agreed that the helpful clerk was indeed exceptional, as finding people who are both friendly and helpful isn't easy.
Two years passed. The clerk had almost forgotten the incident when he received a letter from the old man. It recalled that stormy night and enclosed a round-trip ticket to New York, asking the young man to pay them a visit.
The old man met him in New York, and led him to the corner of Fifth Avenue and 34th St. He then pointed to a great new building there, a palace of reddish stone, with turrets and watchtowers thrusting up to the sky. “That, said the older man, is the hotel I have just built for you to manage!”
“You must be joking,” the young man said.
“I can assure you I am not!” said the older man, a sly smile playing around his mouth. The older man's name was William Waldorf Astor, and the magnificent structure was the original Waldorf-Astoria Hotel.
The young clerk who became its first manager was George C. Boldt. This young clerk never foresaw the turn of events that would lead him to become the manager of one of the world's most glamorous hotels.
The Bible says that we are not to turn our backs on those who are in need, for we might be entertaining angels.
So lets start treating everyone with love, grace and respect.
'With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man does, the same shall he receive of the Lord.'-Ephesians 6:7-8
'Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man sows, that shall he also reap. For he that sows to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that sows to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.' - Galatians 6:7-8
“Could you possibly give us a room here?” the husband asked. The clerk, a friendly man with a winning smile, looked at the couple and explained that there were three conventions in town. “All of our rooms are taken,” the clerk said. “But I can't send a nice couple like you out into the rain at one o'clock in the morning... would you perhaps be willing to sleep in my room? It's not exactly a suite, but it will be good enough to make you folks comfortable for the night!”
When the couple declined, the young man pressed on. “Don't worry about me; I'll make out just fine,” the clerk told them. So the couple agreed.
As he paid his bill the next morning, the elderly man said to the clerk,“You are the kind of manager who should be the boss of the best hotel in the United States. Maybe someday I'll build one for you.”
The clerk looked at them and smiled. The three of them had a good laugh. As they drove away, the elderly couple agreed that the helpful clerk was indeed exceptional, as finding people who are both friendly and helpful isn't easy.
Two years passed. The clerk had almost forgotten the incident when he received a letter from the old man. It recalled that stormy night and enclosed a round-trip ticket to New York, asking the young man to pay them a visit.
The old man met him in New York, and led him to the corner of Fifth Avenue and 34th St. He then pointed to a great new building there, a palace of reddish stone, with turrets and watchtowers thrusting up to the sky. “That, said the older man, is the hotel I have just built for you to manage!”
“You must be joking,” the young man said.
“I can assure you I am not!” said the older man, a sly smile playing around his mouth. The older man's name was William Waldorf Astor, and the magnificent structure was the original Waldorf-Astoria Hotel.
The young clerk who became its first manager was George C. Boldt. This young clerk never foresaw the turn of events that would lead him to become the manager of one of the world's most glamorous hotels.
The Bible says that we are not to turn our backs on those who are in need, for we might be entertaining angels.
So lets start treating everyone with love, grace and respect.
'With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man does, the same shall he receive of the Lord.'-Ephesians 6:7-8
'Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man sows, that shall he also reap. For he that sows to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that sows to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.' - Galatians 6:7-8
God Forgives
One night in a church service a young woman felt the tug of God at her heart. She responded to God's call and accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior. The young woman had a very rough past, involving alcohol, drugs, and prostitution. But, the change in her was evident. As time went on she became a faithful member of the church. She eventually became involved in the ministry, teaching young children. It was not very long until this faithful young woman had caught the eye and heart of the pastor's son. The relationship grew and they began to make wedding plans. This is when the problems began. You see, about one half of the church did not think that a woman with a past such as hers was suitable for a pastor's son.
The church began to argue and fight about the matter. So they decided to have a meeting. As the people made their arguments and tensions increased, the meeting was getting completely out of hand. The young woman became very upset about all the things being brought up about her past. As she began to cry the pastor's son stood to speak. He could not bear the pain it was causing his wife to be. He began to speak and his statement was this: 'My fiancee's past is not what is on trial here. What you are questioning is the ability of the blood of Jesus to wash away sin.'
'Today you have put the blood of Jesus on trial. So, does it wash away sin or not?' The whole church began to weep as they realized that they had been slandering the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. Too often, even as Christians, we bring up the past and use it as a weapon against our brothers and sisters. Forgiveness is a very foundational part of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. If the blood of Jesus does not cleanse the other person completely then it cannot cleanse us completely. If that is the case, then we are all in a lot of trouble. What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
And sometimes we need to forgive ourselves too.
'And be kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another.' - Ephesians 4:32
The church began to argue and fight about the matter. So they decided to have a meeting. As the people made their arguments and tensions increased, the meeting was getting completely out of hand. The young woman became very upset about all the things being brought up about her past. As she began to cry the pastor's son stood to speak. He could not bear the pain it was causing his wife to be. He began to speak and his statement was this: 'My fiancee's past is not what is on trial here. What you are questioning is the ability of the blood of Jesus to wash away sin.'
'Today you have put the blood of Jesus on trial. So, does it wash away sin or not?' The whole church began to weep as they realized that they had been slandering the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. Too often, even as Christians, we bring up the past and use it as a weapon against our brothers and sisters. Forgiveness is a very foundational part of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. If the blood of Jesus does not cleanse the other person completely then it cannot cleanse us completely. If that is the case, then we are all in a lot of trouble. What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
And sometimes we need to forgive ourselves too.
'And be kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another.' - Ephesians 4:32
Look Within
People spend a lifetime searching for happiness; looking for peace.
They chase idle dreams, addictions, idols and other people, hoping to fill the emptiness that plagues them.
The irony is that the only place they ever needed to search was within themselves.
'For in Him we live, and move and have our being.'- Acts 17:28
They chase idle dreams, addictions, idols and other people, hoping to fill the emptiness that plagues them.
The irony is that the only place they ever needed to search was within themselves.
'For in Him we live, and move and have our being.'- Acts 17:28
Stepping Stones
The Lord came to me like a dream one day and asked, why do you sorrowI answered, Lord my life is so full of pain, I can’t face one more tomorrow.
The Lord sat down beside me, and gently took my hand.He said, Let me explain to you and then you’ll understand.
Each sorrow is a stepping stone you must surmount each day,And every stepping stone you climb is a sorrow that’s passed away.
The road of life is a mountainside, with crevices in which to be caught,But as you struggle on your way, I, the Rock, will lend support.
Every stepping stone you climb, makes spirit and heart grow strong.Exercising character and faith this road seems painful and long.
The way is paved with stepping stones, to uplift your heart and soul,Though difficult they aid your way, to a City paved with gold.
I know that you are tired, for I too have walked this way,My sorrows did they multiply, but I cleared the stones away.
I left my rock to lift you up, I left behind my story.To give you strength to make your climb, to that special place in glory.
And never fear, the Rock is here, You’ll never climb alone
Surmount life’s sorrows, continue on, For they are but stepping stones.
Loving U Always,
God, Your Rock
'I delight to do thy will, O Lord, for I know Thy will for me is supreme good in my present and in my future.'- Psalms 40:8
The Lord sat down beside me, and gently took my hand.He said, Let me explain to you and then you’ll understand.
Each sorrow is a stepping stone you must surmount each day,And every stepping stone you climb is a sorrow that’s passed away.
The road of life is a mountainside, with crevices in which to be caught,But as you struggle on your way, I, the Rock, will lend support.
Every stepping stone you climb, makes spirit and heart grow strong.Exercising character and faith this road seems painful and long.
The way is paved with stepping stones, to uplift your heart and soul,Though difficult they aid your way, to a City paved with gold.
I know that you are tired, for I too have walked this way,My sorrows did they multiply, but I cleared the stones away.
I left my rock to lift you up, I left behind my story.To give you strength to make your climb, to that special place in glory.
And never fear, the Rock is here, You’ll never climb alone
Surmount life’s sorrows, continue on, For they are but stepping stones.
Loving U Always,
God, Your Rock
'I delight to do thy will, O Lord, for I know Thy will for me is supreme good in my present and in my future.'- Psalms 40:8
The Bridge
'The Bridge features scenes from the short film 'Most', the story of a bridge operator who is forced to choose between the life of the son he loves dearly and a train filled with people.
'Most' received an Academy Award Nomination for Best Live-Action Short Film. The messenge that it delivers is beautiful, heart-felt, and it reminds me of an unmeasurable love.
By sharing this clip, I sincerely hope you will feel 'His Love' for you once again as much as I do.
'Most' received an Academy Award Nomination for Best Live-Action Short Film. The messenge that it delivers is beautiful, heart-felt, and it reminds me of an unmeasurable love.
By sharing this clip, I sincerely hope you will feel 'His Love' for you once again as much as I do.
I love you, but He loves you most.
Facing River of Difficulties
A very tired traveler came to the banks of a river.
There was no bridge by which he could cross. It was winter, and the surface of the river was covered with ice. It was getting dark, and he wanted to reach the other side while there was enough light to see. He debated about whether or not the ice would bear his weight.
Finally, after much hesitation and fear, he got down on his knees and began very cautiously to creep across the surface of the ice. He hoped that by disturbing the weight of his body, the ice would be less apt to break under the load.
After he made his slow and painful journey about halfway across the river, he suddenly heard the sound of singing behind him. Out of the dusk, there came a 4-horse load of coal driven by a man singing merrily as he went to his carefree way. Here was the traveler, fearfully inching his way on his hands and knees. And there, as if whisked along by the winter’s wind, went the driver, his horses, his sled, and the heavy load of coal over the same river!
The story illustrates how many of us go through life.
Some stand on the bank of decisions unable to make up their minds about the course to take. Others stand on the banks trying to muster enough courage to cross over to the other side of the task or problem encountered.
On the other hand, some individuals crawl and creep through life for fear of thin ice.Their faith is not strong enough to hold them up. Still there are those who whisked along whistling as they go. Their faith is UNSHAKABLE.
When we face the river of difficulties, we do not have to fear, nor do we creep through life. God has promised to help, and with God’s help we can merrily make our way to the other side safely.
'Fear thou not . . . I will strengthen thee. . . I will help thee.' - Isaiah 41:10
There was no bridge by which he could cross. It was winter, and the surface of the river was covered with ice. It was getting dark, and he wanted to reach the other side while there was enough light to see. He debated about whether or not the ice would bear his weight.
Finally, after much hesitation and fear, he got down on his knees and began very cautiously to creep across the surface of the ice. He hoped that by disturbing the weight of his body, the ice would be less apt to break under the load.
After he made his slow and painful journey about halfway across the river, he suddenly heard the sound of singing behind him. Out of the dusk, there came a 4-horse load of coal driven by a man singing merrily as he went to his carefree way. Here was the traveler, fearfully inching his way on his hands and knees. And there, as if whisked along by the winter’s wind, went the driver, his horses, his sled, and the heavy load of coal over the same river!
The story illustrates how many of us go through life.
Some stand on the bank of decisions unable to make up their minds about the course to take. Others stand on the banks trying to muster enough courage to cross over to the other side of the task or problem encountered.
On the other hand, some individuals crawl and creep through life for fear of thin ice.Their faith is not strong enough to hold them up. Still there are those who whisked along whistling as they go. Their faith is UNSHAKABLE.
When we face the river of difficulties, we do not have to fear, nor do we creep through life. God has promised to help, and with God’s help we can merrily make our way to the other side safely.
'Fear thou not . . . I will strengthen thee. . . I will help thee.' - Isaiah 41:10
When You're Down, God is Up to Something
She jumped up as soon as she saw the surgeon come out of the operating room. She said: 'How is my little boy ? Is he going to be all right ? When can I see him ?'.
The surgeon said, 'I'm sorry. We did all we could, but your boy didn't make it.'
Sally said, 'Why do little children get cancer ? Doesn't God care any more ? Where were you, God, when my son needed you ?'
The surgeon asked, 'Would you like some time alone with your son ? One of the nurses will be out in a few minutes, before he's transported to the university.'
Sally asked the nurse to stay with her while she said good bye to son. She ran her fingers lovingly through hi s thick red curly hair. 'Would you like a lock of his hair ?' the nurse asked.
Sally nodded yes. The nurse cut a lock of the boy's hair, put it in a plastic bag and handed it to Sally.
The mother said, 'It was Jimmy's idea to donate his body to the university for study. He said it might help somebody else. 'I said no at first, but Jimmy said, 'Mom, I won't be using it after I die. Maybe it will he lp some other little boy spend one more day with his Mom.' She went on, 'My Jimmy had a heart of gold. Always thinking of someone else. Always wanting to help others if he could.'
Sally walked out of Children's Mercy Hospital for the last time, after spending most of the last six months there. She put the bag with Jimmy's belongings on the seat beside her in the car.
The drive home was difficult. It was even harder to enter the empty house. She carried Jimmy's belongings, and the plastic bag with the lock of his hair to her son's room.
She started placing the model cars and other personal things back in his room exactly where he had always kept them. She laid down across his bed and, hugging his pillow, cried herself to sleep.
It was around midnight when Sally awoke. Laying beside her on the bed was a folded letter.
The letter said :'Dear Mom, I know you're going to miss me; but don't think that I will ever forget you, or stop loving you, just 'cause I'm not around to say 'I Love You' . I will always love you, Mom, even more with each day. Someday we will see each other again. Until then, if you want to adopt a little boy so you won't be so lonely, that's okay with me. He can have my room and old stuff to play with. But, if you decide to get a girl instead, she probably wouldn't like the same things us boys do. You'll have to buy her dolls and stuff girls like, you know. Don't be sad thinking about me. This really is a neat place. Grandma and Grandpa met me as soon as I got here and showed me around some, but it will take a long time to see everything. The angels are so cool. I love to watch them fly. And, you know what? Jesus doesn't look like any of his pictures. Yet, when I saw Him, I knew it was Him. Jesus himself took me to see GOD ! And guess what, Mom ? I got to sit on God's knee and talk to Him, like I was somebody important. That's when I told Him that I wanted to write you a letter, to tell you good bye and everything. But I already knew that wasn't al lowed. Well, you know what Mom ? God handed me some paper and His own personal pen to write you this letter. I think Gabriel is the name of the angel who is going to drop this letter off to you. God said for me to give you the answer to one of the questions you asked Him 'Where was He when I needed him ?' 'God said He was in the same place with me, as when His son Jesus was on the cross. He was right there, as He always is with all His children. Oh, by the way, Mom, no one else can see what I've written except you. To everyone else this is just a blank piece of paper. Isn't that cool ? I have to give God His pen back now. He needs it to write some more names in the Book of Life. Tonight I get to sit at the table with Jesus for supper. I'm sure the food will be great.
Oh, I almost forgot to tell you. I don't hurt anymore. The cancer is all gone. I'm glad because I couldn't stand that pain anymore and God couldn't stand to see me hurt so much, either. That's when He sent The Angel of Mercy to come get me. The Angel said I was a Special Delivery ! How about that ?
Signed with Love from God, Jesus & Me
The surgeon said, 'I'm sorry. We did all we could, but your boy didn't make it.'
Sally said, 'Why do little children get cancer ? Doesn't God care any more ? Where were you, God, when my son needed you ?'
The surgeon asked, 'Would you like some time alone with your son ? One of the nurses will be out in a few minutes, before he's transported to the university.'
Sally asked the nurse to stay with her while she said good bye to son. She ran her fingers lovingly through hi s thick red curly hair. 'Would you like a lock of his hair ?' the nurse asked.
Sally nodded yes. The nurse cut a lock of the boy's hair, put it in a plastic bag and handed it to Sally.
The mother said, 'It was Jimmy's idea to donate his body to the university for study. He said it might help somebody else. 'I said no at first, but Jimmy said, 'Mom, I won't be using it after I die. Maybe it will he lp some other little boy spend one more day with his Mom.' She went on, 'My Jimmy had a heart of gold. Always thinking of someone else. Always wanting to help others if he could.'
Sally walked out of Children's Mercy Hospital for the last time, after spending most of the last six months there. She put the bag with Jimmy's belongings on the seat beside her in the car.
The drive home was difficult. It was even harder to enter the empty house. She carried Jimmy's belongings, and the plastic bag with the lock of his hair to her son's room.
She started placing the model cars and other personal things back in his room exactly where he had always kept them. She laid down across his bed and, hugging his pillow, cried herself to sleep.
It was around midnight when Sally awoke. Laying beside her on the bed was a folded letter.
The letter said :'Dear Mom, I know you're going to miss me; but don't think that I will ever forget you, or stop loving you, just 'cause I'm not around to say 'I Love You' . I will always love you, Mom, even more with each day. Someday we will see each other again. Until then, if you want to adopt a little boy so you won't be so lonely, that's okay with me. He can have my room and old stuff to play with. But, if you decide to get a girl instead, she probably wouldn't like the same things us boys do. You'll have to buy her dolls and stuff girls like, you know. Don't be sad thinking about me. This really is a neat place. Grandma and Grandpa met me as soon as I got here and showed me around some, but it will take a long time to see everything. The angels are so cool. I love to watch them fly. And, you know what? Jesus doesn't look like any of his pictures. Yet, when I saw Him, I knew it was Him. Jesus himself took me to see GOD ! And guess what, Mom ? I got to sit on God's knee and talk to Him, like I was somebody important. That's when I told Him that I wanted to write you a letter, to tell you good bye and everything. But I already knew that wasn't al lowed. Well, you know what Mom ? God handed me some paper and His own personal pen to write you this letter. I think Gabriel is the name of the angel who is going to drop this letter off to you. God said for me to give you the answer to one of the questions you asked Him 'Where was He when I needed him ?' 'God said He was in the same place with me, as when His son Jesus was on the cross. He was right there, as He always is with all His children. Oh, by the way, Mom, no one else can see what I've written except you. To everyone else this is just a blank piece of paper. Isn't that cool ? I have to give God His pen back now. He needs it to write some more names in the Book of Life. Tonight I get to sit at the table with Jesus for supper. I'm sure the food will be great.
Oh, I almost forgot to tell you. I don't hurt anymore. The cancer is all gone. I'm glad because I couldn't stand that pain anymore and God couldn't stand to see me hurt so much, either. That's when He sent The Angel of Mercy to come get me. The Angel said I was a Special Delivery ! How about that ?
Signed with Love from God, Jesus & Me
Enjoy Where You Are
There is nothing which is intrinsically enjoyable. What one person enjoys, another person will despise. Enjoyment comes from your attitude toward a particular situation, not the situation itself.
Too many people search in vain for enjoyable activities, enjoyable relationships, enjoyable environments, enjoyable entertainment. A much more successful strategy would be to stop searching and start enjoying.
The enjoyment is not in the activity. The enjoyment is in you. Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, find a way to enjoy it. Sure, it’s great when you aspire to bigger and better things. But don’t fool yourself into thinking that they’ll come pre-packaged with their own enjoyment. That is up to you.
Perhaps you didn’t choose to be where you are, and it’s great that you’re committed to getting somewhere else. Yet while you’re here, accept it and enjoy it.
Enjoying where you are right now will take you a long way towards wherever else you wish to go.
'It is done unto you as you believe.'- Matthew 9:29
Too many people search in vain for enjoyable activities, enjoyable relationships, enjoyable environments, enjoyable entertainment. A much more successful strategy would be to stop searching and start enjoying.
The enjoyment is not in the activity. The enjoyment is in you. Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, find a way to enjoy it. Sure, it’s great when you aspire to bigger and better things. But don’t fool yourself into thinking that they’ll come pre-packaged with their own enjoyment. That is up to you.
Perhaps you didn’t choose to be where you are, and it’s great that you’re committed to getting somewhere else. Yet while you’re here, accept it and enjoy it.
Enjoying where you are right now will take you a long way towards wherever else you wish to go.
'It is done unto you as you believe.'- Matthew 9:29
Don’t Forget
Many times in our lives we are dropped, crumpled and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances tha come our way.
We feel as though we are worthless.
But no matter what has happened or what will happen, you will never lose your value. Dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased you are still priceless to those who love you.
The worth of our lives comes not in what we do or who we know, but by who we are.
You are special. Don’t ever forget it.
'You, O Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.' - Psalms: 18:28
We feel as though we are worthless.
But no matter what has happened or what will happen, you will never lose your value. Dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased you are still priceless to those who love you.
The worth of our lives comes not in what we do or who we know, but by who we are.
You are special. Don’t ever forget it.
'You, O Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.' - Psalms: 18:28
The Price
One day satan and Jesus were having a conversation. satan went to visit Jesus in the Garden of Eden, and satan came all happy and boasting. (Lk 4: 1-12; Job 1: 6-12)
'Yes, Lord, now I have everybody captive, (well nearly everybody down there). I set traps, I used the baits of temptation, I know well what each one of them can't resist. I nearly caught them all!' (I Pet 5:8-9; Eph 6: 10-17)
'What are you going to do with them?' Jesus asked, and He was praying to God the Father.
Satan answered 'Oh, I am going to have some fun with them! I'll make them divorce after they have married so the foundation of humanity will never be able to be establish 'the family' (Mt 19: 4-6;Mal 2: 16). I will make them hate each other and abuse each other, make them fall into alcohol and drugs without control (Rom 13: 12-14). I will teach them to make weapons and bombs, so they kill each other. I am really going to have fun!''
And when you are tired of playing with them, what will you do?' Jesus asked and continued praying.
'Oh, I will kill them all and their souls will be mine forever. Lord by all respect, it's their decision'. (I Jn 3: 8-10)
'How much do you want for all of them?' Jesus asked.
'Oh, you can't want these people. They aren't anything good. Why do you want them if they neither follow you nor love you? Many hate you! I have seen many of them spitting on you, cursing you and even denying you. What's more, they love me a lot' (Mt 24: 10-13). You don't want these people!'
'How much?' Jesus asked again.
Satan looked at him with a nasty face. 'All your tears and all your blood, all the pain of the entire world, all together'. (Is 53: 4-10; I Pet 2: 24)
Jesus said...'DONE''and He paid the price' (II Cor 5: 21).
Never give the devil a ride! He will always want to drive!
Have a FREEDOM-filled ride!
'Yes, Lord, now I have everybody captive, (well nearly everybody down there). I set traps, I used the baits of temptation, I know well what each one of them can't resist. I nearly caught them all!' (I Pet 5:8-9; Eph 6: 10-17)
'What are you going to do with them?' Jesus asked, and He was praying to God the Father.
Satan answered 'Oh, I am going to have some fun with them! I'll make them divorce after they have married so the foundation of humanity will never be able to be establish 'the family' (Mt 19: 4-6;Mal 2: 16). I will make them hate each other and abuse each other, make them fall into alcohol and drugs without control (Rom 13: 12-14). I will teach them to make weapons and bombs, so they kill each other. I am really going to have fun!''
And when you are tired of playing with them, what will you do?' Jesus asked and continued praying.
'Oh, I will kill them all and their souls will be mine forever. Lord by all respect, it's their decision'. (I Jn 3: 8-10)
'How much do you want for all of them?' Jesus asked.
'Oh, you can't want these people. They aren't anything good. Why do you want them if they neither follow you nor love you? Many hate you! I have seen many of them spitting on you, cursing you and even denying you. What's more, they love me a lot' (Mt 24: 10-13). You don't want these people!'
'How much?' Jesus asked again.
Satan looked at him with a nasty face. 'All your tears and all your blood, all the pain of the entire world, all together'. (Is 53: 4-10; I Pet 2: 24)
Jesus said...'DONE''and He paid the price' (II Cor 5: 21).
Never give the devil a ride! He will always want to drive!
Have a FREEDOM-filled ride!
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