Every Moment Is A Gift And More... :) Shangy! >Here are the details on our ShangyFunList: Group Web Site: http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/ShangyFunList.html Group email address: bcrsystems@earthlink.net Shangrala Family Fun: http://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 ================ _ _|_|_ ,|_| |_|_ || | | |_| || | | | | || | | | | _|| | | | | ||)\ ^ ^ ^ | || | | || | | || | | \\ | \\ / ejm )\ ( / \ \ / \ \ \ \ *~* Our Hearts And Prayers Go Out to all those affected by the recent horrific shootings in Syria, Australia and Rhode Island. Also to those affected by the murder of Rob Reiner and his wife. So very sad. May God hold each in His loving arms and bless them through Christ Jesus our beloved Lord. You can tell the devil is acting out with President Trump and God Almighty through Christ Jesus now at the helm. We are in a spiritual war and Satan doesn't like not having the run of things like he did under Biden. We need to end his hate filled agenda against Jews, Israel and all others. I am thankful that President Trump is stepping up our war on illegal drugs coming into our country from Venezuela and elsewhere that has been destroying the lives of so many here. Opioids kill more than 217 Americans every day. Among males, Over-Dose deaths have increased at an annual growth rate of 8.2% since 1999. Men aged 35 to 44 years old are the most likely among all age groups to die from an OD. Visit here for more: https://drugabusestatistics.org/drug-overdose-deaths/ I am sure that the above stats do not include murders from people who are addicted to drugs like what happened to Rob Reiner and his wife allegedly by his drug addicted son. All we have to do is look at those addicted living on our streets who look like zombies - all bent over and barely able to move or function - to know that President Trump is doing right by his actions. President Trump has recently labeled fentanyl as a "weapon of mass destruction," emphasizing its dangers and the need for strict measures against its trafficking. This designation aims to enhance enforcement against drug cartels and organized crime involved in fentanyl distribution. 'STOPPING FENTANYL FROM POISONING OUR PEOPLE: President Trump is unleashing every available tool against the cartels and foreign networks that have turned fentanyl into the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-45.' https://tinyurl.tools/8d38a365 Praise God for President Trump. We need to end this carnage! -<>- >-->HOT Off The 'Shangy' Press :) Our too hot to handle new page is from our friends Linda, KarenF and Geniann. These are mind blowing and funny at the same time. Be sure to check this hilarious page out here... o o / \ / \ / \ / +--------------v-------------+ | __________________ @ | | / , ooo \ | | | ---=====|#O#### | (\) | | | ` \ ) | | | | ,;`, | | | (-) | | | // o ', | | | | | \ ' o \ /, | | / :|||: | | -ooo-------------- :|||: | +----------------------------+ [] [] unknown Crazy Old Ads! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/oldads.html --- ...Shows why we had so many smoking back then! Thanks Ladies! The lead in one about the Hover isn't too far off - this year my hubby is getting me an iRobot 7+ (refurbished of course) to replace my old one. We are expecting this newer model to be easier to use and smarter. It helps save me from pushing my old heavy Kirby around and does a great job! We call our present one 'Monster' because when we first got it, it tended to go where we were and make us move out of its way. Our animals don't care for it at all. No riding it like you see others doing. They run for the steps! HaHa! =========================================================== >-->From Heartwarmers: ._ | | |L___, .' '. T unknown : * :_| '._.' L >THE SIGN by Roger Dean Kiser "Feel like driving a car today?" I asked my son on the telephone. Several minutes earlier, one of the local car dealers had telephoned and asked if I might pick up a new car in Vidalia and bring it back to Brunswick. "Always use a little extra Christmas money," replied Roger Junior. "Let me change clothes and I'll be over in a few minutes," he said. It was about 6:30 in the morning when we made our way onto the 95 interstate freeway, heading northbound. As we traveled along it was suggested that I buy breakfast for the two of us. Being a little hungry, I agreed and pulled off at the next exit. Very carefully, I pulled into a parking space located right next to a handicap spot. I smiled back as one of the two women said "Good morning" to us, as they were unloading a wheelchair from the side of a large white van. Sitting in the wheelchair was a gentleman dressed in a military uniform. I looked down and noticed that both his pant legs were folded beneath his knees. I also noticed officer's bars on his uniform. "Good morning, Captain," I said as I saluted him. "And a good morning to you, sir," he replied back. The five of us traveled up the narrow walkway to the door of the small restaurant. Not thinking, I stepped up a three inch cement curb and opened the door for the Captain and the two women. "There's a wheelchair ramp located on the other side of the building," said a large man, with a name tag, who came walking very quickly out the front door. "In the last two years I've scaled walls higher than this building, ran up and down rubble piles higher than three of my vans piled atop one another. I think I can make it over this curb," said the officer. "I'm sure you can, sir," said the man, as he also saluted the Captain. Roger Jr. and I grabbed hold of the wheelchair handles and as the soldier pushed forward on the wheels of his chair, Roger and I pushed forward. Up and over the cement hump he went, with no difficulty, whatsoever. As one of the women pushed him through the doorway of the restaurant, the large man wearing a name tag snatched a small sign down, which had been taped to the glass door. "I saw that," said the Captain, as he laughed. "This sign was never meant to include heroes," said the manager, as he hid the sign behind himself. "In fact this sign will never appear in this doorway, ever again," he continued, as he wadded up the piece of paper. "I am a writer. May I have that, please?" I asked the man. Slowly, he handed me the wadded up piece of paper, which I stuck into my pants pocket. The sign read: "No Shoes - No Shirt - No Service" -- Roger Dean Kiser ____________________________________________ Roger is a Heartwarmer Gem is his noted for some of the most powerful stories ever told. He has just released a brand new book, "Runaway," that you can find at this link: http://www.pocketwarmers.com/b Get your autographed copy today. You can email Roger here: mailto:trampolineone@earthlink.net =========================================================== >-->From Daily Encounter: , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >To Whom Did Jesus Come? Later, Matthew invited Jesus and his disciples to his home as dinner guests, along with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners. But when the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with such scum?" When Jesus heard this, he said, "Healthy people don't need a doctor - sick people do." Then he added, "Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices. For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners."1 R.C. Buckner, a big, bold, and brash man, lived about 100 years ago in Texas. This imposing figure had a very tender heart for children, starting Buckner's Children's Homes across the state. The children affectionately called him "Papa Buckner" and would run up to him every time he visited. He would always take the time to pick up each child and give them a hug. One day he was visiting one of the homes and was hugging all the children gathered around him when he noticed a little girl who was standing with her face against the wall. He discovered that she had been seriously burned in an accident and had a terrible scar on her face. He went over to her and asked, "Sweetheart, don't you want Papa Buckner to hug you?" Without turning around, she snarled, "No, I'm too ugly." Papa Buckner knelt, picked her up in his burly arms, turned her face gently toward his, looked right into her eyes and then planted a tender kiss right on the burned portion of her face. After he kissed her, he said, "Sweetheart, you are beautiful to me, and you are beautiful to God."2 This is such a beautiful illustration of what Christ has done for each of us. From the moment he was born to the moment he was crucified; he always did the unexpected. The Pharisees expected him to be like them, but Jesus came to break that mold and be an active example of love, mercy, compassion, justice, and humility. While the religious leaders 'knew a lot', Jesus DID a lot. He went to the broken, lost, and messy people. He sought out the sick people who were looking for love, truth, and forgiveness. He gave hope to the hopeless. Friends, God doesn't expect you to be perfect. He created us and knew that, because of sin, we are flawed and will make mistakes. He wants us to be honest with him and with ourselves, accept his forgiveness, and run into his loving arms. You are beautiful to God. You matter to him and he cares. No matter how broken we may feel, it is never too much for Jesus to heal. This is the truth he wants us to see, accept, and share with others. Jesus came to pay the price that we could never pay, so that we could experience the joy and love of a meaningful and personal relationship with Him. Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you for looking on me with eyes of compassion and love. Despite my flaws, you invite me to come to you. I pray that you would give me the same love and compassion for others. That I would not be quick to judge, but instead see others through your lens. Not only do I want to know your Word, but I want to do your Word. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus Christ's name, Amen. 1: Matthew 9:10-13 (NLT). 2: www.sermoncentral.com <:))))>< , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Sharing God's Story 'For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes'1 When we think of sharing the Good News with others, we often think of taking it to the ends of the earth but fail to realize that our ministry begins at home. As parents, we want the best for our children in all areas of life, but as Christian parents, we have the awesome privilege of being able to share the powerful, life-changing, message of the Gospel with them. Children love stories of adventure, suspense and excitement, and the Bible is full of these stories! Two of my children enjoy learning about severe weather, and often watch videos of tornadoes and hurricanes. However, when we actually have bad weather, they do get a little nervous. While we do not experience severe weather too often in southern California, we do experience thunder and electric storms which are fun to watch. Because of their fascination with the weather, one of my favorite stories of the Bible to share is when Jesus calmed the storm (Mark 4:35-41). The disciples were afraid of such a strong storm, but Jesus calmed their fears and the storm! In the same way, I can teach my children, in age-appropriate ways, how Jesus is always with them, will calm their fears, and overcome the 'storms' that come into our life. This is what sharing the Gospel with our children looks like. We do not have to sit and drill them for an hour. It is presenting God's story to them in meaningful ways that they will understand. It is taking every opportunity to sit and have big conversations based on their questions. It is showing them how personal God really is and how He is excited o be part of our lives. Our children should know that we are not ashamed of the Gospel, but rather that we are eager to share its life- changing message with as many people as possible! Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you for being so relatable. You have given us your Word, which literally gives us examples of every life situation we can think of. Help me faithfully share your story with my children, so that as they grow, their relationship with you will deepen. Help me use every opportunity you provide to share your message with others as well. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, amen. 1. Romans 1:16 (NLT). Today's Encounter was written by: Crystal B. --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...Check out this teaching Witnessing and Undershepherding https://tinyurl.com/mvwewf4n When copying or forwarding include the following: "Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2016 ACTS International. =========================================================== >-->From Archives InspiredBuffalo: . '. .' -= * =- .'|'. \|/ \o|*/ \\\Y/// \\\|@// \\0\Y//// \*\\|/O// `\\Y*/` `#` __#__ [_ _] jgs \___/ >THE SANDS OF CHRISTMAS By Michael Marks I had no Christmas spirit when I breathed a weary sigh, and looked across the table where the bills were piled too high. The laundry wasn't finished and the car I had to fix, My stocks were down another point, the Chargers lost by six. And so with only minutes till my son got home from school I gave up on the drudgery and grabbed a wooden stool. The burdens that I carried were about all I could take, and so I flipped the TV on to catch a little break. I came upon a desert scene in shades of tan and rust, No snowflakes hung upon the wind, just clouds of swirling dust. And where the reindeer should have stood before a laden sleigh, eight Humvees ran a column right behind an M1A. A group of boys walked past the tank, not one was past his teens Their eyes were hard as polished flint, their faces drawn and lean. They walked the street in armor with their rifles shouldered tight, their dearest wish for Christmas, just to have a silent night. Other soldiers gathered, hunkered down against the wind, To share a scrap of mail and dreams of going home again. There wasn't much at all to put their lonely hearts at ease, They had no Christmas turkey, just a pack of MREs. They didn't have a garland or a stocking I could see, They didn't need an ornament--they lacked a Christmas tree. They didn't have a present even though it was tradition, the only boxes I could see were labeled "ammunition." I felt a little tug and found my son now by my side, He asked me what it was I feared, and why it was I cried. I swept him up into my arms and held him oh so near and kissed him on the forehead as I whispered in his ear. There's nothing wrong my little son, for safe we sleep tonight, our heroes stand on foreign land to give us all the right, to worry on the things in life that mean nothing at all, instead of wondering if we will be the next to fall. He looked at me as children do and said it's always right, to thank the ones who help us and perhaps that we should write. And so we pushed aside the bills and sat to draft a note, to thank the many far from home, and this is what we wrote: God bless you all and keep you safe, and speed your way back home. Remember that we love you so, and that you're not alone. The gift you give you share with all, a present every day, You give the gift of liberty and that wee can't repay. Copyright 2003 Michael Marks: "I freely submit this poem for reprint without reservation--this is an open and grateful tribute to the men and women who serve every day to keep our nation safe." -<>- * , _/^\_ < > * /.-.\ * * `/&\` * ,@.*;@, /_o.I %_\ * * (`'--:o(_@; /`;--.,__ `') * ;@`o % O,*`'`&\ * (`'--)_@ ;o %'()\ * /`;--._`''--._O'@; /&*,()~o`;-.,_ `""`) * /`,@ ;+& () o*`;-';\ (`""--.,_0 +% @' &()\ /-.,_ ``''--....-'`) * * /@%;o`:;'--,.__ __.'\ ;*,&(); @ % &^;~`"`o;@(); * /(); o^~; & ().o@*&`;&%O\ jgs `"="==""==,,,.,="=="==="` __.----.(\-''#####---...___...-----._ '` \)_`"""""` .--' ') o( )_-\ `"""` ` >A Giving Christmas Story Mrs. Miller was bagging some early grown potatoes for me at the local grocery store. I noticed a small boy, delicate of bone and feature, ragged but clean, hungrily apprising a basket of freshly picked green peas. I paid for my potatoes but was also drawn to the display of fresh green peas. I am a pushover for creamed peas and new potatoes at Xmas dinner. Pondering the peas, I couldn't help overhearing the conversation between Mr. Miller and the ragged boy next to me. "Hello Barry, how are you today?" "H'lo, Mr. Miller. Fine, thank ya. Jus' admirin' them peas... sure look good." "They are good, Barry. How's your Ma?" "Fine. Gittin' stronger alla' time." "Good. Anything I can help you with?" "No, Sir. Jus' admirin' them peas." "Would you like to take some home for Xmas dinner?" "No, Sir. Got nuthin' to pay for 'em with." "Well, what have you to trade me for some of those peas?" "All I got's my prize marble here." "Is that right? Let me see it." "Here 'tis. She's a dandy." "I can see that. Hmmmmm, only thing is this one is blue and I sort of go for red. Do you have a red one like this at home?" "Not zackley ... but almost." "Tell you what. Take this sack of peas home with you and next trip this way let me look at that red marble." "Sure will. Thanks Mr. Miller." Mrs. Miller, who had been standing nearby, came over to help me. With a smile she said, "There are two other boys like him in our community, all three are in very poor circumstances. Jim just loves to bargain with them for peas, apples, tomatoes, or whatever. When they come back with their red marbles, and they always do, he decides he doesn't like red after all and he sends them home with a bag of produce for a green marble or an orange one, perhaps." I left the stand smiling to myself, impressed with this man. A short time later I moved to Colorado but I never forgot the story of this man, the boys, and their bartering. Several years went by, each more rapid that the previous one. Just recently I had occasion to visit some old friends in that Idaho community and while I was there learned that Mr. Miller had died. They were having his viewing that evening and knowing my friends wanted to go, I agreed to accompany them. Upon arrival at the mortuary we fell into line to meet the relatives of the deceased and to offer whatever words of comfort we could. Ahead of us in line were three young men. One was in an army uniform and the other two wore nice haircuts, dark suits and white shirts... all very professional looking in business attire. They approached Mrs. Miller, standing composed and smiling by her husband's casket. Each of the young men hugged her, kissed her on the cheek, spoke briefly with her and moved on to the casket. Her misty light blue eyes followed them as, one by one, each young man stopped briefly and placed his own warm hand over the cold pale hand in the casket. Each left the mortuary awkwardly, wiping his eyes. Our turn came to meet Mrs. Miller. I told her who I was and mentioned the story she had told me about the marbles. With her eyes glistening, she took my hand and led me to the casket. "Those three young men who just left were the boys I told you about. They just told me how they appreciated the things Jim "traded" them. Now, at last, when Jim could not change his mind about color or size... they came to pay their debt." "We've never had a great deal of the wealth of this world," she confided, "but right now, Jim would consider himself the richest man in Idaho." With loving gentleness she lifted the lifeless fingers of her deceased husband. Resting underneath were three exquisitely shined red marbles. Moral: We will not be remembered by our words, but by our kind deeds. Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that takes our breath. Today.... I wish you a day of ordinary miracles... A fresh pot of coffee you didn't make yourself... An unexpected phone call from an old friend... Green stoplights on your way to work... The fastest line at the grocery store... A good sing-along song on the radio... and Your keys right where you left them. They say it takes a minute to find a special person, An hour to appreciate them, A day to love them, But an entire life to forget them. -Author Unknown -<>- >Links for Your Enjoyment :) Animal Friends 3! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/animalfriends3.html You Are The Only You God Has! http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/onlyyougodhas.html When Was Jesus Christ Born? http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/whenjesusborn.html The Christmas Story! http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/christmasstory.html Who Is Jesus Christ? http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/whoisjesus.html Pink the Pig-Puppy! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/pigpuppy.html Jesus Laughing Art! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/Jesusart.html Angel Falls! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/angelfalls.html Christmas Around The World! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/christmasworld.html God's Night Lights! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/night.html Humor In Religion 3! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/hreligion3.html Finger Monkeys! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/monkey.html Notes To God! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/cnotes.html Maxine On Holidays! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/maxineholidays.html For Angels, Candles, Doves http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/agifs.html For Crosses, Hearts, God, And Jesus http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/agifs_f-j.html For Nativity Scenes and New Years http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/agifs_k-o.html For Prayers, Santa, Sledding, and Snow http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/agifs_p-t.html For Words:Merry (Christmas) and Xmas (all other Christmas related) http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/agifs_u-z.html Full Christmas Index!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/christmasindex.html -<>- 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/ Truth Or Tradition.com Index: https://www.truthortradition.com/ 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/ Latest From Mommy Underground: https://mommyunderground.com/ Latest From Christian Life Daily: https://www.christianlifedaily.com/ -<>- >In The Worldly News: President Donald J. Trump https://www.donaldjtrump.com/ White House Actions - 2025 https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/ Trump Accomplishments 2025 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/ Tucker Carlson On Rumble https://rumble.com/c/TuckerCarlson Latest Eric Bolling: https://ericbolling.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 Billings Report: https://billingsreport.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 Visit Melissa's Online Store You can get anything you want (except for Melissa ) at the online store http://pdhomes.net/mall/babylissa/mySTORES/ISELL4.html ========================================================== _ _|_|_ ,|_| |_|_ || | | |_| || | | | | || | | | | _|| | | | | ||)\ ^ ^ ^ | || | | || | | || | | \\ | \\ / ejm )\ ( / \ \ / \ \ \ \ >-->Story Time! >WHAT HAPPENS IN HEAVEN WHEN WE PRAY? I dreamed that I went to Heaven and an angel was showing me around. We walked side-by-side inside a large workroom filled with angels. My angel guide stopped in front of the first section and said, "This is the Receiving Section. Here, all petitions to God said in prayer are received." I looked around in this area, and it was terribly busy with so many angels sorting out petitions written on voluminous paper sheets and scraps from people all over the world. Then we moved on down a long corridor until we reached the second section. The angel then said to me, "This is the Packaging and Delivery Section. Here, the graces and blessings the people asked for are processed and delivered to the living persons who asked for them." I noticed again how busy it was there. There were many angels working hard at that station, since so many blessings had been requested and were being packaged for delivery to Earth. Finally at the farthest end of the long corridor we stopped at the door of a very small station. To my great surprise, only one angel was seated there, idly doing nothing. "This is the Acknowledgment Section," my angel friend quietly admitted to me. He seemed embarrassed. "How is it that there is no work going on here?" I asked. "So sad," the angel sighed. "After people receive the blessings that they asked for, very few send back acknowledgments." "How does one acknowledge God's blessings?" I asked. "Simple," the angel answered. Just say, "Thank you, Lord." "What blessings should they acknowledge?" I asked. "If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof overhead and a place to sleep you are richer than 75% of this world. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish, you are among the top 8% of the world's wealthy." "And if you get this on your own computer, you are part of the 1% in the world who has that opportunity." "If you woke up this morning with more health than illness, you are more blessed than the many who will not even survive this day." "If you have never experienced the fear in battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation, you are ahead of 700 million people in the world." "If you can attend a church/synagogue without the fear of harassment, arrest, torture, or death, you are envied by and more blessed than three billion people in the world." "If you can hold your head up and smile, you are not the norm. You're unique to all those in doubt and despair." "Okay. What now? How can I start?' If you can read this message, you just received a double blessing in that someone was thinking of you as very special, and you are more blessed than over two billion people in the world who cannot read at all. Have a good day. Count your blessings. And if you care to, pass this along to remind everyone else how blessed we all are. ATTN: Acknowledge Dept. "Thank you Lord for giving me the ability to share this message and for giving me so many wonderful people with whom to share it." --- ,,,,, ////""\ . (((/ m m -|- __ )))c = ) | (__) ////-./~` . [] (((( `.`\ :: [] )))`\ \)).-;.' .------, [] (() `._.-'` _( )[] )/ `. | .'`^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^))\`.----'`[] jgs ( \' { ~ - ~~ _ ~ - ~~ - ~ - (( | | [] .-.--\ \ { )) | | [] |_;_._`\ |{ ((__|_|-----[] | ; ``` ;{ )) [] | /``-.____/ `~~~[]~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~'-' [] `' (__) (__) ...A great story! It has some truth to it! I've studied the book of Revelations free audio Seminar here... https://stfi.org/seminars/the-book-of-revelation/ I love these audio classes! I especially loved being reminded of this... Rev.5: [8] And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odors, which are the prayers of saints. God's been saving our prayers and to Him they are sweet odors like back in the old testament days when they sacrifice a lamb to Him for the atonement of their sins. Phil.4: [18] But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. That's what our prayers are to God, a sweet smell and wellpleasing! God sure does love our prayers! :) ========================================================== >-->From God'sDailyWord: , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Every Moment is a Gift [Note: In 2013 our family went through a difficult cancer battle with our youngest daughter, Kaylee. During this time, I wrote several messages specific to the battle, but the lessons seem to still be relevant. I dont want to lose these messages so I will resend them every few years. Kaylee is currently working as a nurse and continues to be cancer free.] From 2013: I knew the question was coming. I guess I'm surprised she hasn't asked before now. But this week, when her stomach pain was causing tears, she asked; "Why is this happening?" And there it was. After three months of tests, surgery, and three rounds of chemotherapy for ovarian cancer, after three months of near constant pain, my thirteen-year-old daughter looked at me, trusting that I held the answer, and asked: "Why?" Parenting has some difficult moments. Fortunately, I've had three months to process this same question before it was asked. I had worked out an answer which satisfied my thinking about God, His workings in the world, and His plan; but what should I tell a thirteen-year-old child. I quickly realized that she needed to hear my thoughts, the same way as I would talk with any adult. She was the one living through this trial, and she was the one who would be required to live with the uncertainty which cancer brings for the rest of her life. James 4:13-14 "Now listen, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.' Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." The answer to my daughter's question called for a little perspective. I admit this perspective was not part of my thinking until recently, especially when I was pondering how James could tell us to, "Consider it pure joy" (James 1:2). I was having great difficulty finding any joy in our situation. Cancer stinks, and I was hating seeing my daughter suffer. I had concluded that God does not cause cancer, and I was confident His plan is simply that we love Him as He walks with us through our trials. But the perspective of some recent events helped to better answer her question of Why. Early last week an eight year old boy was watching a race in Boston and, in an instant, was killed by a bomb (Recall the Boston Marathon bombing). Much closer to home, here in Texas, a fertilizer plant exploded and, in an instant, at least 14 people lost their lives. In 2004 an earthquake in the Indian Ocean started a tsunami that killed over 200,000 people. Another 200,000 people were killed in the 2010 Haiti earthquake. The list is long and ugly. Every moment of every day, people die unexpectedly, with no warning. Many more die from starvation and disease. What message am I trying to convey? Life is very, very fragile. When my daughter asked the question of Why, I answered the best I possibly could: "I don't know!" I don't know why she has cancer and I don't know why any of these bad things happen. But as we talked through each of these tragedies, we came to the undeniable conclusion that life is fragile. We have no guarantee of the number of our days here on earth, or even of the quality of those days. That may be a lot for a thirteen-year-old to process, but I believe it's necessary for each of us to process down this same path. And the result of this processing, I told my daughter, ought to shape how you live the rest of your life; how you spend your time and energy; how you think about God and the values you hold. "I don't know" turns out to be a beautiful answer. It's beautiful because in the implied uncertainty we are able to see not just the fragile nature of life, but the beauty of the moment we are living right now. This day is significant! The conversations you are having, the relationships you are developing, even the notes and smiles you freely give, are filled with meaning and value. Each moment counts! We are not yet done with this journey through cancer. We have one more round of chemo next week and then some tests to see if the chemo has done what it was supposed to do. Kaylee is strong, and she is getting stronger every day. And through this difficult journey, at this very early age, I pray she truly learns the life-transforming lesson that every moment is a gift. Have a Christ Centered Day! Steve Troxel God's Daily Word Ministries **** Reading Plan **** Deut. Josh. 34:1-2:24; Luke 13:23-14:6; Psalm 79:1-13; Proverbs 12:26 Joshua 3:1-4:24; Luke 14:7-35; Psalm 80:1-19; Proverbs 12:27-28 Joshua 5:1-7:15; Luke 15:1-32; Psalm 81:1-16; Proverbs 13:1 Joshua 7:16-9:2; Luke 16:1-18; Psalm 82:1-8; Proverbs 13:2-3 --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...Yes. I think of Paul the Apostle. God never spared him from suffering hard times. He wrote about them here: 2 Cor.11: [23] Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labors more abundant, in stripes (with a whip) above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. [24] Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes (whip lashes) save one. [25] Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; [26] In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; [27] In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. [28] Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches. Here he was one of God's most important people being the head over all the Christian churches at the time. Satan was after him constantly to get rid of him. Just like during any war, the top leader is sought after and at high risk. Yet Paul the Apostle said: [29] Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not? [30] If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities. [31] The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not. He takes his infirmities as being like a badge of honor. He knows that if he wasn't doing God's Work, the devil wouldn't be attacking him so hard and he'd probably have it relatively easy. Instead he said he glories in them. Knowing He is serving God and Jesus Christ. Not all bad things that happen are because you are in the devil's sites - but many of them are. We are in a spiritual war. Keep God close and praise Him through Christ even more so when you are going thru the devil's hell. See This Teaching: GOD FIRST http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/GOD_FIRST.htm _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` Life is so very precious! The devil wants us all dead. That's all the devil can do - Destroy. He cannot create like God Almighty. True creation is to make something out of nothing. That is only what God can do. The devil tears down and destroys what God does because of his rage and jealousy of not being able to be God. He just is not as great and never will or can be. Jesus Christ said... John 10: [10] The thief (satan) cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. Only God The Creator can create something out of nothing. We need to value life as God does. Praise God for Jesus Christ! :) <:))))>< , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Knowing Christ The Apostle Paul had a definite passion to serve God. Even before his conversion on the road to Damascus, Paul strictly observed God's law; "as for legalistic righteousness, faultless" (Philippians 3:6). But after being confronted by Jesus, his focus forever changed; his passion remained, but his every desire now centered around faith in Jesus and the good news of His gospel message. Philippians 3:10 "I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death." Paul pursued an intimate relationship with Jesus and sought to be identified with His death and resurrection. He knew the only way to experience the power of Jesus was to live as a new creation whose sinful nature had been crucified with Christ; and as a new creation, he continually desired to know his Creator. Truly knowing Jesus Christ is much more than simply knowing "about" Him. We can fill our head with every possible biblical fact and still never know Christ. To know Him is to love Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength; to trust Him regardless of our circumstances, and to draw close to His side in our joy as well as our suffering. Nothing else in life has any real meaning; "I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord" (Philippians 3:8a). Paul's passion for Jesus allowed him to loosen his hold of all worldly attachments; "I consider them rubbish that I may gain Christ" (Philippians 3:8b). This uncontested supremacy of Jesus allowed Paul to be "content in any and every situation" (Philippians 4:12). By giving himself fully to knowing Christ, Paul gained true contentment and peace. We have the same ability to know Christ today. We are also promised the same results! Peace and contentment will NEVER be achieved through more possessions, activities, or relationships - these are ALL temporary and will fade away with time. Our life will only be truly content when we give ourselves to Jesus and love Him without reservation; we will only be filled with His peace as we seek to know Him. We may never be asked to give up much for the sake of the gospel; but then again, we may be asked to give up everything! Either way, our heart must always hold loosely to the things of this world. Anything which cannot be released has effectively become a god and crowds the throne which MUST be reserved for the King of Kings. Let's reconsider our priorities - where we spend our time and what commands our thoughts and consumes our energy. Let's give ourselves fully to Him and make sure nothing has become more important than knowing Christ. Have a Christ Centered Day! Steve Troxel God's Daily Word Ministries **** Reading Plan **** Ezekiel 23:1-49; Hebrews 10:18-39; Psalm 109:1-31; Proverbs 27:13 --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...See This Teaching Walking With God http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/Walking_With_God.htm ========================================================== >-->From CupO'Cheer: ,--.,-"";-"-. .-;-/ / / .- `\ .-. ` ( ' ' ` ; `\/ \ \ / \ / (. C . ) | .-. | | _ / (` / | \ /}| | )(\ | `-> (____.| / ||| / \=====| | |\| | |====| \ _/ ` \__/=====| |` `-'======| \ |=======/ | |=======| | .--, ########\ |/ / jgs |_|__|| ` `--. ,---;-'--'\ `--. `---`-------'-.___,___.---' >SURRENDERING TO GOODNESS [edited] John 15:1-11 "If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit ..." (v.5) Although, as we have seen, goodness is a fruit that is difficult to define, we come close to seeing its meaning when we think of it in terms of essential goodness -- goodness in the inner parts. It is not something that is imposed but something that is exposed; it moves, not from without to within but from within to without. It is not self-achieved. Supernatural goodness is pure goodness -- a goodness which unconsciously proclaims itself. Christians in whom goodness is growing will not "use" others as many use their friends -- they will love them for themselves alone. They will not mentally fit people into their scheme -- for they have no schemes. I think it would be true to say that goodness is there to some degree in all Christians who are in daily touch with the Lord and are growing in Him -- but in those who have known what it is to die to self, it is there in overflowing measure. They exude goodness. John Wallace, a Scotsman and the principal of the college where I received my training for the ministry, used to say: "Goodness, the fruit of the Spirit, is more 'felt' than 'telt'. It is not so much actions as attitudes, not so much talking as walking."I believe myself that God never gets closer to a sinner -- or, for that matter, an un- surrendered Christian -- than when He calls to that person through the life of someone in whom the fruit of goodness is ripe. So in yearning for this fruit of the Spirit, remember, it comes not by straining to be good but by surrendering to goodness. Prayer: O God, I see that goodness is not some extraneous thing introduced from without; it is something that rises from within. Teach me how to stop struggling and start surrendering to your Will through Jesus Christ I pray, Amen. as seen in Everyday Light -<>- _ ______ / `'. ,-"` '. / /'-.'. ___ .' \ \/ '.\.' ' | .| .'`\ | /`"'--., / \ , _.--'` \/_ | ,----.| _ `_--;` ``` `\-. | | \ | -- C -- _/ \ \ | \ 0 0 / . | | \| ) | '. _.' |.__/ ; \ `'---` / / __ '. .' | (__) /'-._____,-` \ /---'.-""-.\ '. / ||,- \\ ;---`;-._||-= |\ , ."""-. \ ) `|'.___.' \ ___ \'. / '-. \ /`-`-; / \ ,/ `) \ \| \ `` | | \|| / /'.| )_ / || | | \/ .' \ \ .-'/ ` |` |.-' .-~ ~-~-._ |.'` \ ` '-. \___/,__/ ~` _ `~~-., `-.,_\_)`-.,_\) `~-,___ ~___~,,..-~~/ jgs \___/`\____/'._.' >YOU ARE NOT A NOBODY 1. Who taught Martin Luther his theology and inspired his translation of the New Testament? 2. Who visited Dwight L. Moody at a shoe store and spoke to him about Christ? 3. Who was the wife of Charles Haddon Spurgeon? 4. Who was the elderly woman who prayed faithfully for Billy Graham for over twenty years? 5. Who financed William Carey's ministry in India? 6. Who refreshed the apostle Paul in that Roman dungeon as he wrote his last letter to Timothy? 7. Who helped Charles Wesley get underway as a composer of hymns? 8. Who found the Dead Sea Scrolls? 9. Who followed Hudson Taylor and gave the China Inland Mission its remarkable vision, direction? 10. Who were the parents of the godly and gifted prophet Daniel? Okay, how did you do? Over fifty percent? Maybe twenty-five percent? Not quite that good? Before you excuse your inability to answer the questions by calling the quiz "trivia," better stop and think. Had it not been for those unknown people - those "nobodies" - a huge chunk of church history would be missing, and a lot of lives would have been untouched. Nobodies! What a necessary band of men and women... servants of the King... yet nameless in the kingdom! Men and women who, with silent heroism, yet faithful diligence, relinquish the limelight and live in the shade of public figures. What was it Jim Elliot, the martyred messenger of the gospel to the Aucas, once called missionaries? Something like a bunch of nobodies trying to exalt Somebody. But don't mistake anonymous for unnecessary. Otherwise, the whole Body gets crippled - even paralyzed... or, at best, terribly dizzy as the majority of the members within the Body become diseased with self-pity and discouragement. Face it, friend, the Head of the Body calls the shots. It is His prerogative to publicize some and hide others. Don't ask me why He chooses whom He uses. If it's His desire to use you as a Melanchthon rather than a Luther... or a Kimball rather than a Moody... or an Onesiphorus rather than a Paul... or a Hoste rather than a Taylor, relax! Better than that, give God praise! You're among that elite group mentioned in I Corinthians 12 as: "...some of the parts that seemed weakest and least important are really the most necessary... So God has put the body together in such a way that extra honor and care are given to those parts that might otherwise seem less important (vv. 22,24, TLB). If it weren't for the heroic "nobodies," we wouldn't have top-notch officers to give a church its leadership or quality sound when everyone shows up to worship or janitors who clean when everyone is long gone or committees to provide dozens of services behind the scenes or mission volunteers who staff offices at home or work in obscurity overseas with only a handful of people. Come to think of it, if it weren't for the faithful "nobodies," you wouldn't even have this [paper] in your hands right now. Nobodies. . . exalting Somebody. Are you one? Listen to me! It's the "nobodies" Somebody chooses so carefully. And when He has selected you for that role, He does not consider you a nobody. Be encouraged! Chuck Swindoll's "Encourage Me" www.chuckswindoll.com as seen in The Daily Encourager --- .-""-._ / ___/ \ _&_ _.--""|/ `\| // \\ .' ( ^/ ^ )'. / / \ \ / | _ | \ // / \ \\ | _\____/ | /_/_/_\_\_\ | .' \____/-._ | .-"-. | / `; /# \ | / / _|_.---\ | | |.-.; :--.-(_/.____/.-""\___/"-. / \ / ~~/ /\ \{"=.______.="} /--. ; /___/_~~/ ; .--\"=...__...="} / \-/ `\______|/ \-.______..-; | /`| | \ | |||| || | /_ | |_______/ | |||| || | \_/| |-------' |--'||'--._|| | | | | || |> |______| |____________|._ || _..-;| | [___] | `||() || |______ |\/|____________|jgs|| () (__) \__/ (__) () ...Absolutely! That man that risked his life to attack and unarm the senior man who was shooting people in Australia is one of those that we never heard of before - a true hero. "He said he thanks God that he was able to do this, to help innocent people and to save people from these monsters, these killers, his father said. https://tinyurl.com/456f4n48 US President Donald Trump has also praised Ahmeds heroics. In Australia, as youve probably read, theres been a very, very brave person who went and attacked frontally one of the shooters, Trump said. [He] saved a lot of lives, a very brave person who is right now in the hospital, pretty seriously wounded. I have great respect for the man who did that. https://youtu.be/YBw-9BvDKfs?si=CSyPKd_5qMa4Uke- He was just a nobody to most of us... Ahmed, a Muslim, arrived in Australia in 2006 from Syria. The 44-year-old tobacco shop owner is the father of two daughters aged five and six. Now he is a hero that God used to save many lives. Notice God used a Muslim to stop a Muslim? This showed us that the whole Muslim religion is not evil like the radical ones who hate are. Perhaps God with bring Him to Christ. We can pray so. Also, please pray for his full recovery and well-being through Christ Jesus our Lord. Check Out... You Are The ONLY You God Has http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/onlyyougodhas.html -<>- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` >RUT BUSTERS Come, my beloved, let us go out into the country. . . . There I will give you my love. SONG OF SOLOMON 7:11-12 I don't know what "routine" means to you, but this was ours when the kids were still at home: Up before sunrise, have a few words together, maybe enjoy a little breakfast or a cup of coffee, exchange a kiss on the cheek and it's goodbye for the day. I take kids to school and then drive on to the office, while Barbara stays home to get busy with her own work. She deals with endless issues involving the childrenschool, laundry, chores, errands, doctors and conflicts. Meanwhile, I juggle budgets and meetings and problem solving all day long. Our paths cross again around 6 P.M., after both of us have emptied about 90 percent of our tanks. We take a glance at the news, eat dinner, flip through the mail, pay some bills, clean up the dishes, help with school work. Then an hour of getting the kids to bed. Barbara tries to get in some reading before sleep overtakes her. That's the drill. But there is no imagination in that. I'm not saying that a typical day can routinely accommodate wild swings of adventure, but I'll tell you this (if you haven't noticed already): A routine is just a few letters away from being shortened to a rut. A rut you will never escape unless you make a deliberate effort to do so. And I guarantee that your "rut" will never be on the same page as "romance" in your marital dictionary. When the TV show Desperate Housewives first began its iconic rise into our national awareness, Newsweek did a feature article on the phenomenon. I remember one of the women who was interviewed lamenting, "Don't you remember the time when he kissed you with a kiss that launched a thousand kisses?" Is there ever room for that in the middle of your routine? DISCUSS Ready to spice up the routine? How would you do it if you could? (You can, you know.) PRAY Ask the Creator for a delightful dose of His creativity to give you a break from the routine. as seen in Moments Together For Couples --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...See This Teaching The Importance of Variety http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/The_Importance_of_Variety.htm -<>- \||/ ,--. | o|o //OO\\ | _| ||c || |(_ | /| `--' `--' azc >UNWHOLESOME TALK "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen" (Eph 4:29-30). The way you interact with fellow employees at work can often determine whether you will be the leaven for Christ in your workplace or be viewed as one of the multitudes. Two defining situations in the workplace involve joke-telling and discussions about employees and bosses. If we laugh at off-color jokes we give permission to the person telling the joke that it is OK to continue this activity in your presence. If we fail to laugh, we discourage this behavior. When someone is about to tell a joke in my presence, I stop them and ask, "Is this a clean joke? If not, I don't want to hear it." This will define future situations with that person and it will get communicated to others in the office because of your response. You might become known as the religious person in your office, but that is OK. The other situation that can define you is how your talk about management is in front of other employees. In a workplace it can easily become a "we" versus "them" culture. If this happens you violate Paul's command to honor those who employ you. "Teach slaves to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive" (Titus 2:9-10). "LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart and has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman" (Ps 15:1-3). Remember, you are always a witness at work, whether you use words or not as seen in Today God is First -<>- _____ (((\\\\\ )_ \\\| / \\|\/ \\( ), & \) ( (( |` \\ ))) _ | \` __| ` | , \ ` , \ | \ ,\ , \ ' \/ \_ \/ \ `_,`-._ ` \ ejm / `-. _ \ ` / ,`. \ === / '== =`. | ==== / | === ` / /========= / | / , /______| / , ======== __-' | = === / ,======= ' - -- ( \ \ \ ` \ ` \ ` \_____ \ / ` _/ / '-- ' >FEELING POOR? READ: Psalm 86 I am poor and needy. Psalm 86:1 In one way or another, we can all relate to Psalm 86:1 where David says, I am poor and needy. Even the richest among us should understand that poverty and need relate more to the spirit than to the wallet. When billionaire Rich DeVos speaks to groups he often says, Im just a sinner saved by grace. Psalm 86 tells us that the help God provides is not measured by a monetary ledger sheet. When we acknowledge that we are poor and needy, its not so God will lavish material riches on us. No, we do so to open the door to other, more valuable treasures. Heres what God does for the poor and needy. He will preserve our lives and save all those who trust in Him (v.2). He will be merciful and ready to forgive (vv.3,5). He will listen to and answer prayer (vv.6-7). But were not to take Gods blessings without giving back. We have a responsibility to learn Gods ways, walk in His truth, fear [Gods] name, praise the Lord, and glorify [His] name (vv.11-12). Do you consider yourself among the poor and needy? If so, welcome to the club. Lets not forget all the spiritual blessings God has for us and the godly response we should have toward His generosity. Dave Branon Were thankful for the blessings, Lord, You give us day by day; Now help us show our gratitude By walking in Your way. Sper The poorest man is he whose only wealth is money. as seen in Our Daily Bread -<>- .\/. * + + >><><< '/\' * /`x.`\ + * /;<> @ \ , \| * /& `';;;_\ \'-,_/| |./ * O (_)| '-./ )-,_ * \ o .--. ! / ( )`-._\ + .;`-'(_) '-`'. ,;v /_`;;, x <>* \ ,,;' + /(_) `';;;;,,_,;\` + | !/ ^ & `(_) | __ _ \^ @/`\ . !/`\ O/ + / `\/ `\ .'`-' + '--' _ '-`'. + |/`\ \| | /;;<> !_ o (_) + . \ * \ \_| / `';;(_) . _x ; \ (() / `\_ | _' & `';;;, O ^ (_),;\-'@_<"/ _, * | ^ y,-._ |(_) / ' * `'';;;;'` |\_.\` \ ( ) _=_/,-;_)\ /`\<> /``\ @ /`\ ! / \ _`) \_) . ' .-' --..' / .'`-' x '--' . '--'_. '-`'. \,(__/ .' .___.' /;;;,, O . _ + (_) . * \ \' \ ' . / '-. / /! `';;;;,, (_) ^ & <>,;;\ \-'\ ' . _| \/\ ' | @ (_)''';;;;,, o ,,;;;''` x| \.-\ {_} |_/ . | * o ' _ `';;;'` O (_) | .\_.\ ' . \ ,_./ \__ | _ + . ^ (_) .o _' . + | \ \ ' `. \__\___) \ (_) __ & __. (_) __ ! @ / \- \ ' . \____) '._.'` `'._.;;;;;;._.'` `'._.' . \ ' jgs. ' . ' . ' >CHRISTMAS ISLAND By Skip Heitzig (edited) This week's topic: In Need Of A Savior I was doing a little research online about a place called Christmas Island, and I discovered there are two islands by that name. One is in the Indian Ocean, south of Indonesia; it's only about 52 square miles. The other island by the same name is in the Pacific, just north of the equator. It's just 125 square miles, and was used as the site of an H-bomb test 50 years ago. It occurred to me that Christmas is always an island. It's an island of hope in a world of despair. An island of love in a world of indifference. An island of peace in a world of chaos. That's the kind of world into which Christ was born. The ruling power was the Roman Empire, a brutal military power and a pagan state that worshipped multiple gods, including its Caesar. Israel was a conquered nation under its control, and there hadn't been a prophet to speak the word of the Lord in 400 years. The nation had been awaiting its Messiah, its anointed one, for thousands of years. And when He did come, the Jews' own king sought to kill Him. Then Jesus, the Messiah, the Redeemer, came into the world. Luke 2:7 says, "And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." The place of His birth was humble, to say the least. It wasn't the wooden barn we usually think of, the one that forms the center of the manger scenes from our childhood Christmases. Instead, the stable was in a cave, probably thick with the smell of sheep and dung. His coming was all about humility. God's son came, not to conquer or to take vengeance on His enemies. No, He came to be the suffering servant prophesied in Isaiah 53, the sacrifice for the sins we couldn't atone for. He came to be the Savior--our Savior. In the words of Isaiah 9:6, "For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given... And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Almighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace!" So come with me to "Christmas island," that refuge away from the despair and emptiness of the world. As the old carol says, "O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!" And this is the joyful message: Christ has come. Man has hope. Merry Christmas! Scripture Of The Day: "For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." - Isaiah 9:6 (NKJV) -Skip Heitzig Skip Heitzig is the founder and senior pastor at Calvary of Albuquerque in New Mexico. His teachings are heard across the country and around the world on The Connection. For more information on Skip, visit http://www.connectionradio.org. as seen in Streaming Faith Daily Devotional --- * . . . | . * * . \|/ . . -->*<-- . /|\ . ' | ' * | . * . | . ' _ _ .:. . ( | .-. ___ .'_`. WWW \w/ \V/ |/(_)\ .'.-.`. `(_)' (_) (_) (_) |// \\ `/(_)\' // \\ _/ | _/ | _/ | _ _ \/| |/ //)_(\\ \| |/ %%__/| $$__/| &&__/| _-(_)- _-(_)- | | | /(o___))\ | | | | | | | | `(___) `(___) | | | ` / \' | | | | | | | | jgs // \\ // \\ | |_| /_____\ |_| |_| |_| |_| ...See this teaching The Christmas Story http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/BibleStudy/christmasstory.html To SUBSCRIBE: Send an e-mail with SUBSCRIBE CUP O'CHEER in the subject line to cheer316kim@sc.rr.com. ========================================================== >-->From LaughAndLift: The task ahead of us is never as great as the Power behind us. _..._ _..._ .' _ '. .' _ './ (a) .-'-. / (e) .-'-. '-,-'` | '-,--'` / ; / ; | _ / |/ .\ _ (_\ __..;__ \ ::\ ,/_)._ _;\;``""----...___...---:"`` .-'_ `'. \ '::.()\__) (\())(`._'- `-._ ,:-" '. '. - : ; '::\--;__ _\()`''----...__ `-._ '-. '._ .' | .:::|()\_) (_/`;-. jgs _ ()`-. `""--...____..-'` ;_ .:::| `. \_) _;/_)/).;()'._ (`\.-();/_).__ .::::/().-./`) (_\`;(()(_/(()/(. __.--;();`\_)()\__) .::()--;__:() '-;---()_;\_/()"-._ (_/ (/ /()';();--._\_::'`.();\_)` ,() (_.-(); \._ ``""(_.();_().(`\.-();__)`(_/ `--.__ (_/ (_/() \_) __/(_/|\();__\_)` \_) ` (_/ \_)`-._); "On the Wings of a Prayer (By Helen Steiner Rice) [Edited] Just close your eyes and open your heart, And feel your worries and cares depart. Just yield yourself to the Father above, And let Him hold you secure in His love. So when you are tired, discouraged and blue, There is always one door that is open to you. And that is the door to The House of Prayer, And you'll find God waiting to meet you there. And The House of Prayer is no further away, Than the quiet spot where you kneel and pray. For the heart is a temple when God is there, As we place ourselves in His loving care. And He hears every prayer and answers each one, When we Pray in His name - Thy will be done. The burdens that seemed too heavy to bear, Are lifted away on the wings of a prayer. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30} -<>- We become like what we worship. , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >The Fear That Expels All Others (By Neil T. Anderson) Proverbs 14:26: "In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence, and his children will have refuge" I was conducting a conference for the leadership of one of America's flagship churches. The pastor is one of the most gifted Bible teachers I know and his staff is among the best. I asked the 165 leaders present if they had ever experienced a direct encounter with something they knew was demonic, such as a frightening presence in their room or an evil voice in their mind. Ninety-five percent answered yes. I went one step further to ask how many had been frightened by something pressing on them that they couldn't immediately respond to physically. At least a third raised their hand. Are these Christian leaders mentally ill? No, and neither are you or your children when you struggle against demonic influences in your life. We warn our children about strangers in the streets. Don't you think we should warn them about "strangers" in their rooms? Our research suggests that 50 percent of Christian kids have encountered an evil presence in their rooms. Most of my students at seminary have had such an experience, and by the time they complete my class on resolving spiritual conflicts, several tell about having such an experience that semester. Would you know what to do if you or your child was terrorized by a presence alone at night? Do you fear such a possibility? Most people fear demonic things they can't see, but have no fear of God. That's just the opposite of what Scripture commands. We are told to fear the Lord (Proverbs 1:7), but we are never told to fear Satan. Fear of the devil is an inappropriate response to the reality of the spiritual world. Knowing his schemes and learning to resist him and take authority over him is the biblical response. Isaiah 8:13, 14, reads, "It is the LORD of hosts whom you should regard as holy. And He shall be your fear, and He shall be your dread. Then He shall become a sanctuary." The fear of the Lord is the one fear that expels all other fears. 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 --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...Yes. I had to recite this verse to help me during all my trials: 1 John 4: [18] There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. I refused to fear the devil. So I used the verse to remind me that God is love and there is NO FEAR IN LOVE. Also this one: II Timothy 1: 7 'For God hath not given us the spirit of fear (moral cowardice); but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. [emphasis added] The Peace Of God http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Promises/The_Peace_Of_God.htm And See this teaching: THE FEAR OF THE LORD http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/THE_FEAR_OF_THE_LORD.htm ========================================================== | - * - | ___ ___ __ __ __ ((")) /(")\ {')\ {')\ {')\ ((-)) ,,o,,,, |\^/| |-\ \ |-\ \ |-\ \ | @ | \___/ | o | B| \_\ D| \_\ Q| \_\ |___| /\ /\ |___| |___| |___| |____| ldb >-->CHRISTMAS IN MY HEART Snowflakes are softly falling to the ground As they gently fall they give a sense of peace Covering everything in pearly white splendor As nature's beauty is slowly released So white and clean ... Portraying a brand new world No ugliness to behold .. Just beautiful and serene Snow covers it all as does the blood of Jesus Covering...Erasing Our sin...Making our soul clean within Great joy rises up from deep down inside As I come to the realization of my soul's redemption As the knowledge settles upon me my soul begins to sing With great joy because of my soul's new destination As my praise rises up I humbly bow in adoration To Him who washed my soul ... With His Blood His precious blood dripped down to the ground As He was crucified on that Cross because I was SO Loved Do we ever stop to think of His great love for us That He proved beyond any doubt on that horrible day When He gave up His Life and so lovingly gave It away Suffering such terrible pain so our soul won't have to pay My Lord Jesus ... I come so humbly before You With deep sadness in my heart for your suffering that day But also with Praise because your great sacrifice Provided MY RANSOM so my soul wouldn't have to pay Oh My Jesus .. My Saviour ... My Eternal Lord At this Christmas season I just want to Thank You For the great price on Calvary You so freely paid I can never thank You enough, My Lord, No matter what I do My Soul now clean ... Paid for by your sacrifice on that tree No more worries about my future ... No, Not anymore So as I celebrate this Christmas season ... Your birthday, My Lord Forever I'll give Praise and Worship to YOU ... THE ONE I ADORE Phyllis Smith Copyright November 24, 2009 All Rights Reserved -<>- .... .::\:::. ::::)`\::: :::/ /::: ::| |::: ':\_/::' /`"'-:___ | _`\ | .-. ( \ ; , , , , \_) '--' | ( |\_.'/ )`-'\__,| \_)|\_/ .`(_ / `. (| _| . '_.-'` '--. `'. | (_)_' ( /.-. `\______(_)(_)`--' ` \/ jgs _). '-. '--._ _.-' . `) : ( `-. < ) . <'-. ' .-', _'._'. '-. '.-'` )'/ \/ \( `\( `; >>A SIMPLE BLESSING A simple story told of a time might make the difference of frame of mind. A simple sentence said so sincere might help someone make it another year. A simple heartfelt caring type word might help a person that's now so absurd. A simple minute spent sharing true might be the thing that you're needing do. A simple break from all that's within might be the thing to help you begin. A simple blessing that you don't see might just be found in someone like me. By Bill Pearce __,_,_,___) _______ (--| | | (--/ ),_) ,_) | | | _ ,_,_ | |_ ,_ ' , _|_,_,_, _ , __| | | (/_| | (_| | | || |/_)_| | | |(_|/_)___, ( |___, ,__| \____) |__, |__, | _...._ \ _ / .::o:::::. (\o/) .:::'''':o:. --- / \ --- :o:_ _::: >*< `:}_>()<_{:' >0<@< @ `'//\\'` @ >>>@<<* @ # // \\ # @ >@>*<0<<< __#_#____/'____'\____#_#__ >*>>@<<<@<< [__________________________] >@>>0<<<*<<@< |=_- .-/\ /\ /\ /\--. =_-| >*>>0<<@<<<@<<< |-_= | \ \\ \\ \\ \ |-_=-| >@>>*<<@<>*<<0<*< |_=-=| / // // // / |_=-_| \*/ >0>>*<<@<>0><<*<@<< |=_- |`-'`-'`-'`-' |=_=-| ___\\U//___ >*>>@><0<<*>>@><*<0<< | =_-| o o |_==_| |\\ | | \\| >@>>0<*<<0>>@<<0<<<*<@< |=_- | ! ( ! |=-_=| | \\| | _(UU)_ >((*))_>0><*<0><@<<<0<*< _|-,-=| ! ). ! |-_-=|_ |\ \| || / //||.*.*.*.|>>@<<*<<@>><0<<@>>>>>| ( ~~~ )/ (((((((()))))))) ~~~~~~~~ '""""`------' `w---w` `------------' >Updated FUN STUFF URLS - Oh Yeah, Shangy! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/urls.html FUN URLS ---------------------------------------------------------------------- -->ShangyFunList AD RATES: $35 will get your a 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: http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/easy.html Home Recipes >Got A good Recipe? SHARE IT HERE: Share A Recipe **********************************************************************