View Full Version : Blessings from Barb...
As I have been asked by a few, and even heartily encouraged by another, I will set up this thread.
I don't know how often I may submit something here, so I invite anyone with a word of encouragement or a burning Scripture to please add to this...for you see, folks, I am not the only encourager here...not the only one with a good word. Some of you have blessed and encouraged me in ways I cannot begin to mention.
So, once again, let me encourage YOU to let the Lord speak to you and then through you. You know, that's what He did with the Apostle Paul...God emptied him out, filled him up, sent him out, used him up and took him home.
May as much be said of each of us...:praying
The Lord is my Shepherd...
This is personal...MY Shepherd. I can lay claim to the fact that He cares for me. As the shepherd in the field will keep watch over his flock, so the Shepherd of my soul is ever watchful, protecting and guiding as only He can.
I shall not want...
I shall never lack. TLB makes it more plain, and says that because the Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need. The reason for this...
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside still waters...
Knowing I have a personal and loving Shepherd, I am free from the fear of predators, thus I can rest, assured that the green pastures are safe and comforting...the waters are still and will not entrap me with the currents of rushing water.
I can lie down in peace and be refreshed by the water, knowing that I am watched and cared for just as if I were the only somebody in the world. It allows me to not yearn for things out of my grasp, for everything I need is provided in the green pastuures and beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul...
When my heart is heavy...when I feel that I am at my weakest or lowest point, the Almighty God of creation sends a word in due season. He restores my soul, bringing my heart and mind into alignment with His Word. He sets me on a straight and narrow path, lifting my bowed head and making me over again.
When man says it is all over, that crimson stream cleanses and restores and brings me once again in fellowship with the lover of my soul.
He leadeth me in the path of righteousness for His Name's sake...
A shepherd will direct, prod, motivate, and command to ensure the safety of the sheep. Why would I not think that the Master Shepherd would not do this and more, leading me in paths that are right and holy?!
For His Name's sake and for the sake of the call on our lives, He leads and directs us away from the dangers of this world and onto the road of right living.
Just a few thoughts...:)
Rhoni
02-11-2007, 07:52 AM
Dear Sis. Barb,
This portion of scripture gives peace to my spirit...:highfive Glad to see that our encourager is still among us!
Love & Blessings, Rhoni
P.S. There may be other encouragers but none like you:praying
Dear Sis. Barb,
This portion of scripture gives peace to my spirit...:highfive Glad to see that our encourager is still among us!
Love & Blessings, Rhoni
P.S. There may be other encouragers but none like you:praying
Praying for blessings to be returned, Sis. Rhoni...:praying
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil...
I always took this portion of the Psalm to mean, when I'm at death's door, looking St. Peter in the eye, I will not fear. However, there are other valley's of death which are not the ultimate end of us all.
The valley of death can be any ending or what we feel is an ending...divorce, end of friendship, family squabbles/division, loss of employment, church split...any number of things can lead us to think it is all over.
But, when the valleys of defeat and despair come, and they will, we have the assurance in this Word that we can walk through them AND without fear.
You may say that on your own you cannot do this, and you would be correct...on our own we cannot, BUT we are NOT alone...
For thou art with me...
The Lord of Hosts is our strength...our sustainer...our refuge...our ONLY hope!!
When man turns his back, we are not alone. When the enemy comes in, like a flood the Spirit of the Lord lifts up a standard against him. When we feel it is all over and we might as well throw it all aside, Christ says, "My grace is sufficient...I am here!!"
Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me...
A shepherd will use the rod and staff to pull the sheep away from danger. When he moves too close to the edge of the cliff or is near the river bank, he gently extends the rod and staff of protection, guiding them back into place.
It is a comforting thing that allows the sheep to feel the presence of the shepherd even when he can't see him or when the shepherd is silent.
So it is with the Great Shepherd, who has designed the rod and staff of His Word. In this we find solace and rest...we receive strength and comfort.
What a loving God...
Sister Truth Seeker
02-11-2007, 10:04 AM
OH sis...this is so wonderful to read this morning...thank you...I am so glad your hear and I figured out who you were...I was really missing you!!!
Thanks I will be coming here when you post something new...
One thing that RonB had in his signature for awhile was
"dance on your dilemma" I can't remember who the quote was from...but it's one of the things I think we forget when we are going through a trial...we always have hope if we are willing to accept it...
Love and blessings to you!!!
OH sis...this is so wonderful to read this morning...thank you...I am so glad your hear and I figured out who you were...I was really missing you!!!
Thanks I will be coming here when you post something new...
One thing that RonB had in his signature for awhile was
"dance on your dilemma" I can't remember who the quote was from...but it's one of the things I think we forget when we are going through a trial...we always have hope if we are willing to accept it...
Love and blessings to you!!!
Nice to see you...yes, I am here...for the moment anyway...:nod
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies...
The shepherd goes out and finds/prepares what is known as a tableland...a high mountain level land...a well furnished plateau of nourishment and safety. Though the enemy...wolves and coyotes, mountain lions and the rest may be lurking in the shadows, the sheep are well provided for and carefully watched.
Our Lord does this for us and often we do not even realize the lengths to which He may go to set up a feast in the very presence of those who appear to despise us. We are blessed and fed and favored even when it may look like we are left defenseless and starving to death.
Though man may be lurking in the background, waiting for the death knell to toll, God sets a table of encouragement and strength and healing.
Thou anointest my head with oil...
When the sheep are bitten by the insects and whatnot that attack animals of the field, or when they are wounded or attacked by the enemy, the shepherd will take oil and pour it over the head or wound of his sheep. He soothingly will anoint the place that hurts the most with the care that only a loving shepherd can give.
The anointing oil that is applied to our wounds is the Holy Spirit of God. The Holy Ghost will actually heal our wounds and bind our hurts and supply the ointment of restoration and renewal. We need not look to this source or the next, but to the Spirit residing within.
Will you allow Him today to supply the necessary meds to meet your need? Can you trust Him this day to deal every broken place? And can we, as a Church, allow the Lord to do His thing and heal, restore, and renew? :praying
whollyHis
02-11-2007, 01:45 PM
SIs....I recite this chapter to my grandbaby every night while putting her to sleep...she almost knows it by heart!! LOL
LOVE LOVE LOVE this scripture...
My cup runneth over...
It is a never ending supply of grace and blessings, so much so that our cup or storehouse cannot contain them.
It doesn't happen because of our heritage or senority in the church or our abilities or calling...God forbid that we ever begin to think that it is all about us. It is ONLY through His bountiful love and grace that we live and move and have our being.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me...
The twins, known as Goodness and Mercy, shall follow me...I imagine them running close behind, right on my heels, present at my every move.
I don't have to seek for them or plead for them or wonder if they are there...if I have the Holy Ghost abiding within, the fruit of this is goodness and mercy.
All the days of my life...
It never ends. When we don't feel like they are there, goodness and mercy keep on keeping on. When we make a mistake and feel as if we are God-forsaken, we can be assured that we are not, for goodness and mercy are ever present.
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord...
The words I will indicate that this is a conscious decision. We make a choice to dwell in His presence, not because of what we have done, but because of what HE did on the Cross. His Blood and grace appropriated to our lives, we gladly choose to receive it, not just for a moment or a day, or even a lifetime, but...
Forever...
Time without ending, eternally dwelling in the presence of the Good Shepherd...
SIs....I recite this chapter to my grandbaby every night while putting her to sleep...she almost knows it by heart!! LOL
LOVE LOVE LOVE this scripture...
You are sowing the seed of the Word into a life for whom the benefits will be great...:)
I will sing Your praise
For You've done such a marvelous thing
For someone so wretched
Yet my soul You have redeemed
No one else could do it
No one could care half as much
Yet You thought my soul was worth it
So You gave Your only Son
You gave that I might live
You gave that I might be set free
Exchanged Your life for mine
What a marvelous thing You've done
Some folks see my faults
Lord, You see my accomplishments
Even the good works You have begun in me
You also see my finish
No, not half done
Every battle already won
I can't help but praise You, Lord
For the marvelous things You've done
You gave that I might live
You gave that I might be set free.
Exchanged Your life for mine
What a marvelous thing
What a glorious thing
What a marvelous thing You've done
This is the LORD's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes
(Psalm 118:23).
Felicity
02-12-2007, 11:17 AM
Woke up this morning with this phrase running through my mind........
.... Lo, I am with you always
Mat 28:20
Simple but oh so profound as well! I'm so thankful He never leaves us, never forsakes us, never gives up on us.
He's a Friend like no other!
:musicnotes He abides, He abides.
Hallelujah He abides with me.
I'm rejoicing night and day as I walk the narrow way
For the Comforter abides with me! :musicnotes
“I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Hbr 13:5
:bliss
Sister Truth Seeker
02-12-2007, 11:58 AM
Woke up this morning with this phrase running through my mind........
.... Lo, I am with you always
Mat 28:20
Simple but oh so profound as well! I'm so thankful He never leaves us, never forsakes us, never gives up on us.
He's a Friend like no other!
:musicnotes He abides, He abides.
Hallelujah He abides with me.
I'm rejoicing night and day as I walk the narrow way
For the Comforter abides with me! :musicnotes
“I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Hbr 13:5
:bliss
AMEN...such a comfort!!!:amen
Sister Truth Seeker
02-12-2007, 11:59 AM
I will sing Your praise
For You've done such a marvelous thing
For someone so wretched
Yet my soul You have redeemed
No one else could do it
No one could care half as much
Yet You thought my soul was worth it
So You gave Your only Son
You gave that I might live
You gave that I might be set free
Exchanged Your life for mine
What a marvelous thing You've done
Some folks see my faults
Lord, You see my accomplishments
Even the good works You have begun in me
You also see my finish
No, not half done
Every battle already won
I can't help but praise You, Lord
For the marvelous things You've done
You gave that I might live
You gave that I might be set free.
Exchanged Your life for mine
What a marvelous thing
What a glorious thing
What a marvelous thing You've done
OH how could He care about us...like He does...what a wonderful God we have!!!
OH how could He care about us...like He does...what a wonderful God we have!!!
Amen!! And kudos to the instrument who penned the words...I think Walter Hawkins is one of the most underrated songwriters around.
Woke up this morning with this phrase running through my mind........
.... Lo, I am with you always
Mat 28:20
Simple but oh so profound as well! I'm so thankful He never leaves us, never forsakes us, never gives up on us.
He's a Friend like no other!
:musicnotes He abides, He abides.
Hallelujah He abides with me.
I'm rejoicing night and day as I walk the narrow way
For the Comforter abides with me! :musicnotes
“I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Hbr 13:5
:bliss
What a blessing it is to know Him, and even greater is the knowledge that He knows us!!:thumbsup
I haven't heard He Abides in years...wonderful old song...:ty
Woke up this morning with this phrase running through my mind........
.... Lo, I am with you always
Mat 28:20
Simple but oh so profound as well! I'm so thankful He never leaves us, never forsakes us, never gives up on us.
He's a Friend like no other!
This post has been on my mind...Lo, I am with you always...
He never gives up...great thought there, Sis. Felicity...
I had family members who said about me, "She'll never get saved...she's a lost cause!!" But thank God for Jesus...He NEVER gives up!!
As you said, "He's a Friend like no other!!"
For waking me up early this morning
For letting me see a brand new dawning
Though I made plans for this very day
Death could have come during the night
And taken me away
I love You, Lord...I love You, Lord
With all my heart...with all my soul
Yes, I love You, Lord...I love You, Lord
With all my heart...with all my soul!!
Falla39
02-13-2007, 07:53 AM
For waking me up early this morning
For letting me see a brand new dawning
Though I made plans for this very day
Death could have come during the night
And taken me away
I love You, Lord...I love You, Lord
With all my heart...with all my soul
Yes, I love You, Lord...I love You, Lord
With all my heart...with all my soul!!
Sis. Barb,
What a beautiful expression of your heart! God sees it and I
believes He is pleased!
Blessings,
Falla39
Rhoni
02-13-2007, 07:58 AM
Sis. Barb Your song reminds me of this one:
When I think about the Lord,
How he saved me,
How he raised me,
How he filled me with the Holy Ghost,
How he healed me to the uttermost...
Makes me want to shout...
Hallelujah, thank-you Jesus,
Lord you are worthy
Of all the glory and all of the honor...
Blessings, Rhoni
Falla39
02-13-2007, 11:30 AM
:bliss :bliss :bliss Sis. Barb Your song reminds me of this one:
When I think about the Lord,
How he saved me,
How he raised me,
How he filled me with the Holy Ghost,
How he healed me to the uttermost...
Makes me want to shout...
Hallelujah, thank-you Jesus,
Lord you are worthy
Of all the glory and all of the honor...
Blessings, Rhoni
Sis. Rhoni,
Love that song!!!:bliss :bliss
Blessings,
Falla39
This song was blasting in my car on the way home...
Your latter will be greater than your past
You will be blessed more than you could ask
Despite all that has been done
The best is yet to come
And your latter will be greater
Your latter will be greater
Your latter will be greater than the rest!!
I'm claiming this for ME and EVERYONE I know, ever MET or ever will MEET!!!:amen
LaVonne
02-13-2007, 03:00 PM
Sis. Barb Your song reminds me of this one:
When I think about the Lord,
How he saved me,
How he raised me,
How he filled me with the Holy Ghost,
How he healed me to the uttermost...
Makes me want to shout...
Hallelujah, thank-you Jesus,
Lord you are worthy
Of all the glory and all of the honor...
Blessings, Rhoni
When I think about the Lord,
How He picked me up,
Turned me around,
How He placed my feet on solid ground...
Falla39
02-13-2007, 03:55 PM
This song was blasting in my car on the way home...
Your latter will be greater than your past
You will be blessed more than you could ask
Despite all that has been done
The best is yet to come
And your latter will be greater
Your latter will be greater
Your latter will be greater than the rest!!
I'm claiming this for ME and EVERYONE I know, ever MET or ever will MEET!!!:amen
Sis. Barb,
That is so sweet!! And I receive it, in Jesus Name!!
Blessings,
Falla39
Sis. Barb,
What a beautiful expression of your heart! God sees it and I
believes He is pleased!
Blessings,
Falla39
Bless your heart, Mother Falla...I woke up singing this song and have continued through most of the day. :musicnotes
When I think about the Lord,
How He picked me up,
Turned me around,
How He placed my feet on solid ground...
This is my favorite part of this song...:thumbsup
Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer.
From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed:
lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.
I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah.
For thou, O God, hast heard my vows:
thou hast given me the heritage of those that fear thy name
(Psalm 61:1-5).
Falla39
02-14-2007, 05:52 AM
Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer.
From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed:
lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.
I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah.
For thou, O God, hast heard my vows:
thou hast given me the heritage of those that fear thy name
(Psalm 61:1-5).
Sis. Barb,
The Word of God is SO Wonderful..! Uplifting, Strengthening, Life-
giving! Bread for the soul!! He sent His words and healed them! If
we ate more of the Word of God, perhaps the drug companies and
stores would have less business! Could it be! I do not say this in a
condemning way at all. I just believe it is true and good news if we
could just believe it!!
Blessings,
Falla39
Rhoni
02-14-2007, 08:27 AM
Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer.
From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed:
lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.
I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah.
For thou, O God, hast heard my vows:
thou hast given me the heritage of those that fear thy name
(Psalm 61:1-5).
:ty
That is the scriptures that got me through the trying times of the mid' 70's...thank-you so much. It is also a song that I enjoy when my heart is overwhelmed....David knew how to get in touch with his inner most feelings.
Blessings, Rhoni
Sis. Barb,
The Word of God is SO Wonderful..! Uplifting, Strengthening, Life-
giving! Bread for the soul!! He sent His words and healed them! If
we ate more of the Word of God, perhaps the drug companies and
stores would have less business! Could it be! I do not say this in a
condemning way at all. I just believe it is true and good news if we
could just believe it!!
Blessings,
Falla39
Amen, Mother...amen!! And you couldn't be condemning if you tried!!;)
:ty
That is the scriptures that got me through the trying times of the mid' 70's...thank-you so much. It is also a song that I enjoy when my heart is overwhelmed....David knew how to get in touch with his inner most feelings.
Blessings, Rhoni
I was listening to a song on the way home from work, and this is the part that always jumps out at me...
I was created to make His praise glorious...glorious...
Yes I was...yes I was
I was created to make His praise glorious!!
Falla39
02-14-2007, 04:53 PM
Amen, Mother...amen!! And you couldn't be condemning if you tried!!;)
Thank you, Sis. Barb, for your confidence! I know I
would never want to have a offending or condemning
spirit!
Blessings,
Falla39
I won't give up or give in
I'm holding on to the end
I must be steadfast...unmovable
Always abounding in you
Lord, I am staying in your will
I'm staying in your will
I'm staying, Lord
I'm staying in your will
I'm staying
I'm staying in your will
I'm staying, Lord
I am staying in your will
I promise you, Lord
I am staying in your will...your will
I promise you, Lord
I am staying in your will...your will
Falla39
02-14-2007, 10:02 PM
:bliss I won't give up or give in
I'm holding on to the end
I must be steadfast...unmovable
Always abounding in you
Lord, I am staying in your will
I'm staying in your will
I'm staying, Lord
I'm staying in your will
I'm staying
I'm staying in your will
I'm staying, Lord
I am staying in your will
I promise you, Lord
I am staying in your will...your will
I promise you, Lord
I am staying in your will...your will
Sis. Barb,
This should be the strong desire of every man and woman
of God!!!:bliss :bliss
Blessings,
Falla39
Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land
(Psalm 37:34).
Sis Barb, forgive me for being a bad neighbour. You are right beside me on this blog page, but I haven't dropped until now.
I am glad you are here, and the things you post are most encouraging, and uplifting.
I am glad your first post was on Psalm 23.
One of my favourite books is "A shepherd loooks at the Shepherd and his Sheep" based on Psalm 23.
I will try to stop in more often.
God Bless!
Ron:thumbsup
Sis Barb, forgive me for being a bad neighbour. You are right beside me on this blog page, but I haven't dropped until now.
I am glad you are here, and the things you post are most encouraging, and uplifting.
I am glad your first post was on Psalm 23.
One of my favourite books is "A shepherd loooks at the Shepherd and his Sheep" based on Psalm 23.
I will try to stop in more often.
God Bless!
Ron:thumbsup
Thank you for the encouraging words, Bro. Ron...drop by anytime...:)
Ya said you been bound up
Lookin’ for a way to break free
Devil’s had you tied up
Listen to these words from me
Your situation may seem hopeless
But it’s not the end
Though you are burdened
And have shackles on your feet
I want you to know
You’re about to break loose
Jesus took the keys and gave ‘em to you
So, here’s what you gotta do
Shake loose...everything that binds you up
Who told you that you can’t make it
When God says that you can shake it
Shake loose... everything that binds you up
Praise Him like its your last chance
Get up and do the David dance
I heard you were feeling down
That Satan had you bound
No you don’t have to stay
Yes, you can leave today
Just like in the Bible days
When men began to pray
Those jail cells start to shaken
Those chains a start to breakin’
I want you to know
You’re about to break loose
Jesus took the keys and gave ‘em to you
So, here’s what you gotta do
Shake loose...everything that binds you up
Who told you that you can’t make it
When God says that you can shake it
Shake loose... everything that binds you up
Praise Him like its your last chance
Get up and do the David dance
Don’t let the enemy keep you in bondage
Praise your way through
Come on and shake loose
Every worry, every care
Praise your way through
Come on and shake loose
Those chains that bind you
Should only remind you
To praise your way through
Come on and shake loose
Problems...know that He will solve them
Praise your way through
Come on and shake loose
Shake yourself loose
Lift your hands
Come on and let's dance
Shake yourself loose
Scream and shout
He brought you out
Shake yourself loose
Loose your seat
Now move your feet
Shake yourself loose
Shout for joy...make some noise
Because I'm free
He told me in his word
That I could be free
The Devil tried to stop me
He tried to block me
But I got away
I got the key
Thank God Almighty
Whom the Son sets free
Is free indeed
He loosed the shackles
That was binding me
So get on your feet
And sing it with me
Those of you out there feelin' bound
Let me tell you can break free
Free at last....!!
Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men,
especially unto them who are of the household of faith
(Galatians 6:9-11).
Falla39
02-17-2007, 07:05 AM
Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men,
especially unto them who are of the household of faith
(Galatians 6:9-11).
Sis. Barb,
These are some of my favorite scriptures!! Have been
encouraged by them many times!
Blessings,
Falla39
Sis. Barb,
These are some of my favorite scriptures!! Have been
encouraged by them many times!
Blessings,
Falla39
You are so sweet and always respond to my little meanderings. Please PM me your info...I know of a DVD you would love...:)
Falla39
02-17-2007, 10:23 AM
You are so sweet and always respond to my little meanderings. Please PM me your info...I know of a DVD you would love...:)
Thank you, Sis. Barb,
PM on the way! If you feel I would love a DVD, I am sure
it just what I need! Thank you so much!!:ty
Blessings,
Falla39
Thank you, Sis. Barb,
PM on the way! If you feel I would love a DVD, I am sure
it just what I need! Thank you so much!!:ty
Blessings,
Falla39
It is my pleasure, Mother...:)
I plead your Blood
I plead yur mercy
I ask for all of your blessing
I don't deserve
For you are good
And you are holy
And although I don't know why
It's me you came to love
O Lord, I plead your Blood
What can wash away my sin
Nothing but the Blood of Jesus
What can make me whole again
Nothing but the Blood of Jesus
Oh precious is that flow
That makes me white as snow
No other fount I know
Nothing but the Blood of Jesus
In sin I wandered sore and sad
With bleeding heart and aching head
Till Jesus came and sweetly said
"I'll take your sins away!"
Thank God for the Blood
Thank God for the saving Blood
Thank God for the Blood
That washes white as snow
The Blood that Jesus shed for me
Way back on Calvary
The Blood that gives me strength
From day to day
It will never lose its power
It soothes my doubts and calms my fears
And that same Blood dries all my tears
The Blood that gives me strength
From day to day
It will never lose its power
It reaches to the highest mountain
It flows to the lowest valley
The Blood that gives me strength
From day to day
It will never lose its power
Whoso findeth me findeth life,
and shall obtain favour of the Lord.
(Proverbs 8:35).
Once again I sing this morning...
I plead your Blood
I plead your mercy
I ask for all of your blessings
I don't deserve
For you are good
And you are holy
And although I don't know why
It's me you came to love
O Lord, I plead your Blood
Felicity
02-20-2007, 06:49 PM
I have a CD that I really like by Hillsong called "Songs for Communion". Most of the songs are centered around the redemptive work of Jesus Christ at Calvary, the blood and the cross.
For some reason this song really spoke to me today....
Where brokenness and mercy meet
How gently shall redemption speak
For love like ocean waves did break
Upon the shores of sin and shame.
To You my heart will sing O God
For O what lover keeps his song
In spirit & integrity
To join the song the heavens sing
Chorus:
Scarlet hands that bled for me
Servant King my everything
I kneel before You once again
Surrendered now to scarlet hands
When sorrow tries my hope to kill
To worship I have reason still
For light will pierce the darkest night
And peace shall be my lullaby
The time will fade to afterthought
Into forever shall I walk
In Glory's shadow ever free
Redeemer and redeemed to meet.
It speaks for me much more eloquently and beautifully than I could speak for myself. I love the lines.......
For light will pierce the darkest night
And peace shall be my lullaby. :)
Coonskinner
02-20-2007, 07:07 PM
I feel that these beautiful words express my heart far better than i could...
What a beautiful thought I am thinking concerning the great speckled bird
And to know that my name is recorded on the pages of God's holy word
Desiring to lower her standards they watch every move that she makes
They long to find fault with her teaching but really she makes no mistakes
I am glad I have learned of her meekness I am glad that my name is on her book
For I want to be one never fearing the face of my Saviour to look
And when he come up descending from heaven on a cloud like he said in his word
I'll be joyfully carried to meet him on the wings of the great speckled bird
rgcraig
02-20-2007, 07:17 PM
I feel that these beautiful words express my heart far better than i could...
What a beautiful thought I am thinking concerning the great speckled bird
And to know that my name is recorded on the pages of God's holy word
Desiring to lower her standards they watch every move that she makes
They long to find fault with her teaching but really she makes no mistakes
I am glad I have learned of her meekness I am glad that my name is on her book
For I want to be one never fearing the face of my Saviour to look
And when he come up descending from heaven on a cloud like he said in his word
I'll be joyfully carried to meet him on the wings of the great speckled bird
You have been in rare form the past couple days!!!!:killinme
Coonskinner
02-20-2007, 07:18 PM
You have been in rare form the past couple days!!!!:killinme
You know you reached for the tissues.:heeheehee
I feel that these beautiful words express my heart far better than i could...
What a beautiful thought I am thinking concerning the great speckled bird
And to know that my name is recorded on the pages of God's holy word
Desiring to lower her standards they watch every move that she makes
They long to find fault with her teaching but really she makes no mistakes
I am glad I have learned of her meekness I am glad that my name is on her book
For I want to be one never fearing the face of my Saviour to look
And when he come up descending from heaven on a cloud like he said in his word
I'll be joyfully carried to meet him on the wings of the great speckled bird
I know you are jesting, Coonskinner, but I have a CD by Sis Grandquist singing the oldies and she sings this song like I've never heard it sung...thank God for the Church!!:clap
I have a CD that I really like by Hillsong called "Songs for Communion". Most of the songs are centered around the redemptive work of Jesus Christ at Calvary, the blood and the cross.
For some reason this song really spoke to me today....
Where brokenness and mercy meet
How gently shall redemption speak
For love like ocean waves did break
Upon the shores of sin and shame.
To You my heart will sing O God
For O what lover keeps his song
In spirit & integrity
To join the song the heavens sing
Chorus:
Scarlet hands that bled for me
Servant King my everything
I kneel before You once again
Surrendered now to scarlet hands
When sorrow tries my hope to kill
To worship I have reason still
For light will pierce the darkest night
And peace shall be my lullaby
The time will fade to afterthought
Into forever shall I walk
In Glory's shadow ever free
Redeemer and redeemed to meet.
It speaks for me much more eloquently and beautifully than I could speak for myself. I love the lines.......
For light will pierce the darkest night
And peace shall be my lullaby. :)
I've never heard it, but the words are beautiful...:ty
Sister Truth Seeker
02-21-2007, 06:37 AM
I have a CD that I really like by Hillsong called "Songs for Communion". Most of the songs are centered around the redemptive work of Jesus Christ at Calvary, the blood and the cross.
For some reason this song really spoke to me today....
Where brokenness and mercy meet
How gently shall redemption speak
For love like ocean waves did break
Upon the shores of sin and shame.
To You my heart will sing O God
For O what lover keeps his song
In spirit & integrity
To join the song the heavens sing
Chorus:
Scarlet hands that bled for me
Servant King my everything
I kneel before You once again
Surrendered now to scarlet hands
When sorrow tries my hope to kill
To worship I have reason still
For light will pierce the darkest night
And peace shall be my lullaby
The time will fade to afterthought
Into forever shall I walk
In Glory's shadow ever free
Redeemer and redeemed to meet.
It speaks for me much more eloquently and beautifully than I could speak for myself. I love the lines.......
For light will pierce the darkest night
And peace shall be my lullaby. :)
Nice Sister....
I know the plans I have for you
I know just what you're going through
So, when you can't see what tomorrow holds
And yesterday is through
Remember, I know the plans I have for you!!
Wherever you are today, be encouraged that God sees and knows...
I know the plans I have for you
I know just what you're going through
So, when you can't see what tomorrow holds
And yesterday is through
Remember, I know the plans I have for you!!
These two portions of Scripture are on my heart this morning...
Prov 17:17
A friend loveth at all times...
Prov 18:24
...there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
Subdued
02-23-2007, 06:24 AM
Psa 68:19 Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.
Psa 118:24 This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
I know the plans I have for you
I know just what you're going through
So, when you can't see what tomorrow holds
And yesterday is through
Remember, I know the plans I have for you!!
Amen. He does have plans that are good.
Thanks for the reminder.
I will go before thee,
and make the crooked places straight:
I will break in pieces the gates of brass,
and cut in sunder the bars of iron:
And I will give thee the treasures of darkness,
and hidden riches of secret places,
that thou mayest know that I, the LORD,
which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel
(Isaiah 45:2-3).
Falla39
02-23-2007, 05:19 PM
I will go before thee,
and make the crooked places straight:
I will break in pieces the gates of brass,
and cut in sunder the bars of iron:
And I will give thee the treasures of darkness,
and hidden riches of secret places,
that thou mayest know that I, the LORD,
which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel
(Isaiah 45:2-3).
Sis. Barb,
Been involved in some things and haven't got to
post as much the past few days, but couldn't pass
up mentioning I love these verses so much! I love
it all but today this just blessed me...again.
Thank you for posting them!
Blessings,
Falla39
I will go before thee,
and make the crooked places straight:
I will break in pieces the gates of brass,
and cut in sunder the bars of iron:
And I will give thee the treasures of darkness,
and hidden riches of secret places,
that thou mayest know that I, the LORD,
which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel
(Isaiah 45:2-3).
This was part of a prophecy given to our Church. Very Encouraging.
Thanks!
Sis. Barb,
Been involved in some things and haven't got to
post as much the past few days, but couldn't pass
up mentioning I love these verses so much! I love
it all but today this just blessed me...again.
Thank you for posting them!
Blessings,
Falla39
Mother Falla, isn't it SUCH a marvelous comfort to our souls to know that Almighty God sees and knows just where we are? He can send a rushing mighty wind into a field of dry bones and renew life, cause an axe head to swim, part the waters of despair, calm the storms that arise in our lives, and even drop a word from the Word into the heart of a virtual stranger, and He does it just for me...and for you!!
To God be the glory!!
Falla39
02-23-2007, 06:33 PM
Mother Falla, isn't it SUCH a marvelous comfort to our souls to know that Almighty God sees and knows just where we are? He can send a rushing mighty wind into a field of dry bones and renew life, cause an axe head to swim, part the waters of despair, calm the storms that arise in our lives, and even drop a word from the Word into the heart of a virtual stranger, and He does it just for me...and for you!!
To God be the glory!!
Sis. Barb,
You are so right! There is nothing like the Word of God to soothe
the troubled soul, to give assurance or whatever it is we are needing!
He knows and sends just what is needed!! He IS WONDERFUL!!!
Blessings,
Falla39
Felicity
02-23-2007, 09:46 PM
I will go before thee,
and make the crooked places straight:
I will break in pieces the gates of brass,
and cut in sunder the bars of iron:
And I will give thee the treasures of darkness,
and hidden riches of secret places,
that thou mayest know that I, the LORD,
which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel
(Isaiah 45:2-3).Isaiah!! He's my man! :)
And what a beautiful passage of scripture!
Isaiah!! He's my man! :)
And what a beautiful passage of scripture!
:clap
Sister Truth Seeker
02-24-2007, 06:47 AM
Thank you Barb for you thread of emcouragement...
Thank you Barb for you thread of encouragement...
Well, ya know, girl...there have been 393 hits on this thread. What that says to me is that people are reading, and prayerfully, someone receives a good word or maybe a verse that speaks directly to them.
I can't speak for anyone else on this board, but I know that's why I'm here.
So, thank you, SisterTS, beause your post encouraged me to keep on keeping on!!:ty
Sister Truth Seeker
02-24-2007, 07:09 AM
Well, ya know, girl...there have been 393 hits on this thread. What that says to me is that people are reading, and prayerfully, someone receives a good word or maybe a verse that speaks directly to them.
I can't speak for anyone else on this board, but I know that's why I'm here.
So, thank you, SisterTS, beause your post encouraged me to keep on keeping on!!:ty
Your welcome Sis...I feel we are all here for a reason, and serve to make the forum what it is, which a unique community of "Christians"...
Your welcome Sis...I feel we are all here for a reason, and serve to make the forum what it is, which a unique community of "Christians"...
Yes, amen!! :highfive
He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust:
his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day
(Psalm 91:4-5).
Falla39
02-25-2007, 05:07 PM
He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust:
his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day
(Psalm 91:4-5).
Sis. Barb,
Another of my favorite scriptures! I love it all, but sometimes it seems
they come at just the right time. As if SOMEONE is ordering them for
me as they lift me up SO much at that particular time!!!:bliss :bliss
Blessings,
Falla39
When my heart is heavy and burdens hard to bear
My eyes become heavy with worry and with care
I look up to heaven...I can always find my answer there
The clouds roll away when I hear the savior say
Whoever will call upon the Lord shall receive
Whoever will speak the Name of Jesus shall find peace
When you need deliverance where can you go
Run to the fountain where healing waters flow
Whoever will call upon the Lord shall receive
When I sit in God's presence, our spirits are agreed
I find sweet assurance He knows my every need
I cry out to heaven, saying, "Lord, have mercy please!"
Then I hear Him say, "The answer is on the way...it's on the way!"
Whoever will call upon the Lord shall receive
Whoever will speak the Name of Jesus shall find peace
When you need deliverance where can you go
Run to the fountain where healing waters flow
Whoever will call upon the Lord shall receive
Falla39
02-26-2007, 06:08 PM
When my heart is heavy and burdens hard to bear
My eyes become heavy with worry and with care
I look up to heaven...I can always find my answer there
The clouds roll away when I hear the savior say
Whoever will call upon the Lord shall receive
Whoever will speak the Name of Jesus shall find peace
When you need deliverance where can you go
Run to the fountain where healing waters flow
Whoever will call upon the Lord shall receive
When I sit in God's presence, our spirits are agreed
I find sweet assurance He knows my every need
I cry out to heaven, saying, "Lord, have mercy please!"
Then I hear Him say, "The answer is on the way...it's on the way!"
Whoever will call upon the Lord shall receive
Whoever will speak the Name of Jesus shall find peace
When you need deliverance where can you go
Run to the fountain where healing waters flow
Whoever will call upon the Lord shall receive
Yea and amen!!! Falla39
In my past I've done so many things I wish I hadn't done
And when satan comes around to condemn me
He names them one by one...by one
But I remind all of that it wasn't really me
That old Barb has died...I'm new now you see
Old things are passed away and behold all things are new
So, satan, you can't tell me those old lies are really true
For I am changed by the power of the Spirit
And I live, yet not I, but Christ in me
I'm changed and my soul has been set free
And I am not what I used to be
Nor am I what I want to be
But I'm changed, O praise God, I am changed
Now if it happened to me
Then I know it's bound to happen to you
So, if you'll listen a while
I'll tell you what to do...what to do
Don't take it sitting down
Plant your feet on the ground
Tell him that old man has died
He's no longer around
There's a brand new man inside
satan, you can't keep him down
That brand new man is Christ
And in Him a life I've found
I am changed by the power of the Spirit
And I live, yet not I, but Christ in me
I'm changed and my soul has been set free
And I am not what I used to be
Nor am I what I want to be
But I'm changed, O praise God, I am changed
Lord, prepare me to be a sanctuary
Pure and holy...tried and true
And with thanksgiving I'll be a living
Sanctuary for you
And then this song flowed out from that one...
Zion is calling me to a higher place of praise
To stand upon the mountain
And to magnify His Name
To tell all the people of every nation that He reigns
Zion is calling me to a higher place of praise
And it becomes my highest praise
When all that I am responds to who you are
It becomes my highest praise
Just to know you more!!
This was emailed to me in a newsletter from the Southern Gospel group I am going to hear in concert Sunday night. I thought I'd share a portion with you and hope it blesses your heart tonight as it has mine...
Have you ever seen a picture from an aerial view? Wow! It brings such a different perspective to your home or property. You don’t realize when you’re walking around below that there is a completely different view from above and from that point, you can virtually see everything with just one glance. The front of your home, the back, both sides, and even details that go unnoticed on any given day are clearly visible.
In the past seven years that our family has been on this musical journey, we have been made very aware at different times that God is all knowing and we know so very little. If you would have told me seven years ago that doors of ministry would have opened like they have, I would have said, "It’s impossible!" We simply stepped out on pure faith and set out to follow a calling on our lives.
Humanly, we were scared to death. Now more than seven years later, I look back and realize that we have been led every step of the way by a God who created us, loves us more than we can even comprehend, and has a specific, carved-out plan for our lives.
You say, what about it? Here’s the deal… As a human being, I’ve been guilty at times of getting the human in the way of the divine. I know that "a good man’s steps are ordered by the Lord." I believe that! Having said that, I’ve questioned the Lord just to make sure that He knew what He was asking of us. "Are you sure, God?" I’ll admit I like my comfort zones. My box fits me perfectly and better yet, it’s warm and cozy. It’s what I’m used to. Well, I have discovered on this journey that if I’m going to get out of my box and do something that will make a difference in this world, it will sometimes require blind faith and complete trust in God, period.
If my life is totally surrendered to God, then I shouldn’t put on the brakes when He says, "Do it this way… or that way". At times I’ve thought, "Lord, that makes absolutely no sense. That’s uncomfortable for me." Then I remember the verse in Proverbs that says, "Commit (or surrender) your ways to the Lord, and your plans will succeed."
How will they succeed when I have no control? It’s simple, God has an aerial view of our lives. He owns the blueprint. When God asks something of us, He can see the whole picture, we can't. I’m walking around below with a very limited view of things. God sees the road behind me, the road ahead of me, the bends, the unexpected twists, and the possible crashes long before I even get there! He has our best interest in mind.
With that thought, why wouldn’t we want to place our trust in things we cannot see, when we have a God who sees ALL things? Now that encourages me.
It encourages me as well...
Falla39
03-01-2007, 08:07 PM
This was emailed to me in a newsletter from the Southern Gospel group I am going to hear in concert Sunday night. I thought I'd share a portion with you and hope it blesses your heart tonight as it has mine...
Have you ever seen a picture from an aerial view? Wow! It brings such a different perspective to your home or property. You don’t realize when you’re walking around below that there is a completely different view from above and from that point, you can virtually see everything with just one glance. The front of your home, the back, both sides, and even details that go unnoticed on any given day are clearly visible.
In the past seven years that our family has been on this musical journey, we have been made very aware at different times that God is all knowing and we know so very little. If you would have told me seven years ago that doors of ministry would have opened like they have, I would have said, "It’s impossible!" We simply stepped out on pure faith and set out to follow a calling on our lives.
Humanly, we were scared to death. Now more than seven years later, I look back and realize that we have been led every step of the way by a God who created us, loves us more than we can even comprehend, and has a specific, carved-out plan for our lives.
You say, what about it? Here’s the deal… As a human being, I’ve been guilty at times of getting the human in the way of the divine. I know that "a good man’s steps are ordered by the Lord." I believe that! Having said that, I’ve questioned the Lord just to make sure that He knew what He was asking of us. "Are you sure, God?" I’ll admit I like my comfort zones. My box fits me perfectly and better yet, it’s warm and cozy. It’s what I’m used to. Well, I have discovered on this journey that if I’m going to get out of my box and do something that will make a difference in this world, it will sometimes require blind faith and complete trust in God, period.
If my life is totally surrendered to God, then I shouldn’t put on the brakes when He says, "Do it this way… or that way". At times I’ve thought, "Lord, that makes absolutely no sense. That’s uncomfortable for me." Then I remember the verse in Proverbs that says, "Commit (or surrender) your ways to the Lord, and your plans will succeed."
How will they succeed when I have no control? It’s simple, God has an aerial view of our lives. He owns the blueprint. When God asks something of us, He can see the whole picture, we can't. I’m walking around below with a very limited view of things. God sees the road behind me, the road ahead of me, the bends, the unexpected twists, and the possible crashes long before I even get there! He has our best interest in mind.
With that thought, why wouldn’t we want to place our trust in things we cannot see, when we have a God who sees ALL things? Now that encourages me.
It encourages me as well...
And, Sis. Barb,
It encourages me as well, and knowing the One who knows all the
answers makes all the difference, doesn't it!!!! Thank you for these
encouraging posts!
Blessings,
Falla39
And, Sis. Barb,
It encourages me as well, and knowing the One who knows all the
answers makes all the difference, doesn't it!!!! Thank you for these
encouraging posts!
Blessings,
Falla39
Your encouragement to me is always appreciated, Mother...!!:ty
Rhoni
03-02-2007, 07:03 AM
If my life is totally surrendered to God, then I shouldn’t put on the brakes when He says, "Do it this way… or that way". At times I’ve thought, "Lord, that makes absolutely no sense. That’s uncomfortable for me." Then I remember the verse in Proverbs that says, "Commit (or surrender) your ways to the Lord, and your plans will succeed."
How will they succeed when I have no control? It’s simple, God has an aerial view of our lives. He owns the blueprint. When God asks something of us, He can see the whole picture, we can't. I’m walking around below with a very limited view of things. God sees the road behind me, the road ahead of me, the bends, the unexpected twists, and the possible crashes long before I even get there! He has our best interest in mind.
Romans 8:28 comes to mind...awesome! Thank-you for sharing this Sis. Barb!
Love & Blessings, Rhoni
Hear my voice when I cry
O Lord, my Rock
Be not silent unto me
Lest I fall in the pit
Hear me voice, O Lord
When I lift my hands to thee
Oh, I need you everyday
I need you all the way
Hear my voice, O Lord
When I lift my hands to thee
If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake,
the same shall save it (Luke 9:23-24).
Oh, my friend, He is so near that you could touch Him
His sweet presence this old world could ne'er replace
So won't you let His Spirit warm you
And let His mighty love transform you
While the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
Oh, the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
I can see the change that He's making on each face
And when the power of heaven is tapped
Then something good is bound to happen
While the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
And when the power of heaven is tapped
Then something good is bound to happen
While the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
Coonskinner
03-10-2007, 07:37 AM
Central’s never “busy,” always on the line;
You may hear from heaven almost any time;
’Tis a royal service, free for one and all;
When you get in trouble, give this royal line a call.
Refrain:
Telephone to glory, oh, what joy divine!
I can feel the current moving on the line,
Built by God the Father for His loved and own,
We may talk to Jesus through this royal telephone.
There will be no charges, telephone is free,
It was built for service, just for you and me;
There will be no waiting on this royal line,
Telephone to glory always answers just in time.
Fail to get the answer, Satan’s crossed your wire,
By some strong delusion, or some base desire;
Take away obstructions, God is on the throne,
And you’ll get your answer through this royal telephone.
If your line is “grounded,” and connection true
Has been lost with Jesus, tell you what to do:
Prayer and faith and promise mend the broken wire,
Till your soul is burning with the Pentecostal fire.
Carnal combinations cannot get control
Of this line to glory, anchored in the soul;
Storm and trial cannot disconnect the line,
Held in constant keeping by the Father’s hand divine.
Central’s never “busy,” always on the line;
You may hear from heaven almost any time;
’Tis a royal service, free for one and all;
When you get in trouble, give this royal line a call.
Refrain:
Telephone to glory, oh, what joy divine!
I can feel the current moving on the line,
Built by God the Father for His loved and own,
We may talk to Jesus through this royal telephone.
There will be no charges, telephone is free,
It was built for service, just for you and me;
There will be no waiting on this royal line,
Telephone to glory always answers just in time.
Fail to get the answer, Satan’s crossed your wire,
By some strong delusion, or some base desire;
Take away obstructions, God is on the throne,
And you’ll get your answer through this royal telephone.
If your line is “grounded,” and connection true
Has been lost with Jesus, tell you what to do:
Prayer and faith and promise mend the broken wire,
Till your soul is burning with the Pentecostal fire.
Carnal combinations cannot get control
Of this line to glory, anchored in the soul;
Storm and trial cannot disconnect the line,
Held in constant keeping by the Father’s hand divine.
We NEVER sing this song anymore...haven't heard it in years.
And when the power of heaven is tapped
Then something good is bound to happen
While the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
Coonskinner
03-10-2007, 09:17 AM
We NEVER sing this song anymore...haven't heard it in years.
It really ministers to my spirit, Barb.
Falla39
03-10-2007, 10:01 AM
It really ministers to my spirit, Barb.
Bro. Coonskinner,
I can relate to the wonderful old songs (and I do like some of the newer
songs and praise choruses) which tell of the greatness and mercy of our
Wonderful Friend, Jesus! When we are feeling down and lonely, the words
of "What a Friend We Have In Jesus", and when we're feeling SO thankful
after He has shown Himself SO real to us once again and to sing those
words, " Just want to tell You I'm thankful for all that You have done, for
the stars and the moonlight and the setting sun...! "My Thanks To Him" is
the name of that one! And when we feel we will burst with thankfulness
after a great trial of our faith, we burst forth singing, "O What A Saviour",
O hallelujah, His heart was broken, on Calvary! His Hands were nail-scarred,
His side was riven, He gave His life's Blood for you and me"
O I Want To Se Him, look upon His Face. There to sing forever of His
Saving Grace .... Oh what singing, O what shouting, on that happy morning
when we all shall rise. O what glory, hallelujah! When we meet our blessed
Saviour in the skies!!!:bliss :bliss :bliss :bliss :bliss :bliss :bliss :bliss
Blessings,
Falla39
Bro. Coonskinner,
I can relate to the wonderful old songs (and I do like some of the newer
songs and praise choruses) which tell of the greatness and mercy of our
Wonderful Friend, Jesus! When we are feeling down and lonely, the words
of "What a Friend We Have In Jesus", and when we're feeling SO thankful
after He has shown Himself SO real to us once again and to sing those
words, " Just want to tell You I'm thankful for all that You have done, for
the stars and the moonlight and the setting sun...! "My Thanks To Him" is
the name of that one! And when we feel we will burst with thankfulness
after a great trial of our faith, we burst forth singing, "O What A Saviour",
O hallelujah, His heart was broken, on Calvary! His Hands were nail-scarred,
His side was riven, He gave His life's Blood for you and me"
O I Want To Se Him, look upon His Face. There to sing forever of His
Saving Grace .... Oh what singing, O what shouting, on that happy morning
when we all shall rise. O what glory, hallelujah! When we meet our blessed
Saviour in the skies!!!:bliss :bliss :bliss :bliss :bliss :bliss :bliss :bliss
Blessings,
Falla39
Mother Fallagirl...have you been to your mailbox?! :)
Falla39
03-10-2007, 11:03 AM
Mother Fallagirl...have you been to your mailbox?! :)
Sis. Barb,
Not yesterday but will within the hour!! I'm watching for something
my sister on this thread felt I would really enjoy...and I am very sure
I will!!:bliss :bliss :bliss
Blessings,:ty
Falla39
Sis. Barb,
Not yesterday but will within the hour!! I'm watching for something
my sister on this thread felt I would really enjoy...and I am very sure
I will!!:bliss :bliss :bliss
Blessings,:ty
Falla39Let me know, girl...
And when the power of heaven is tapped
Then something good is bound to happen
While the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
chosenbyone
03-11-2007, 01:37 PM
It really ministers to my spirit, Barb.
I sang this song last year to a group that many could have been my kids and they just didn't get the meaning.
They thought the idea of Jesus being on the telephone was funny. Our world has changed and kids these days are experiencing their own landmarks of faith, which includes their own songs.
I may be an old geezer in their eyes, but I like their music too; however, nothing stirs my soul like some of the old standards that we sang growing up.
I have to admit that I have just about every Bill Gaither Homecoming CD and video made in the last 12 years. I remember playing that song Coon at least twice a month while growing up.
Boy, how the saints would sing that song! Thanks for the memories, Coon.
In the middle of the turbulence surrounding you
These trying times that are so hard to endure
In the middle of what seems to be your darkest hour
Hold fast your heart and be assured
This too shall pass
Like every night that's come before it
He'll never give you more than you can bear
This too shall pass
So in this thought be comforted
It's in His Hands
This too shall pass
The Father knows the tears you cry before they fall
He feels your pain, His heart and yours are one
The Father knows that sorrow's heavy chains are strong
But with His strength, you'll overcome
This too shall pass
Like every night that's come before it
He'll never give you more than you can bear
This too shall pass
So in this thought be comforted
It's in His Hands
This too shall pass
So set your eyes upon the mountain
And lift your hands up to the sky
And let His arms of love surround you
And take you to the other side
This too shall pass
Like every night that's come before it
He'll never give you more than you can bear
This too shall pass
So in this thought be comforted
It's in His Hands
This too shall pass
And when the power of heaven is tapped
Then something good is bound to happen
While the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest,
whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely,
whatsoever things are of good report;
if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise,
think on these things
(Phil. 4:8).
Falla39
03-14-2007, 10:55 PM
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest,
whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely,
whatsoever things are of good report;
if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise,
think on these things
(Phil. 4:8).
Sis. Barb,
I love this verse and it is some of the best advice you can find!!
Love to meditate on each part:
Truth
Honesty
Just
Purity
Lovely
Good Reports
..and if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise.
THINK on these things!!
Blessings,
Falla39
Felicity
03-14-2007, 11:00 PM
Sis. Barbara........ ;) :)
When I got home a while ago my mailbox was full and there was a nice lumpy package from you.
I just opened it and the promised Collingsworth "Sunday Morning Ivories" CD was there. I just started listening. It's beautiful!!! Just beautiful -- perfect! I'm sitting here in tears.
Thank you so much Sis!!
Sis. Barbara........ ;) :)
When I got home a while ago my mailbox was full and there was a nice lumpy package from you.
I just opened it and the promised Collingsworth "Sunday Morning Ivories" CD was there. I just started listening. It's beautiful!!! Just beautiful -- perfect! I'm sitting here in tears.
Thank you so much Sis!!Oh, I am SO happy!! I woke this morning with another headache, and you have made me feel a little better to know the CD is a blessing you...:)
Sis. Barb,
I love this verse and it is some of the best advice you can find!!
Love to meditate on each part:
Truth
Honesty
Just
Purity
Lovely
Good Reports
..and if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise.
THINK on these things!!
Blessings,
Falla39
Amen, Mother Falla...I posted that Scripture for ME!!!;)
Falla39
03-15-2007, 02:19 PM
Amen, Mother Falla...I posted that Scripture for ME!!!;)
Yes, and for me and all of us!! All scripture is given by inspiration of God
and is profitable for.......!!!
Sis. Barb,
I took the DVD of the Collingsworth Family to our middle daughter,
(they pastor the church here that my dad and mom founded in 1958)
last night and she just brought it back. She and her husband were so
impressed. Now I am taking it to our oldest daughter who lives nearby
for them to see! The blessing just keeps on flowing from one family to
another!! You gave, I received and it is resulting in many others being
blessed that you probably could have never come in contact with..!!
Thank you again for your gift!!
Blessings,
Falla39
Yes, and for me and all of us!! All scripture is given by inspiration of God
and is profitable for.......!!!
Sis. Barb,
I took the DVD of the Collingsworth Family to our middle daughter,
(they pastor the church here that my dad and mom founded in 1958)
last night and she just brought it back. She and her husband were so
impressed. Now I am taking it to our oldest daughter who lives nearby
for them to see! The blessing just keeps on flowing from one family to
another!! You gave, I received and it is resulting in many others being
blessed that you probably could have never come in contact with..!!
Thank you again for your gift!!
Blessings,
Falla39
That is so neat, Mother, and God is SO faithful...
Pressing-On
03-15-2007, 03:22 PM
Barb,
When I feel confused in life and need to get my bearings He always brings to mind Psalms 33:
1 Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous:
for praise is comely for the upright.
2 Praise the LORD with harp:
sing unto him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings.
3 Sing unto him a new song;
play skilfully with a loud noise.
4 For the word of the LORD is right;
and all his works are done in truth.
5 He loveth righteousness and judgment:
the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.
6 By the word of the LORD were the heavens made;
and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.
7 He gathereth the waters of the sea together as a heap:
he layeth up the depth in storehouses.
8 Let all the earth fear the LORD:
let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him.
9 For he spake, and it was done;
he commanded, and it stood fast.
10 The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought:
he maketh the devices of the people of none effect.
11 The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever,
the thoughts of his heart to all generations.
12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD;
and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.
13 The LORD looketh from heaven;
he beholdeth all the sons of men.
14 From the place of his habitation he looketh
upon all the inhabitants of the earth.
15 He fashioneth their hearts alike;
he considereth all their works.
16 There is no king saved by the multitude of a host:
a mighty man is not delivered by much strength.
17 A horse is a vain thing for safety:
neither shall he deliver any by his great strength.
18 Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him,
upon them that hope in his mercy;
19 to deliver their soul from death,
and to keep them alive in famine.
20 Our soul waiteth for the LORD:
he is our help and our shield.
21 For our heart shall rejoice in him,
because we have trusted in his holy name.
22 Let thy mercy, O LORD, be upon us,
according as we hope in thee.
Barb,
When I feel confused in life and need to get my bearings He always brings to mind Psalms 33:
1 Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous:
for praise is comely for the upright.
2 Praise the LORD with harp:
sing unto him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings.
3 Sing unto him a new song;
play skilfully with a loud noise.
4 For the word of the LORD is right;
and all his works are done in truth.
5 He loveth righteousness and judgment:
the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.
6 By the word of the LORD were the heavens made;
and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.
7 He gathereth the waters of the sea together as a heap:
he layeth up the depth in storehouses.
8 Let all the earth fear the LORD:
let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him.
9 For he spake, and it was done;
he commanded, and it stood fast.
10 The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought:
he maketh the devices of the people of none effect.
11 The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever,
the thoughts of his heart to all generations.
12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD;
and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.
13 The LORD looketh from heaven;
he beholdeth all the sons of men.
14 From the place of his habitation he looketh
upon all the inhabitants of the earth.
15 He fashioneth their hearts alike;
he considereth all their works.
16 There is no king saved by the multitude of a host:
a mighty man is not delivered by much strength.
17 A horse is a vain thing for safety:
neither shall he deliver any by his great strength.
18 Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him,
upon them that hope in his mercy;
19 to deliver their soul from death,
and to keep them alive in famine.
20 Our soul waiteth for the LORD:
he is our help and our shield.
21 For our heart shall rejoice in him,
because we have trusted in his holy name.
22 Let thy mercy, O LORD, be upon us,
according as we hope in thee.
Praise God for His Word...!!
Pressing-On
03-15-2007, 03:32 PM
Praise God for His Word...!!
He's just saying in that Psalm - don't worry - be happy!
Hope you are doing well.
He's just saying in that Psalm - don't worry - be happy!
Hope you are doing well.
Yes, thank you...was a bit under the weather earlier today, but came in and had a nap, and now I'm going to fix me a bite to eat.:tiphat
Pressing-On
03-15-2007, 03:56 PM
Yes, thank you...was a bit under the weather earlier today, but came in and had a nap, and now I'm going to fix me a bite to eat.:tiphat
I'm making tacos. We eat them at least once a week. I must be part Mexican! lol!
I'm glad you are feeling better. We've gotten over our bout here. I had a cough for about a month, as did almost everyone in our church.
He was preaching healing really strong and people started getting really sick. lol! Isn't that how it usually goes?
Where two or three or more
Are gathered in His Name
He has promised to be there
To set their hearts aflame
And right now I sense the nearness
Of His presence in our midst
Oh, what a privilege to feel His presence
And oh, how sweet it is
So sweet is the Spirit
When He moves among His people
Hearts are melted
Lives are changed
And dreams restored
He brings healing for every heartache
He has a promise for every problem
Oh, how sweet is the Spirit of the Lord
Oh, my friend, He is so near that you could touch Him
His sweet presence this old world could ne'er replace
So won't you let His Spirit warm you
And let His mighty love transform you
While the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
Oh, the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
I can see the change that He's making on each face
And when the power of heaven is tapped
Then something good is bound to happen
While the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
Yes, and for me and all of us!! All scripture is given by inspiration of God
and is profitable for.......!!!
Sis. Barb,
I took the DVD of the Collingsworth Family to our middle daughter,
(they pastor the church here that my dad and mom founded in 1958)
last night and she just brought it back. She and her husband were so
impressed. Now I am taking it to our oldest daughter who lives nearby
for them to see! The blessing just keeps on flowing from one family to
another!! You gave, I received and it is resulting in many others being
blessed that you probably could have never come in contact with..!!
Thank you again for your gift!!
Blessings,
Falla39
I'm cleaning house today...spring cleaning, and have the DVD running...love it!!:happydance
Coonskinner
03-17-2007, 08:21 AM
IN HELL
So when the cold clammy hand of your enemy, Death
Has silenced your heart, and suspended your breath
When friends bowed in grief, your dead body surround
Oh where, careless one, your poor soul will be found?
Deep down in Hell, where all Christless ones go
Immersed in despair, and surrounded with woe
Your soul will be wailing, and joining its cry
For the bonds of the lost is that bitterest sigh.
In Hell, where the flames will forever be fierce
In Hell, where the fangs of the worm ever pierce
In Hell, where the torments have never an end
In Hell, where the wicked in anguish descend.
Being carried along on that wide-way
With no eye to take pity, and no-one to save
Fierce friends will curse as you go wailing by
And they'll laugh at your anguish, and they'll mock your sad cry
Forever and ever deep down in the fire
Walls will increase and your bones will melt in the terrible mire
But your cries will not rise from the caverns of Hell
But echo along, where the dark demons dwell
Salvation was free, but you clung to your sin
And God would have saved you, had you yielded to Him
The Spirit said come but you said I won't go
And now you're in Hell, it's the thing which you enroll
In Hell, where the flames will forever be fierce
In Hell, where the fangs of the worm ever pierce
In Hell, where the torments have never an end
In Hell, where the wicked in anguish descend.
IN HELL
So when the cold clammy hand of your enemy, Death
Has silenced your heart, and suspended your breath
When friends bowed in grief, your dead body surround
Oh where, careless one, your poor soul will be found?
Deep down in Hell, where all Christless ones go
Immersed in despair, and surrounded with woe
Your soul will be wailing, and joining its cry
For the bonds of the lost is that bitterest sigh.
In Hell, where the flames will forever be fierce
In Hell, where the fangs of the worm ever pierce
In Hell, where the torments have never an end
In Hell, where the wicked in anguish descend.
Being carried along on that wide-way
With no eye to take pity, and no-one to save
Fierce friends will curse as you go wailing by
And they'll laugh at your anguish, and they'll mock your sad cry
Forever and ever deep down in the fire
Walls will increase and your bones will melt in the terrible mire
But your cries will not rise from the caverns of Hell
But echo along, where the dark demons dwell
Salvation was free, but you clung to your sin
And God would have saved you, had you yielded to Him
The Spirit said come but you said I won't go
And now you're in Hell, it's the thing which you enroll
In Hell, where the flames will forever be fierce
In Hell, where the fangs of the worm ever pierce
In Hell, where the torments have never an end
In Hell, where the wicked in anguish descend.
Wow, Coon...what a Saturday morning eyeopener!!
The bolded stanza is the one which I had to read again and again...those first three lines ar so positive...
Salvation was free...
And God would have save you...
The Spirit said, "Come..."
But hell will be replete with those who refused or were unable to yield...some deep things here, Elder.
Coonskinner
03-17-2007, 08:38 AM
Wow, Coon...what a Saturday morning eyeopener!!
The bolded stanza is the one which I had to read again and again...those first three lines ar so positive...
Salvation was free...
And God would have save you...
The Spirit said, "Come..."
But hell will be replete with those who refused or were unable to yield...some deep things here, Elder.
Barb, I first heard this in a sermon preached by J.T. Pugh.
He quoted it toward the end of his altar call...conviction fell like a thunder clap. Of course it was pretty heavy already.
Barb, I first heard this in a sermon preached by J.T. Pugh.
He quoted it toward the end of his altar call...conviction fell like a thunder clap. Of course it was pretty heavy already.
I can well imagine...
He's there for you...to see you through
Come what may, hold on...hold on
It's just your turn to face your test
So go through with faith
Knowing God knows what's best
He told you not to worry
And He told you not to fret
Though the tears fall from your eyes
And you often question why
You feel your faith won't grow
And the problems just won't go
And you feel discouraged
But, stop for a moment
And please just be still
For you are an heir of His will
If you mean what you say
And you pray in Jesus Name
The prayers that you've prayed
The answers on it's way
I've lost some good friends along life's way
Some loved ones departed...in heaven to stay
But thank God I didn't lose everything
I've lost faith in people who said they cared
In the time of my crisis they were never there
But in my disappointment, in my season of pain
One thing never wavered...one thing never changed
I never lost my hope
I never lost my joy
I never lost my faith
But most of all
I never lost my praise
My praise is still here
I've let some blessings slip away
I lost my focus and went astray
But thank God I didn't lose everything
I've lost possessions that were so dear
I've lost some battles by walking in fear
But in the midst of my struggles...in my season of pain
One thing never wavered...one thing never changed
I never lost my hope
I never lost my joy
I never lost my faith
But most of all...most of all
I never lost my praise
Praise
I kept my praise through disappointment
Praise
I kept my praise through every tear
Praise
I held on to my praise through persecution
Praise
For in my praise God was near
But most of all I never lost my praise
My praise is still here
Join Date: Feb 2007
I've lost some good friends along life's way
Some loved ones departed...in heaven to stay
But thank God I didn't lose everything
I've lost faith in people who said they cared
In the time of my crisis they were never there
But in my disappointment, in my season of pain
One thing never wavered...one thing never changed
I never lost my hope
I never lost my joy
I never lost my faith
But most of all
I never lost my praise
My praise is still here
I've let some blessings slip away
I lost my focus and went astray
But thank God I didn't lose everything
I've lost possessions that were so dear
I've lost some battles by walking in fear
But in the midst of my struggles...in my season of pain
One thing never wavered...one thing never changed
I never lost my hope
I never lost my joy
I never lost my faith
But most of all...most of all
I never lost my praise
Praise
I kept my praise through disappointment
Praise
I kept my praise through every tear
Praise
I held on to my praise through persecution
Praise
For in my praise God was near
But most of all I never lost my praise
My praise is still
He's there for you...to see you through
Come what may, hold on...hold on
It's just your turn to face your test
So go through with faith
Knowing God knows what's best
He told you not to worry
And He told you not to fret
Though the tears fall from your eyes
And you often question why
You feel your faith won't grow
And the problems just won't go
And you feel discouraged
But, stop for a moment
And please just be still
For you are an heir of His will
If you mean what you say
And you pray in Jesus Name
The prayers that you've prayed
The answers on it's way
Falla39
03-19-2007, 07:10 PM
He's there for you...to see you through
Come what may, hold on...hold on
It's just your turn to face your test
So go through with faith
Knowing God knows what's best
He told you not to worry
And He told you not to fret
Though the tears fall from your eyes
And you often question why
You feel your faith won't grow
And the problems just won't go
And you feel discouraged
But, stop for a moment
And please just be still
For you are an heir of His will
If you mean what you say
And you pray in Jesus Name
The prayers that you've prayed
The answers on it's way
Sis. Barb,
That certainly is encouraging and it is so true!! Thank you for
posting this lovely poem, song, etc.
Blessings,
Falla39
Rhoni
03-19-2007, 07:42 PM
Sis. Barb,
That certainly is encouraging and it is so true!! Thank you for
posting this lovely poem, song, etc.
Blessings,
Falla39
Yes, the poem was beautiful and I am trying not to be in touch with my feelings right now...but when I thaw out...I am sure things will be all right.
Thank-you Sis. Barb and Sis. Falla.
Love & Blessings, Rhoni
Where two or three or more
Are gathered in His Name
He has promised to be there
To set their hearts aflame
And right now I sense the nearness
Of His presence in our midst
Oh, what a privilege to feel His presence
And oh, how sweet it is
So sweet is the Spirit
When He moves among His people
Hearts are melted
Lives are changed
And dreams restored
He brings healing for every heartache
He has a promise for every problem
Oh, how sweet is the Spirit of the Lord
Oh, my friend, He is so near that you could touch Him
His sweet presence this old world could ne'er replace
So won't you let His Spirit warm you
And let His mighty love transform you
While the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
Oh, the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
I can see the change that He's making on each face
And when the power of heaven is tapped
Then something good is bound to happen
While the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
LaVonne
03-24-2007, 09:44 AM
He's there for you...to see you through
Come what may, hold on...hold on
It's just your turn to face your test
So go through with faith
Knowing God knows what's best
He told you not to worry
And He told you not to fret
Though the tears fall from your eyes
And you often question why
You feel your faith won't grow
And the problems just won't go
And you feel discouraged
But, stop for a moment
And please just be still
For you are an heir of His will
If you mean what you say
And you pray in Jesus Name
The prayers that you've prayed
The answers on it's way
Beautiful...thank you Barb!
Felicity
03-24-2007, 09:55 AM
Dedicated to Barb..........with love from Felicity. ;) :D
Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head
Raindrops keep fallin' on my head
And just like the guy whose feet are too big for his bed
Nothin' seems to fit
Those raindrops are fallin' on my head, they keep fallin'
So I just did me some talkin' to the sun
And I said I didn't like the way he got things done
Sleepin' on the job
Those raindrops are fallin' on my head, they keep fallin'
But there's one thing I know
The blues they send to meet me won't defeat me
It won't be long till happiness steps up to greet me
Raindrops keep fallin' on my head
But that doesn't mean my eyes will soon be turnin' red
Cryin's not for me
'Cause I'm never gonna stop the rain by complainin'
Because I'm free
Nothin's worryin' me
[trumpet]
It won't be long till happiness steps up to greet me
Raindrops keep fallin' on my head
But that doesn't mean my eyes will soon be turnin' red
Cryin's not for me
'Cause I'm never gonna stop the rain by complainin'
Because I'm free
Nothin's worryin' me
:tiphat :winkgrin
Dedicated to Barb..........with love from Felicity. ;) :D
Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head
Raindrops keep fallin' on my head
And just like the guy whose feet are too big for his bed
Nothin' seems to fit
Those raindrops are fallin' on my head, they keep fallin'
So I just did me some talkin' to the sun
And I said I didn't like the way he got things done
Sleepin' on the job
Those raindrops are fallin' on my head, they keep fallin'
But there's one thing I know
The blues they send to meet me won't defeat me
It won't be long till happiness steps up to greet me
Raindrops keep fallin' on my head
But that doesn't mean my eyes will soon be turnin' red
Cryin's not for me
'Cause I'm never gonna stop the rain by complainin'
Because I'm free
Nothin's worryin' me
[trumpet]
It won't be long till happiness steps up to greet me
Raindrops keep fallin' on my head
But that doesn't mean my eyes will soon be turnin' red
Cryin's not for me
'Cause I'm never gonna stop the rain by complainin'
Because I'm free
Nothin's worryin' me
:tiphat :winkgrin
Oh you ain't a bit right today...;)
Felicity
03-24-2007, 10:02 AM
Oh you ain't a bit right today...;)I'm right as rain!
:toofunny
I'm right as rain!
:toofunny
Poor thing...well, try and keep your head above water, eh?!:winkgrin
I thank God today for His mercy and for friends who make me laugh...thank God for the Church!!:clap
Falla39
03-27-2007, 05:47 PM
I thank God today for His mercy and for friends who make me laugh...thank God for the Church!!:clap
Sis. Barb,
Amen! I also thank God for His mercy and grace and for my natural
brothers and sisters and also for my brothers and sisters in the family
of God!! Also for friends and neighbors! We have SOOOOOOO much
to be thankful for, don't we!! Health. I thank God each morning as
He is on my mind when I go to sleep and when I awake in the morning.
I like to thank Him in the morning for the good night's rest He gives me
each night.
I am my beloved and my beloved is mine!! He gives His beloved sleep!!
I am sure others feel the same way but He makes each of His children
feel so special!!
:happydance :happydance :happydance :happydance :happydance
Blessings,
Falla39
I thank God today for His mercy and for friends who make me laugh...thank God for the Church!!:clap
Sis. Barb,
Amen! I also thank God for His mercy and grace and for my natural
brothers and sisters and also for my brothers and sisters in the family
of God!! Also for friends and neighbors! We have SOOOOOOO much
to be thankful for, don't we!! Health. I thank God each morning as
He is on my mind when I go to sleep and when I awake in the morning.
I like to thank Him in the morning for the good night's rest He gives me
each night.
I am my beloved and my beloved is mine!! He gives His beloved sleep!!
I am sure others feel the same way but He makes each of His children
feel so special!!
:happydance :happydance :happydance :happydance :happydance
Blessings,
Falla39Amen!!:friend
*Imagine Kim Collingsworth playing this...*
What a friend we have in Jesus
All our sins and griefs to bear
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer
O what peace we often forfeit
O what needless pain we bear
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer
Can we find a friend so faithful
Who will all our sorrows share
Jesus knows our every weakness
Take it to the Lord in prayer
Take it to
the
Lord
in
prayer
*Bump*
*Imagine Kim Collingsworth playing this...*
What a friend we have in Jesus
All our sins and griefs to bear
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer
O what peace we often forfeit
O what needless pain we bear
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer
Can we find a friend so faithful
Who will all our sorrows share
Jesus knows our every weakness
Take it to the Lord in prayer
Take it to
the
Lord
in
prayer
Falla39
03-29-2007, 06:34 AM
*Imagine Kim Collingsworth playing this...*
What a friend we have in Jesus
All our sins and griefs to bear
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer
O what peace we often forfeit
O what needless pain we bear
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer
Can we find a friend so faithful
Who will all our sorrows share
Jesus knows our every weakness
Take it to the Lord in prayer
Take it to
the
Lord
in
prayer
Absolutely, Sis. Barb
I know it would be breathtakingly beautiful!!
Blessings,
Falla39
*Imagine Kim Collingsworth playing this...*
What a friend we have in Jesus
All our sins and griefs to bear
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer
O what peace we often forfeit
O what needless pain we bear
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer
Can we find a friend so faithful
Who will all our sorrows share
Jesus knows our every weakness
Take it to the Lord in prayer
Take it to
the
Lord
in
prayer
Absolutely, Sis. Barb
I know it would be breathtakingly beautiful!!
Blessings,
Falla39
Mother, the song is on her piano CD vol. two...it's awesome!! I'll send you one...:tiphat
Falla39
03-29-2007, 06:05 PM
Mother, the song is on her piano CD vol. two...it's awesome!! I'll send you one...:tiphat
Sis. Barb,
I just saw this! You are just too precious!! Thank you so much!
The Lord bless you and your dear mother, in Jesus Name!!!
Blessings,
Falla39
*Imagine Kim Collingsworth playing this...*
What a friend we have in Jesus
All our sins and griefs to bear
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer
O what peace we often forfeit
O what needless pain we bear
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer
Can we find a friend so faithful
Who will all our sorrows share
Jesus knows our every weakness
Take it to the Lord in prayer
Take it to
the
Lord
in
prayer
I don't know who Kim Collingsworth is but this song is so true and says so much yet do how often do we forget.:tiphat
Thanks.
When the enemy shall come in, like a flood the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him.
(Isaiah 59:19).
The Church...God's people...the ecclesia...a called out Body of Believers.
We come from every walk of life and every corner of the planet.
Many of us are rich in material wealth and others of us are not, but it is all right...money doesn't open the door of the Church.
Some of us are cuter than a button and others of y'all are not, but it is okay because being cute is not important in the economy of the Church.
The Church is made up of people with the intellect of the greats as well as those of us who can barely screw in a light bulb...it doesn't matter because it's not by might or by power but by the Spirit that we are in the Church.
We don't all speak with the same voice or sound...the accents and dialects are vast and curious, but it doesn't matter because the God who made us and saved us understands each and every voice...we are the Church.
We have a unique calling on us as His Body...a call that we might be ONE...one in doctrine and mind...one in unity and love...one in spirit...one in heart.
We don't have to agree to be one...
We don't have to think alike to be one...
We can be diverse and yet be one. This dichotomy is possible because we love...in good times and bad...in prosperity and famine...when we see eye to eye and when we don't, we are one in love.
The Spirit and the Blood make us one. This understanding of the oneness of the Church is a powerful thing. The abiding Spirit of Christ should compel me to defend you to the death because we are one...we are the Church!!
What a privilege to be in the Church of Jesus Christ...what an honor to call you brother and sister. How blessed am I to be numbered with such a great and wonderful Church!!
I love it...!!
The Church...God's people...the ecclesia...a called out Body of Believers.
We come from every walk of life and every corner of the planet.
Many of us are rich in material wealth and others of us are not, but it is all right...money doesn't open the door of the Church.
Some of us are cuter than a button and others of y'all are not, but it is okay because being cute is not important in the economy of the Church.
The Church is made up of people with the intellect of the greats as well as those of us who can barely screw in a light bulb...it doesn't matter because it's not by might or by power but by the Spirit that we are in the Church.
We don't all speak with the same voice or sound...the accents and dialects are vast and curious, but it doesn't matter because the God who made us and saved us understands each and every voice...we are the Church.
We have a unique calling on us as His Body...a call that we might be ONE...one in doctrine and mind...one in unity and love...one in spirit...one in heart.
We don't have to agree to be one...
We don't have to think alike to be one...
We can be diverse and yet be one. This dichotomy is possible because we love...in good times and bad...in prosperity and famine...when we see eye to eye and when we don't, we are one in love.
The Spirit and the Blood make us one. This understanding of the oneness of the Church is a powerful thing. The abiding Spirit of Christ should compel me to defend you to the death because we are one...we are the Church!!
What a privilege to be in the Church of Jesus Christ...what an honor to call you brother and sister. How blessed am I to be numbered with such a great and wonderful Church!!
I love it...!!
Sis. Barb,
I just saw this post this beautiful Sunday morning! I would like to echo
a big AMEN!! What a POWERFUL, ENCOURAGING article!! Sometimes I truly
believe the full impact of just how blessed we are, to know what we know,
and to be in this big "Family" of God that just keeps on growing and growing.
Thank you for putting together this tremendour article! I have to finish
getting ready for church but I want to re-visit this thread when I return and
just reflect and remember where we would be if not for what happened just
outside of Jerusalem over nineteen hundred years ago. A generation later it
took out old Jerusalem, but brought in the beginning of the New Jerusalem,
The Church!! And what do we have to complain about today! Not me!! I
just want to thank HIM and praise HIS MAGNIFICIENT NAME forever and
ever!!!
Blessings,
Falla39
Anointed prayer cloths (‘points of contact’)...this subject has come up quite a bit recently, and I remembered last night that I had written a small piece re this a while back. So for your amusement or amazement...
Anointed prayer cloths ('points of contact')…is it scriptural to anoint a cloth/handkerchief with oil and pray over it for the purposes of healing and deliverance? Did Jesus use a prayer cloth in His earthly ministry? Did the apostles send prayer cloths to those in need? Is there a biblical record of someone needing, or saying that they needed a 'point of contact' in order to believe?
There is only one scriptural reference that that I am aware of which could be used for sending out prayer cloths. It is in Acts 19:11-20, and it describes the miracles that were experienced "by the hands of Paul." (v. 11).
The manifestation of the anointing was so great that the people (either fellow ministers, or the Saints in Ephesus) took handkerchiefs or aprons from Paul, gave them to the sick, and they were healed and delivered. (v.12).
Notice the language used. "...from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons..." Paul did not remove his clothing, and the Saints did not bring a cloth for the preacher to pray over. The people who were present took his handkerchiefs (towels) and removed his aprons (linen, fitting like a girdle, protecting the clothing of a person at work) and gave them to the sick.
There was no solicitation of funds connected with the cloth. It was done so that those who were unable to be in the church house while Paul was preaching received the miracles as if they were there in person. Though empowered to minister God’s Word, the power was not in Paul, and certainly not in his garment, but in the unction of the Holy Ghost.
As is always the case when the power of God is moving, folks try to imitate the anointing. The unsaved priests tried to do what God did through His servant and found that it doesn't pay to play. "Jesus I know, and Paul I know, but who are ye?" (vs. 13-20). I believe the significance of this story is to show the difference between real anointing and assumed anointing.
If Jesus ever used anointed prayer cloths, it is not recorded in the Bible. Other then the above mentioned instance, there is no other evidence that prayer cloths were a part of the ministry of the apostles.
So then, does the lack of biblical support mean it is wrong to anoint an object (cloth, oil, water, etc.) and take it to the infirm for the purpose of healing and deliverance? IMO, no…as long as that is the purpose.
However, the purpose of prayer cloths for some is not just for healing and deliverance, but rather a promotional gimmick to raise money. Prayer cloths are sent out to the prayer partner, and are to be sent back to the evangelist - with an offering. Do I know this to be fact? Absolutely! One evangelist told ministry partners that the cloth she sent would only work with an offering.
Some evangelists make strange requests ("Send me seven mustard seeds!", or "Kneel on this paper prayer rug I sent, and believe for your miracle!"), and some are even more bizarre than the above.
When I was a child, we were listening a local pastor on the radio and he asked the listeners to send a quart of water so that he could fill the baptismal pool…I am serious! These folks pull at people’s emotions with the angle that the listeners will be incited to do a good thing - a service unto God. Obtaining prayer cloths, sending water…it all sounds like an honorable deed. But once they 'reel them in', they make the pitch for money.
Certainly, all of us understand that it takes money to do anything in this world, and the business of running a church or ministry is just that - a business. Radio and television time isn’t handed out free to one and all. The expense can run into hundreds, and possibly thousands of dollars for airing one program. And unless one desires to worship by candle light, or use a pot-bellied stove for heat, there must be funds designated for the electric bill. Logically we see that offerings and donations that are necessary to sustain a church or ministry are not the same thing as a money making gimmick.
We see in this type of usury 'religious hype'. This is not an expression I like to use, however, in describing what goes on, it fits. The word hype means to stimulate, excite or agitate; to create interest by flamboyant or dramatic methods; to intensify or increase, often by questionable methods; to trick; intensive or exaggerated publicity or promotion; a flamboyant or questionable method used in advertising or publicity; a swindle or deception.
When we listen to many teachers, we discover that after the teaching comes the hyped commercial. But, most of us don't stay tuned long enough to hear it. We just eat the meal and go about our business.
It must be noted that in performing the miraculous, God often used that thing that seemed foolish in the eyes of man. Jesus anointed a blind man’s eyes with mud, and he was healed. (John 9:6). The prophet asked the widow woman to bring him vessels, and in doing so, her debt was paid. (II Kings 4:1-7). However, the Bible clearly shows us that when the miraculous happens, a true prophet of God will not make merchandise of his calling.
Finally, regarding a 'point of contact', it must be said that sometimes people need something to hold on to (be it a bottle of oil, water, or a piece of linen). That is not wrong. Really, it is just about stimulating faith in the individual...that when they see the object, they will remember that God is able to heal and deliver.
Sometimes it is not just an object that folks hold on to but preconceived notions of how to receive blessings from God. Many years ago a woman (a family friend) was praying to receive the Holy Ghost and seemingly could not be filled. One night, she was at the altar when a strange thing happened. The furnace got extremely hot, cracked the cement base, and caught the underlying wood on fire.
The woman smelled the wood burning, thought it was the fire of hell, and received the Holy Ghost. This is humorous to us and a bit ridiculous...okay, a lot ridiculous, but to her was a very real and meaningful experience, and it worked - she received the Holy Ghost!
But let us be assured that the power is not in an over-heated furnace, burning wood, a prayer cloth, or the one praying over it. If someone needs something to spark their faith (no pun intended), so be it, as long as they see results. For the widow in II Kings 4:1-7, the 'points of contact' were empty vessels. However, the power that produced the miracle was not in the vessels, but in her willingness to obey, and believe in the Word spoken by the mouth of the prophet.
The bottom line: if someone is sick or needs a miracle, anointing a piece of cloth, praying over it, and giving it to an individual is not wrong.
It is when money changes hands that it becomes wrong. “If you don’t pay, we don’t pray” is the work of a charlatan, not a true prophet of God. It is when we exalt the gift and not the Giver…the miracle and not the Miracle Worker…it is when the point of contact is revered as the source of the miracle that we err.
Our main focus should not be on an object, but on the Lord Jesus Christ, remembering that He is the healer, and source of all blessings...
What do I owe you as posters on an Apostolic internet forum?!
Should I be in any way concerned about the feelings of faceless people I may never meet?!
Should I be allowed to post any and everything I choose because I think I can?!
IS this just a game where we feel free to come and post without a worry as to the repercussions?!
If my posting is continually misunderstood, who is responsible for the misunderstanding?!
If my posting continually upsets the masses, who is responsible for the upset?!
Just what DO I owe you?!
Everyone must answer this for themselves, but I will tell you what I owe you...
I owe you words seasoned with grace, whether I agree with you or not. The Apostle wrote, As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith (Gal. 6:10). That 'do good' means to speak good as well as do good...in other words, my actions should be a reflection of my speech.
I owe you respect. Propriety and common sense should teach me to approach any topic with respect for the reader and respect for myself. My first thought should not be the expression of my opinion as much as the expression of the holiness within me AND you. I don't care if you don't belong to my clubhouse or wear my uniform...I owe you respect.
I owe you the love of Christ, even if your actions are not likable. Surely in this life not everyone will like everything I do or say, but prayerfully all who are called by the Name of the Lord will love me with the love of Christ.
I owe you honesty in posting and conversation. If I cannot tell you the truth...if everything is undergirded by an untruth or coverup, where is my holiness displayed?! My uncut hair means nothing in the light of speaking truth and living honorably!! Truth demands that I not pretend I am something my life cannot back up.
I owe you, Apostolic Friend...I intend to pay what I owe by the help of the Almighty!!
This is the Scripture for April 2 on my daily Scripture meditation flipcard deal...
Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law
(Romans 13:10).
Interesting verse...love worketh no ill...
The love of Christ that is shed abroad in our hearts will not allow us to put someone on 'front street'...that means we won't embarrass them...put them to open shame or ridicule.
The love of Christ compels us to forgive...to release folks from the ill of the past. It makes that we give the grace that has so graciously been bestowed on us.
Words come easily to some. They are able to say, "I love you" while they are holding the knife to our throat.
That is not love...it is like the man who beats his wife with a broom handle, looks down at her broken head, and says, "I love you, baby!!"
That's a sick, almost perverted perception of love.
But the love of Christ is neither sick nor perverted. It is real and true and just and forgiving and whole and right!!
Paul said that love doesn't seek her own or think evil (I Corinthians 13:5). The love of Christ won't let us think evil of another...not if it's the love of Christ.
Lord, help me to love this way...!!
Truly Blessed
04-02-2007, 01:16 PM
This is the Scripture for April 2 on my daily Scripture meditation flipcard deal...
Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law
(Romans 13:10).
Interesting verse...love worketh no ill...
The love of Christ that is shed abroad in our hearts will not allow us to put someone on 'front street'...that means we won't embarrass them...put them to open shame or ridicule.
The love of Christ compels us to forgive...to release folks from the ill of the past. It makes that we give the grace that has so graciously been bestowed on us.
Words come easily to some. They are able to say, "I love you" while they are holding the knife to our throat.
That is not love...it is like the man who beats his wife with a broom handle, looks down at her broken head, and says, "I love you, baby!!"
That's a sick, almost perverted perception of love.
But the love of Christ is neither sick nor perverted. It is real and true and just and forgiving and whole and right!!
Paul said that love doesn't seek her own or think evil (I Corinthians 13:5). The love of Christ won't let us think evil of another...not if it's the love of Christ.
Lord, help me to love this way...!!HEAR!! HEAR!!
Falla39
04-02-2007, 05:28 PM
This is the Scripture for April 2 on my daily Scripture meditation flipcard deal...
Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law
(Romans 13:10).
Interesting verse...love worketh no ill...
The love of Christ that is shed abroad in our hearts will not allow us to put someone on 'front street'...that means we won't embarrass them...put them to open shame or ridicule.
The love of Christ compels us to forgive...to release folks from the ill of the past. It makes that we give the grace that has so graciously been bestowed on us.
Words come easily to some. They are able to say, "I love you" while they are holding the knife to our throat.
That is not love...it is like the man who beats his wife with a broom handle, looks down at her broken head, and says, "I love you, baby!!"
That's a sick, almost perverted perception of love.
But the love of Christ is neither sick nor perverted. It is real and true and just and forgiving and whole and right!!
Paul said that love doesn't seek her own or think evil (I Corinthians 13:5). The love of Christ won't let us think evil of another...not if it's the love of Christ.
Lord, help me to love this way...!!
Sis. Barb,
What a POWERFUL, TIMELY, article!!! Thank you, Sister!!
Blessings,
Falla39
HEAR!! HEAR!!
Sis. Barb,
What a POWERFUL, TIMELY, article!!! Thank you, Sister!!
Blessings,
Falla39
Mother, you are always very kind...and thank you, TB...:tiphat
He's there for you...to see you through
Come what may, hold on...hold on
It's just your turn to face your test
So go through with faith
Knowing God knows what's best
He told you not to worry
And He told you not to fret
Though the tears fall from your eyes
And you often question why
You feel your faith won't grow
And the problems just won't go
And you feel discouraged
But, stop for a moment
And please just be still
For you are an heir of His will
If you mean what you say
And you pray in Jesus Name
The prayers that you've prayed
The answers on it's way
Felicity
04-06-2007, 01:00 PM
http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/746/easter10acr5.jpg
http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/3323/easter10bgz9.jpg
Thank you Barb for the blessing you are and for the encouragement and inspiration
you bring to this forum time after time.
God bless you richly TODAY!
*HUGS*
:kittyhug
http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/746/easter10acr5.jpg
http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/3323/easter10bgz9.jpg
Thank you Barb for the blessing you are and for the encouragement and inspiration
you bring to this forum time after time.
God bless you richly TODAY!
*HUGS*
:kittyhug
Oh, I just saw this...thank you, Felicity, for your kindness...the card and the words are beautiful...:friend
Falla39
04-07-2007, 09:35 AM
He's there for you...to see you through
Come what may, hold on...hold on
It's just your turn to face your test
So go through with faith
Knowing God knows what's best
He told you not to worry
And He told you not to fret
Though the tears fall from your eyes
And you often question why
You feel your faith won't grow
And the problems just won't go
And you feel discouraged
But, stop for a moment
And please just be still
For you are an heir of His will
If you mean what you say
And you pray in Jesus Name
The prayers that you've prayed
The answers on it's way
Sis. Barb,
Jesus knows just what we need and He knew what I
needed today! These words are powerful and uplifting!
I have had the flu and am wanting so badly to go to
church tomorrow to see the drama and the children's
choir. Many of our grandchildren are in both. My brother
(who never participates in the dramas), is playing a part.
He is fifteen months younger than I; we received the Holy
Ghost the same night in 1958. We are very close. I want
to see him play his part. Plus there is just something about
remembering that first Resurrection morn when Mary ran to
the tomb of the Man who became everything she ever needed!
He is the same One today because He fills the longing of my
soul, that part of me that no hu-MAN can satisfy. I exalt the
Name of JESUS today!
Blessings,
Falla39
Felicity
04-07-2007, 10:11 AM
Sis. Falla.....
I've been sick with cold, sore throat and fever - headache - since Tues. I'm feeling good enough today though to go to work. Thankfully. :)
Hope you get to feeling better soon!
Falla39
04-07-2007, 11:03 AM
Sis. Falla.....
I've been sick with cold, sore throat and fever - headache - since Tues. I'm feeling good enough today though to go to work. Thankfully. :)
Hope you get to feeling better soon!
Sis. Felicity,
Sounds like the same thing. I woke up Mon. morn. with a sore throat,
head stopped up, headache, chills, and haven't felt like much since,
but I have tried to "be still and know" that He is God. I know He will
take care of you and I, for we are His! Doesn't that just give you the
"warm fuzzies"!!:happydance :happydance
Had the best Bible study in the wee hours this morning. Seems He is
so near and it is as He is teaching me by opening my understanding
to things I am studying. In Isaiah 54:13, "And all thy children shall be
taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children".
It refers to John 6:45, "It is written in the prophets, And they shall be
all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned
of the Father, cometh unto me". I always like to read two or three verses
before and after the verse or verses to get the point of what is being
said. It is by the Holy Ghost (the Spirit of Truth) that we can listen and
learn!:happydance
Thank you for your prayers!:friend
I pray you will be made completely whole, as well as myself, in Jesus Name!
Blessings,
Falla39
By putting yourself 'out' and doing everything possible to make others feel comfortable, you can assure yourself of personal fulfillment and soul satisfaction.
It is a fact that thoughtfulness promotes great joy...!! :tiphat
Felicity
04-08-2007, 09:47 AM
Sis. Falla.......
The day before my husband got back from his trip to Egypt I took some kind of bug where my head was aching and I ached all over, had a temperature and the day he got back I'd even been feeling sick to my stomach part of the day. Now that is very unusual for me because I just don't get sick to my stomach and haven't since after my last pregnancy which was a long time ago now. :D
I had been so achy for a couple days and couldn't figure out what was wrong with me. I was thinking ..... "Guess age really is catching up to me!" LOL!
But then the day after TB got home I was feeling fine again and I thought, Nope, guess it's not the age thing after all. What a relief!" Hehe. :toofunny
Then this week I come down with this other bug. I haven't had a cold for at least a year and a half and maybe longer. But the worst is over and I'm feeling pretty back to normal today.
God is good! :bliss
Falla39
04-08-2007, 12:31 PM
Sis. Falla.......
The day before my husband got back from his trip to Egypt I took some kind of bug where my head was aching and I ached all over, had a temperature and the day he got back I'd even been feeling sick to my stomach part of the day. Now that is very unusual for me because I just don't get sick to my stomach and haven't since after my last pregnancy which was a long time ago now. :D
I had been so achy for a couple days and couldn't figure out what was wrong with me. I was thinking ..... "Guess age really is catching up to me!" LOL!
But then the day after TB got home I was feeling fine again and I thought, Nope, guess it's not the age thing after all. What a relief!" Hehe. :toofunny
Then this week I come down with this other bug. I haven't had a cold for at least a year and a half and maybe longer. But the worst is over and I'm feeling pretty back to normal today.
God is good! :bliss
Sis. Felicity,
Sounds so familiar to me. Haven't had even a sniffle I don't think in a
year or two. but many here in the church and out, have had it. But thank
the Lord Jesus, I got to go to church today. Several of our grandchildren
and my brother just next to me, was in the Easter drama, which was very
good. I kept my cough drops and tissues handy and made it fine. Just got
home and tired. Hubby fixed us a bite to eat and I need a nap!
Yes, Sis. Felicity, God is SO good!!!
Blessings to you and TB!!
Falla39
I choose Jesus
I choose Jesus
Without a solitary doubt
I choose Jesus
Not for miracles
But for loving me
Not for Bethlehem
But for Calvary
Not just today
But for eternity
I choose Jesus
Jesus!!
Falla39
04-09-2007, 08:58 AM
I choose Jesus
I choose Jesus
Without a solitary doubt
I choose Jesus
Not for miracles
But for loving me
Not for Bethlehem
But for Calvary
Not just today
But for eternity
I choose Jesus
Jesus!!
After Calvary, why would we all not desire to choose JESUS!!
"For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ
died for the ungodly".
Lovely song, Sis. Barb!
Blessings,
Falla39
You gave me my hands to reach out to man
To show him Your love and Your perfect plan
You gave me my ears, I can hear Your voice so clear
I can hear the cries of sinners
But can I wipe away their tears?
You gave me my voice to speak Your word
To sing all Your praises to those who never heard
But with my eyes I see a need
For more availability
I've seen hearts that have been broken
So many people to be free
Lord, I'm available to You
My will I give to You
I'll do what You say do
Use me, Lord, to show someone the way
And enable me to say
My storage is empty
And I am available to You
Now I'm giving back to You
All the tools You gave to me
My hands, my ears, my voice, my eyes
So You can use them as You please
I have emptied out my cup
So that you can fill me up
Now I'm free, I just want to be
More available to You
Lord, I'm available to You
My will I give to You
I'll do what You say do
Use me, Lord, to show someone the way
And enable me to say
My storage is empty
And I am available to You
If there ever were dreams that were lofty and noble
They were my dreams at the start
And the hopes for life's best
Were the hopes that I harbored
Down deep in my heart
But my dreams turned to ashes
My castles all crumbled
My fortune turned to loss
Then I wrapped them all in the rags of my life
And laid them at the Cross
And He made something beautiful
Jesus made something good
All my confusion He understood
All I had to offer Him was brokenness and strife
But He made something beautiful of my life
Of my life
Jesus made something beautiful of my life
Of my life
Jesus made something beautiful of my life
There are moments in this life
When the world around us seems so dark and cold
And it seems there's nothing left to do
But to stand in the silence and face it all alone
Questions wondering why
We have to face these trials
And is it really worth all of this pain
Let me say
He knows
There are moments in this life
When the trials and tribulations seem to never end
And your spirit is so weak
That you feel that you have done all you can
Ohhhh...
Left with a broken heart and shattered dreams
And the pieces have all been thrown away
Let me say
He knows all about the hurt
About the pain
About the tears
And though we don't understand
We're blinded by our darkest fears
And when we cannot see our way
Let me say
He knows...He knows...He knows
And when you cannot see your way
Just put your trust in Him
He'll be there come what may
And when you cannot feel Him
Just know that He is there
If you reach out for His hand
He'll hold you
Your burdens He will share
He knows just what you're going through
He cares and He will carry you
I know He holds the future in His hands
And you don't have to worry
If you let Him take control
He knows just what you're going through
He cares and He will carry you
I know He holds the future in His hands
And you don't have to worry
If you let Him take control
He knows...He cares
I know He holds the future in His hands
And when you feel like giving up
And your heart has had enough
Just let me say
He knows
I know He knows
Falla39
04-10-2007, 08:48 PM
By putting yourself 'out' and doing everything possible to make others feel comfortable, you can assure yourself of personal fulfillment and soul satisfaction.
It is a fact that thoughtfulness promotes great joy...!! :tiphat
Sis. Barb,
Somehow I missed this but it is SO true!! This is profound!:happydance
Blessings,
Falla39
Falla39
04-10-2007, 08:50 PM
You gave me my hands to reach out to man
To show him Your love and Your perfect plan
You gave me my ears, I can hear Your voice so clear
I can hear the cries of sinners
But can I wipe away their tears?
You gave me my voice to speak Your word
To sing all Your praises to those who never heard
But with my eyes I see a need
For more availability
I've seen hearts that have been broken
So many people to be free
Lord, I'm available to You
My will I give to You
I'll do what You say do
Use me, Lord, to show someone the way
And enable me to say
My storage is empty
And I am available to You
Now I'm giving back to You
All the tools You gave to me
My hands, my ears, my voice, my eyes
So You can use them as You please
I have emptied out my cup
So that you can fill me up
Now I'm free, I just want to be
More available to You
Lord, I'm available to You
My will I give to You
I'll do what You say do
Use me, Lord, to show someone the way
And enable me to say
My storage is empty
And I am available to You
Sis. Barb,
Now this sounds like worship!!:happydance
Blessings,
Falla39
And be ye kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another,
even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you
(Ephesians 4:32).
Felicity
04-11-2007, 02:50 PM
God is GOOD! And His mercy endureth FOREVER! :bliss
So you think that you can't make it through
And you feel like all your hope is gone
Just remember, God cares for you
And He knows what's best for you
He cares, He cares for you
So you think, you think that you, you just can't make it through
And you feel like all of your hope, all your hope is gone
You just remember, God cares for you
And He know, He knows just what's best for you
He cares, He cares for you
Jesus knows
Jesus knows, Jesus cares
Jesus knows how much you can bear
So don't you ever give up, don't you ever give in
You've got to keep the faith
Hold on to His hand come what may
He cares...He cares
I know He cares
He cares for you
He cares
I know He cares
He cares for you!!
rgcraig
04-12-2007, 03:33 PM
There are moments in this life
When the world around us seems so dark and cold
And it seems there's nothing left to do
But to stand in the silence and face it all alone
Questions wondering why
We have to face these trials
And is it really worth all of this pain
Let me say
He knows
There are moments in this life
When the trials and tribulations seem to never end
And your spirit is so weak
That you feel that you have done all you can
Ohhhh...
Left with a broken heart and shattered dreams
And the pieces have all been thrown away
Let me say
He knows all about the hurt
About the pain
About the tears
And though we don't understand
We're blinded by our darkest fears
And when we cannot see our way
Let me say
He knows...He knows...He knows
And when you cannot see your way
Just put your trust in Him
He'll be there come what may
And when you cannot feel Him
Just know that He is there
If you reach out for His hand
He'll hold you
Your burdens He will share
He knows just what you're going through
He cares and He will carry you
I know He holds the future in His hands
And you don't have to worry
If you let Him take control
He knows just what you're going through
He cares and He will carry you
I know He holds the future in His hands
And you don't have to worry
If you let Him take control
He knows...He cares
I know He holds the future in His hands
And when you feel like giving up
And your heart has had enough
Just let me say
He knows
I know He knows
That was a great song!
Jesus...Jesus...Jesus
There is something about that Name
Master...Savior...Jesus
Like the fragrance after the rain
Jesus...Jesus...Jesus
Let all heaven and earth proclaim
Kings and kingdoms shall all pass away
But there's something about that Name
Jesus, the mere mention of His name can calm the storm, heal the broken, raise the dead. At the name of Jesus, I've seen sin-hardened men melted, derelicts transformed, the lights of hope put back into the eyes of a hopeless child...
At the name of Jesus, hatred and bitterness turned to love and forgiveness, arguments cease.
I've heard a mother softly breathe His name at the bedside of a child delirious with fever, and I've watched that little body grow quiet and the fevered brow cool.
I've sat beside a dying saint, her body racked with pain, who in those final fleeting seconds summoned her last ounce of ebbing strength to whisper earth's sweetest name--Jesus, Jesus...
Emperors have tried to destroy it; philosophies have tried to stamp it out. Tyrants have tried to wash it from the face of the earth with the very blood of those who claimed it. Yet still it stands.
And there shall be that final day when every voice that has ever uttered a sound--every voice of Adam's race shall raise in one great mighty chorus to proclaim the name of Jesus--for in that day "every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord!!!"
Ah--so you see--it was not mere chance that caused the angel one night long ago to say to a virgin maiden, "His name shall be called Jesus." Jesus--Jesus--Jesus. You know, there is something about that name...
Kings and kindoms shall all pass away
But there's just something about that Name!!
Thankx for finding this for me, Sub...:friend
Subdued
04-13-2007, 06:08 PM
Thankx for finding this for me, Sub...:friend
You're welcome! :tiphat :happydance
Jesus...Jesus...Jesus
There is something about that Name
Master...Savior...Jesus
Like the fragrance after the rain
Jesus...Jesus...Jesus
Let all heaven and earth proclaim
Kings and kingdoms shall all pass away
But there's something about that Name
Jesus, the mere mention of His name can calm the storm, heal the broken, raise the dead. At the name of Jesus, I've seen sin-hardened men melted, derelicts transformed, the lights of hope put back into the eyes of a hopeless child...
At the name of Jesus, hatred and bitterness turned to love and forgiveness, arguments cease.
I've heard a mother softly breathe His name at the bedside of a child delirious with fever, and I've watched that little body grow quiet and the fevered brow cool.
I've sat beside a dying saint, her body racked with pain, who in those final fleeting seconds summoned her last ounce of ebbing strength to whisper earth's sweetest name--Jesus, Jesus...
Emperors have tried to destroy it; philosophies have tried to stamp it out. Tyrants have tried to wash it from the face of the earth with the very blood of those who claimed it. Yet still it stands.
And there shall be that final day when every voice that has ever uttered a sound--every voice of Adam's race shall raise in one great mighty chorus to proclaim the name of Jesus--for in that day "every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord!!!"
Ah--so you see--it was not mere chance that caused the angel one night long ago to say to a virgin maiden, "His name shall be called Jesus." Jesus--Jesus--Jesus. You know, there is something about that name...
Kings and kindoms shall all pass away
But there's just something about that Name!!
Falla39
04-14-2007, 08:05 AM
Jesus...Jesus...Jesus
There is something about that Name
Master...Savior...Jesus
Like the fragrance after the rain
Jesus...Jesus...Jesus
Let all heaven and earth proclaim
Kings and kingdoms shall all pass away
But there's something about that Name
Jesus, the mere mention of His name can calm the storm, heal the broken, raise the dead. At the name of Jesus, I've seen sin-hardened men melted, derelicts transformed, the lights of hope put back into the eyes of a hopeless child...
At the name of Jesus, hatred and bitterness turned to love and forgiveness, arguments cease.
I've heard a mother softly breathe His name at the bedside of a child delirious with fever, and I've watched that little body grow quiet and the fevered brow cool.
I've sat beside a dying saint, her body racked with pain, who in those final fleeting seconds summoned her last ounce of ebbing strength to whisper earth's sweetest name--Jesus, Jesus...
Emperors have tried to destroy it; philosophies have tried to stamp it out. Tyrants have tried to wash it from the face of the earth with the very blood of those who claimed it. Yet still it stands.
And there shall be that final day when every voice that has ever uttered a sound--every voice of Adam's race shall raise in one great mighty chorus to proclaim the name of Jesus--for in that day "every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord!!!"
Ah--so you see--it was not mere chance that caused the angel one night long ago to say to a virgin maiden, "His name shall be called Jesus." Jesus--Jesus--Jesus. You know, there is something about that name...
Kings and kindoms shall all pass away
But there's just something about that Name!!
Sis. Barb,
"There's Just Something About That Name" has been one of my all-time
favorite songs for many years. Songs about THE Name and THE Blood
just do something for me that nothing else can do. One of the well-known
ministers in the UPC, mentioned a few years ago at a CTC Conf. in Dallas,
Tx, that something that we have not understood is that God hid the Blood
of Jesus in His Name! We sing "Power In The Blood" and "There's Power In
The Name of Jesus". No wonder there's Victory in and through the Name
and Blood of JESUS! Could it be that when and if we refuse His Name we
also refuse His Blood, His Mercy and His Love! All that HE IS!
Blessings,
Falla39
I was reading a quarter page obituary this morning about a school teacher and administrator who had passed...it got me to thinking about my daddy and life and how we leave here...pretty heavy for a Saturday morning, huh?!:winkgrin
Dad wasn't perfect and he made mistakes. He had a quick temper and flaws in his character, but he was my dad and I miss him.
There were many good and right things, not the least being that he loved the ministry and taught all seven of us to do the same, along with teaching us to love truth.
When dad was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma, it was a total shock to us all, because until he began to have the pain in his back, he had never really been sick.
After radiation began, the pain left and when he passed, he was pain free.
There is great comfort in that he did not suffer but peacefully slipped away. I went in to see him before I went to work and I talked a bit, gave him some water, told him I loved him, and walked out the door.
An hour later I received the call...
It's always amazed me somewhat how we can be here one moment and literally the next be absent from this body and present with the Lord.
No fanfare...no trumpets blaring or lights flashing...just gone, and unless someone takes notice, any accomplishments or things of value may be overlooked as inconsequential.
That's why when I had to represent the family and speak a few remarks (his choice), I listed his works...
Dad had been assistant Sunday School superintendent, teacher, set designer for Christmas plays, peanut brittle foreman, :winkgrin bus driver, youth counselor, choir member, helped in construction of three church buildings, janitor in the first church building (had to go in and light the pot bellied stove), part time janitor in later life, song leader (before it was called 'worship leader'...there was no praise team), armor bearer for the pastors, and at the time he passed, head usher.
We aren't saved by works yet I am assured in the Word that our works will be tried by fire to see what sort they were...what our motives were.
I can tell you that he did not seek reward here or praise for service rendered...he just loved Kingdom work, something else he passed to his children.
I know dad would have been embarrassed to hear me read all of the above on that day and to see it here, yet the fact that the church was packed out, both for the wake and the service, is a testimony that his life did indeed matter.
For all that may not have been right, when this vapor of life was over, it is the works which remain and have followed him, I am certain, for all eternity.
May the same be said of me...that when I leave this span of existence, my life counted for something in the realm of the Spirit...
I need your mercy...I need your grace
I need your hand leading the way
Can't make it without you...not for one day
I need your mercy, oh yes, I need your grace!!
While watching a morning talk show today, the subject of Don Imus came up and it got me to thinking about words.
One of the commentators this morning said that the old nursery rhyme, Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words will never hurt me, is true..."words cannot hurt...they are just words."
IMO, she is wrong...words do hurt and can even kill the spirit and heart of an individual or group of people.
I have mentioned this elsewhere, but would ask you to think about the small child who constantly hears, "You're nothing!! You look just like your baldheaded daddy...he never amounted to anything and neither will you!!"
Or the person who hears, "You can't do this...you're not smart enough or cute enough or talented enough"... or "You're just a woman/Black/Asian/Hispanic/poor..."
Words will weigh on the mind and very heart core long after the individual who spoke them is dead and gone.
Some would declare that it is childish and downright silly to get all hung up on what someone has to say about us, but alas, tis easier said than done.
That's why it is incumbent upon each of us to take into account what we say...I'm not just referring to the forum, but in every arena of life...in the home and on the job...to the Saints in our churches...to the children intrusted into our care...in the marketplace...everywhere we go we should set a watch over our mouths.
Mr. Imus spoke three little words...words which have made a huge impact on his life and perhaps even on those to whom he was referring.
Our prayer should be that we speak words seasoned with grace, remembering that our words just don't fall to the ground, but may remain in the mind and heart of the hearer for years to come.
I am asking myself today, am I speaking words which hurt or heal?!:praying
Where two or three or more
Are gathered in His Name
He has promised to be there
To set their hearts aflame
And right now I sense the nearness
Of His presence in our midst
Oh, what a privilege to feel His presence
And oh, how sweet it is
So sweet is the Spirit
When He moves among His people
Hearts are melted
Lives are changed
And dreams restored
He brings healing for every heartache
He has a promise for every problem
Oh, how sweet is the Spirit of the Lord
Oh, my friend, He is so near that you could touch Him
His sweet presence this old world could ne'er replace
So won't you let His Spirit warm you
And let His mighty love transform you
While the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
Oh, the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
I can see the change that He's making on each face
And when the power of heaven is tapped
Then something good is bound to happen
While the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
And when the power of heaven is tapped
Oh, something good is bound to happen
While the Spirit of Jesus
And when the power of heaven is tapped
Then something good is bound to happen
While the Spirit of Jesus is in this place
Blessed be the LORD, that hath given rest unto his people Israel, according to all that he promised: there hath not failed one word of all his good promise, which he promised by the hand of Moses his servant
(1 Kings 8:56).
Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.
Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.
The beast of the field shall honour me, the dragons and the owls: because I give waters in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people, my chosen.
This people have I formed for myself; they shall shew forth my praise.
(Isaiah 43:18-21).
Today I was standing at my workbench thinking about the goodness of the Lord and His mercy that has been manifested time and time again.
As I began to reflect, I thanked Him for looking beyond my fault and not just looking over my fault.
People do that sometimes, especially parents. They will often allow their love for their child to cloud their judgment.
Though I do not have children of my own, I understand this emotion. I have nieces, nephews, and godchildren, whom I love more than I am able to say.
I am sure it is easy to pretend that all is well when it is OUR child. We will appoint and promote, even when it is not the will of God, and for no other reason than we love.
However, when an individual is able to look, not through the eyes of the heart, but through the eyes of the soul and the Spirit, seeing their child as God sees them, that is rare, indeed.
I have been blessed down through the years with family and friends who looked beyond the rubble to see what I could be...to see me as God saw me.
Recognizing this, I have endeavored to extend the same graciousness to others.
You see, God never looked over or made excuses for my wrong doing or lousy attitudes, but saw beyond the mistakes and loud talk a heart that longed to find a place of usefulness and peace.
Christ never gave up, even when I wanted to...when I thought I had really botched it and it was all over, He never gave up on me, but saw what I could be.
And so He looked way beyond the junk, through the years and years of messing up, to a time when I would yield.
He saw a heart for His people...He recognized a gift that had to be shared...He heard a word fitly spoken...
He saw me....the real me.
He didn't see me through eyes of shame and blame, but through His Blood.
He saw me.
That is why He gently nudged me along, allowing people to cross my path to bring a word in due season.
Every event in my life has been orchestrated by the Master to bring me to this moment in time...a time when I could willingly follow His guiding hand.
I haven't 'arrived'...I still blow it sometimes, but it is then that I am reminded that His grace is sufficient and He is yet looking beyond my fault and daily making provision.
Falla39
04-19-2007, 07:56 PM
Today I was standing at my workbench thinking about the goodness of the Lord and His mercy that has been manifested time and time again.
As I began to reflect, I thanked Him for looking beyond my fault and not just looking over my fault.
People do that sometimes, especially parents. They will often allow their love for their child to cloud their judgment.
Though I do not have children of my own, I understand this emotion. I have nieces, nephews, and godchildren, whom I love more than I am able to say.
I am sure it is easy to pretend that all is well when it is OUR child. We will appoint and promote, even when it is not the will of God, and for no other reason than we love.
However, when an individual is able to look, not through the eyes of the heart, but through the eyes of the soul and the Spirit, seeing their child as God sees them, that is rare, indeed.
I have been blessed down through the years with family and friends who looked beyond the rubble to see what I could be...to see me as God saw me.
Recognizing this, I have endeavored to extend the same graciousness to others.
You see, God never looked over or made excuses for my wrong doing or lousy attitudes, but saw beyond the mistakes and loud talk a heart that longed to find a place of usefulness and peace.
Christ never gave up, even when I wanted to...when I thought I had really botched it and it was all over, He never gave up on me, but saw what I could be.
And so He looked way beyond the junk, through the years and years of messing up, to a time when I would yield.
He saw a heart for His people...He recognized a gift that had to be shared...He heard a word fitly spoken...
He saw me....the real me.
He didn't see me through eyes of shame and blame, but through His Blood.
He saw me.
That is why He gently nudged me along, allowing people to cross my path to bring a word in due season.
Every event in my life has been orchestrated by the Master to bring me to this moment in time...a time when I could willingly follow His guiding hand.
I haven't 'arrived'...I still blow it sometimes, but it is then that I am reminded that His grace is sufficient and He is yet looking beyond my fault and daily making provision.
Sis. Barb,
This is truly beautiful! I feel this could be many of our testimonies! Have
you heard Bro. Murrell Ewing sing, "He Saw Me"? It is such a wonderful
song, the words really speak to me.
Thank you for your thought provoking post!
Blessings,
Falla39
For the last several hours I have been hearing those words ringing in my spirit...the value of a soul.
Who would dare to put a price tag on that which will live forever?! And yet the Lord asked if a man gained the whole world and lost his OWN soul, what would it profit him...what would he give in exchange for his soul?
The riches and reputation of this world cannot be measured in the same balance with the soul, however, attitudes and opinions, unforgiveness and bitterness, judgmental and ridiculing hearts are displayed at the expense of a soul.
And just what did Christ mean when He said "lose his OWN soul?" Is it just possible that what I say or do I can have an effect on YOUR soul?!
I have often run the course of my life without a thought of my own soul, let alone someone elses, but I am committed in these closing moments of time to treat that which will last forever with the respect it deserves, understanding that it's value is far greater than rubies or diamonds.
I want to guard my heart with all diligence...may I regard yours as highly.
Sis. Barb,
This is truly beautiful! I feel this could be many of our testimonies! Have
you heard Bro. Murrell Ewing sing, "He Saw Me"? It is such a wonderful
song, the words really speak to me.
Thank you for your thought provoking post!
Blessings,
Falla39
Yes and I have the Gaither DVD also where he (Bro. Ewing) sang it...great song!!
Felicity
04-20-2007, 10:29 PM
For the last several hours I have been hearing those words ringing in my spirit...the value of a soul.
Who would dare to put a price tag on that which will live forever?! And yet the Lord asked if a man gained the whole world and lost his OWN soul, what would it profit him...what would he give in exchange for his soul?
The riches and reputation of this world cannot be measured in the same balance with the soul, however, attitudes and opinions, unforgiveness and bitterness, judgmental and ridiculing hearts are displayed at the expense of a soul.
And just what did Christ mean when He said "lose his OWN soul?" Is it just possible that what I say or do I can have an effect on YOUR soul?!
I have often run the course of my life without a thought of my own soul, let alone someone elses, but I am committed in these closing moments of time to treat that which will last forever with the respect it deserves, understanding that it's value is far greater than rubies or diamonds.
I want to guard my heart with all diligence...may I regard yours as highly.Your post brings home the fact that words can be very very cheap.
We say we love God. We say we love the lost. We say we love each other. But like you said ....... "attitudes and opinions, unforgiveness and bitterness, judgmental and ridiculing hearts are displayed at the expense of a soul."
So true. Words are cheap - very. Un-thinking people don't even realize what they're doing and then even worse, on top of the offence, they'll justify it.
More thinking people will stop and give pause and hold their tongues and watch their spirits. They're very aware and conscious of the fact that souls and hearts and spirits are affected by what they say and do and so will take the high road and crucify self or at least lay it down and suffer wrongfully knowing full well and confident that there is a God who watches and sees it all and will pay and repay as He sees fit. HIS judgement is perfect and perfectly righteous.
Jam 1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.
James also said in his letter, chapter 3 and verse 2 .......
For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.
Everything we say and do has a ripple effect. Many people are just so totally uncomprehending. So we pray like Jesus did .......
"Forgive them, for they know not what they do."
Your post brings home the fact that words can be very very cheap.
We say we love God. We say we love the lost. We say we love each other. But like you said ....... "attitudes and opinions, unforgiveness and bitterness, judgmental and ridiculing hearts are displayed at the expense of a soul."
So true. Words are cheap - very. Un-thinking people don't even realize what they're doing and then even worse, on top of the offence, they'll justify it.
More thinking people will stop and give pause and hold their tongues and watch their spirits. They're very aware and conscious of the fact that souls and hearts and spirits are affected by what they say and do and so will take the high road and crucify self or at least lay it down and suffer wrongfully knowing full well and confident that there is a God who watches and sees it all and will pay and repay as He sees fit. HIS judgement is perfect and perfectly righteous.
Jam 1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.
James also said in his letter, chapter 3 and verse 2 .......
For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.
Everything we say and do has a ripple effect. Many people are just so totally uncomprehending. So we pray like Jesus did .......
"Forgive them, for they know not what they do."
This is great, Felicity...thank you...:tiphat
I have been on this word thing for weeks now, trying my best to make sure my conversation and tone, be it in person or online, relative, friend, or stranger is that which is conducive to right Christian behavior.
Not always succeeding and have had to pull back and regroup, but I am working on it...
The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms
(Deuteronomy 33:27).
His promises are sure…
God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent:
hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
Behold, I have received commandment to bless: and he hath blessed; and I cannot reverse it
(Numbers 23:19-20).
There is nothing I can do to reverse what God has ordained for you and neither can you interfere in His will for me. Oh, we can try to and even unwittingly make a shambles of people’s lives and our own with our words or actions. Individuals may move and work in ways which seem to thwart God’s will and block the promise for a time, but they cannot curse you and reverse what Almighty God has commanded for YOU. If God has spoken a promise to you, all of the fires of hell cannot stop it from coming to pass. Keep in mind that the promise is not based on our lack of perfection or what man may think of us. It is based solely on the fact that He is a God of His Word.
Unmovable faith
Faith that cannot be shaken or moved is that which stands even when believing seems like the most ridiculous thing we have ever done. Abraham had faith and obeyed not knowing where he was going (Hebrews 11:8), and when there was nothing visible to cling to…when he didn’t see anything to hope for, he “believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations; according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be” (Romans 4:18). Paul takes this a step further when he states that Abraham “staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief” (v. 20). The Greek reads, “But he did not decide against the promise of God.” Father Abraham did not stagger or stumble over how it looked or seemed or what others may have had to say about it, but being fully persuaded that what God had promised He was able to perform (v. 21), he made a conscious decision to believe God. Standing at the altar of sacrifice, with hand raised to kill his son, God made divine arrangements to fulfill His Word, "that in Isaac shall thy seed be called” (Genesis 21:12).
Ordinary people
God uses ordinary people
He chooses people just like you and me
Who are willing to do as He commands
He chooses people who will give Him their all
No matter how small you're all may seem to you
For little becomes much
When you place it in the Master's hand
Just ordinary people
God uses ordinary people
He chooses people just like you and me
Who are willing to do as He commands
He chooses people who will give Him their all
No matter how small you're all may seem to you
For little becomes much
When you place it in the Master's hand
Just like that little lad who Jesus all He had
How the multitudes were fed
With the fish and the loaves of bread
What you have may not seem much
But when you yield it to the touch
Of the Master's loving hand
Then you'll understand
How you're life could never be the same
Just ordinary people
God uses ordinary people
He chooses people just like you and me
Who are willing to do as He commands
He chooses people who will give Him their all
No matter how small you're all may seem to you
For little becomes much
When you place it in the Master's hand
Go on and give your everything to Jesus
Yes, little becomes much
When you place it in the Master's hand
Hope these words bless someone tonight as they always bless me...
Though men may strive to go beyond the reef of space
To fly beyond the distance shining stars
This world's a room so small within my Master's house
The open sky is but a portion of his yard
As winter's chill may cause the tiny seed to fall
To lie asleep till waked by summer's rain
The heart grown cold will warm and trob with life anew
The Master's touch will bring the glow again
How big is God
How big and wide His vast domain
To try to tell these lips can only start
He's big enough to rule the mighty universe
Yet small enough to live within my heart
He's big enough to rule the mighty universe
Yet small enough to live within my heart
Felicity
04-29-2007, 08:33 PM
So beautiful!!
So beautiful!!
Isn't it though?! I love it...!!:clap
Falla39
05-01-2007, 07:25 PM
Hope these words bless someone tonight as they always bless me...
Though men may strive to go beyond the reef of space
To fly beyond the distance shining stars
This world's a room so small within my Master's house
The open sky is but a portion of his yard
As winter's chill may cause the tiny seed to fall
To lie asleep till waked by summer's rain
The heart grown cold will warm and trob with life anew
The Master's touch will bring the glow again
How big is God
How big and wide His vast domain
To try to tell these lips can only start
He's big enough to rule the mighty universe
Yet small enough to live within my heart
He's big enough to rule the mighty universe
Yet small enough to live within my heart
Sis. Barb,
This is so beautiful it makes tears come to my eyes!!
Tonight I listened to the Collinsworth Family with my 17 yr.
old grandson and my husband. They loved it! I thought of you!
Blessings,
Falla39
Majesty, worship His Majesty
Unto Jesus, be all glory, honor and praise!
Majesty, kingdom authority, flows from His throne
Unto His own, His anthem raise
So exalt, lift up on high the name of Jesus
Magnify, come glorify Christ Jesus the King
Majesty, worship His Majesty
Jesus who died, now glorified,
King of all kings
Jesus who died, now glorified,
King of all kings
Jesus who died, now glorified,
King of all kings!!
Sis. Barb,
This is so beautiful it makes tears come to my eyes!!
Tonight I listened to the Collinsworth Family with my 17 yr.
old grandson and my husband. They loved it! I thought of you!
Blessings,
Falla39
I just saw this, Mother...how sweet of you!!
Kim plays that song I posted, How Big Is God, on one of her music CDs...I keep thinking to order one for you.
I need to get on that...:nod
This is not a Mother's Day post because it is a week early. However, as I was out and about this morning without mom (she was a tad under the weather so I left her hips at home...as we are joined at the hip, you can imagine it was quite uncomfortable for me),:heeheehee I was thinking about mothers.
Having never given birth, I cannot begin to imagine that ordeal, first of all...whew!! Secondly, the emotions involved in motherhood I can't relate to.
But it is a fact that mothers are a different breed. Some are nurturing and warm...some are smothering creatures. Others are aloof and unable to be warm.
Age, and the Lord I must admit, has caused me understand that mothers do the best they can with what they have. They are human and not perfect. They make mistakes in judgment and often err on the side of caution.
But I think most do try to do their best by their children. Their behavior as a parent is based greatly on how they were raised...the kind of mother they had. And a good portion of it is just their emotional makeup...in other words, some cannot give more because they don't know how or simply cannot.
I thank God for the woman who pushed me out into the world on December 8, 1951. It hasn't always been easy for either one of us...I have not always been the adorable person you all know and love today. To be honest, we have not always been close or gotten along well, but thank God for helping us to work it out.
Jesus thought enough of His own Mother that one of the last things He did in this life was intrust her care into the hands of a friend. How important it is to make sure that our mothers are provided and cared for.
So in this time of remembering, let us take the time to be grateful for the one who cried and moaned and travailed so that we could see the light of day.
I'm grateful...:nod
Falla39
05-05-2007, 11:56 AM
This is not a Mother's Day post because it is a week early. However, as I was out and about this morning without mom (she was a tad under the weather so I left her hips at home...as we are joined at the hip, you can imagine it was quite uncomfortable for me),:heeheehee I was thinking about mothers.
Having never given birth, I cannot begin to imagine that ordeal, first of all...whew!! Secondly, the emotions involved in motherhood I can't relate to.
But it is a fact that mothers are a different breed. Some are nurturing and warm...some are smothering creatures. Others are aloof and unable to be warm.
Age, and the Lord I must admit, has caused me understand that mothers do the best they can with what they have. They are human and not perfect. They make mistakes in judgment and often err on the side of caution.
But I think most do try to do their best by their children. Their behavior as a parent is based greatly on how they were raised...the kind of mother they had. And a good portion of it is just their emotional makeup...in other words, some cannot give more because they don't know how or simply cannot.
I thank God for the woman who pushed me out into the world on December 8, 1951. It hasn't always been easy for either one of us...I have not always been the adorable person you all know and love today. To be honest, we have not always been close or gotten along well, but thank God for helping us to work it out.
Jesus thought enough of His own Mother that one of the last things He did in this life was intrust her care into the hands of a friend. How important it is to make sure that our mothers are provided and cared for.
So in this time of remembering, let us take the time to be grateful for the one who cried and moaned and travailed so that we could see the light of day.
I'm grateful...:nod
Sis. Barb,
Good insightful thoughts indeed!! Blessings on you and your sweet mother,
in Jesus Name!!
Falla39
It's not unusual for the mind to wander and to half listen...happens to me all the time.
Sometimes my concentration level is not where it should be. You know how it is...someone is telling you something and in the middle, your thoughts are running somewhere else or you're thinking about what you're going to say in response.
I don't think I'm unique in this...we just don't listen.
The Elder who preached at our church today briefly mentioned this. He gave an example of not listening...he said that he and his wife were at dinner with her family the other day and he tried this experiment.
He said, "Imagine you are driving a bus and you go about a quarter of a mile and pick up 3 children. You drive another 4 blocks and pick up 2 more...go another 6 blocks and pick up 4 kids, and finally drive another mile and drop off 5 children.
What is the bus driver's first name?"
No one could answer...Bro. Bertram said, "See, you weren't listening...I began, 'Imagine YOU are driving...' You don't listen!!"
When I came home tonight I began to think how this is true with me and with spiritual matters. How often have I missed an important point in a sermon because I was thinking of something else?! Or what wonderful lyrics did I miss because I didn't care for the melody?!
Where is my mind and why am I not listening?!
Sis. Nona Freeman cited this incident in one of her books. It is a conversation with a dying Saint...
A casual observer would have thought me a real Christian. I went through the motions knowing the right things to do and say, but my heart was not in it. I carefully did all the pastor expected but while my lips voiced meaningless praise words, my mind toyed with every conceivable fantasy.
Real worship is a concert from the heart, soul, and mind. I went through the actions of singing, testifying, praying, and listening to messages while in my mind I cut out a new dress, planted flowers, painted the kitchen, visited friends and relations, or went shopping with limitless funds.
Oh, my friend...if only I could go back one more time and sing one of those lovely old songs about the Blood of Jesus. I would picture the cross and praise Him with deep gratitude for the precious flow that redeemed me.
When the leader said, 'Let everyone pray', how fervently I would lift my voice to the King. When the preacher opened the Word, I would follow him in my Bible, make notes, and allow the living Truth to nourish my soul. I would have real concern and compassion for a lost world, and do something about it, if I could.
But it's over and done...my chance is forever gone. The dear Lord has assured me He’ll take me to His house, but I go with empty hands.
Her final words to Sister Freeman were, “Whenever you think of me, warn others to be real, to serve God from the heart, and not to waste the precious fleeting moments.”
I had all but forgotten this testimony until I heard the Elder today. May I forever after remember to draw in the reins of my mind and keep my attention stayed on Him.
It is only when I do that I can hear the still small voice compelling me and drawing me closer...closer to Him!!
Falla39
05-07-2007, 08:39 AM
It's not unusual for the mind to wander and to half listen...happens to me all the time.
Sometimes my concentration level is not where it should be. You know how it is...someone is telling you something and in the middle, your thoughts are running somewhere else or you're thinking about what you're going to say in response.
I don't think I'm unique in this...we just don't listen.
The Elder who preached at our church today briefly mentioned this. He gave an example of not listening...he said that he and his wife were at dinner with her family the other day and he tried this experiment.
He said, "Imagine you are driving a bus and you go about a quarter of a mile and pick up 3 children. You drive another 4 blocks and pick up 2 more...go another 6 blocks and pick up 4 kids, and finally drive another mile and drop off 5 children.
What is the bus driver's first name?"
No one could answer...Bro. Bertram said, "See, you weren't listening...I began, 'Imagine YOU are driving...' You don't listen!!"
When I came home tonight I began to think how this is true with me and with spiritual matters. How often have I missed an important point in a sermon because I was thinking of something else?! Or what wonderful lyrics did I miss because I didn't care for the melody?!
Where is my mind and why am I not listening?!
Sis. Nona Freeman cited this incident in one of her books. It is a conversation with a dying Saint...
A casual observer would have thought me a real Christian. I went through the motions knowing the right things to do and say, but my heart was not in it. I carefully did all the pastor expected but while my lips voiced meaningless praise words, my mind toyed with every conceivable fantasy.
Real worship is a concert from the heart, soul, and mind. I went through the actions of singing, testifying, praying, and listening to messages while in my mind I cut out a new dress, planted flowers, painted the kitchen, visited friends and relations, or went shopping with limitless funds.
Oh, my friend...if only I could go back one more time and sing one of those lovely old songs about the Blood of Jesus. I would picture the cross and praise Him with deep gratitude for the precious flow that redeemed me.
When the leader said, 'Let everyone pray', how fervently I would lift my voice to the King. When the preacher opened the Word, I would follow him in my Bible, make notes, and allow the living Truth to nourish my soul. I would have real concern and compassion for a lost world, and do something about it, if I could.
But it's over and done...my chance is forever gone. The dear Lord has assured me He’ll take me to His house, but I go with empty hands.
Her final words to Sister Freeman were, “Whenever you think of me, warn others to be real, to serve God from the heart, and not to waste the precious fleeting moments.”
I had all but forgotten this testimony until I heard the Elder today. May I forever after remember to draw in the reins of my mind and keep my attention stayed on Him.
It is only when I do that I can hear the still small voice compelling me and drawing me closer...closer to Him!!
Sis. Barb,
This is not only a wonderful insightful post but a very challenging one as
well. Sis. Freeman has also inspired me many times with her special gift of
presenting and challenging us with her testimonies and the Word of God!
As a young wife and mother, I was stirred when she and Bro. Freeman
would come for special missionary services. Through the years as she
spoke at campmeetings, ladies conferences or just as a special speaker
at a dedication service or revival, the words always seemed to speak to
the depts of my soul!
It was my priviledge to attend her 90th birthday party with our three
daughters. She recently told our youngest daughter she was looking
forward to her 91st and had asked God to allow her to go to Africa one
more time. The plans are for her to atttend the dedication of a new
church building in honor of her late mother, Sis. Carrie Eastridge. Sis.
Eastridge went to Africa in later years of her life as she wanted to help
in the work of the Lord. She built a small church but it is now outgrown.
They have built a new church in her honor and Sis. Freeman plans to still
be in Africa on her birthday and Lord willing, will attend this dedication,
possibly taking part, if not dedicating it. May the Lord Jesus give Sis.
Nona Freeman the desire of her heart as it certainly appears she had
delighted herself in the LORD!
Blessings,
Falla39
Sis. Barb,
This is not only a wonderful insightful post but a very challenging one as
well. Sis. Freeman has also inspired me many times with her special gift of
presenting and challenging us with her testimonies and the Word of God!
As a young wife and mother, I was stirred when she and Bro. Freeman
would come for special missionary services. Through the years as she
spoke at campmeetings, ladies conferences or just as a special speaker
at a dedication service or revival, the words always seemed to speak to
the depts of my soul!
It was my priviledge to attend her 90th birthday party with our three
daughters. She recently told our youngest daughter she was looking
forward to her 91st and had asked God to allow her to go to Africa one
more time. The plans are for her to atttend the dedication of a new
church building in honor of her late mother, Sis. Carrie Eastridge. Sis.
Eastridge went to Africa in later years of her life as she wanted to help
in the work of the Lord. She built a small church but it is now outgrown.
They have built a new church in her honor and Sis. Freeman plans to still
be in Africa on her birthday and Lord willing, will attend this dedication,
possibly taking part, if not dedicating it. May the Lord Jesus give Sis.
Nona Freeman the desire of her heart as it certainly appears she had
delighted herself in the LORD!
Blessings,
Falla39
Bless you, Mother Falla...
I have been singing this most of the afternoon...
I've had my share of life's ups and downs
God's been good to me, and the downs have been few
I guess you can say, God has blessed me
For there's never been a time in my life
He didn't bring me through
If anyone should ever write, my life story
For whatever reason there might be
He'll be there, between each line of pain and glory
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened...
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened...
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened to me
If anyone should ever write, my life story
For whatever reason there might be
One day, I was lost but Jesus found me
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened...
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened...
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened to me
If anyone should ever write, my life story
For whatever reason there might be
I was on my way to hell, but Jesus lifted me
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened...
Oh, Jesus is the best thing that ever happened...
Church, Jesus is the best thing that ever happened to me
Family and friends can love us and be there in the really hard and difficult times. But regardless of what comes or goes, Jesus is STILL the best thing that ever happened to me!!
He removes all doubt...speaks peace as no one else can...lifts the heart...heals the wounded and broken in spirit...truly Jesus is the best thing that ever happened to me!!:clap
Falla39
05-10-2007, 04:44 PM
I have been singing this most of the afternoon...
I've had my share of life's ups and downs
God's been good to me, and the downs have been few
I guess you can say, God has blessed me
For there's never been a time in my life
He didn't bring me through
If anyone should ever write, my life story
For whatever reason there might be
He'll be there, between each line of pain and glory
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened...
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened...
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened to me
If anyone should ever write, my life story
For whatever reason there might be
One day, I was lost but Jesus found me
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened...
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened...
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened to me
If anyone should ever write, my life story
For whatever reason there might be
I was on my way to hell, but Jesus lifted me
Jesus is the best thing that ever happened...
Oh, Jesus is the best thing that ever happened...
Church, Jesus is the best thing that ever happened to me
Family and friends can love us and be there in the really hard and difficult times. But regardless of what comes or goes, Jesus is STILL the best thing that ever happened to me!!
He removes all doubt...speaks peace as no one else can...lifts the heart...heals the wounded and broken in spirit...truly Jesus is the best thing that ever happened to me!!:clap
Sis. Barb,
Truer words were never written! No doubt many on this forum could
testify to that truth! Thank you for these words of encouragement!
Blessings,
Falla39
I don't normally do this, but I was checking out the various translations/interpretations of Proverbs 25:11...
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
KJV
Timely advice is as lovely as gold apples in a silver basket.
TLB
A word fitly spoken and in due season is like apples of gold in settings of silver.
AMP
An idea well-expressed is like a design of gold, set in silver.
Today's English Version
Words that are fitly spoken in due season...advice that is timely...ideas that are well expressed are like the beauty and freshness of an apple in precious silver.:clap
Without question we can say, or should be able to say that it is the Word of God which directly ministers to our souls. While many things can and do feed our spirits, it is the Holy and inspired Scriptures which bring healing and strength, restoration and renewal, salvation and life.
However, it is in song that God will often deal with this heart as well, and the last two days have been no different.
These words have ministered to me like nothing else has of late...may they bless someone tonight...
Savior, lead me, lest I stray
Gently lead me all the way
I am safe when by Thy side
I would in Thy love abide
All I want you to do is Lead me
Lead me
Savior, lead me lest I stray
Gently down the stream of time
Lead me, Savior, all the way
Falla39
05-17-2007, 08:15 PM
Without question we can say, or should be able to say that it is the Word of God which directly ministers to our souls. While many things can and do feed our spirits, it is the Holy and inspired Scriptures which bring healing and strength, restoration and renewal, salvation and life.
However, it is in song that God will often deal with this heart as well, and the last two days have been no different.
These words have ministered to me like nothing else has of late...may they bless someone tonight...
Savior, lead me, lest I stray
Gently lead me all the way
I am safe when by Thy side
I would in Thy love abide
All I want you to do is Lead me
Lead me
Savior, lead me lest I stray
Gently down the stream of time
Lead me, Savior, all the way
Nothing like sweet communion with the Master!!
Blessings,
Falla39
There is a saying that the will of God will not take you where the grace of God cannot keep you.
I am so glad to know that it is not just a religious catch-phrase but a fact.
God works and moves in a realm that many of us cannot fully comprehend, but one thing we can count on...it is always pure and right and holy and true.
The will of God will never lead us into deception.
The will of God will never lead us away from righteousness but always to righteousness.
The will of God is not some elusive dream...something that is always just out of our reach.
The will of God was set from the beginning of time.
That will called us out of darkness and into His marvelous Light.
It is a powerful thing. It has kept us when the flesh didn't want to be kept. In spite of circumstance and trial...in spite of our own self will, God's perfect and divine will has been that we would walk in the newness of life, holy and upright before Him.
Every experience, whether good or bad, has been for our making. And so it is that His will has a way of bringing us...leading us into the place where we can be productive and fulfill His plan.
All He asks is for a willing vessel...He's looking for a heart that desires to submit to His will where ever it make take us.
And so I say tonight, here am I...send me!!
Nothing like sweet communion with the Master!!
Blessings,
Falla39
Amen, Mother Falla...this song is burning in my inner beings tonight...
I want to be more like you, Jesus
I want to be more like you
I want to be a vessel you work through
I want to be more like you
Oh, I want to be a vessel you work through
I want to be more like you
There are people I admire, and even at this age and stage of my life have thought, "When I grow up, I want to be like them!!"
The reality of life is simply that one may try to imitate and emulate, but we can never truly be like anyone...nor should we desire to.
The One we should most desire to be like is Jesus Christ...in Him we find completeness...everything we need is in Him.
Amen, Mother Falla...this song is burning in my inner beings tonight...
I want to be more like you, Jesus
I want to be more like you
I want to be a vessel you work through
I want to be more like you
Oh, I want to be a vessel you work through
I want to be more like you
There are people I admire, and even at this age and stage of my life have thought, "When I grow up, I want to be like them!!"
The reality of life is simply that one may try to imitate and emulate, but we can never truly be like anyone...nor should we desire to.
The One we should most desire to be like is Jesus Christ...in Him we find completeness...everything we need is in Him.
This song is still burnng...been singin it all day...
I want to be more like you, Jesus
I want to be more like you
I want to be a vessel you work through
I want to be more like you
Oh, I want to be a vessel you work through
I want to be more like you
Thank God for the help and comfort there is in the Sanctuary!! In the midst of the storm, these words blessed me today...
Hallelujah, He's a prayer answering God
Hallelujah, He's a prayer answering God
Oh, when we prayed in Jesus
The answer always came
Hallelujah, He's a prayer answering God
And then I rejoiced with this...
Lord, you're worthy of my highest praise
Lord, you're worthy now and for always
Your goodness and your mercy causes me to say
Lord, you're worthy of my highest praise
Oh, your goodness and your mercy causes me to say
Lord, your worthy of my highest praise
Thank God for the Sanctuary!!!
Falla39
06-03-2007, 09:00 PM
Thank God for the help and comfort there is in the Sanctuary!! In the midst of the storm, these words blessed me today...
Hallelujah, He's a prayer answering God
Hallelujah, He's a prayer answering God
Oh, when we prayed in Jesus
The answer always came
Hallelujah, He's a prayer answering God
And then I rejoiced with this...
Lord, you're worthy of my highest praise
Lord, you're worthy now and for always
Your goodness and your mercy causes me to say
Lord, you're worthy of my highest praise
Oh, your goodness and your mercy causes me to say
Lord, your worthy of my highest praise
Thank God for the Sanctuary!!!
Awesome, Sis. Barb!
We sing this part a little different:
When we prayed in Jesus Name,
then by faith the answer came,
Blessings,
Falla39
SoCalUltraConservative
06-04-2007, 05:40 PM
test
Falla39
06-05-2007, 12:36 PM
test
test??
Blessings,
Falla39
test??
Blessings,
Falla39
Don't know what the SoCalUltrCon was testing, but you know, Mother Falla, some of the things we get so bent out of shape over are simply that...just a test.
I heard someone say many years ago that the true measure of a man or woman is how much it takes to get their goat.
Sadly I confess that I have not always passed my tests with flying colors. And as it was in school when I was a young'un, so it is in the classroom of life...if I fail, I am destined to repeat the test until I pass...or drop out of life altogether, and who wants to do that!!
So life is working at suceeding in passing the tests that come our way, remembering that we have a 'cheat sheet', for the Word of God gives us the answers to all of life's problems.
I can't speak for anyone else, but I am tired of going around the same mountain and looking at the same test as I faced a month a ago. The answers should be clear to me by now.
It is time to get it right. Time is winding down and the opportunity to keep on getting after it is almost spent.
If I am EVER going to get it right, the time is NOW!!
Falla39
06-14-2007, 07:56 PM
Don't know what the SoCalUltrCon was testing, but you know, Mother Falla, some of the things we get so bent out of shape over are simply that...just a test.
I heard someone say many years ago that the true measure of a man or woman is how much it takes to get their goat.
Sadly I confess that I have not always passed my tests with flying colors. And as it was in school when I was a young'un, so it is in the classroom of life...if I fail, I am destined to repeat the test until I pass...or drop out of life altogether, and who wants to do that!!
So life is working at suceeding in passing the tests that come our way, remembering that we have a 'cheat sheet', for the Word of God gives us the answers to all of life's problems.
I can't speak for anyone else, but I am tired of going around the same mountain and looking at the same test as I faced a month a ago. The answers should be clear to me by now.
It is time to get it right. Time is winding down and the opportunity to keep on getting after it is almost spent.
If I am EVER going to get it right, the time is NOW!!
Sis. Barb,
Didn't see this until now but these are some very good thoughts.
Several years ago I felt something speaking to me, "You've compassed this
mountain long enough, turn northward". I had no idea what it was speaking
of, but I kept seeking God for the meaning. Looking at the word "north" in a
Bible dictionary, I saw it meant "higher" or "upward". It was so neat how the
Lord ministered to me as I sought His Face more and more. That experi-
ence was very good and along with other experiences, I have endeavored
to keeping moving "northward" or "higher" in Him. Upward!
Deuteronomy 2:3
Context
NET © “You have circled around this mountain long enough; now turn north.
NIV ©
biblegateway Deu 2:3
"You have made your way around this hill country long enough; now turn north.
NASB ©
biblegateway Deu 2:3
?You have circled this mountain long enough. Now turn north,
NLT ©
biblegateway Deu 2:3
?You have been wandering around in this hill country long enough; turn northward.
MSG ©
biblegateway Deu 2:3
"You've been going around in circles in these hills long enough; go north.
BBE ©
SABDAweb Deu 2:3
You have been journeying round this mountain long enough: now go to the north;
NRSV ©
bibleoremusDeu 2:3
"You have been skirting this hill country long enough. Head north,
NKJV ©
biblegateway Deu 2:3
?You have skirted this mountain long enough; turn northward.
KJV Ye have compassed
<05437> (8800)this mountain
<02022>long enough
<07227>_:turn
<06437> (8798)you northward
<06828>_.
Blessings,.
Falla39
Sis. Barb,
Didn't see this until now but these are some very good thoughts.
Several years ago I felt something speaking to me, "You've compassed this
mountain long enough, turn northward". I had no idea what it was speaking
of, but I kept seeking God for the meaning. Looking at the word "north" in a
Bible dictionary, I saw it meant "higher" or "upward". It was so neat how the
Lord ministered to me as I sought His Face more and more. That experi-
ence was very good and along with other experiences, I have endeavored
to keeping moving "northward" or "higher" in Him. Upward!
Deuteronomy 2:3
Context
NET © “You have circled around this mountain long enough; now turn north.
NIV ©
biblegateway Deu 2:3
"You have made your way around this hill country long enough; now turn north.
NASB ©
biblegateway Deu 2:3
?You have circled this mountain long enough. Now turn north,
NLT ©
biblegateway Deu 2:3
?You have been wandering around in this hill country long enough; turn northward.
MSG ©
biblegateway Deu 2:3
"You've been going around in circles in these hills long enough; go north.
BBE ©
SABDAweb Deu 2:3
You have been journeying round this mountain long enough: now go to the north;
NRSV ©
bibleoremusDeu 2:3
"You have been skirting this hill country long enough. Head north,
NKJV ©
biblegateway Deu 2:3
?You have skirted this mountain long enough; turn northward.
KJV Ye have compassed
<05437> (8800)this mountain
<02022>long enough
<07227>_:turn
<06437> (8798)you northward
<06828>_.
Blessings,.
Falla39
Good post, Mother Falla...:)
"The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks;"
(Proverbs 30:26).
The coney is an animal kin to a rabbit, but is clumsier and cannot run like one. Unable to swiftly run from predators, the coney makes his home in the rocks.
It will find a break in the mountain side, and instead of burrowing in as one would dig a hole, the coney backs his way in...pressing and maneuvering it's way until it is well away from the opening.
By doing so, the coney is protected from the mountain lion or coyote because they are too large to get through the opening in the rock. They can't reach in with their paws and grab him because he has positioned himself against the rock.
The Bible states that the coney is wise...feeble, yet wise. It realizes that it has limitations, but knows enough to use what it has to an advantage.
When the storms and trials of everyday living come, and they will as surely as I am sitting here typing this, we have a way of escape. Jesus Christ is our ever present help...our cleft in the rock.
The Scripture states that God will hide us in His pavilion, but I think there are times that we must hide in Him. Sometimes we have to make a conscious decision to press our way into His presence...hiding, not in fear but with assurance that He sees and knows all and has our best interest at heart...not concerned so much with who we are, but where we are postioned.
"The high hills are a refuge for the wild goats; and the rocks for the conies" (Psa. 104:18).
May we all learn to be as wise as the coney and hide in the cleft of the Rock.
It is not an easy thing when the storms of life come against our world and it seems to come crashing down. We fuss and fume, cry and moan, vowing to never allow ourselves to be hurt like that again.
But in the midst of the rain and the storm, the loving hands of the Master have already prepared the rainbow. We can't see it for the dark clouds, but it is there nonetheless, waiting to break forth.
When it does, the beauty of the bow illuminates our world once again, making the memory of the storm a faint one.
God ordained that it be so in order that we be healed and whole.
He lets the rain fall and the thunder roll for just so long, and then He says, "Peace be still!!"
It is all for our making...the clouds and the rain...the thunder and the lightning...the dreariness of the storm...it is all so that we might see the brightness of the rainbow.
What a comfort it is to know that the storm won't rage always!!
How refreshing it is when the sun begins to shine on our lives and we once again feel the warmth it brings!!
It is the Lord's doing...
Falla39
06-29-2007, 05:14 PM
It is not an easy thing when the storms of life come against our world and it seems to come crashing down. We fuss and fume, cry and moan, vowing to never allow ourselves to be hurt like that again.
But in the midst of the rain and the storm, the loving hands of the Master have already prepared the rainbow. We can't see it for the dark clouds, but it is there nonetheless, waiting to break forth.
When it does, the beauty of the bow illuminates our world once again, making the memory of the storm a faint one.
God ordained that it be so in order that we be healed and whole.
He lets the rain fall and the thunder roll for just so long, and then He says, "Peace be still!!"
It is all for our making...the clouds and the rain...the thunder and the lightning...the dreariness of the storm...it is all so that we might see the brightness of the rainbow.
What a comfort it is to know that the storm won't rage always!!
How refreshing it is when the sun begins to shine on our lives and we once again feel the warmth it brings!!
It is the Lord's doing...
Sis. Barb,
This is beautiful! So comforting, yes, Just to know that our God has
his way in the storms of life and He does not allow them to last forever!
And He knows right where we are in the storm. He is the One who com-
forts us in time of storm and calms the troubled waters of our souls which
can be very troubling, except we know His promises are true.
Blessings,
Falla39
Sis. Barb,
This is beautiful! So comforting, yes, Just to know that our God has
his way in the storms of life and He does not allow them to last forever!
And He knows right where we are in the storm. He is the One who com-
forts us in time of storm and calms the troubled waters of our souls which
can be very troubling, except we know His promises are true.
Blessings,
Falla39
Yes indeed, Mother Falla...it is in recognizing that God is there, in the good times and in the bad, that we are able to see victory.
For those who are numbered with the Body of Christ, one would think that speaking in a manner as becometh Christians would be a given...alas, it is not.
While this is an Apostolic forum and we feel a certain freedom we might not otherwise take with those outside the ark of safety, there ought to be a level of thoughtfulness and respect that comes with this.
It cannot be enough that words are accompanied by a smilie or a TIC clarification...if in rereading a post before I hit submit, I know in advance it is too hard, or if the verbiage is too 'out there', it should give me pause.
I posted this the other day on Sherri's thread re the new building...
...opinions are great, and like noses, we all have them. I mean no disrespect here to anyone, but when can we EVER just be encouraging and hold back a little, ya know?!
I mean, if you wore a dress I wouldn't be caught dead in, is it a good move for me to say, "Girl, I'd never wear that!!"
Can we ever just find something nice to say?! *sigh*
This does not mean we must keep silent when we see injustice, or zip our lip over false doctrine or heresy, or that we let folks ride on to hell and not try to show them a better way. But there should be behind our words a layer of concern and love for the soul that can be seen by the 'hearer'.
That is the problem with discussion boards, IMs and emails...we can't really hear the voice and discern the heart. Often much is mistaken and misunderstood because we hastily post or turn a phrase to make a point.
I'm sure WH didn't mean to come off as he did...I am certain Dan didn't mean to be unfeeling and distasteful in his analogy, but these things happen when we don't take the time to carefully weigh what we are saying and how it will come across.
The responsibility for posting in words seasoned with grace belongs not just to the con or lib, but to each of us individually. Me...Barb...I must take responsibility for how I appear to others. I can say that it doesn't matter, but it does, for I am going to have to give an account for EVERY idle word.
See, I can't answer to God for anyone but me. He's not going to ask me why someone posted the way they did...He is going to question my reaction to their actions.
This is SO important, and I fear these few words today don't even come close to describing how important it is.
May heaven help us to remember who we are and Whose we are. I am not the Church alone, nor are you. Together we represent the Body of Christ. We have much to learn from each other, but if were damning to yon lower regions at every turn and ridiculing because we think we can, who will be edified?! Who will learn and mature in the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ?!
I don't know it all and I don't have it all...I want more and more and more of God, and if you have something to share that will enable me to get there, please do not withhold. I promise to do the same.
But let us all remember that presentation is everything...
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me...
I can imagine the twins, known as Goodness and Mercy, running close behind, right on my heels, present at my every move.
I don't have to seek for them or plead for them or wonder if they are there...if I have the Holy Ghost abiding within, the fruit of this is goodness and mercy.
If it were not for goodness and mercy, I could never comprehend the extent of grace.
Goodness says, "Though you are guilty, I can forgive/heal/restore"...mercy says, "In spite of it all, I will!!"
Grace that follows doesn't overlook my error, but reaches beyond my imperfections and mistakes and gives me another chance...a chance to find His will and get it right.
That's why I have been playing and singing this song...
I need your mercy...I need your grace
I need your hand leading the way
Can't make it without you...not for one day
I need your mercy...I need your grace
Surely goodness and mercy shall me all my life
I know I can make it with you by my side
I need your mercy...I need your grace
I need your hand leading the way
Can't make it without you...not for one day
I need your mercy...I need your grace
Pressing-On
07-13-2007, 02:56 PM
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me...
I can imagine the twins, known as Goodness and Mercy, running close behind, right on my heels, present at my every move.
I don't have to seek for them or plead for them or wonder if they are there...if I have the Holy Ghost abiding within, the fruit of this is goodness and mercy.
If it were not for goodness and mercy, I could never comprehend the extent of grace.
Goodness says, "Though you are guilty, I can forgive/heal/restore"...mercy says, "In spite of it all, I will!!"
Grace that follows doesn't overlook my error, but reaches beyond my imperfections and mistakes and gives me another chance...a chance to find His will and get it right.
That's why I have been playing and singing this song...
I need your mercy...I need your grace
I need your hand leading the way
Can't make it without you...not for one day
I need your mercy...I need your grace
Surely goodness and mercy shall me all my life
I know I can make it with you by my side
I need your mercy...I need your grace
I need your hand leading the way
Can't make it without you...not for one day
I need your mercy...I need your grace
Excellent, Barb!!!!!! That's it!
Excellent, Barb!!!!!! That's it!
Thank you, PO, but though we write about it and preach and sing about it, I question whether any of us can truly comprehend the importance of goodness, mercy and grace...I know I can't.
The depth of love that spans human reasoning in preparing a body, coming to a realm of confusion and suffering, allowing yourself to endure pain of body and mind beyond description, shedding life's blood and dying...and for what reason?!
For no other reason than He loved...
He didn't have to do it...He was guilty of nothing. He could have said that because the wages of sin is death, then death it shall be.
But He chose in His goodness to extend mercy that was undeserved and granted grace from judgment that was just...we are guilty as charged.
And still we don't get it when it comes to understanding His love...I know I don't.
Pressing-On
07-14-2007, 12:03 PM
Thank you, PO, but though we write about it and preach and sing about it, I question whether any of us can truly comprehend the importance of goodness, mercy and grace...I know I can't.
The depth of love that spans human reasoning in preparing a body, coming to a realm of confusion and suffering, allowing yourself to endure pain of body and mind beyond description, shedding life's blood and dying...and for what reason?!
For no other reason than He loved...
He didn't have to do it...He was guilty of nothing. He could have said that because the wages of sin is death, then death it shall be.
But He chose in His goodness to extend mercy that was undeserved and granted grace from judgment that was just...we are guilty as charged.
And still we don't get it when it comes to understanding His love...I know I don't.
I think we understand it better when it's extended toward us during a time of testing and trial. I don't think we could actually understand it without experiencing it.
I think we understand it better when it's extended toward us during a time of testing and trial. I don't think we could actually understand it without experiencing it.
Perhaps this is so...I know I feel it more then.
I will go before thee,
and make the crooked places straight:
I will break in pieces the gates of brass,
and cut in sunder the bars of iron:
And I will give thee the treasures of darkness,
and hidden riches of secret places,
that thou mayest know that I, the LORD,
which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel
(Isaiah 45:2-3).
What a tremendous thought that the Lord of glory not only knows us by name, but calls us by our name.
He calls us away from our own wants and desires, drawing us unto Himself...going before us, guiding our path and making the crooked path straight.
God does what no one else can, speaking what no one else dares to utter, with a gentle voice that brings healing and deliverance and peace and victory.
What a loving God we serve...!!
We take great pride in teaching our children to count, recite the alphabet, not to talk to strangers, or cheat, say please and thank you...the list is endless. While all of these things are necessary for successful existence on this planet, they are not assurances of everlasting life. It is vital that we show them the Way.
The best time to teach a person anything is when they are young. For example, after an individual is grown, or after they THINK they are grown, it is too late to try to teach them to respect authority. If all of their lives they have been allowed to act as they please and say whatever pops into their little heads, it is much too late when they are fifteen years old to demand respect...we won't get it. So when they get into major trouble, and they will, we can’t blame the school system or the Church for not training them to respect God, family, country, and mankind. The most effective training will come from us.
This training begins with a desire to teach it. As eagerly as we approach every other subject, we must desire to teach our children, and more so as we see the day approaching.
One of my brothers describes it as “the eagle and buzzard mentality.” Just think about it...eagles build their nests in the tallest trees, and on the highest mountain peaks. Their young are birthed in the clouds and trained to soar.
The experts tell us that an eagle will remain under their young when they are learning to fly, just in case they are not strong and fall to the ground. From the high places the mother eagle is able to see for miles, detecting danger before it comes near the nest (Deuteronomy 32:11; Job 39:27-30). We allude to this when we say that someone has an “eagle eye,” meaning they have a keen ability to watch and observe; sharp vision, maintaining a keen watchfulness.
The parent with the desire for an “eagle mentality” will bear their children up on their wings while there is life...in other words, when they are young and have not become entangled with error and rebellion.
The ‘eagle’ will not resist correction but will train their kids in the Way. The ‘eagle-eyed’ parent watches where the children go, who they go with, and what they listen to. They are protective of their offspring, and keep them from the dangers (false doctrine) of this world.
The opposite of the eagle is the buzzard. Putting it simply, buzzards are unclean birds which hover low to the ground seeking that which is dead. The buzzard will never reach great heights because their focus is on rotting flesh. They like the look, smell, feel, and taste of death.
“The buzzard mentality” is a lazy, laid-back ideology. They never learned to excel in the Spirit, thus are unable to lift their children to higher ground. Buzzards only eat dead meat, which explains why some folks follow after dead teaching. Their children eat from the same garbage heap, and refuse to eat anything else. At the sign of spiritual death and destruction, the ‘buzzard’ finally swoops down, hooking the eaglet in his grasp.
The parent with this attitude becomes attentive only after their child has developed the same spiritual indifference. They cry for help, but the kid has heard so much negativity that they are not even interested in anything connected with the Church, and the parent wonders “why?”.
The interesting thing in all of this...the eagle, buzzard, hawk, and vulture are the same specie of bird. In other words, though they are in the same family, one has learned to fly, while the other is content to hover.
Though the bird doesn’t have a choice (he just does what comes naturally), we can choose to stay close to the ground where corruption abounds, or we can choose to soar in the realm of the Spirit, taking our kids as we go.
As we think about the alternative, do we really have a choice?!
This is something I posted this morning at GNC and thought to drop her in my blog...i pray it blesses someone today...
The time is long past that we understand the power of speaking in a manner as becometh holiness.
We are the Church of the living God. When we bite and devour each other...when our comments here or in the real world are so short and callous that we leave the hearer thinking we hated conversing with them...when we treat one another in such a common and everyday manner, can the abiding Spirit be pleased?!
We should ask ourselves, will the words I speak edify today or destroy?!
Is what I am saying or posting something I would like to hear from another or would I be hurt and embarrassed to receive them?!
What is my motive for what I am saying...is it to dig at and cut or bring reconciliation?!
When I am called on to bring a word of correction, is it in an accusing manner or are my words administered in godly love?!
As we have opportunity, let us speak words which will edify and bring healing...speaking words seasoned with grace in the bonds of peace.
It is not love to say that we forgive and love while in the next breath we are digging again at the sore point. I have used this illustration so often, but it is like the man who beats his wife and then says, "I love you baby!!" And a while later he pops her a good one again, and says, "But I didn't meant it...I love you baby!!" And then again and again...
That is not real love...that is perverted love!! With the Saints of the Most High this should not be.
We have no way of knowing a person's sitiuation...today someone may be at the literal end of their rope. Will what we say set them further over the edge or will we pull them back with our love and encouragement?!
Some things to think about...
mizpeh
07-23-2007, 10:57 AM
Court Order!
You have been accused of bombarding God with prayers! You are hereby sentenced to Long Life & Prosperity, No bail, No Appeal. You have been labeled Blessed and hereby detained in God's custody forever, Amen. You have been destined to make it and you shall surely achieve all your goals this year.
Sorrow looks back, worry looks around, but FAITH looks up.
Lord, grant me patience to endure my blessing......
When the devil comes knocking at your door, simply say...
"Jesus, could you get that for me please"?
IT IS NOT OVER YET SO DON"T GIVE UP!!
Court Order!
You have been accused of bombarding God with prayers! You are hereby sentenced to Long Life & Prosperity, No bail, No Appeal. You have been labeled Blessed and hereby detained in God's custody forever, Amen. You have been destined to make it and you shall surely achieve all your goals this year.
Sorrow looks back, worry looks around, but FAITH looks up.
Lord, grant me patience to endure my blessing......
When the devil comes knocking at your door, simply say...
"Jesus, could you get that for me please"?
IT IS NOT OVER YET SO DON"T GIVE UP!!
Thank you for this...
Falla39
07-24-2007, 08:12 AM
We take great pride in teaching our children to count, recite the alphabet, not to talk to strangers, or cheat, say please and thank you...the list is endless. While all of these things are necessary for successful existence on this planet, they are not assurances of everlasting life. It is vital that we show them the Way.
The best time to teach a person anything is when they are young. For example, after an individual is grown, or after they THINK they are grown, it is too late to try to teach them to respect authority. If all of their lives they have been allowed to act as they please and say whatever pops into their little heads, it is much too late when they are fifteen years old to demand respect...we won't get it. So when they get into major trouble, and they will, we can’t blame the school system or the Church for not training them to respect God, family, country, and mankind. The most effective training will come from us.
This training begins with a desire to teach it. As eagerly as we approach every other subject, we must desire to teach our children, and more so as we see the day approaching.
One of my brothers describes it as “the eagle and buzzard mentality.” Just think about it...eagles build their nests in the tallest trees, and on the highest mountain peaks. Their young are birthed in the clouds and trained to soar.
The experts tell us that an eagle will remain under their young when they are learning to fly, just in case they are not strong and fall to the ground. From the high places the mother eagle is able to see for miles, detecting danger before it comes near the nest (Deuteronomy 32:11; Job 39:27-30). We allude to this when we say that someone has an “eagle eye,” meaning they have a keen ability to watch and observe; sharp vision, maintaining a keen watchfulness.
The parent with the desire for an “eagle mentality” will bear their children up on their wings while there is life...in other words, when they are young and have not become entangled with error and rebellion.
The ‘eagle’ will not resist correction but will train their kids in the Way. The ‘eagle-eyed’ parent watches where the children go, who they go with, and what they listen to. They are protective of their offspring, and keep them from the dangers (false doctrine) of this world.
The opposite of the eagle is the buzzard. Putting it simply, buzzards are unclean birds which hover low to the ground seeking that which is dead. The buzzard will never reach great heights because their focus is on rotting flesh. They like the look, smell, feel, and taste of death.
“The buzzard mentality” is a lazy, laid-back ideology. They never learned to excel in the Spirit, thus are unable to lift their children to higher ground. Buzzards only eat dead meat, which explains why some folks follow after dead teaching. Their children eat from the same garbage heap, and refuse to eat anything else. At the sign of spiritual death and destruction, the ‘buzzard’ finally swoops down, hooking the eaglet in his grasp.
The parent with this attitude becomes attentive only after their child has developed the same spiritual indifference. They cry for help, but the kid has heard so much negativity that they are not even interested in anything connected with the Church, and the parent wonders “why?”.
The interesting thing in all of this...the eagle, buzzard, hawk, and vulture are the same specie of bird. In other words, though they are in the same family, one has learned to fly, while the other is content to hover.
Though the bird doesn’t have a choice (he just does what comes naturally), we can choose to stay close to the ground where corruption abounds, or we can choose to soar in the realm of the Spirit, taking our kids as we go.
As we think about the alternative, do we really have a choice?!
Sis. Barb,
I have always loved to read, hear or learn more about the eagle. Thank
you for posting this here. It is SO true about the comparsion of the eagle
and the other birds, such as the buzzard or other vultures.
My late pastor dad would tell a true story about how a chicken hawk
would swoop down and try to steal one of the "banny" hen's little chicks.
He said the hawk got a hold on one of the mother hen's chicks and that
that little mother hen actually became airborne and took her chick out of
the claws of that vulture. So will a godly mother or father do everything
within their power to take their wayward son or daughter out of the
enemy's clutches. Only by the power of God can this be achieved.
Blessings,
Falla39
Sis. Barb,
I have always loved to read, hear or learn more about the eagle. Thank
you for posting this here. It is SO true about the comparsion of the eagle
and the other birds, such as the buzzard or other vultures.
My late pastor dad would tell a true story about how a chicken hawk
would swoop down and try to steal one of the "banny" hen's little chicks.
He said the hawk got a hold on one of the mother hen's chicks and that
that little mother hen actually became airborne and took her chick out of
the claws of that vulture. So will a godly mother or father do everything
within their power to take their wayward son or daughter out of the
enemy's clutches. Only by the power of God can this be achieved.
Blessings,
Falla39
Yes, ma'am...this is true. Only God...
In my daily devotional on my desk, the Scripture for this morning is...
Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid:
for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song;
he also is become my salvation (Isaiah 12:2).
It goes beautifully with the song I woke up singing...
There is none like you
There is none like you
Holy One
Precious Lamb
King of Kings
The Great I Am
There is none like you
We can travel this world over and meet the great and near great, but we will never find One who can heal our broken hearts and speak a word to our need.
He knows our thoughts and the very intent of our hearts, and sees what we hide from those nearest and dearest to us.
Providing when there seems to be no other way...applying strength just in time, He is God and there is none like Him!!
I love Him supremely this morning and so I sing...!!
Holy One
Precious Lamb
King of Kings
The Great I Am
There is none like you :choir
I pray this blesses someone today...
Because the Lord is my shepherd
I have everything I need
He lets me rest in the meadow's grass
And He leads me beside the quiet streams
He restoreth my failing health
And He helps me to do what honors Him the most
That's why I'm safe...safe in His arms
When the storms of life are raging
And the billows roll
I'm so glad He shall hide me
Safe in His arms
Do we expect to be loved or despised?!
Do we expect to be received with joy or received with dread?!
Do we expect to be hurt or healed?!
Do we expect a warm and heartfelt handshake/hug or rejection?!
Do we expect peace or strife?!
Do we expect blessings or cursings?!
Do we expect a good day or a lousy day?!
Do we expect to receive encouragement or discouragement?!
Do we expect God's best or life's worst?!
What is our level of expectation?! Are we looking at the glass as half full or half empty?!
Oh, that my expectation might be of a godly and positive perspective.
May I always see the best and expect the best of God's people...
Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.
This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.
For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.
But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace
(James 3:13-4:1).
May this word from the Word bless my heart and mind and yours today. May we walk in grace and mercy with words which are seasoned with grace.
For the undiscerning heart, the ways that the Almighty would speak to His people might be just two...through the Holy Bible and through His man servant.
Certainly God does minister to us through the Scriptures. The Bible is the Holy and anointed Word of God, and as the inspired Word, it not only maketh alive, it is alive.
It is for that reason that verses we have read a hundred times in the past will suddenly jump out at us and speak to our need.
It is not a new revelation...there is no such thing and be careful of folks who claim to have received one. If we or another see something we have never seen before or in a way that we never have before, it does not mean it is new a new Word...it is just new to us.
God does that just very thing for His people. He illuminates His Word for our strength and edification and healing and restoration. It is all about having an ear to hear what He is saying, choosing to rake it in and receive it rather than shovel it out to others.
His Word is a lamp unto our feet...we are able to see the steps we take and not stumble over the small stuff. And even in those times when the clouds hang low and our steps are not clearly visible, we have the assurance that the lamp of the Word is guiding us.
And His Word is a light unto our pathway...where there is light, there is no fear. We may not know which way the path will take us...what is around the bend may not be seen, but there is no fear because the Light is there.
God speaks through the men and women of God He has placed over us as pastors and teachers.
He may use them as He did Nathan to say, "Thou art the man/woman..." in order to bring repentance to our souls.
God may speak through them to administer healing in body and spirit. He may use them to bring us to a place of joy in the Lord.
How ever He may speak to us through His servants, it is vital that we have an ear and that our hearts and minds are aligned so as to receive.
continued...
There are other ways in which God will speak to His people…
God speaks through the storm and the wind. We may not enjoy the thunder and the rain and the hurricane type winds, and wish it would all disappear. However, there are lessons to be learned through a storm that we may not ‘get’ any other way. And so we have to just hunker down and hold on, ever listening for His voice.
When the elements are raging, thinking that God might be in it is something we cannot fathom. However, it is in those times when we may not be especially discerning that He wishes to speak to us.
He may not break the clouds, and bellow, “PEACE BE STILL!!”
It may be a soft, sweet and tender voice, whispering, “I am here, my child!!”
He that hath an ear…
God may speak through the most unlikely voice imaginable. He has ministered to me through a child, and once through a messenger I didn’t even care for. It’s funny how discriminating we can be when it comes to the Word…if it’s not through one of our personal favorites, we are unable or unwilling to receive it.
It’s all about having an ear…
God will sometimes speak through a vessel we do not even know personally, and sometimes this is the most awesome Word yet. When folks don’t know us from Adam’s house cat, yet can speak to the point of our need and we feel the witness of the Spirit…oh my, how it can change our lives in such a powerful way!!
When people bring us a Word, whether they are known by us or not, and it is indeed a Word from the Lord, we will know it is God. There will be a connection...that witness that I mentioned above...that check of the Holy Ghost which assures us that this person doesn't have an agenda other than speaking what thus sayeth the Lord.
The diversity of the Master’s voice can cause us to miss Him, but when we can recoginze His still, small voice and move further into His presence, then we will begin to see the blessings and favor of God manifest as never before.
What a great God!!
He that hath an ear…
There is only one God...no one like Him and never will there be. He has no equal...He alone is the God of creation...Master of the universe.
He is uniquely God...
Only God can reach into the soul of a man or woman and change the intent and desire.
Only God can take the carnal nature and make it whole and holy and right.
No one but God can reach into those places that we don't like to think about...into the inner recesses of the mind and heart...into those secret places and break the chain and power of deception.
Only God can take a life that is shattered...a life that is in shambles and form it and frame it after His will...only God.
He can do what none other can do...He is God.
He is not fooled by words or actions...He knows the heart and reads our thoughts before we think them.
He sees us as we are...flaws and warts and all, yet He loves us anyway.
It has been said that if we were the only somebody on this planet, He STILL would have gone to the Cross.
Who but God can love us as He does?!
Who but God can forgive as He forgives?!
We may turn our back on folks because we THINK we know everything there is to know, but God knows and promised to never leave us or forsake us.
Who else but God is willing to bring us back into His presence when we err?!
Who but God will renew and restore and cleanse again?!
He is uniquely God and will do what He does best with a heart that is willing and ready to receive.
He will not force, nor will He break us into His image.
He lovingly pleads and beckons...and He is calling today for your soul.
He that hath an ear, let him hear...
Praise the Lord for a Word in due season...!!
But they that wait upon the LORD ...waiting is SO hard, even when we know waiting is the right move and the honorable thing, it is SO hard.
Barnes' Notes reads that wait "denotes properly to wait, in the sense of expectation." It means we trust, hope and place our confidence in the Almighty.
This kind of wait must be done without complaint...properly waiting and expecting God to do His thing, confident in His ability and deep love for His own.
shall renew their strength...renew here means change, revive, flouish again.
The songwriter wrote, Lord, I need a brand new touch, but a touch isn't a change. A touch will get us over momentarily, but a change will take us through with victory and grace.
Lord, help us that our strength might flourish again!!
they shall mount up with wings as eagles...Barnes writes, "The figure denotes strength and vigor of purpose; strong and manly piety; an elevation above the world; communion with God, and a nearness to his throne, as the eagle ascends toward the sun."
Soaring above the situations, realizing that in spite of it all, there is God!!
they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint...the cares of this life...the perplexing situations and pressure seems to be a constant, but our assurance is in the hope we have in the Master Mind, who knows and sees our infirmities...our weaknesses. His abiding Spirit prays through us, making intercession, bringing us what we need when we need it.
He builds us up in grace and lifts us above the load...He gives us calm assurance that we are in His will, even when His will seems like the most unlikely thing imaginable...but there is God!!
Thank you, Lord, for your Word, and for your messenger of mercy who brought it to my remembrance.
Col 3:12-13
12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
KJV
Col 3:12-13
12 Since you have been chosen by God who has given you this new kind of life, and because of his deep love and concern for you, you should practice tenderhearted mercy and kindness to others. Don't worry about making a good impression on them, but be ready to suffer quietly and patiently. 13 Be gentle and ready to forgive; never hold grudges. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
TLB
Col 3:12-13
12 Clothe yourselves therefore, as God's own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper].
13 Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has [freely] forgiven you, so must you also [forgive].
AMP
Col 3:12-14
12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
NIV
Psalm 100
A Psalm of Praise
Make a joyful noise...make a good sound, tone. The sound doesn't have to be loud or fast or soft or slow, but make a good sound...a happy and joyful sound.
unto the LORD...the good sound should go up as a song of praise unto the Lord. Not for applause or show...not in form or fashion, but as unto the Lord.
all ye lands...all...that's everybody...everybody everywhere should make a joyful noise unto the Lord. It is not based on culture or tradition...it doesn't matter if it is not our custom. Everyone should offer praise unto the Lord.
Serve the LORD with gladness...our hearts should be excited about serving the Lord. Downtrodden, gloomy-faced Saints is not what we should be about. Regardless of the circumstance, heaven has not gone bankrupt. The Lord is STILL on the throne, and if that doesn't make us glad, nothing will.
come before his presence with singing...sing unto the Lord a new (fresh) song...even if it's an oldie but a goodie, let it become fresh and new in your spirit. Even in private devotion, come before His presence with singing, invoking His Spirit with your song. In the house of prayer, never begin without offering a song unto the Lord.
Know ye that the LORD he is God...never forget that He is God...don't allow anything or anyone to come before the Master or your praise.
it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves...this puts it all in perspective...we are not all that and a bag of chips! We didn't create ourselves...He alone made the sun, moon, and stars...He made man and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life.
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture...God is not at our beck and call...we are HIS people and the sheep of HIS pasture. It is never, ever about us, but forever and always about what pleases him. And for this cause we...
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise...when we are driving down the highway on our way to church, there should be thanksgiving and praise ringing in our inner beings. When we pull into the parking lot, we shouldn't be upset that someone is in OUR parking space, but should be rejoicing and praising the Lord. In this manner, when we enter the sanctuary or prayer room, we carry this thanksgiving and praise with us. It is infectious and will soon spread from one to another, until the house is filled with a cloud of glory.
be thankful unto him...there should never be a thought of "I have to go to church...I have to sing...I have to play..." What a privilege that we are able to enter into His house and can experience His glory. What an honor it is to have been granted the opportunity to commune with the God of all creation. Thank God that we get to play and sing in His sanctuary. Hallelujah that we get to worship one more time. For this alone we should be be thankful...
and bless his name...we were created to bless His Name. Everything else He has bestowed on us is an added blessing...family and employment and acquiring things is not why we are here. We were made to bless His Name.
For the LORD is good...He is good and better than that. In His goodness, He grants us favor when we should have rightfully received judgment. But...
his mercy is everlasting...it never stops. Man may one day grow weary and withdraw mercy for any old reason or for no reason at all. But the mercy of God is from everlasting to everlasting...it never ends.
and his truth endureth to all generations...His Word will stand when this world and all of it's governments crumble and fall. His truth will endure and stand the test of time. In this we can be confident...on this we can depend.
God is worthy of praise and honor...not just when it's convenient or when all of our proverbial ducks are in a row. But when the bottom seems to be falling out of our little world...when we don't know the reasons for this or that...when the answers don't seem to come, He is worthy of praise.
Today and forever, He is worthy of praise!!
I need Your mercy...
These words are an acknowledgment, a cry from the heart...a plea for compassion, forbearance, favor...forgiveness.
It is not something I can do for myself, or something anyone can give.
I need something that only God can give...I need His mercy extended once again.
I need Your grace...
Grace...the unmerited favor of God...favor I did not deserve or earn, but favor that is given in spite of me.
Grace allows the mercy extended to me to be extended to others by me. Because so much has been granted, how dare I withhold it?!
I need Your hand leading the way...
I may receive counsel from man and even heed their advice, but in the end, it is the gentle hand of the Almighty which directs my steps and leads the way.
Man may think they know the road I should take, but He knows.
Can't make it with out You, not for one day...
How often have I tried to go my own way, thinking I knew what was best for me, but I didn't.
I wish I had the testimony of always yielding, but tis not so. I have tried in the past to make it on my own...to go my own way. But one can only knock their head against the wall so many times till they realize something is amiss here...that I am not my own and I can't do this without the help of the Mastermind.
I need Your mercy...
And so I pray once again, I need you, Jesus...I need you!!
I need Your grace!!
Grant unto me the grace to speak words seasoned with the love of the Lord, in the bonds of peace, with the mercy that has been so graciously extended. Amen.
Wow!! Profound, I know, but true nonetheless...
He has a plan for every life and every life situation.
The crux comes in that we don't always know right off what the plan is.
"Should I go or stay...marry or remain single...buy or sell...hang on or let go...?!"
Questions!!
If we could see the end of it all from the beginning, how much easier life would be. No more living in the land of wonder, we would know...really know which way to go.
But alas, we don't always have the answers at hand. Sometimes we have to step out on a road we can't see, trusting it is there.
And then once we begin to walk by faith, the curves and bends are not always visible until we are on top of them...the cliffs seem perilous and quite real.
It's that unknown factor that is the hardest to endure...groping along and wondering if the way will ever again become clear.
The wait is not always easy as we wonder if we have missed God...and well-meaning family and friends don't help when they ask, "What are y'all gonna do?!"
The answer seems simple that if we knew, we would be doing it!!
But we have an assurance that the One who DID see the end from the beginning saw this day and hour. He knew the hard decisions were going to have to be made...He knew the questions and concern would be there.
And so I think it was with this in mind that the great a wonderful Psalmist wrote that God is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our pathway.
We are able to see the steps we take through His Word and our faith in Him, and not stumble over the small stuff. And even in those times when the clouds hang low and our steps are not clearly visible, we have the assurance that the lamp of the Word is guiding us.
Where there is light there is no fear. We may not know which way the path will take us...what is around the bend may not be seen, but there is no fear because the Light is there.
What great comfort there is in knowing that Christ is in us and with us, directing our steps and guiding our way.
What a great a wonderful God...
Where is He?
Mary and Joseph went to Jerusalem at the time of Passover, and took their oldest child with them to celebrate (Luke 2:41-50).
Following the feast, they made the necessary preparations for the return to their home. Traveling with family and friends, they made sure that they had enough food and water for the animals, as well as themselves.
They probably discussed the plans: who would lead the caravan, when would they stop for the night...the usual give and take that goes on when a lot of people travel together.
However, Mary and Joseph made a mistake in judgment. Knowing that the child wasn’t with either of them, they thought He was with one of the family members.
Luke 2:44, from TLB, “...they assumed He was with friends among the travelers.” They took it for granted that He was there, but He wasn’t.
It seems strange to us, but they traveled a day’s journey before He was even missed. In this dangerous hour that we live in, we would never assume our children were with someone else. We would make the proper arrangements, and take all of the precautions to see that our child was in the best of hands.
Well, these parents loved their child, too, and must have made all of the necessary preparations. Yet, after making sure the bundles were secured to the camels and donkeys, and checking every detail, they still left their most precious possession behind...their son.
On the return to Jerusalem, they had to have been franticly looking everywhere they thought He might have been. Running up and down the narrow streets and through the market place they must have searched every building and back alley.
Stopping strangers, they probably asked, "Have you seen Jesus? Do you know where Jesus is?" They may have asked each other, "When and where was the last time you remember seeing Him? Who was He with? What was He doing? Where could He be?"
If you are a parent, perhaps you can relate to the helpless feeling of not knowing where else to look, or who to ask. They couldn’t call the FBI. There were Amber Alerts, or milk cartons where they could place the picture of their missing child.
They continued to look for Jesus. “And it came to pass, that after three days they found Him in the temple...” (v.46). THREE DAYS! How incredible that for three days this mom and dad searched, and where did they find Him? In the church!
It seems strange that the church was the last place they looked. Our first thought probably is, "Well, where else would Jesus be, if not IN the church?"
But, allow me to submit to you that the glory has left many lives and many churches because we failed to recognize that Jesus was IN the building. In the midst of the formality of ‘having church’, Jesus has been right there.
He has been there all the time, wanting to reveal His glory, hoping we would step back and give Him free course. But, the spirits of jealousy and envy ("it’s MY turn!" "What about ME?!"), bitterness (some long ago hurt), greed (stopping the move of God to continue with the ‘program’), and more have prevented us from seeing Jesus.
Mary and Joseph took care of the business of travel. They were doing all of the necessary things, and just assumed Jesus was with them, but how wrong they were.
Lord, help your people to lay aside personal agenda so that we might see You!!
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