NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS
We may be able to count the seeds in an apple, BUT GOD is able to count the apples in a seed.
Many times we set out with a dream. Something we like. Something we are passionate about.
Are you aware it is God who places that dream in us? It's true! When we have a desire that we become passionate about, it is what God has planned for us and wants us to desire it so we can be focused on it. If we remain focused, on what we think is OUR dream, then it becomes easier for God's Will to be done.
Like when we count seeds in an apple, we plant them and only expect a few apples. BUT GOD KNOWS that planting a few seeds will bring an abundance of apples.
That's how it becomes with dreams. We have that desire, but as time goes by we sometimes lose hope because we think it will never happen. We may think too much time has already passed and we are too old. (Thus, thinking the seeds we counted are gone. We have no more seeds.)
BUT GOD KNOWS we can accomplish that dream. (Like the seeds... He knows what we are capable of producing). We just need to keep the faith and follow the path God lays out in front of us to accomplish it.
GOD IS NEVER WRONG! He plants that desire in us because HE KNOWS we are capable of it. But it takes two. God will do His part but we have to do our part. And our part is: NEVER GIVE UP!
YOU CAN ACCOMPLISH YOUR DREAMS!
--- Dejon Ruiz---
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Wednesday, November 30, 2011
LIVING LIFE
LIVING LIFE
Life is not a race -- but indeed a journey. Be honest. Work hard. Be choosy. Say "thank you", "I love you", and "great job" to someone each day. Go to church, take time for prayer. The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh. Let your handshake mean more than just pen and paper. Love you life and what you've been given, it is not accidental-- search for your purpose and do it as best you can. Dreaming does matter. It allows you to become that which you aspire to be. Laugh often. Appreciate the little things in life and enjoy them. Some of the best things really are free. Do not worry, less wrinkles are more becoming. Forgive, it frees the soul. Take time for yourself-- plan for longevity. Recognize the special people you've been blessed to know.
Live for today, enjoy the moment.
--- Bonnie L. Mohr
Life is not a race -- but indeed a journey. Be honest. Work hard. Be choosy. Say "thank you", "I love you", and "great job" to someone each day. Go to church, take time for prayer. The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh. Let your handshake mean more than just pen and paper. Love you life and what you've been given, it is not accidental-- search for your purpose and do it as best you can. Dreaming does matter. It allows you to become that which you aspire to be. Laugh often. Appreciate the little things in life and enjoy them. Some of the best things really are free. Do not worry, less wrinkles are more becoming. Forgive, it frees the soul. Take time for yourself-- plan for longevity. Recognize the special people you've been blessed to know.
Live for today, enjoy the moment.
--- Bonnie L. Mohr
THE PRAYER OF FAITH
God is my help in every need;
God does my every hunger feed;
God walks beside me, guides my way,
Through every moment of this day.
I now am wise, I now am true;
Patient and kind, and loving, too;
All things I am, can do, and be,
Through Christ the Truth, that lives in me.
God is my health, I can't be sick;
God is my strength, unfailing, quick;
God is my all, I know no fear,
Since God and Love and Truth are here.
----Hannah More Kohaus
God does my every hunger feed;
God walks beside me, guides my way,
Through every moment of this day.
I now am wise, I now am true;
Patient and kind, and loving, too;
All things I am, can do, and be,
Through Christ the Truth, that lives in me.
God is my health, I can't be sick;
God is my strength, unfailing, quick;
God is my all, I know no fear,
Since God and Love and Truth are here.
----Hannah More Kohaus
PRAYER FOR KINDNESS
Be generous in prosperity, and thankful in adversity,
Be fair in thy judgement, and guarded in thy speech,
Be a lamp unto those who walk in darkness, and a
home to the stranger. Be eyes to the blind, and a
guiding light unto the feet of the erring. Be a breath of
life to the body of humankind, a dew to the soil of the
human heart, and a fruit upon the tree of humility.
--- Baha'u'llah
Baha'l, appropriate for many faiths
Be fair in thy judgement, and guarded in thy speech,
Be a lamp unto those who walk in darkness, and a
home to the stranger. Be eyes to the blind, and a
guiding light unto the feet of the erring. Be a breath of
life to the body of humankind, a dew to the soil of the
human heart, and a fruit upon the tree of humility.
--- Baha'u'llah
Baha'l, appropriate for many faiths
HUMOR HELPS HAPPINESS
PECANS IN THE CEMETARY
On the outskirts of a small town, there was a big, old pecan tree just inside the cemetary fence. One day, two boys filled up a bucketful of nuts and sat down by the tree, out of sight, and began dividing the nuts.
"One for you, one for me, one for you, one for me," said one boy. Several dropped and rolled toward the fence.
Another boy came riding along the road on his bicycle. As he passed, he thought he heard voices from inside the cemetery. He slowed down to investigate, sure enough, he heard, "one for you, one for me, one for you, one for me..."
He just knew what it was. He jumped back on his bike and rode off. Just around the bend he met an old man hobbling along.
"Come here quick," said the boy, 'You won't believe what I heard! Satan and the Lord are down at the cemetery dividing up the souls!"
The man said, "Beat it kid, can't you see it's hard for me to walk." When the boy insisted, the man hobbled slowly to the cemetery.
Standing by the fence, they heard, "One for you, one for me, one for you, one for me."
The old man whispered, "Boy, you've been tellin' me the truth. Let's see if we can see the Lord."
Shaking with fear, they peered through the fence, yet were still unable to see anything. The old man and the boy gripped the wrought iron bars of the fence tighter and tighter as they tried to get a glimpse of the Lord.
At last they heard, "One for you, one for me. That's all... Now let's go get those nuts by the fence and we'll be done."
They say the old man had the lead for a good half mile before the kid on the bike passed him.
On the outskirts of a small town, there was a big, old pecan tree just inside the cemetary fence. One day, two boys filled up a bucketful of nuts and sat down by the tree, out of sight, and began dividing the nuts.
"One for you, one for me, one for you, one for me," said one boy. Several dropped and rolled toward the fence.
Another boy came riding along the road on his bicycle. As he passed, he thought he heard voices from inside the cemetery. He slowed down to investigate, sure enough, he heard, "one for you, one for me, one for you, one for me..."
He just knew what it was. He jumped back on his bike and rode off. Just around the bend he met an old man hobbling along.
"Come here quick," said the boy, 'You won't believe what I heard! Satan and the Lord are down at the cemetery dividing up the souls!"
The man said, "Beat it kid, can't you see it's hard for me to walk." When the boy insisted, the man hobbled slowly to the cemetery.
Standing by the fence, they heard, "One for you, one for me, one for you, one for me."
The old man whispered, "Boy, you've been tellin' me the truth. Let's see if we can see the Lord."
Shaking with fear, they peered through the fence, yet were still unable to see anything. The old man and the boy gripped the wrought iron bars of the fence tighter and tighter as they tried to get a glimpse of the Lord.
At last they heard, "One for you, one for me. That's all... Now let's go get those nuts by the fence and we'll be done."
They say the old man had the lead for a good half mile before the kid on the bike passed him.
OPERATING PRINCIPLES FOR A YOU AND ME WORLD
1. Respect the other person's point of view, whether or not you agree with it. Recognize that if you had their history, their circumstances, and the forces that play on them, you would likely have their point of view.
2. Consider life a privilege, all of it, even the parts that are difficult or seem a waste of time.
3. Give up the islands that reinforce mediocrity, the safe places where we gossip and complain to one another, where we are petty.
4. Take a chance. Be willing to put your reputation on the line; have something at stake.
5. Work for satisfaction rather than for credit.
6. Keep your word. there will be times when the circumstances of life will make you forget who you are and what you're about. That is when you need to be committed to keeping your word, making what you say count.
--- Werner Erhard, from
Being Ready for the Rest of Your Life
2. Consider life a privilege, all of it, even the parts that are difficult or seem a waste of time.
3. Give up the islands that reinforce mediocrity, the safe places where we gossip and complain to one another, where we are petty.
4. Take a chance. Be willing to put your reputation on the line; have something at stake.
5. Work for satisfaction rather than for credit.
6. Keep your word. there will be times when the circumstances of life will make you forget who you are and what you're about. That is when you need to be committed to keeping your word, making what you say count.
--- Werner Erhard, from
Being Ready for the Rest of Your Life
SEASON OF ADVENT (Day Four)
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Let Christmas Be Every Day
By Charles Fillmore
(excerpts from a Christmas sermaon delivered December 22, 1912)
The essential thing is to know and understand that the real child of God is formed in your soul. It exists there and is now being manifest. Make yourself a present of that thought; and make it an everyday thought. Let Christmas be every day. Enter into the Christ Mind and see Christ in you.
I know a man who has grown wonderfully in spiritual understanding and spiritual power, and he told me once that he made it a daily practice to see Christ in his heart. He saw the Christ as a picture, as a life, and he said he talked mentally to that Christ portrait at this heart's center; and he said, "A light has gradually sprung up within me that lights my way. I am a changed man from mentally seeing Christ in me, instead of looking at the Christ outside, looking at a historical Christ, thinking about the man as separate from me." "I am the Christ of God." is the dominant appellation of that man to himself, and he has demonstrated it. And he is only one of thousands who have brought that Christ principle home to everyday life, who are bringing forth in themselves the Christ of God, who are forming Christ in them.
For you, O Lord, are my hope; my trust. ---- Psalm 71:5
reprinted frome Unity's booklet Advent 2011 Your Journey To Christmas
Let Christmas Be Every Day
By Charles Fillmore
(excerpts from a Christmas sermaon delivered December 22, 1912)
The essential thing is to know and understand that the real child of God is formed in your soul. It exists there and is now being manifest. Make yourself a present of that thought; and make it an everyday thought. Let Christmas be every day. Enter into the Christ Mind and see Christ in you.
I know a man who has grown wonderfully in spiritual understanding and spiritual power, and he told me once that he made it a daily practice to see Christ in his heart. He saw the Christ as a picture, as a life, and he said he talked mentally to that Christ portrait at this heart's center; and he said, "A light has gradually sprung up within me that lights my way. I am a changed man from mentally seeing Christ in me, instead of looking at the Christ outside, looking at a historical Christ, thinking about the man as separate from me." "I am the Christ of God." is the dominant appellation of that man to himself, and he has demonstrated it. And he is only one of thousands who have brought that Christ principle home to everyday life, who are bringing forth in themselves the Christ of God, who are forming Christ in them.
For you, O Lord, are my hope; my trust. ---- Psalm 71:5
reprinted frome Unity's booklet Advent 2011 Your Journey To Christmas
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
SEASON OF ADVENT (Day Three)
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
That Which Is in Us Will Save Us
By Rev. Felicia Blanco Searcy
This is the time of year when we celebrate the birth of Jesus with the Christmas story. When we read the ancient tale with mystical eyes, we hear our current story of awakening. We heed the invitation of Spirit by listenting deeply to hear how to give birth to our dreams, our desires and our gifts. In moments of quiet commuion, we see that as we claim our divine inheritance and give birth to our gifts and splendor we save ourselves from our insanity and unhappiness and bring about heaven here on earth. We don't have to know how to do it. we just have to be willing and available. Spirit will do the rest.
What are you holding inside today? What in you longs to be born this Christmas season that will save you from your self-imposed prison of unhappiness and limitation? there is a gift waiting to be discovered and longing to be born through you. take some time this Christmas season to listen deeply to what it might be. Dare to give birth to a new expanded you.
Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles. ---- Isaiah 40:31
reprinted from Unity's booklet Advent 2011 Your Journey to Christmas
That Which Is in Us Will Save Us
By Rev. Felicia Blanco Searcy
This is the time of year when we celebrate the birth of Jesus with the Christmas story. When we read the ancient tale with mystical eyes, we hear our current story of awakening. We heed the invitation of Spirit by listenting deeply to hear how to give birth to our dreams, our desires and our gifts. In moments of quiet commuion, we see that as we claim our divine inheritance and give birth to our gifts and splendor we save ourselves from our insanity and unhappiness and bring about heaven here on earth. We don't have to know how to do it. we just have to be willing and available. Spirit will do the rest.
What are you holding inside today? What in you longs to be born this Christmas season that will save you from your self-imposed prison of unhappiness and limitation? there is a gift waiting to be discovered and longing to be born through you. take some time this Christmas season to listen deeply to what it might be. Dare to give birth to a new expanded you.
Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles. ---- Isaiah 40:31
reprinted from Unity's booklet Advent 2011 Your Journey to Christmas
SEASON OF ADVENT (Day Two)
Monday, November 28, 2011
Draw Near in Faith
By Rev. Dr. Paulette Hogan
The gift of God's presence in and through us is the gift of life. But, it is important to remind ourselves often that the gift is not forced upon us and the benefits are not automatically bestowed. A response is required of us; To truly and earnestly accept our relationship with God. To be in a relationship of love and clarity with our neighbor, to aspire to lead a new life--- these are the conditions under which the gifts become real to us.
This means trust--- innocent, open, unconditional, childlike trust in God, Creator and Giver of all Life. It means childlike trust in the power of love of God. Let God be God! There is a time to work and a time to think and a time tp play and a time to dream and a time to love and be loved. There is a time for all these things, but now is the time to cast off our old manner of life and experience the new life.
Now is the time to draw near in faith.
Teach me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. ---- Psalm 143:8
reprint from Unity's booklet Advent 2011 Your Journey To Christmas
Draw Near in Faith
By Rev. Dr. Paulette Hogan
The gift of God's presence in and through us is the gift of life. But, it is important to remind ourselves often that the gift is not forced upon us and the benefits are not automatically bestowed. A response is required of us; To truly and earnestly accept our relationship with God. To be in a relationship of love and clarity with our neighbor, to aspire to lead a new life--- these are the conditions under which the gifts become real to us.
This means trust--- innocent, open, unconditional, childlike trust in God, Creator and Giver of all Life. It means childlike trust in the power of love of God. Let God be God! There is a time to work and a time to think and a time tp play and a time to dream and a time to love and be loved. There is a time for all these things, but now is the time to cast off our old manner of life and experience the new life.
Now is the time to draw near in faith.
Teach me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. ---- Psalm 143:8
reprint from Unity's booklet Advent 2011 Your Journey To Christmas
Monday, November 28, 2011
TIME TO TESTIFY
In the mornings and afternoons, I send scriptures and inspirational phone texts to people. For the last two weeks, I had been struggling with whether or not I should take two people off the list because they had been bad-mouthing me and my messages or they just seemed uninterested in them. I didn't want to "force" God's Word on them so I thought about just deleting their name from the group list but part of me said, "don't keep them in darkness".
So this morning, BEFORE I sent the scriptural text, I prayed and asked God what I should do. Ten minutes later, while I was watching Joyce Meyer on t.v., my nephew sent me a text. (He also sends morning texts sometimes during the week)
The text my nephew sent read:
"Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven. After this scripture, he continued with; When people will not hear the good(sic) news(sic) or when people hate you for loving the Lord or talk about you for sharing the word(sic). REMEMBER to keep being the light that makes its way thru(sic) darkness. Have a blessed day. S.O.S.Ministries
I was ecstatic with joy. I KNEW this was God working through my nephew to answer my prayer. So I kept the people on my group list and sent my morning text.
Then this afternoon, I was checking my FB wall and 'My Life With God' page posted this:
"Love the people who seem to oppose you because of your sharing the Word of God. Instead of being discouraged, ask God to send the Holy Spirit to help you to touch their hearts. May the Heavenly Father's Blessing be with you always!!!
Yes!!!! I LOVE THE LORD, MY ALMIGHTY GOD!!!
He is so good for answering my prayers by giving me BOTH revelations today. I take it as... my nephew's text was God telling me what HE WANTED me to do according to His plan and the 'My Life With God' post was God writing the message on my heart so I DON'T FORGET.
Thank You, so much Father. I will forever be Your loyal and faithful servant! Amen.
So this morning, BEFORE I sent the scriptural text, I prayed and asked God what I should do. Ten minutes later, while I was watching Joyce Meyer on t.v., my nephew sent me a text. (He also sends morning texts sometimes during the week)
The text my nephew sent read:
"Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven. After this scripture, he continued with; When people will not hear the good(sic) news(sic) or when people hate you for loving the Lord or talk about you for sharing the word(sic). REMEMBER to keep being the light that makes its way thru(sic) darkness. Have a blessed day. S.O.S.Ministries
I was ecstatic with joy. I KNEW this was God working through my nephew to answer my prayer. So I kept the people on my group list and sent my morning text.
Then this afternoon, I was checking my FB wall and 'My Life With God' page posted this:
"Love the people who seem to oppose you because of your sharing the Word of God. Instead of being discouraged, ask God to send the Holy Spirit to help you to touch their hearts. May the Heavenly Father's Blessing be with you always!!!
Yes!!!! I LOVE THE LORD, MY ALMIGHTY GOD!!!
He is so good for answering my prayers by giving me BOTH revelations today. I take it as... my nephew's text was God telling me what HE WANTED me to do according to His plan and the 'My Life With God' post was God writing the message on my heart so I DON'T FORGET.
Thank You, so much Father. I will forever be Your loyal and faithful servant! Amen.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
SEASON OF ADVENT (opening)
This is the season of Advent.
The word advent comes from the Latin adventus--- to come. It implies an anticipation of something, a waitng. It is a time of preparation, a time to strengthen our relationships and deepen our commitment to our spiritual journey. Advent is a season of opening doors so that the divine can shine through us offering a welcome to others--- like a neon sign on our hearts that says, "Please, come in!"
This is what Advent is about--- a season of opening doors of ourselves. Advent invites us to listen and be attentive, to be ready for the knock on the door, the doorbell ringing and to embrace every visitor more fully, meeting God ever time we open a door.
excerpts come from Unity's booklet, "Advent 2011 Your Journey to Christmas"
The word advent comes from the Latin adventus--- to come. It implies an anticipation of something, a waitng. It is a time of preparation, a time to strengthen our relationships and deepen our commitment to our spiritual journey. Advent is a season of opening doors so that the divine can shine through us offering a welcome to others--- like a neon sign on our hearts that says, "Please, come in!"
This is what Advent is about--- a season of opening doors of ourselves. Advent invites us to listen and be attentive, to be ready for the knock on the door, the doorbell ringing and to embrace every visitor more fully, meeting God ever time we open a door.
excerpts come from Unity's booklet, "Advent 2011 Your Journey to Christmas"
SEASON OF ADVENT (Day One)
Faith
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Dear God,
You are with me now, and I savor the joy of Your presence. In whatever challenge I face, You are with me. Nothing can come between You and me. Nothing can block the truth of Your love and caring.
Every burden becomes lighter, every day shines brighter, every experience is higher because I know You are my constant companion.
You never ask that I try to explain, justify or apologize for any thing I have done or not done. You ask only that I leave the old, limited ways behind and step out in faith into new and better ways.
Thank You for always being there with me, for guiding me, supporting me and caring for me. I am safe and secure in Your presence.
A new heart I will give you. --- Ezekiel 36:26
reprint from Unity's booklet Advent 2011 Your Journey to Christmas
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Dear God,
You are with me now, and I savor the joy of Your presence. In whatever challenge I face, You are with me. Nothing can come between You and me. Nothing can block the truth of Your love and caring.
Every burden becomes lighter, every day shines brighter, every experience is higher because I know You are my constant companion.
You never ask that I try to explain, justify or apologize for any thing I have done or not done. You ask only that I leave the old, limited ways behind and step out in faith into new and better ways.
Thank You for always being there with me, for guiding me, supporting me and caring for me. I am safe and secure in Your presence.
A new heart I will give you. --- Ezekiel 36:26
reprint from Unity's booklet Advent 2011 Your Journey to Christmas
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
FAMILY PRAYER of GRACE
Heavenly Father, we thank You for this opportunity to gather together and for Your loving presence You bring to this family gathering.Please, give us the ability to see the best in each other. May we have the opportunity to continue being there for each other... in good times as well as bad.
Give us strength and fortitude to ride the tides of change, Lord. Empower us to always be nurturing and loving with each other. Give us Your eyes, Father, so we may see each other for who we truly are, accept each other, and love each other through the Spirit.
If there is any sadness, anger or disappointment, let it be minor. Allow happiness, positive thoughts, and good experience be overflowing. Help us to cope and hope with each other with grace.
We thank You so much for the wonderful meal You've provided and which was prepared with much love. May everything we eat fill us with good health and well-being.
In Jesus Name. Amen
Give us strength and fortitude to ride the tides of change, Lord. Empower us to always be nurturing and loving with each other. Give us Your eyes, Father, so we may see each other for who we truly are, accept each other, and love each other through the Spirit.
If there is any sadness, anger or disappointment, let it be minor. Allow happiness, positive thoughts, and good experience be overflowing. Help us to cope and hope with each other with grace.
We thank You so much for the wonderful meal You've provided and which was prepared with much love. May everything we eat fill us with good health and well-being.
In Jesus Name. Amen
HELP ME TO REMEMBER
Heavenly Father,
Help us to remember that the jerk who cut us off in traffic last night is a single mother who worked nine hours that day and is rushing home to cook dinner, help with homework, do the laundry and spend a few special moments with her children.
Help us to remember that the pierced, tattooed, disinterested young man who can't make change correctly is a worried 19-year-old college student, struggling with his fear of passing his final exams and possibly not getting his student loans for next semester.
Remind us, Lord, that the scary looking bum, begging for money in the same spot everyday (who really should get a job) is a slave to addiction that we can only imagine in our worst nightmares.
Help us to remember that the old couple walking annoyingly slow through the store aisles and blocking our shopping progress are savoring this moment, knowing that, based on the biopsy report she got back last week, this will be the last year they go shopping together.
Remind us, Father, that the young man standing in the middle of the aisle looking at video games and ignoring our "Excuse me", is a mentally challenged deaf man oblivious to our presence.
Help us to remember, the person we were having casual conversation with, but suddenly bursts out in an angry rage, is someone struggling with a mental disorder they have no control over.
Heavenly Father, remind us each day that, of all the gifts You give us, the greatest gift is LOVE. We are not to only share that love with those we hold dear or who we are close to... but to ALL humanity. Help us to be slow to judge and quick to forgive. To show patience, kindness, compassion, and understanding always.
In Jesus Sacred Name. Amen
Help us to remember that the jerk who cut us off in traffic last night is a single mother who worked nine hours that day and is rushing home to cook dinner, help with homework, do the laundry and spend a few special moments with her children.
Help us to remember that the pierced, tattooed, disinterested young man who can't make change correctly is a worried 19-year-old college student, struggling with his fear of passing his final exams and possibly not getting his student loans for next semester.
Remind us, Lord, that the scary looking bum, begging for money in the same spot everyday (who really should get a job) is a slave to addiction that we can only imagine in our worst nightmares.
Help us to remember that the old couple walking annoyingly slow through the store aisles and blocking our shopping progress are savoring this moment, knowing that, based on the biopsy report she got back last week, this will be the last year they go shopping together.
Remind us, Father, that the young man standing in the middle of the aisle looking at video games and ignoring our "Excuse me", is a mentally challenged deaf man oblivious to our presence.
Help us to remember, the person we were having casual conversation with, but suddenly bursts out in an angry rage, is someone struggling with a mental disorder they have no control over.
Heavenly Father, remind us each day that, of all the gifts You give us, the greatest gift is LOVE. We are not to only share that love with those we hold dear or who we are close to... but to ALL humanity. Help us to be slow to judge and quick to forgive. To show patience, kindness, compassion, and understanding always.
In Jesus Sacred Name. Amen
YAHWEH - YIREH
I remember in my early 20"s, I set out on my own to live in a different state from where I was raised. I didn't tell any of my family where Iwas going.Didn't think they really cared. I just packed up and left.
Thirty years later, I see that it was all MY mentality that no one cared. And at this time of Thanksgiving, I reflect on the One who cared so much He NEVER left my side... GOD!
I recalled times when I lived alone and for Thanksgiving I had no plans to go anywhere. After all, I had already "disowned" my family. But, without a doubt, God provided for me. Some years, co-workers invited me to spend Thanksgiving with their family. A few times, I spent Thanksgiving with my best friend's family. I can remember only one time I was alone and it was, for whatever reason, by MY choosing.
But God, Yahweh, ALWAYS provided the means, the food, and the people so that I COULD have a blessed Thanksgiving.
Yahweh, I praise Your name. You are so gracious in Your unconditional love for me. When I was lost, wandering aimlessly in the wilderness, You wandered right along my side. You NEVER lost sight of me.
Although, I would not turn to You and consult You, You saw and knew my needs. It was by Your loving grace, You showed me mercy and You provided for me.
Yahweh, I love You and I owe You so much. I can never fully repay You for all the good You've done in my life. But, Father, I'm making an effort by professing my commitment to You that I will ALWAYS be Your loyal and faithful servant. ALWAYS! Amen
Genesis 22:14 Abraham named the place Yahweh-Yireh (which means "the Lord will provide"). To this day,people still use that name as a proverb: "On the mountain of the Lord, it will be provided."
THANK YOU SO MUCH, YAHWEH!
Thirty years later, I see that it was all MY mentality that no one cared. And at this time of Thanksgiving, I reflect on the One who cared so much He NEVER left my side... GOD!
I recalled times when I lived alone and for Thanksgiving I had no plans to go anywhere. After all, I had already "disowned" my family. But, without a doubt, God provided for me. Some years, co-workers invited me to spend Thanksgiving with their family. A few times, I spent Thanksgiving with my best friend's family. I can remember only one time I was alone and it was, for whatever reason, by MY choosing.
But God, Yahweh, ALWAYS provided the means, the food, and the people so that I COULD have a blessed Thanksgiving.
Yahweh, I praise Your name. You are so gracious in Your unconditional love for me. When I was lost, wandering aimlessly in the wilderness, You wandered right along my side. You NEVER lost sight of me.
Although, I would not turn to You and consult You, You saw and knew my needs. It was by Your loving grace, You showed me mercy and You provided for me.
Yahweh, I love You and I owe You so much. I can never fully repay You for all the good You've done in my life. But, Father, I'm making an effort by professing my commitment to You that I will ALWAYS be Your loyal and faithful servant. ALWAYS! Amen
Genesis 22:14 Abraham named the place Yahweh-Yireh (which means "the Lord will provide"). To this day,people still use that name as a proverb: "On the mountain of the Lord, it will be provided."
THANK YOU SO MUCH, YAHWEH!
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
A BOY IN CHICAGO
On a cold, dark night on the street corner, in the city of Chicago, a little boy was selling newspapers when a blizzard began to set in. As people shuffled in and out of nearby stores, the little boy was so cold he didn't try to sell many papers to those passing by.
Finally, he walked up to a policeman and said, "Mister, you wouldn't happen to know where a poor boy could find a warm place to sleep tonight would you? You see, just around the corner, down the alley, I sleep in a cardboard box and at night it's awful cold out there. Sure would be nice to have a warm place to stay."
The policeman looked down at the little boy and said, "You go down the street to that big white house and knock on the door. When they answer, just say, 'John 3:16' and they will let you in."
So the little boy walked to the house, went up the porch steps, and knocked on the door. When an elderly lady answered, he looked up at her and humbly said, "John 3:16"
The lady smiled, opened the door wide and said, "Come on in, son." As he stepped inside, she took him to a huge room, sat him in a big soft bottom rocker in front of a big old fireplace, and she left him alone for awhile.
As he comfortably sat there, looking around this big peaceful house, he thought to himself, "John 3:16. I don't understand it but it sure makes a cold boy warm."
A few hours later the lady came back and asked him, "Are you hungry?"
"Well, I haven't eaten in a couple of days, so yes, I would like something to eat please." replied the boy.
The lady took him into the kitchen and sat him down at a table full of wonderful food. He ate and ate until he couldn't eat anymore. When he finished, he sat back resting in his chair, smiled and thought, "Hmmm...John 3:16. I sure don't understand it but it makes a hungry boy feel full."
Then the lady took him to the upstairs bathroom, filled the bathtub with warm water, then left. The boy undressed then got into the bathtub. As he washed, he thought to himself, "I've never had a bath... a real bath... in my whole life. The only bath I ever had was when I stood in front of the big old fire hydrant when they flushed it out. Hmmm... John 3:16. I don't understand it but it sure makes a dirty boy feel clean."
The boy finished bathing, got dressed in the new flannel pajamas that were laid aside for him, then he called out to the lady. The lady came and gently took his hand and led him to a huge white room.She tucked him in a big old feathered bed, pulled the covers up around his neck, gave him a goodnight kiss on his forehead and turned out the lights as she left the room, closing the door behind her.
He laid in the darkness, so comfortable, clean and warm. He felt a deep warm, tingling sensation rush through his body. He was unexpectantly overcome with a sense of joy as he let out a soft giggle and excitedly wiggled a liitle in his bed. He looked out the window at the snow coming down on that cold night. Thinking about that cardboards box in the alley waiting for his return, and he mumbled to himself, "Wow! John 3:16. I sure don't understand it but it sure makes a tired boy rested." And the boy drifted off into a deep tranquil sleep.
The next morning, the lady came and woke him up. He dressed himself in the new clothes she laid out for him. As he looked at himself in the mirror, he smiled and softly said, "John 3:16 i don't understand it but it sure makes a ragged boy feel brand new."
After eating a big breakfast, the lady took him back to that big soft bottom rocker, took out a Bible, sat down in front of him and asked, "Do you understand John 3:16?"
"No ma'am, I don't" he replied. "The first time I heard it was last night when the policeman told me to use it."
She opened the Bible to John 3:16 and began to explain to him about Jesus. Right there, in front of that big old fireplace, he gave his heart and life to Jesus. he sat there and thought, "John 3:16. I still don't understand it but it sure makes a lost boy feel safe."
You know, I have to confess... I don't understand it either. How God would be willing to send His Son to die for me and Jesus would agree to do such a thing. I don't understand it either but it sure makes life worth living.
John 3:16 "For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. NLT
John 3:17 "God sent His Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. NLT
John 3:18 "There is no judgement against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believeing in God's one and only Son." NLT
In his love and service: Bill Dorman (John 13:34-35)
John 13:34 So now I am giving you a new commandment; Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. NLT
John 13:35 Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples." NLT
Finally, he walked up to a policeman and said, "Mister, you wouldn't happen to know where a poor boy could find a warm place to sleep tonight would you? You see, just around the corner, down the alley, I sleep in a cardboard box and at night it's awful cold out there. Sure would be nice to have a warm place to stay."
The policeman looked down at the little boy and said, "You go down the street to that big white house and knock on the door. When they answer, just say, 'John 3:16' and they will let you in."
So the little boy walked to the house, went up the porch steps, and knocked on the door. When an elderly lady answered, he looked up at her and humbly said, "John 3:16"
The lady smiled, opened the door wide and said, "Come on in, son." As he stepped inside, she took him to a huge room, sat him in a big soft bottom rocker in front of a big old fireplace, and she left him alone for awhile.
As he comfortably sat there, looking around this big peaceful house, he thought to himself, "John 3:16. I don't understand it but it sure makes a cold boy warm."
A few hours later the lady came back and asked him, "Are you hungry?"
"Well, I haven't eaten in a couple of days, so yes, I would like something to eat please." replied the boy.
The lady took him into the kitchen and sat him down at a table full of wonderful food. He ate and ate until he couldn't eat anymore. When he finished, he sat back resting in his chair, smiled and thought, "Hmmm...John 3:16. I sure don't understand it but it makes a hungry boy feel full."
Then the lady took him to the upstairs bathroom, filled the bathtub with warm water, then left. The boy undressed then got into the bathtub. As he washed, he thought to himself, "I've never had a bath... a real bath... in my whole life. The only bath I ever had was when I stood in front of the big old fire hydrant when they flushed it out. Hmmm... John 3:16. I don't understand it but it sure makes a dirty boy feel clean."
The boy finished bathing, got dressed in the new flannel pajamas that were laid aside for him, then he called out to the lady. The lady came and gently took his hand and led him to a huge white room.She tucked him in a big old feathered bed, pulled the covers up around his neck, gave him a goodnight kiss on his forehead and turned out the lights as she left the room, closing the door behind her.
He laid in the darkness, so comfortable, clean and warm. He felt a deep warm, tingling sensation rush through his body. He was unexpectantly overcome with a sense of joy as he let out a soft giggle and excitedly wiggled a liitle in his bed. He looked out the window at the snow coming down on that cold night. Thinking about that cardboards box in the alley waiting for his return, and he mumbled to himself, "Wow! John 3:16. I sure don't understand it but it sure makes a tired boy rested." And the boy drifted off into a deep tranquil sleep.
The next morning, the lady came and woke him up. He dressed himself in the new clothes she laid out for him. As he looked at himself in the mirror, he smiled and softly said, "John 3:16 i don't understand it but it sure makes a ragged boy feel brand new."
After eating a big breakfast, the lady took him back to that big soft bottom rocker, took out a Bible, sat down in front of him and asked, "Do you understand John 3:16?"
"No ma'am, I don't" he replied. "The first time I heard it was last night when the policeman told me to use it."
She opened the Bible to John 3:16 and began to explain to him about Jesus. Right there, in front of that big old fireplace, he gave his heart and life to Jesus. he sat there and thought, "John 3:16. I still don't understand it but it sure makes a lost boy feel safe."
You know, I have to confess... I don't understand it either. How God would be willing to send His Son to die for me and Jesus would agree to do such a thing. I don't understand it either but it sure makes life worth living.
John 3:16 "For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. NLT
John 3:17 "God sent His Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. NLT
John 3:18 "There is no judgement against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believeing in God's one and only Son." NLT
In his love and service: Bill Dorman (John 13:34-35)
John 13:34 So now I am giving you a new commandment; Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. NLT
John 13:35 Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples." NLT
Monday, November 21, 2011
WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD
Proverbs 3:3-4 LET LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS NEVER LEAVE YOU... THEN YOU WILL WIN FAVOR AND A GOOD NAME IN THE SIGHT OF GOD AND MAN. NIV
Can you imagine what condition this world would be in if we spent more time speaking, posting, or texting GOOD uplifting news? Things that will make people happy and smile rather than make them angry and sneer. Can you picture in your mind what this world would be like?
I can... and what a WONDERFUL WORLD it will be.
PLEASE, make an effort to STOP COMPLAINING!
Can you imagine what condition this world would be in if we spent more time speaking, posting, or texting GOOD uplifting news? Things that will make people happy and smile rather than make them angry and sneer. Can you picture in your mind what this world would be like?
I can... and what a WONDERFUL WORLD it will be.
PLEASE, make an effort to STOP COMPLAINING!
A STEP FOR A BETTER RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD
Are you wanting to grow spiritually? Do you yearn for God to reveal Himself to you more? Would you like God to use you to reach other people and bring them to Him?
God CAN'T use you if you're complaining all the time. How can you be an example of His peace, love and joy if you're complaining? You won't be very convincing to people that way and that's why God WON'T use you until you grow in that area.
I remember I always wanted to do God's work. I wanted to help other people.But i ALWAYS complained about something. And when I started caring for my nephew, who is deaf and mentally challenged, I complained incessantly to my sisater about his bad behavior. I was always stressed about the situation. I couldan't get much sleep. I didn't know where to find help. it really wore on my health.
Finally, I decided there wasn't anything I could do but accept some things about him that I TRIED to control. I prayed to God to bring peace into our lives and I had others praying for us as well. When I let go and STOPPED COMPLAINING I saw change. Robby was calming down. I realized that if I continued to let things bother me then they WILL persist. it's when i let go and let God handle it thats when things wil become better. Complaining didn't solve any of it.
We really need to stop complaining about things. Gas, food, property taxes, etc prices going up. It's a way of life and we have to accept it and still enjoy our life.
Stop complaining about petty things... somebody didn't call/text back. It's possible something came up. The world doesn't revolve around us. Hasn't it ever happened to you? You were about to call/text somebody but sudenly someone shows up at the door, or maybe, you spill something and need to clean it up quick and you forget to call/text that person back because you got busy with something else? We live in a busy world and things unexpectantly do happen. We need to just consider that, instead of instantly getting upset and complaining because people don't get back to us.
Stop complaining if you have to wait a long time in the checkout line, at a doctor's office, or on the phone because they put you on hold. This is the PERFECT time to "zone out and spend time with God". If you begin to pray while you're waiting, not only will you feel a sense of calm from God's peace but he wait suddenly won't seem as long. Put it to the test! Try it!
Stop complaining about the government!!! Whether it's the mayor, representatives, Senators, Congress, or the President. Unless you're willing to go out and advocate or take some sort of purposeful action (gather petitions, active in protest marches, attend meetings to vote on issues) then please, stop complaining!! Pray for those in government positions that they may be lead by the Holy spirit to do the right things.
Complaining isn't going to get anything done. It ONLY spreads NEGATIVE energy onto other people and gets them complaining. We need to accept that most things are the way they are and we're most likely NOT going to be able to change it. Especially, not by just sitting around complaining.
Let's make a commitment today to keep our mind on God. When we complain we are only giving into the flesh. We are unhappy because we can't have OUR WAY!
Turn your mind away from complaints. When you begin to complain, catch yourself, stop and begin telling yourself, "Lord, I'm sorry for complaining. this is not a big issue. You will handle this for me. I'm sorry, Lord. Please, forgive me. I'm going to enjoy my day now."
Psalm 80:3 RESTORE US, O GOD; LET YOUR FACE SHINE, THAT WE MAY BE SAVED.
God CAN'T use you if you're complaining all the time. How can you be an example of His peace, love and joy if you're complaining? You won't be very convincing to people that way and that's why God WON'T use you until you grow in that area.
I remember I always wanted to do God's work. I wanted to help other people.But i ALWAYS complained about something. And when I started caring for my nephew, who is deaf and mentally challenged, I complained incessantly to my sisater about his bad behavior. I was always stressed about the situation. I couldan't get much sleep. I didn't know where to find help. it really wore on my health.
Finally, I decided there wasn't anything I could do but accept some things about him that I TRIED to control. I prayed to God to bring peace into our lives and I had others praying for us as well. When I let go and STOPPED COMPLAINING I saw change. Robby was calming down. I realized that if I continued to let things bother me then they WILL persist. it's when i let go and let God handle it thats when things wil become better. Complaining didn't solve any of it.
We really need to stop complaining about things. Gas, food, property taxes, etc prices going up. It's a way of life and we have to accept it and still enjoy our life.
Stop complaining about petty things... somebody didn't call/text back. It's possible something came up. The world doesn't revolve around us. Hasn't it ever happened to you? You were about to call/text somebody but sudenly someone shows up at the door, or maybe, you spill something and need to clean it up quick and you forget to call/text that person back because you got busy with something else? We live in a busy world and things unexpectantly do happen. We need to just consider that, instead of instantly getting upset and complaining because people don't get back to us.
Stop complaining if you have to wait a long time in the checkout line, at a doctor's office, or on the phone because they put you on hold. This is the PERFECT time to "zone out and spend time with God". If you begin to pray while you're waiting, not only will you feel a sense of calm from God's peace but he wait suddenly won't seem as long. Put it to the test! Try it!
Stop complaining about the government!!! Whether it's the mayor, representatives, Senators, Congress, or the President. Unless you're willing to go out and advocate or take some sort of purposeful action (gather petitions, active in protest marches, attend meetings to vote on issues) then please, stop complaining!! Pray for those in government positions that they may be lead by the Holy spirit to do the right things.
Complaining isn't going to get anything done. It ONLY spreads NEGATIVE energy onto other people and gets them complaining. We need to accept that most things are the way they are and we're most likely NOT going to be able to change it. Especially, not by just sitting around complaining.
Let's make a commitment today to keep our mind on God. When we complain we are only giving into the flesh. We are unhappy because we can't have OUR WAY!
Turn your mind away from complaints. When you begin to complain, catch yourself, stop and begin telling yourself, "Lord, I'm sorry for complaining. this is not a big issue. You will handle this for me. I'm sorry, Lord. Please, forgive me. I'm going to enjoy my day now."
Psalm 80:3 RESTORE US, O GOD; LET YOUR FACE SHINE, THAT WE MAY BE SAVED.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
LESSONS FROM GEESE
The next time you see geese heading south for the winter flying along in a "V" formation, you might want to consider what science has discovered as to why they fly that way.
FACT: As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an "uplift" for the bird immediately following. By flying in a "V" formation, the whole flock has at least 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew on its own.
LESSON: People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going more quickly and easily because they are traveling on the thrust of one another.
FACT; When a goose flies out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone. It quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird in front of it.
LESSON: If we have as much common sense as a goose, we stay in formation with those headed where we want to go. We are willing to accept their help and give our help to others. It is harder to do something alone than together.
FACT: When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into formation, and another goose flies to the point position.
LESSON: It is sensible to take turns doing the hard and demanding tasks and sharing leadership. As with geese, people are interdependent of each other's skills, capabilities, and unique arrangements of gifts, talents, or resources.
FACT: The geese flying in formation honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.
LESSON: We need to make sure our honking is encouraging and not discouraging. In groups where there is encouragement, the production is much greater.
FACT: When a goose gets sick, wounded, or shot down, two other geese will drop out of formation with that goose and follow it down to lend help and protection. They stay with the fallen goose until it dies or is able to fly again. Then, they launch out on their own, or with another formation to catch up with the flock.
LESSON: If we have the sense of a goose, we will stand by each other in difficult times as well as good.
FACT: As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an "uplift" for the bird immediately following. By flying in a "V" formation, the whole flock has at least 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew on its own.
LESSON: People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going more quickly and easily because they are traveling on the thrust of one another.
FACT; When a goose flies out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone. It quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird in front of it.
LESSON: If we have as much common sense as a goose, we stay in formation with those headed where we want to go. We are willing to accept their help and give our help to others. It is harder to do something alone than together.
FACT: When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into formation, and another goose flies to the point position.
LESSON: It is sensible to take turns doing the hard and demanding tasks and sharing leadership. As with geese, people are interdependent of each other's skills, capabilities, and unique arrangements of gifts, talents, or resources.
FACT: The geese flying in formation honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.
LESSON: We need to make sure our honking is encouraging and not discouraging. In groups where there is encouragement, the production is much greater.
FACT: When a goose gets sick, wounded, or shot down, two other geese will drop out of formation with that goose and follow it down to lend help and protection. They stay with the fallen goose until it dies or is able to fly again. Then, they launch out on their own, or with another formation to catch up with the flock.
LESSON: If we have the sense of a goose, we will stand by each other in difficult times as well as good.