Pleasing God by Knowing His Will... :) Shangy! >Here are the details on our ShangyFunList: Group Web Site: https://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/ShangyFunList.html Group email address: bcrsystems@earthlink.net Shangrala Family Fun: https://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/ ================ *~* A REMINDER: PLEASE Send me sweet, interesting, funny, inspiring, family type forwards ANY TIME here... bcrsystems@earthlink.net I Need them, Love them, Use them, and Share them! THANK YOU!! AND For Facebook Users: Please Like Me here... http://tinyurl.com/cma6all AND Please Share This email with All Your Friends And Family! ^~^ May God SUPER BLESS You As You Do! THANK YOU! ================ __ __ ,-' `' \ _---``-- / _ _ ; __ `. / / `' \; /`----- ) / .-/ ,( ), \-. ; | \( \ / )/; | - _5 `7 -; / ( ___-' `-____ | ( ___`-_ \ ____| \ / `,/ \ _(\__ / \ \ ; \ .' /' `i. / | | \ _-'( _\__-/ `- | | ` ,` `_ | BP * Don't forget to follow us on social media for our latest updates and uproarious funny and inspiring pages! On Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/y8dcm8x7 On X (Twitter): http://tinyurl.com/n5uf3dxv ================ >-->HOT Off The 'Shangy' Press :) Our too hot to handle new page is from our friends Fran and LouiseAu. It is full of stunning nature and animal photos taken by some of the world's best photographers! Give it a little of your time and check it out here: _.---._ .---. __...---' .---. `---'-. `. ~ -~ -.-''__.--' _.'( | )`. `. `._ : -.~~ .'__-'_ .--'' ._`---'_.-. `. `-`. ~ ~_~-~-~_ ~ -._ -._``---. -. `-._ `. ~- ~ ~ -_ -~ ~ -.._ _ _ _ ..-_ `. `-._``--.._ ~~-~ ~-_ _~ ~-~ ~ -~ _~~_-~ -._ `-. -. `-._``--.._.--''. ~ -~_ ~~ -~_-~ _~- _~~ _~-_~ ~-_~~ ~-.___ -._ `-.__ `. `. ~ -_~ jgs ~~ _~- ~~- -_~ ~- ~ - _~~- _~~ ~---...__ _ ._ .` `. ~-~ ~ ~- _~~- _-_~ ~-_ ~-~ ~_-~ _~- ~_~-_~ ~--.....--~ -~_~ ~ ~ - ~ ~ ~~ - ~~- ~~- ~- ~ -~ ~ ~ -~~- ~- ~-~ World Nature Awards! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/worldnatureawards.html --- ...Wow! Awesome! Thanks Ladies! =========================================================== >-->From Heartwarmers: Coffee smells like freshly ground heaven. -- Jessi Lane Adams { } } { { { } } } }{ { { }{ } } ( }{ }{ { ) .-{ } }-. ( ( } { } { } ) |`-.._____..-'| | ;--. | (__) (__ \ | (oo) | ) ) | \/ |/ / | / / -Felix Lee- (Decorative)- | ( / \ y' `-.._____..-' >BLACK AS THE DEVIL by Kathe Campbell Someone once insisted it was a man's job to make the coffee in the morning, for in the bible it said He-brews, and in this family my husband was the brewer. All the coffee in Colombia couldn't make me a morning person, but during our fifty-three year marriage, Pops and I orchestrated mornings to the tune of good coffee. Real coffee -- home ground that became hazel dark, changing to a pretty golden bronze tempered with cream. Real cream -- thick, almost yellow, perfectly sweet, neither lumpy or frothy atop our java. Making coffee is the only thing macho men do that doesn't threaten their masculinity. For we women, it's on the same domestic level as changing toilet paper. It's amazing how the world begins to change through ones eyes when swigging down a cup of caffeine. It must be true that on the eighth day, God created coffee that smells like freshly ground heaven. Hot and wet, it falls into the stomach, ideas are born, things recalled are noted, wit awakens, nouns and adjectives come to life, and suddenly you have a full gallop urge to visit the throne. In our office, with a potpourri of folks occupying the leather couch over second and third cups, there flowed matters of insurance claims, politics, and local gossip. Coffee was the social binder -- black as the devil, hot as hell, but pure as an angel foiling our sleep until we did it all over again the next day. Upon miles and miles of Montana highways, Pops and I indulged ourselves with all the famous, and not so famous, jumbo-sized cups. Although drive-in Styrofoam was against Pop's religion, our cups of the northwest's best right down to perfect demitasse-like cups after a big dinner, made us good Lutherans. At one 1910 vintage express stop in the boonies, Pops asked if they had coffee brewing. I felt obliged to kick him in the shins for there was a pot of scorchy smelling black stuff sitting on the wood stove alright. The spoon all but stood alone in the stained and cracked cup. We sat at the counter on tractor seats while Pops managed a couple sips and I took cover in a can of lukewarm soda. After another bitter swallow he decided to fill the car and purchased two rock-hard Snickers. Both of us felt better served in tending to other needs behind a big half-dead scrub down the road. In keeping with Pop's Scandanavian side, we never hit the back woods or blue ribbon fishing spots without his famous camp pot. There was nothing notable about it -- this well broke in, speckled blue, scorched and dented, enameled eighteen-cupper. I could forget everything from the dutch oven to scouring pads, but God help me if I should forget Pop's precious coffee boiler. I may as well have taken a hike -- a long one. No innards, just the pot, for boiled camp coffee was the only way to brew in God's wilderness until it was near lethal. Nobody in our clan could come close to the smell and taste of perfectly measured, hand-cranked, fresh ground joe simmering over a campfire. Also, nothing haunted the nostrils of our kids back from the day's first catch as did the aroma of their dad's coffee. And so, at ten and twelve, they sat by the fire sipping pure pleasure, though we watched their intake carefully to make sure our brood wasn't sleeping with their eyes open. Then someone lowered the boom on our Pops, for he was diagnosed with everything from heart problems, to prostate cancer. No more swigging down the black stuff. His serious coffee drinking days ended abruptly, except for one or two civilized cups of decaffeinated perk in the morning. I'll never forget the look on his face as he surveyed that first tin. He brought it up for a good sniff, then proclaimed it was the devil's blend. And after tasting it, he grumbled... "Okay, I'll quit, but it won't be easy drinking my Bailey's straight." -- Kathe Campbell __________________________________________________ Kathe lives her dream on a Montana mountain with her mammoth donkeys, a Keeshond, and a few kitties. Three children, eleven grands and three greats round out her herd. She is a prolific writer on Alzheimer's, and her stories are found on many ezines. Kathe is a contributing author to the Chicken Soup For The Soul and Cup of Comfort series, numerous anthologies, RX for Writers, magazines and medical journals. =========================================================== >-->From Daily Encounter: , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >When the Load Feels Too Heavy I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.1 A new believer complained about the lack of consistency in her life just weeks after her salvation. "If I am a believer, why do I still have so many problems?" she asked herself sincerely. Whether we are new believers or veterans in the faith, we will find spiritual cycles, times when we are up and times when we are down. The Lord Jesus was realistic when He described the kind of difficult experiences His disciples would face (and that includes us). I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. (John 16:33) If you are in the midst of unsettling circumstances, do not be discouraged" so are many others. In those moments, we maintain contentment and stability through our constant, unchanging, and abiding relationship with Jesus Christ. Hold fast to Jesus in constant fellowship, bringing all your needs and fears to Him. He is the Helmsman of your soul, and your safety and peace are in His firm hands. God wants you to share with Him what is in your heart. The Bible reminds us that our help comes from God: Psalm 34:19 Isaiah 40:29 Romans 5:3-42 Corinthians 1:3-4 Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, when the burdens of life feel overwhelming and heavy, help me to remember that You have overcome the world. Be my peace in the storm and my strength when I am weak. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen. 1. John 16:33 (NIV). Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N. --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...See this teaching: STRENGTHENING YOUR FAITH IN GOD https://tinyurl.com/53krye5t <:))))>< , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Discovering the Will of God 'But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathedand is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.'1 God wants His children to obey Him and make right choices, so He accepts full responsibility for leading us. In fact, He promises, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go. I will counsel you with my loving eye on you." (Psalm 32:8). However, our life is not mapped out in an instruction manual that we can read in its entirety. Following the will of God is a daily process of trust. We learn the will of God by reading His Word. There we find commandments that will lead us to success, and principles for daily application. The Bible does not detail every possible situation we might face, but its principles enable us to make decisions about any circumstance we encounter. Studying the Bible is the only way for a believer to recognize the Lord's will. The passage above says that Scripture can give us the wisdom we need to be fully qualified and equipped for the work God wants us to do (2 Timothy3:15-17). Our Heavenly Father is actively guiding every incident in our life, to accomplish something beautiful. As believers, we must listen to Him to discern when He is revealing His will to us. Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You promise in Your Word that You will make us understand and teach us the way we should walk. I am aware that I need to study Your Word to know Your will for my life. Lord, help me to be intentional in studying your Holy Word for it is the only way to recognize Your will and acquire wisdom to live life. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen. 1. 2 Timothy 3:14-17 (NIV). Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N. When copying or forwarding include the following: "Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2016 ACTS International. --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...See These Teachings: STUDY: BE DILIGENT http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Study/STUDY_BE_DILIGENT.htm STUDY GUIDE http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Study/STUDY_GUIDE.htm =========================================================== >-->From Archives InspiredBuffalo: _...._ .'.o' o.'. /o o .o' o'\ |'.o 'o. o'.o| |o. o' o 'o .| \ o .o.'o'./ '._o__o_.' \ / || || || || || jgs || \/ >An Invitation to the Master (edited) Names like Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods roll from the lips of those who talk about golf's premier event, the Masters. One name that will probably never surface in a conversation about golfing legends is Doug Ford. Few people would have any idea that Ford won the 1957 Masters. He never won another green jacket and he hasn't made the cut since 1971 (four years before Tiger Woods was born), but he is invited to play in the Masters every year. The Masters' rules include a lifetime invitation to every champion of the event. Ford only won the tournament once, hasn't qualified with his golf skills in nearly three decades, and hasn't been able to break par in the event since 1958. Nonetheless, he gets to play in the tournament every year because on one single occasion he won the jacket. __ /_/\/\ \_\ / /_/ \ \_\/\ \ \_\/ unknown Our salvation is similarly linked to a single event. God through Christ's work on the cross was a one shot deal. He died once and God raised him from the dead so that all could live eternally. -<>- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` >Silence Is... The Silence is Meekness. When you do not defend yourself against offenses; When you do not claim your rights; When you let God defend you; The Silence is Meekness. The Silence is Mercy When you do not reveal the faults of your brothers to others; When you readily forgive without inquiring into the past; When you do not judge, but pray in your heart; The Silence is Mercy. The Silence is Patience When you accept suffering not with grumbling but joyfully; When you do not look for human consolations; When you do not become too anxious, but wait in patience for the seed to germinate; The Silence is Patience. The Silence is Humility. When there is no competition; When you let your brothers emerge, grow and mature; When you joyfully abandon all to the Lord; When your actions may be misinterpreted; When you leave to others the glory of the enterprise; The Silence is Humility. The Silence is Faith. When you keep quiet because you know that the Lord will act; When you renounce the voice of the world to remain in the presence of the Lord; When you do not labor yourself to be understood; because it is enough for you to know that the Lord understands you; The Silence is Faith. The Silence is Adoration. When you embrace the cross without asking "Why?"; The Silence is Adoration. -<>- ___ ,-'" "`-. ,'_ `. / / \ ,- \ __ | \_0 --- | / | | | \ \ `--.______,-/ | ___) \ ,--"" ,/ | / _ \ \-_____,- / \__-/ \ | `. ,' \___/ < ´--------' \__/\ | Wny \__// >For your own good In the beginning God covered the earth with broccoli, cauliflower and spinach, with green, yellow and red vegetables of all kinds so man and woman would live long and healthy lives. Then using God's bountiful gifts, Satan created Dairy Ice Cream and Magnums, and Satan said 'You want hot fudge with that? and man said 'Yes!' and woman said 'I'll have one too with chocolate chips', and so they gained 10 pounds. And God created the healthy yogurt that woman might keep the figure that man found so fair, and Satan brought forth white flour from the wheat and sugar from the cane and combined them, and woman went from size 12 to size 14. So God said 'Try my fresh green salad', and Satan presented Blue Cheese dressing and garlic croutons on the side. And man and woman unfastened their belts following the repast. God then said 'I have sent you healthy vegetables and olive oil in which to cook them', and Satan brought forth deep fried coconut king prawns, butter-dipped lobster chunks and chicken fried steak, so big it needed its own platter, and Man's cholesterol went through the roof. Then God brought forth the potato, naturally low in fat and brimming with potassium and good nutrition. Then Satan peeled off the healthy skin and sliced the starchy center into chips and deep fried them in animal fats adding copious quantities of salt, and Man put on more pounds. God then brought forth running shoes so that his children might lose those extra pounds, and Satan came forth with a cable TV with remote control so man would not have to toil changing the channels, and man and woman laughed and cried before the flickering light and started wearing stretch jogging suits. Then God gave lean beef so that man might consume fewer calories and still satisfy his appetite, and Satan created McDonalds and the 99 cent double cheeseburger. Then Satan said 'You want fries with that?' and man replied 'Yes, and super size 'em', and Satan said 'It is good.' and man and woman went into cardiac arrest. God sighed and created quadruple by-pass surgery, and then Satan chuckled and created the National Health Service. ,--. ,--. ( O ) ( O ) `--' \ `--' \ _ >-. / /| `-.__.' Krogg THE FINAL WORD ON NUTRITION After an exhaustive review of the research literature, here's the final word on nutrition and health. 1. Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than us. 2. Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than us. 3. Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than us. 4. Italians drink excessive amounts of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than us. 5. Germans drink beer and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than us. CONCLUSION: Eat and drink what you like. Speaking English is apparently what kills you. -<>- >Sweet Revenge? "He who has been forgiven little loves little." . / \ _\ /_ . . (,'v`.) . . \) ( ) ,' `. ( ) (/ \`. / `-' `-' \ ,'/ : ' _______ ' : | _,-' ,-. `-._ | |,' ( )__`-'__( ) `.| (|,-,'-._ _.-`.-.|) / /<( o)> <( o)>\ \ : : | | : : | | ; : | | | | (.-.) | | | | ,' ___ `. | | ; |)/ ,'---'. \(| : _,-/ |/\( )/\| \-._ _..--'.-( | `-'''-' | )-.`--.._ `. ;`._________,': ,' ,' `/ \'`. `------.------' SSt ' In Today in the Word the story is told about a woman who once came to Ibn Saud, the first king of Saudi Arabia, requesting that the man who killed her husband be put to death. The man had fallen from the top of a palm tree when he had been gathering dates and landed on this lady's husband and killed him. The king said, "It is your right to exact compensation, and it is also your right to ask for this man's life. But it is my right to decree how he shall die. You shall take this man with you and he shall be tied to the foot of a palm tree and then you shall climb to the top of the tree and cast yourself down upon him from that height. In that way you will take his life as he took your husband's. Or perhaps," Ibn Saud added, "you would prefer after all to take the blood money?" The widow took the money. To fail to forgive keeps us bound to the past. It is a killer--not of the one who caused the resentment, but the one who carries the resentment. As another has put it, "Failing to forgive is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die." Also, as Jesus said, "He who has forgiven little, loves little." One way to love much, therefore, is to confess all our wrongs and sins, not only to God, but to the ones we have hurt and do all we can to make restitution and be forgiven ourselves. For he who has been forgiven much loves much! -<>- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` >I am a Soldier I am a soldier in the army of my God. The Lord Jesus Christ is my Commanding Officer. The Holy Bible is my Code of Conduct. Faith, prayer, and the Word are my weapons of warfare. I have been taught by the Holy Spirit, Trained by experience, Tried by adversity, And tested by fire. I am a volunteer in this army, enlisted for eternity. I will either retire in this army, or die in this army. But, I will not get out, sell out, be talked out, or pushed out. I am faithful, reliable, capable, and dependable. If my God needs me, I am here. I am a soldier. I am not a baby. I do not need to be pampered, petted, primed up, pumped up, picked up, or pepped up. I a m a soldier! No one has to call me, remind me, write me, visit me, entice me, or lure me. I am a solider! I am not a wimp. I am on duty, saluting my King. Obeying His orders, praising His name, and building His Kingdom. No one has to send me flowers, gifts, food, cards, candy, or give me handouts. I do not need to be cuddled, cradled, cared for, or catered to. I am committed. I cannot have my feelings hurt bad enough to turn me aside. I cannot lose enough to cause me to quit. When Jesus called me into this army, I had nothing. If I end up with nothing I will still come out even. I will win! My God will supply all my needs. I am more than a conqueror. I will always triumph. I can do all things through Christ. Devils cannot defeat me. People cannot disillusion me. Weather cannot deter me. Sickness cannot stop me. Battles cannot beat me. Money cannot buy me. Governments cannot silence me. And Hell cannot handle me! I am a soldier. Even death cannot destroy me. I am a soldier, in the army. I¹m marching, claiming victory. I will not give up. I will not retreat. I am a soldier, marching Heaven bound. Here I stand! Will you stand with me, or against me? -<>- ____ ___|=--=/ \=--=| :(___.--. .--.___): { __ ' ) ( ` __ )= ""----'Ahas '----"" ====' >Shoes in Church I showered and shaved.............. I adjusted my tie. I got there and sat.............. In a pew just in time. Bowing my head in prayer......... As I closed my eyes. I saw the shoe of the man next to me.. Touching my own. I sighed. With plenty of room on either side...... I thought, "Why must our soles touch?" It bothered me, his shoe touching mine... But it didn't bother him much. A prayer began: "Our Father"............. I thought, "This man with the shoes has no pride. They're dusty, worn, and scratched.... Even worse, there are holes on the side!" "Thank You for blessings," the prayer went on. The shoe man said.............. a quiet "Amen." I tried to focus on the prayer....... But my thoughts were on his shoes again Aren't we supposed to look our best.. When walking through that door? "Well, this certainly isn't it," I thought, Glancing toward the floor. Then the prayer was ended............ And the songs of praise began. The shoe man was certainly loud...... Sounding proud as he sang. His voice lifted the rafters......... His hands were raised high. The Lord could surely hear.. The shoe man's voice from the sky. It was time for the offering......... And what I threw in was steep. I watched as the shoe man reached.... Into his pockets so deep. I saw what was pulled out........... What the shoe man put in. Then I heard a soft "clink".... as when silver hits tin. The sermon really bored me........... To tears, and that's no lie It was the same for the shoe man..... For tears fell from his eyes. At the end of the service........ As is the custom here We must greet new visitors.. And show them all good cheer. But I felt moved somehow............. And wanted to meet the shoe man So after the closing prayer......... I reached over and shook his hand. He was old and his skin was dark..... And his hair was truly a mess But I thanked him for coming......... For being our guest. He said, "My names' Charlie......... I'm glad to meet you, my friend." There were tears in his eyes.......... But he had a large, wide grin "Let me explain," he said........... Wiping tears from his eyes. "I've been coming here for months.... And you're the first to say 'Hi.'" "I know that my appearance........ "Is not like all the rest "But I really do try............. "To always look my best." "I always clean and polish my shoes.. "Before my very long walk. "But by the time I get here....... "They're dirty and dusty, like chalk." My heart filled with pain............ and I swallowed to hide my tears As he continued to apologize....... For daring to sit so near. He said, "When I get here........ "I know I must look a sight. "But I thought if I could touch you.. "Then maybe our souls might unite." I was silent for a moment............ Knowing whatever was said Would pale in comparison... I spoke from my heart, not my head. "Oh, you've touched me," I said.... "And taught me, in part; "That the best of any man...... "Is what is found in his heart." The rest, I thought,...... This shoe man will never know. Like just how thankful I really am... That his dirty old shoe touched my soul You are special to me and you have made a difference in my life. -<>- >Links for Your Enjoyment :) Kids With Animals 5! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/kidswithanimals5.html Beautiful Sea Slugs! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/seaslug.html Car Show 2! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/carshow2.html Silly Veggies! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/veggies.html World's Fastest Cars! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/fastcars.html Colorful Fish! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/fish.html Rarely Seen Animals! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/rarelyseenanimals.html Ocean Photo Winners 2025! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/oceanphotos2025.html The Forest Man! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/forestman.html Crocodile Man! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/crocodileman.html Top State's Humor! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/statehumor.html Trivia Car Facts 2 https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/triviacarfacts2.html Animal Families! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/animalfamilies.html Animal Smiles! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/animalsmiles.html Our Valuable Anchor! http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/ouranchor.html Are Angels Real? http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/angelsreal.html Montreal Gardens! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/montreal.html Beaches In India! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/beaches.html Financial Stewardship! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/BibleStudy/financialstewardship.html Flower Art! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/flowerart.html Girl Gets New Ear! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/girlgetsear.html Important Life Truths! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/lifetruths.html Kid Lessons! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/kidlessons.html Living Tree Church! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/treechurch.html Making A Difference! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/makingdifference.html 9-11 Where God Wants Me! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/wheregodwantsme.html Jacob's US Flag! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/jacobsflag.html Thank You Lord! https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/thanks.html Moms And Dads INDEX: https://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/momsanddadsindex.html -<>- There Is Great Peace In Silence! https://tinyurl.com/2jrc69n4 God's Calling! http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/GOD'S_CALLING.htm Speaking in Tongues: What It Is Not (Part 1) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lEJCpOEuw-g Part 2 of 4 Speaking In Tongues: What It Is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3N3hmaHLTE Part 3 of 4 Speaking in Tongues: What Is It For https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nptK7vYy0yA Part 4 of 4 Speaking In Tongues: How to Do It https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKqyiVuDMeE The Simplicity and Grace of THE NEW BIRTH [Romans 10: 9 and 10] https://tinyurl.com/3cp5jyh5 How to Become a Christian - How to Get Born Again / How to Get Saved / Romans 10:9 & 10 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMzblR8YDQ0 Bible https://quod.lib.umich.edu/k/kjv/ Bible Study Index http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Contents.htm The Way Bible Articles https://thewayinternational.com/english/ Spirit & Truth Index: https://stfi.org/ Bible Teaching Videos - John Schoenheit Spirit And Truth https://tinyurl.com/2gyn3f35 The Lion Weekly Digest is a newsletter delivering the week's top articles from The Lion straight to your inbox. Find all of the stories: https://readlion.com/ Latest From PragerU: https://www.prageru.com/ -<>- >In The Worldly News: President Donald J. Trump https://www.donaldjtrump.com/ TrumpRx doesn't sell medications. Instead, it connects patients directly with the best prices, increasing transparency and cutting out costly third-party markups. https://trumprx.gov/ White House Actions - 2026 https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/ Trump executive orders and actions, 2025-2026 https://tinyurl.com/musd7m3x DOGE Latest News https://doge.gov/ DOGE Latest Savings https://doge.gov/savings From The Daily Acorn: Positive News https://www.thedailyacorn.com/ Latest From Lifezette: https://www.lifezette.com/ Latest From Hannity: https://hannity.com/ Latest From American Action News: https://americanactionnews.com/ Latest From Reliable News: https://reliablenewsnow.com/ Latest From Newsmax: https://www.newsmax.com/ Latest From Expose: https://expose-news.com/ Latest From AFA: http://tinyurl.com/j7lakqw Latest From OperationRescue: http://www.operationrescue.org/ Latest Product Alert: http://www.emergencyemail.org/products/?fmt=text Latest Health Alert: http://www.emergencyemail.org/health/?fmt=text Click to Give Free https://greatergood.com/clicktogive/ggc/home ========================================================== >-->Story Time From our Friend Phyllis :) (.,------...__ _.'" `. .' .' `, `. `. ` . .' .'/''--...__`. \ . .--.`. ' "-. '. | '' .' _.' .()) .--":/ ''( \_\ ' (()( ''._' ( \ ' ' `. `--' ' `.: . `-.___.' ' `. . _ _ .' ) .____.-' .'`. (--.. .' \ /\ / / `. .' \( \ /|/ `. .' \__/ `. / | o | \ | | | jro >Little Boy Colossians 4:8 "I am sending him to you for this very purpose" -NKJV The story is told about a nine year old boy who lived in a rural town in Tennessee. His house was in a poor area of the community. A church there had a bus ministry that came knocking on his door one Saturday afternoon. The kid came to answer the door and greeted the bus pastor. The bus pastor asked if his parents were home and the small boy told him that his parents take off every weekend and leave him at home to take care of his little brother. The bus pastor couldn't believe what the kid said and asked him to repeat it. The youngster gave the same answer and the bus pastor asked to come in and talk With him. They went into the living room and sat down on an old couch with the foam and springs exposed. The bus pastor asked the child, "Where do you go to church? The young boy surprised the visitor by replying, "I've never been to church in my Whole life." The bus pastor thought to himself about the fact that his church was less than three miles from the child's house. "Are you sure you have never been to church?" he asked again. "I'm sure I haven't," came his answer. Then the bus pastor said, "Well, son, more important than going to church, have you ever heard the greatest love story ever told?" and then he proceeded to share the Gospel with this little nine year old boy. The young lad's heart began to be tenderized and at the end of the bus pastor's story, the bus pastor asked if the boy wanted to receive this free gift from Jesus. The youngster exclaimed, "YES!" The kid and the bus pastor got on their knees and the lad invited Jesus into his heart and received the free gift of salvation. They both stood up and the bus pastor asked if he could pick the kid up for church the next morning. “Sure," the nine year Old replied. The bus pastor got to the house early the next morning and found the lights off. He let himself in and snaked his way through the house and found the little boy asleep in his bed. He woke up the little boy and his brother and helped get them dressed. They got on the bus and ate a doughnut and drank orange juice for breakfast on their way to church. Keep in mind that this boy had never been to church before. The church was a real big one. The little kid just sat there, clueless of what was going on. A few minutes into the service, these tall unhappy guys walked down to the front and picked up some wooden plates. One of the men prayed and the kid, with utter fascination, watched them walk up and down the aisles. He still didn't know what was going on. All of a sudden, like a bolt of lightning, it hit the kid what was taking place. These people must be giving money to Jesus. He then reflected on the free gift of life he had received just twenty- four hours earlier. He immediately searched his pockets, front and back, and couldn't find a thing to give Jesus. By this time the offering plate was being passed down his aisle and, with a broken heart, he just grabbed the plate and held on to it. He finally let go and watched it pass on down the aisle. He turned around to see it passed down the aisle behind him. And then his eyes remained glued on the plate as it was passed back and forth, back and forth all the way to the rear of the sanctuary. Then he had an idea. This little nine year old boy, in front of God and everybody, got up out of his seat. He walked about eight rows back, grabbed the usher by the coat and asked to hold the plate one more time. Then he did the most astounding thing. He took the plate, placed it on the carpeted Church floor and stepped into the center of it. As he stood there, he lifted his Little head up and said, "Jesus, I don't have anything to give you today, but just Me. I give you me!" Father thank you that you accept even me. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen! --- ...Aww, Such a sweet story. Thank you Phyllis! ========================================================== >-->From God'sDailyWord: , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Such a Time As This When the Persians overthrew the Babylonians and allowed the people of Israel to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple in 538 BC, not all the Israelites chose to leave their new home. A whole generation had been born and raised under Babylonian captivity and many had become content with their life. Therefore, many Jewish communities thrived under Persian rule. When Xerxes was King of this vast empire, he commanded the Queen to be displayed before all the visiting dignitaries at a banquet. But when the Queen refused, Xerxes removed her title and began to search for a replacement. The search resulted in a young Jewish girl named Esther being made Queen - not a normal position for a young Jew! Meanwhile, a plot had developed to kill the Jews in all the provinces of Persia. Esther's cousin, Mordecai, knew of this plot and pleaded with Esther to approach the King for help, but Esther was understandably reluctant. She was being taken care of very well, and approaching the King without first being invited could lead to death. Mordecai encouraged Esther to view her life as being part of God's wonderful plan. Esther 4:14 "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" God allowed Esther to become Queen, not as a reward for being good, but "for such a time as this." God could have used other methods to save the Jews, but He chose to invite a beautiful young woman to play a part. Esther put her personal plans on hold, put her life at risk, persuaded the King, and saved her people from certain destruction. The wisdom and truth of Mordecai's words resound through the ages: God's work WILL be accomplished; His plan WILL unfold; deliverance WILL arise! It's humbling, and often very freeing, to know that God really doesn't need us. He is perfectly capable without our help! But it's also comforting to know that God is inviting us to join Him in His work and walk by His side to certain victory. We may never be invited to a role as dramatic as Esther's, but we can join our Heavenly Father from right where we are today! We have come to our position - no matter how elevated, no matter how low - for the purpose of bringing Him glory and honor. Let's listen carefully for what He's asking us to do, and understand we are right where we need to be and right where He wants us! He has created us for a purpose. He has brought us to our present situation for such a time as this. Have a Christ Centered Day! Steve Troxel God's Daily Word Ministries **** Reading Plan **** 2 Samuel 9:1-11:27; John 15:1-27; Psalm 119:53-70; Proverbs 16:1-3 --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...See this teaching The Exact Right Moment in Time https://tinyurl.com/mv6senzw <:))))>< , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Right Where He Wants Us Joseph was the second youngest son of Jacob and was greatly loved by his father. In fact, his brothers developed a jealous hatred for him because their father "loved Joseph more than any of his other sons" (Genesis 37:3). Their hatred for Joseph continued to grow until they "sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites who took him to Egypt" (Genesis 37:28). Joseph was then sold to Potiphar, the captain of the guard for Pharaoh, and was soon falsely accused by Potiphar's wife and thrown in jail. At this point, Joseph could really have felt sorry for himself - things were definitely not going well! Only a short time before, Joseph's path seemed well established; his father loved him, he knew where he was going, and his life was filled with joy. Now, locked up and in a foreign land, Joseph's life seemed to have taken a drastic turn for the worse. Genesis 39:20-22 "But while Joseph was there in the prison, the Lord was with him; He showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there." It's safe to say that all of us, at different times during our walk with the Lord, feel like we have been sent far away and locked up. We feel distanced from God and unable to change our circumstances. Others seem to be controlling our every move and we sink into a deep despair. But is it possible God is much closer than we think? "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5). Is it possible He is working (even now!) this terrible situation toward the good? "In all things God works for the good of those who love Him" (Romans 8:28). And is it possible that in the middle of our "prison" God has much work for us to do? While in jail, Joseph interpreted dreams for Pharaoh's officials (Genesis 40) and was then called to interpret a dream for Pharaoh; "I've heard it said of you that when you hear a dream you can interpret it" (Genesis 41:15). Joseph interpreted Pharaoh's dream and was placed in a position of great responsibility; "You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders" (Genesis 41:40). It was God's plan to place Joseph in control of the distribution of food, and therefore, to save many lives...including the lives of his father and brothers (Genesis 42-48). No matter what this day brings - no matter how trapped we feel - we must keep looking for God's good and trusting that His plan is unfolding. He is using our circumstances to mold us and draw us close to His side, and He is using our testimony of faith to encourage others to love Him more. We must believe that, even in the middle of our prison, God is in control and we are right where He wants us! Have a Christ Centered Day! Steve Troxel God's Daily Word Ministries **** Reading Plan **** 2 Samuel 7:1-8:18; John 14:15-31; Psalm 119:36-52; Proverbs 15:33 --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...See this teaching When God Closes A Door https://tinyurl.com/5yk5xhcm ========================================================== >-->From CupO'Cheer: .---------. _ |:: [-=-] | | | |_________| |~| |_| ,;;;;, I\ ,__ ,;;;, __, ///\\\\\ I |{ / - - \ } / " \\|| I | ) ( _ ) ( \_= _/// I |{___'-. .-'___}\___ )_\ I ||~/,'~~~~~,\~~|'---(( \ I \ // \\ | \ \ \ I \/ // | | /-/ I (/ (/ | |/||\ I | | | | I | | |____/ I :-----_o_-----: || | I | /~~|===|~~\ | (( | jgs I || |===| || ||_/ /^\ "~ '^^^' "" ((__| >NO REGRETS by Marcia Hodge When my father was diagnosed with cancer, he moved in with my youngest brother. Knowing my father didn't have much time left, my brother invited me and our other siblings to stay with him. This allowed each of us to spend as much time as possible with my father, as well as lean on each other for support. We learned so much during those few weeks and our love for him grew with each passing day. For the first week he was there, we would stay up until the early morning hours telling stories, singing, listening to his words of wisdom, and most importantly, just enjoying being with each other. Shortly before his death, my father asked to speak to each of us individually. We each waited our turn, knowing this would probably be the last time he would be aware of our presence -- his organs had begun to fail and his strength was fading quickly. Finally, my turn came. When I entered the room, I could see that his eyes were closed. I thought he might have drifted back to sleep. I stood there for a moment watching him -- the face of an angel. I eased to the side of his bed and sat down. Without opening his eyes, my father reached for my hand and smiled. As I sat there watching this man quickly pass from us, I thought of all the things I wanted to say. I wanted to tell him all of the things I was going to miss -- the smell of his aftershave, the sound of his voice on the other end of the phone, books to compare with the person with whom I shared a love of reading, his unwavering faith in me, his Christian example, and maybe most of all his smile -- the smile of an angel. There were other things I wanted to say as well, such as "if only." Instead, we sat in silence, holding hands, thankful for the closeness we'd always shared. After awhile I leaned over to kiss him goodnight. As I did, a tear fell and landed on his cheek. Never opening his eyes, he smiled and whispered, "No regrets." With those two words, I knew there was nothing left unsaid. The love we shared was far greater than any words. It was as if he could see deep into my heart and know what I felt at that exact moment. He didn't want me to worry about anything I could not change. Instead, he wanted me to be happy with the memories I could forever keep in my heart and not dwell on any of the "if only's." He not only wanted me to be content with the relationship I had shared with him, he wanted me to be content with the relationship I shared with my family, friends and most importantly, my relationship with Christ. Of all things my father taught me over the years, the lesson I learned that night was the greatest -- to try to live a life with "No regrets." -- Marcia Hodge Marcia is married with two children. She currently works full-time as an Oncology Data Specialist and continues her passion and enthusiasm for writing. She is currently working on a novel, as well as collaborating on a screenplay. as seen in A Heartwarmer -<>- ,-----------. (_\UNIVERSITY \ | of | | LIFE | _| DIPLOMA | (_/_____(*)___/ \\ )) hjw ^ >BEFORE I CAME TO COLLEGE I WISH I HAD KNOWN... - That it didn't matter how late I scheduled my first class, I'd sleep right through it. - That I could change so much and barely realize it. - That you can love a lot of people in a lot of different ways. - That college kids throw airplanes too. - That if you wear polyester everyone will ask you why you're so dressed up. - That every clock on campus shows a different time. - That if you were smart in high school -- so what? - That you can know everything and fail a test. - That you can know nothing and ace a test. - That I could get used to almost anything I found out about my roommate. - That home is a great place to visit. - That Biology is really Chemistry, that Chemistry is really Physics, and that Physics is really Math. - That it's possible to be alone even when you are surrounded by friends - That friends are what help make this place worthwhile!! as seen in Laugh and Lift -<>- _ _|_|_ ,|_| |_|_ || | | |_| || | | | | || | | | | _|| | | | | ||)\ ^ ^ ^ | || | | || | | || | | \\ | \\ / ejm )\ ( / \ \ / \ \ \ \ >I NEED HELP By Rick Ezell "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matt. 5:3 NIV). In the movie Apollo 13, Flight Commander James Lovell radioed back to Earth upon observing smoke and debris emitting from the space craft, "Houston, we have a problem." In like manner, we, too have a problem. It is a problem as old as man and as destructive as any we have ever seen. Here's the problem: There is no greater need than when we think we have no need. We contend with this problem on a daily basis. The Greeks called this arrogance hubris; the Bible calls it pride. C. S. Lewis wrote, "Pride leads to every other vice: it is the complete anti-God state of mind. Pride is spiritual cancer: it eats up the very possibility of love, or contentment, or even common sense." Whereas pride says I don't need help. Jesus said the opposite, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matt. 5:3 NIV). Let me paraphrase this verse: "Happy are those who are bankrupt in their spiritual resources that they realize that they must get help from outside sources." Poor in spirit is the opposite of being rich in pride. The poor in spirit acknowledge their spiritual bankruptcy, their destitution before God. The poor in spirit is like Peter who when walking on the water toward Jesus takes his eyes off Jesus and sinks. He cries our desperately, "Lord, save me." The poor in spirit is the person who is trying to live life on his own without God's intervention, realizing their plight, now crying out to God, "Lord, help me." Can you imagine the number of marriages that would be saved if one or both of the partners would seek help? Many people are stuck in financial, relational, vocational, and spiritual ruts because they are unwilling to cry out for help. What would happen if you went to your boss and said, "I need help. This project is too big for me or beyond my expertise"? What if you asked your teacher, "I need help. I can't figure this problem out"? What if you asked your spouse, "Honey, I need some help. I am struggling in this area of my life"? What if you said to God, "I've made a mess of my life, will you help me"? God is willing and wants to help. And any teacher, spouse, or boss worthy of those titles will want to help, too. We can't overcome our spiritual impoverished condition on our own; we need the help of Jesus. When we look to God and see him reflected in the person of Jesus Christ, and then we will learn true humility, a true sense of need. And when we recognize our need and call on Jesus, God meets our poverty with his plenty. God delights to bring us to the end of ourselves, to expose our deficiency, so that his sufficiency might show forth. Here's the catch: the only acceptable position for coming to God is humility; the only occupation that exists in the kingdom of God is a beggar. We acknowledge our moral destitution, our spiritual paucity. We don't brag; we beg. Copyright 2010, Rick Ezell. --- !|| !|||| ,/|||| !|'''| `\ | )\ \ ejm / \ \ ...Yes, Since I work on my this website every day, I've learned to ask God to help me by praying "Will you help me today?" - for which I immediately receive the message, "Yes, I will help you." I say I've learned to ask God for help not because I think I am not good enough to do my work I need to do. Instead it is because I am renewing my mind to that of the mind of Jesus when he said, "Not my will, but thine be done". -Luke 22:42b Jesus taught me that no matter how smart or able a person is, that in every situation and every walk of life - God knows best. He has vast knowledge and foreknowledge that we can't even begin to know. In all that I do, I want to glorify God through Christ Jesus. To do so, I cannot rely on my own way to perfectly please God. I must give myself over to Him and let Him lead me to do His will. See these teachings: Godly Habits http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/Godly_Habits.htm Walking With God http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/Walking_With_God.htm Whatever Happened To "CLASS?" And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth [practices] the will of God abideth for ever. – I John 2: 17 http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/Whatever_Happened_To_CLASS.htm -<>- ___ .dSSSS$$pp.. .dSSSS$$$$$$$$; .dSSSS$$$$$$$$$$$ :SSP^" T$$$$$$$$$$b_ dSSP $$$S$$$$$$$b` dSS$;_. .:$$$SS$$$$$$b dSS$$$_ ; __."^TSS$$$$$b dSS$$P;" ""' :lSS$$$$$b :SS$$$ ; ::SS$$$$$$b_. 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"-._ ---""" /; ; : : \ "-._....____; : : \ :\ `. \ ; ; \ \\ \ \ ; : : `. \\ \ \ : ; ; ;"-t\ `. \ : : : : `; \ ; ; ; ; : \ / : : / ; \-..__ .'; : ; / : ; """T ; : / / ; \ : ; ; ;/ : : \ ; ; ; ; ; ; ; : ; ; / : : : ; ; ; / ; :; : ; ; / : :: ; ; ;_ `""--..__; :_; __ ;____;.-;'; ;.__.: :..t-"" j" ; ; : ; ; ;--"" \ [bug] ; ; ; : ; : \ ; ; : \ ; ; ;. ; ; \ \ ; : / ; ; ; \ \ ; : ; ; ; \ `-. ; ; .' ; ; \ \ ;___/ /______;.-' \ ---; / / ;______: .-' / '-------' THE SADDEST THING by Angell Looking up Seeing hate Who's slowly becoming life's mate People talking about the lost lives About the disturbed hearts and sickened minds So many innocent lives buried So many hopes and dreams shattered So many sleepless nights from now until forever By the casket tears fall Losing friend after friend Time after time It's getting old We lost the faith and hope of the world We lost love and replaced it with violence and harsh words Wishing danger wasn't in the day Wishing people would simply walk away News keep on coming out Another got shot Another committed suicide We'll never see what's going on Until the days end and everyone is gone as seen in Inspiration Plus -<>- .-~*~--,. .-. .-~-. ./OOOOOOOOO\.'OOO`9~~-. .`OOOOOO.OOM.OLSONOOOOO@@OOOOOO\ /OOOO@@@OO@@@OO@@@OOO@@@@@@@@OOOO`. |OO@@@WWWW@@@@OOWWW@WWWW@@@@@@@OOOO). .-'OO@@@@WW@@@W@WWWWWWWWOOWW@@@@@OOOOOO} /OOO@@O@@@@W@@@@@OOWWWWWOOWOO@@@OOO@@@OO| lOOO@@@OO@@@WWWWWWW\OWWWO\WWWOOOOOO@@@O.' \OOO@@@OOO@@@@@@OOW\ \WWWW@@@@@@@O'. `,OO@@@OOOOOOOOOOWW\ \WWWW@@@@@@OOO) \,O@@@@@OOOOOOWWWWW\ \WW@@@@@OOOO.' `~c~8~@@@@WWW@@W\ \WOO|\UO-~' (OWWWWWW@/\W\ ___\WO) `~-~'' \ \WW=*' __\ \ \ \ \ __\ \ \ \ \ \ \ \\ \\ \ \ >I NEED TO SING IN A THUNDER STORM Call them whatever you want...the storms in your life, the challenges you face, the "ups and downs," pitfalls or simply bad days. How well do you handle them? Some are unexpected, shock and surprise us. We don't know how well we will do until they happen. I'm talking about those things you see coming on the horizon. Like the approaching storm. Does the distant rumble scare you long before you see the first cloud? Does the very warning of such an event put your life in turmoil even when you don't know the details? I ask you this because I witnessed the most remarkable thing early this morning. First of all, when the weather person tells me that we will have a thunder storm I know that my three dogs will have a difficult time. Long before the storm arrives two of them begin to sense its approach. Phil, our youngest was never bothered by them in the beginning but has learned from them. Now he runs and hides, too. So, they woke me up early this morning. I gathered them together downstairs and after a few comforting words they scattered. Then I went out to my front porch to get the papers. It was then that I discovered something. It was dark. In the distance the skies flashed and the thunder rumbled across the landscape. But all around me the birds sang. I mean there was a chorus of chirping that went on for several minutes. I could not see even a single bird, but it sounded like there were thousands. I would think that out of all the creatures God created, during a storm birds would be the ones to have the most to fear. Still, they never stopped singing. It was dawn. They sing at dawn every day. Storm or no storm. What is it that they know that we don't know? We should wake up everyday grateful for it, and yet, if it's a day of a "storm" in our life or an approaching storm, we certainly aren't singing. It appears I have been singing only on the good days. Sadly, I have also wasted too many of those. With an approaching storm in my life, I needed this one today. It taught me that if I sing during my storm, the rumble of fear all around me will add depth to my voice and carry it further. Perhaps even to inspire others and calm those who care about me. When it is the darkest, the light of my faith, though it may flicker, will show me the way. Instead of shaking in the corner somewhere, I need to sing in a thunder storm! By Bob Perks Available Free by E-mail every other day. To SUBSCRIBE: Send an e-mail with SUBSCRIBE CUP O'CHEER in the subject line to cheer316@sc.rr.com. ========================================================== >-->From LaughAndLift: "It is too bad that anything so obvious should need to be said at this late date, but from all appearances, we Christians have about forgotten the lesson so carefully taught by Paul: God's servants are not to be competitors, but co-workers." - A.W. Tozer __ /_/\/\ \_\ / /_/ \ \_\/\ \ \_\/ unknown >Here I Am Again, Lord (by Melanie Chitwood) "So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most." -Hebrews 4:14-16 (NLT) I had resolved the previous week to be consistent in exercise and healthy eating. I had made this resolution many times before, only to revert to old patterns before the week's end. As I sat outside on the porch with my Bible and journal, I felt discouraged as I remembered the previous night's overindulgence in, once again, my favorite chocolate chip cookies. I wanted to have a quiet time, I wanted to talk to God in prayer and to read Scripture, but I felt somewhat ashamed. I thought to myself, Here I am again, Lord, with the same old problem. Aren't you tired of me, Lord? I'm tired of me, so surely you must be, too. I'm tired of dealing with the same old problem over and over again. _ _|_|_ ,|_| |_|_ || | | |_| || | | | | || | | | | _|| | | | | ||)\ ^ ^ ^ | || | | || | | || | | \\ | \\ / ejm )\ ( / \ \ / \ \ \ \ Then God whispered to me, Talk to Me. Just pray and see what I can do. So I did. In the quietness of the morning, God reminded me of His thoughts toward me, not my own thoughts. God never gets tired of us, and His compassions are new every morning. As the verses in Hebrews 4 remind us, God understands. What comfort. Better yet, as we look at today's key verse we're invited to "come boldly to the throne of our gracious God." Sometimes when I feel ashamed of myself, I am tempted to run from God rather than come humbly to His feet. I'm tempted to believe the lie that God is tired of me or has much more important issues to deal with. However, if I believe and act on these lies, I am missing out on the truth of whom God is and the reality of the kind of relationship He wants to have. If I mistakenly believe that God is just tired of dealing with me, then I go away with just more of the same - more discouragement, more anxiety, more fretting. Worse yet, I'll be missing out on what He is ready to give. I'll miss out on His love, His grace, and His power. Whatever problem we face, God's very own power, the same power that raised Christ from the dead, is available to us. Our God is intimately acquainted with us, gracious and patient. He is ready to give all His resources to us, His children. Isn't that amazing? Let's press on in truth and faith and "take the mercy, accept the help" (Hebrews 4:16 The Message). Then we'll see what God can do with a heart that trusts Him. "Dear Lord, help me not to run from You when I feel ashamed or discouraged. Help me to believe that You always love me and are always ready to give me Your Help. Thank You for Your patience and Your lovingkindness. In Jesus Christ's Name, Amen." Application Steps: Sometimes we don't turn to God because of independence or self-reliance. Take some practical steps to stay dependent on God. For example, resolve to pray about the situation each time you think about it. Ask a friend to hold you accountable. Memorize a verse that will help you apply God's truth to your situation. Take one small step each day to remedy the problem. Reflections: Are you facing a recurring problem or challenge, which leaves you discouraged? Have you actually asked God for His help, or have you just been thinking about the problem? Have you been running away from God? Have you been still before God lately? Power Verses: Galatians 5:1, "Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free,[a] and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage." (NKJV) Ephesians 1:18-19, "I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength." (NIV). Hebrews 6:1, "So come on, let's leave the preschool fingerpainting exercises on Christ and get on with the grand work of art. Grow up in Christ." (MSG). SUBSCRIBE INFO Want to receive a Christian inspirational item AND great clean humor in an email to you each day of the week? It's easy and FREE! Read all about Laugh & Lift at http://www.laughandlift.com --- !|| !|||| ,/|||| !|'''| `\ | )\ \ ejm / \ \ \ ...Yes When you absolutely desire to end a bad habit, you can ask God to help you - and if you are serious, you can promise God that you won't do it again! You don't want to let God down do you? No. When we make a promise to God, we do our best to keep it with HIS HELP through Christ Jesus our Lord. It works. :) _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` See this teaching: How To Avoid Being A Failure https://tinyurl.com/592j26tk ========================================================== _________________________ (, ______________________ ) | | || | | @@@@ || @@@@ | | @@@@@@@ || @@@@@@@ | | @@ - - || - @@@@ | | @ c/ || '_ @@@ | | _@| |_ || __\@ \@ | | ( \ )/_\ /_ || _\\ (/ ) @\_/) | | \ \|) / \) || |(__/ / /| | | |\_/ ( -/ || \___/ ----/_| | | / \ || ,: '( | | : _/| || |: \ | | : | || |: ) | | : | || |: | | |_______'____,_|_______|| |_____,_| .---('________________________)--. | / ( |____ __________ _| | /\ ) |___| -o- | |__| -o- | ( \| / |___| -o- | |__| -o- | | /'=. b'ger|________| |__|______| '=>/ \ / \ /|/ ,___/| >-->Ask Yourself - What Is The Risk? -Author Unknown To laugh is to risk appearing the fool. To weep is to risk appearing sentimental. To reach out for another is to risk involvement. To place our ideas, our dreams, before a crowd is to risk their loss. To love is to risk not being loved in return. To live is to risk dying. To hope is to risk despair. To try is to risk failure. Risks must be taken because the greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing. The person who risks nothing does nothing, has nothing, is nothing. He may avoid suffering and sorrow, but he simply cannot learn, feel, change, grow, love . . . live. Chained by his certitude, he is a slave; he has forfeited freedom. What a privilege for us to be able to walk by faith through Christ in God Himself, armed with all the promises of His Word. I suppose we all desire the security of the solid tree trunk, but the fruit is out on the limb. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. The timid soul asks, "What do I stand to lose if I do it?" The fruit-bearing Christians asks, "What do I stand to lose if I don't do it?" Real life is lived on the cutting edge. --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...That's right If at your end you find there is nothing else, you have risked nothing by being a Christian. But if at your end you find God, through Christ, holds you accountable for all your time on earth, that you denied them and never became a Christian. What then? Rev.3 [5] He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. >Updated FUN STUFF URLS - Oh Yeah, Shangy! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- https://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/urls.html FUN URLS ---------------------------------------------------------------------- -->ShangyFunList AD RATES: $35 will get your ad message (of up to 40 words) out to all web site list readers. Email me to secure dates. Ad Request ---------------------------------------------------------------------- -->FULL LENGTH - FREE On line AUDIO Foundational Teaching Seminar NEW LIFE IN CHRIST! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- -->This is for all you who love food and DARE to make it at home Yep. You guessed it - Recipes. These are Tried and True, Yummy to the Tummy, good old fashioned home cooking recipes that are EASY to do Visit Shangy's Easy-Does-It Home Recipes: https://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/easy.html Home Recipes >Got A good Recipe? SHARE IT HERE: Share A Recipe **********************************************************************