A BIT OF HUMOR

A junior-high student was studying astronomy and enjoying it greatly.

One morning at breakfast she mentioned, "On Friday we're having a quiz on the 
moon."

Her little brother piped up: "Are you gonna let her go, Mom??"

[forwarded by Gretchen Patti]

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A full year of experience takes a full year of experience.

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MIKEYSFUNNIES.COM

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ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE DAY

No Separation from the Love of God

Romans 8:38-39

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

As we conclude this eighth chapter of Romans, we now come to two of my personal favorite verses. Let me break it down:

“For I am convinced” means that Paul knows this to be true.

“Death” cannot separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus. Acts 7:55-56 describes some of the events leading up to the death of Stephen, the Church’s first martyr: “Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. ‘Look,’ he said, ‘I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.’” This is the only record of Jesus standing in heaven. The response of many who are threatened with death for the Name of Jesus is to say to their tormentors: “Great, you will be sending me home!” You cannot defeat people with that kind of faith.

“Life” is sometimes more difficult than death. In fact, living joyfully after tragedy strikes, can be challenging at best. Yet we know nothing life throws at us — whether temptation, tribulation, trial, disease, or hunger — can separate us from Him who loves us.

“Neither angels nor demons” I believe refers to fallen angels and others within the spiritual realm who serve Satan. Ephesians 6:12: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” The believer is not to fear dark forces (Luke 10:19-20): “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

“Neither the present nor the future” means that whatever is going on presently or potentially (in the future) — whether global, national or personal — will separate us from the love of God.

“Powers” I believe relates to forces within the world. This would include satanic influences upon government, the judicial and legal systems, banking, and overall political structure.

“Nor height nor depth nor anything else in creation” means we need never fear the unknown. Rather, exploration of the oceans and heavens will continue to reveal the inadequacies of scientific explanations without acknowledgement of the Creator.

The Bible is a love story. It is the account of a loving God in pursuit of a love relationship with His creation. It’s not about law, logic or reason. It’s about love. We entered this chapter with no condemnation; and we have concluded with no separation. In between we’ve discovered “that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” What a glorious message Paul has presented!

Spencer said, “If Holy Scripture were a ring and the epistle to the Romans its precious stone, chapter eight would be the sparkling point of the jewel.” I think his statement pretty well sums up my opinion of chapter eight. It is simply amazing! I sincerely hope it has been as much a blessing to you in reading, as it has been to me in researching and writing the commentary. Now onward to chapter nine!
to chapter nine!

 

POCKETPOWER.ORG

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HOW TO FIND YOUR GIFT OF CONTENTMENT AND PEACE

PEACE AND CONTENTMENT PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES

 

HOW TO FIND YOUR GIFT OF CONTENTMENT AND PEACE

WRITTEN BY SHIRLEY RHODES

 

We as Children of God are living in a fasted paste time frame, and as we live and breathe in all that God has set before us, we seem to find little time for the most precious gift of them all, and that is the gift ofCONTENTMENT AND PEACE.

Now let me explain, what the word of God says about CONTENTMENT; “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5 ESV)

Therefore, I encourage you to understand that CONTENTMENT destroys jealously and helps celebrate success in others, it is a trait found deep within and shines forth as light. Through your ownCONTENTMENT you’re able to find peace and strength to endure what otherwise would push you to the breaking point.

CONTENTMENT unclaimed, un-recognized hinders ones’ FREEDOM; therefore, they will never truly be free unless this treasured source is tapped into; as the saying goes, “CONTENTMENT is great gain.” The amazing thing about CONTENTMENT is that it is instilled in each of us. Jesus has taught and given the gift of love and that love is unconditional love for all people.

CONTENTMENT is thankfulness for what God has already done in your life; with that, your gifts will bud and blossom touching lives in many ways some in which you may never know. Always remember this one thing; never allow anyone or anything to take away your confidence (faith) in God because he loves you without restrictions, when you allow him to become who you are. It is in Christ you can find PEACE and CONTENTMENT, much different than what the world offers.

Now I Encourage you to Find CONTENTMENT is all you are purposed to do and be at PEACE.

 

http://vineandbranchworldministries.com/2013/05/18/how-to-find-your-gift-of-contentment-and-peace/

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ROMANS 8:38 BIBLE VERSE OF THE DAY

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?

– Romans 8:35 (NIV)

 

Today’s commentary
by Dave Whitehead, Senior Pastor, GraceNYC.org

It is always good to remember that our problems are, for the most part, 1st world problems. We are not facing famine, nakedness, danger or potential death for our faith, whereas many of our brothers and sisters in other parts of the world are facing issues of this magnitude. We stand on the legacy of past Christians who suffered greatly for their faith, so let’s take time to pray for those who are suffering greatly for the gospel today.

DAILYBIBLEVERSE.ORG

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ROSE AND LINDA’S JOURNAL DISOBEDIENCE

Many are upset now at the disobedience that is going on in our schools.  In my area one more school is closing, it is the third in our area.  Two hundred fifty teachers will not be returning to the class rooms and so many bus drivers have left that they are opening the employment doors to non high school graduates.  Why?  The teachers and bus drivers are feed up with the disobedience in the schools.

 

There is no where I go that I do not hear of students picking on other students and only when the picked on students gets fed up and reacts, take one guess who gets in trouble.  Nothing is being done to the students that are causing the problems.

 

Is there a solution?  Yes there is, but it is not one that the school system is willing to take.

 

PUT THE BIBLE AND PRAYER BACK IN SCHOOLS!!  So simple, yes it is.  When we look at the Bible and read the Word of God we see repeatedly where there is disobedience there is confusion, mayhem, destruction, and finally death.  But the schools do not want to offend anyone.

 

What can we do?  We might not be able to talk to these children or their parents; we might not be able to go on school property; not go into the homes in our neighborhoods; but, what we can do is pray.  Yes, sit right there in your homes and pray; go to your schools and park your car, or sit on a bench and pray.

 

Someone told me years ago that one person could not make a difference.  That is a lie!  Start at home with your own children, and then take on the children in your area, the schools.

 

Let’s be honest we can put Bibles and pray back in the schools.  It might not be visible to the naked eye but we can bring about chance.

 

God Bless

recj/LJG

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ANOTHER BIT OF USUAL HUMOR

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzggPRCmaCQ

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ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE DAY

The Blessings Of Persecution

How in the world anyone could think that they would be blessed for being rejected by sharing their faith?  Isn’t it hard to think of persecution as a blessing?  What’s good about being scorned or ridiculed for telling others about Jesus Christ?

Jesus said that not only are we blessed when we are persecuted, but we are to pray for those who do this to us (Matthew 5:44).  Imagine praying for someone who has hurt you or wants to hurt you.  It’s difficult to believe that you are being blessed when someone hates you.  Believe it because Jesus said, “Blessed are you when men hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man” (Luke 6:22) and “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me” (Matthew 5:11).

The Apostles were disgraced for their witnessing, but they “left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name” (Acts 5:41).  It’s good to remember that they really don’t hate the messenger as much as they hate the message.  The next time someone persecutes you for your sharing the gospel, thank God because you have been blessed for His name’s sake and the spirit of glory rests upon you.

If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. -  1 Peter 4:14

This daily devotional was written by Pastor Jack Wellman a writer at What Christians Want To Know.  To read more from What Christians Want To Know check out the article below or follow WCWTK on Facebook for daily Christian encouragement:

www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/bible-verses-about-blessings-20-good-scripture-quotes/

http://jesus-loves-you.org/?p=7510

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LEADERS NEED TO LEARN HOW TO FOLLOW THE PATTERN OF JESUS

LEADERS NEED TO LEARN HOW TO FOLLOW THE PATTERN OF JESUS

YOU HAVE BEEN CHOSEN Jesus said “Feed my sheep”(John 21:15-17).

WRITTEN BY SHIRLEY RHODES

Our Church leaders are Chosen Leaders, handpicked by God and called to suit up and go into themission field on their assigned task to shepherd and guide, and then placed in the unique position to make defining decisions and choices that can have a profound impact on a few or many. Our leaders in the church are called and expected to keep diligent watch over the flock. That is the pattern and designexpected when one accepts their calling knowing it comes with incredible responsibility.

Placed in their care are people who bring many loads of heavy burdens, looking for a way to find peace and joy as they are about this earthly journey. People from all walks of life seeking hope, lost, weary and tired wanting rest, a release from those things that keeps them in bondage.

Our leaders are therefore placed in position to minister to those souls as directed by the Holy Spirit, knowing they hold very fragile children in their hands. They are now given the authority through Christ to shape and mold lives for the kingdom of God, to feed the flock.

Remember, Jesus and how he was crucified outside the city gates–where he poured out the sacrificial blood that was brought to God’s alter to cleanse his people.  His sacrifice is a reminder to our leaders as to their purpose and calling, who must walk in obedience, faith and be examples of godliness as he accepts the torch to carry out his mission as assigned. The mission of kingdom building is not one to be taken lightly or for granted because souls are at risk.

Our Leaders are to be visible and able to relate to the needs of their followers, meaning that in order to accomplish their assigned mission they should follow the pattern of Jesus. Scripture puts it this way; let’s go outside, where Jesus is, where the action is–not trying to be privileged insiders, but taking ourShare in the abuse of Jesus. This “insider world” is not our home. We have eyes peeled for the Cityabout to come. Let’s take our place outside with Jesus, no longer pouring out sacrificial blood of animals but pouring out praises from our lips to God in Jesus’ name  (Hebrews 13:13-15, MGS).

We as seekers of peace and righteousness are to be responsive to pastoral leaders, listen to their counsel because they should be alert to the condition of our lives and work under the strict supervisionof God. We are to contribute to the joy of their leadership, not drudgery; we are to pray for them that they be diligent in their assigned mission.

Our Leaders are accountable to God and its plain in Gods’ Word the responsibility expected of them.  God says,” My sheep were scattered because they were without a shepherd and they became prey when they were scattered; I am against the shepherds; and I will require my flock at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the flock”. (Ezekiel: 34).

After Jesus had risen from the dead and before his ascension as he gave final instructions to his disciples: Jesus asked Peter, “Simon, son of Jonas, do you love me more than these”, three times.  When he responded “Yes”, Jesus said, “Feed my sheep”(John 21:15-17). This is a reminder to our Leaders, don’t take your calling or position lightly. YOU HAVE BEEN CALLED, CHOSEN.

 http://vineandbranchworldministries.com/2013/05/16/leaders-need-to-learn-how-to-follow-the-pattern-of-jesus/

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EXODUS 34:1 BIBLE VERSE OF THE DAY

 

The Lord said to Moses, “Chisel out two stone tablets like the first ones, and I will write on them the words that were on the first tablets, which you broke.

– Exodus 34:1 (NIV)

 

Today’s commentary
by Dave Whitehead, Senior Pastor, GraceNYC.org

Moses had broken the first set of tablets in a fit of anger when he saw the Israelites worshipping at a golden calf that was made while he was meeting with God on Mt. Sinai. Yet even the anger of Moses would not stop the purposes of God. This picture is throughout the Bible—God gives second chances. God’s steadfast love extends to the heavens. His faithfulness to the clouds.

DAILYBIBLEVERSE.ORG

 

 

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ROSE AND LINDA’S JOURNAL BRIGHT AND CLEAR

What started as time to share coffee in the morning has turned into Praise and Fellowship with the Lord.  One morning they decided to have prayer, afterwards they noticed everything looked brighter and clearer. Bible study and prayer followed as their way to start the day. Then miracles begin to happen.  Without leaving his home one member got a job.  Financial blessings took place.  Unsaved children were taking part in Bible study.  Saved children were turning back to their roots.  Restoration was taking place in others.  All were aware of changes in their lives.

It all started with a prayer that turned their world and lives into a brighter and clearer day.  That morning after prayer they all noticed how sharp and clear the sky, trees, even the birds looked.  It was like putting on a new pair of glasses.  God though was doing more than that.  He was showing them that by putting Him first, everything comes into focus, bright and clear.

Oh to start our day with Jesus.  Everything brighter and clearer by placing all into His hands.

God Bless

recj/LJG

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