Choose Love... :) 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 ================ >-->2 HOT Off The 'Shangy' Press :) This too hot to handle new page is from our friend Fran. While many of us have been told that cats should not be left alone with babies, this page highlights a story that is just the opposite. Take a little time and check out this amazing story with its video here: / ) (\__/) ( ( ) ( ) ) ={ }= / / ) `-------/ / ( / \ | ,'\ , ,' `-'\ ,---\ | \ _) ) `. \ / (__/ ) ) hjw (_/ Midnight To The Rescue! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/midnight.html --- ...Wow, so sweet! Thanks Fran. I once had a cat we named Midnight too. He was a most ornery but loving cat. This piping hot new page is from our friend Linda. Many of you love the idea of taking time off from the hustle and bustle of daily life and escaping to a quaint little place in the woods or on the lake. This one is for you! Be sure to check this one out here: ( ) ( ) ( ) ( ) ) ) ( ( /\ (_) / \ /\ ________[_]________ /\/ \/ \ /\ /\ ______ \ / /\/\ /\/\ / \ //_\ \ /\ \ /\/\/ \/ \ /\ / /\/\ //___\ \__/ \ \/ / \ /\/ \//_____\ \ |[]| \ /\/\/\/ //_______\ \|__| \ / \ /XXXXXXXXXX\ \ \ /_I_II I__I_\__________________\ I_I| I__I_____[]_|_[]_____I I_II I__I_____[]_|_[]_____I I II__I I XXXXXXX I ~~~~~" "~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Cabins With Rustic Charm! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/cabins.html --- ...What a dreamy one! Thanks Linda! =========================================================== >-->From Heartwarmers: There is no revenge so complete as forgiveness. -- Josh Billings A fascinating story today with a powerful lesson. Back in December, Candy Chand submitted a story to Heartwarmers which was subsequently published and earned the distinction of being An Award Winning Heartwarmer. But soon after, Candy reports things started to "spin out of c ontrol". Find out what happened and discover for yourself the lesson that Candy learned -- the hard way. Thanks Candy, and good luck with your book. (\ \'\ \'\ __________ / '| ()_________) \ '/ \ ~~~~~~~~ \ \ \ ~~~~~~ \ ==). \__________\ (__) ()__________) unknown >MY GREATEST LESSON by Candy Chand A few years ago, when a true story I'd written about my son, Nicholas, titled Christmas Love, was publshed in Heartwarmers, I looked forward to sharing my miracle with others. After all, it was a joyous holiday season. I wanted to give something, without charge, as a present to strangers everywhere. Within hours of publication, I was blessed by an overwhelming response. Forward after forward it was sent. I was thrilled to receive lovely greetings from individuals across the United States and as far away as Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. As a writer, I was honored. As a person wishing to spread joy at Christmas time, I was humbled. Then, suddenly, everything began to spin out of control. A few readers deleted my byline. Before long, Christmas Love was being forwarded as an anonymous story. Realizing I didn't have control over the delete button of thousands of emailers, I turned it over to God. Until one night, when I'd just about had enough. Exhausted and annoyed, I emailed the webmaster of a site who'd omitted the author's credit. I tried to sound tough (which I'm not) so I told her it was nothing short of stealing to place it online, then forward it to thousands of her subscribers without first doing a proper check on the author. I angrily signed my name, hit send, and went to bed. The next morning, I woke up to over 100 new emails. "Great, more fan mail," I thought. But as I began to open them up, it hit me. This wasn't fan mail at all, but angry, furious, hate mail. As I pieced two and two together, I realized, in her frustration, she'd sent out my email to all her subscribers. And, let me tell you, several came after me with a vengeance. At first, I felt defensive. After all, I wasn't the person who did something wrong! But, as time went on, I knew better. Yes, there was no doubt about it, I was wrong too -- not in my premise, but in my tone. By responding in anger, before giving her a chance to correct the situation, I put everyone on the defense. And she chose to teach me a lesson. As much as it hurt, I must admit, I deserved it. It was a painful experience, but one that's taught me well. Person after person expressed my original story touched their soul, but my follow-up email canceled out all the prior good. How could the woman who shared such a tender story also write such angry, rude words? Clearly, they had me on a pedestal, and I'd fallen off. Wasn't I supposed to be more spiritual than that? (My family, by the way, laughs at the thought) I was devastated. I cried nonstop. I didn't eat. I hardly slept. I felt the whole world hated me. And, to make matters worse, I knew I'd hurt thousands of people, which was far from my original desire to share a heartfelt miracle. One by one, I emailed each individual an apology. I felt I owed everyone that much. Much to my amazement, most responded with kindness, offering forgiveness, even including their own apology for what they'd written to me. They now understood first hand, how easy it is to get angry, write a nasty email, and hit send before thinking it through. They were sorry. I was sorry. Everybody was sorry. Lots of tears flowed from the USA, to France and as far away as Nigeria. What did I learn, you ask? Words can be a blessing or a curse. The decision is ours. And now? Christmas Love continues to circulate, especially over the holidays. When it appears without the author's credit, I send a polite note asking for a byline. And much to my surprise, everyone's been more than agreeable. Yes, one simple story taught me the greatest lesson of all -- animosity will spread like wildfire, but love and kindness will bless the entire world. -- Candy Chand ___________________________________________ Candy Chand is the author of, Gift of Grace, available at bookstores nationwide. =========================================================== >-->From Daily Encounter: , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Playing the Right Part (edited) You know the commandments: Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother." And he said to him, "Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth." He considered himself a good person. He did good things, he made good decisions, all in all, he lived a good life. The Rich Young Ruler in Mark chapter 10 was convinced that eternal life was at his fingertips, after all he was good, like Jesus. And so, he approached Jesus with that very greeting, "Good Teacher". But Jesus answer put a halt to his steps, "Why do you call me Good?, No one is Good except God alone." The young man had everything money could buy and having obeyed all of the commandments, thought he might easily be able to acquire eternal life as well! But when Jesus told him that in order to obtain eternal life he had to sell all he had and give it to the poor and follow Him, the rich man grieved. He had spent his entire life playing the part of a good person. He would have followed Jesus without any problem, I am sure; but to give up what he cherished the most, his money and his possessions, it was just too much for him to bear. Is something holding you back from having eternal life today? You might be going through life playing the part also. We look good going to church every Sunday with our family by our side; We have never murdered, committed adultery, or stolen anything; we do not lie or cheat; and we have always taken care to honor our parents. But if Jesus asked you to give that something up and follow Him, could you? I encourage you to truly examine your heart and ask God to show you what you need to let go of in your life to play the right part and follow Him. Let us get our hearts ready to wholeheartedly celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord! Dear God, Reveal to me the areas that are holding me back from following You today; and then give me the strength to leave them behind. In Jesus Christ's name, Amen. 1. Mark 10:19-20 (ESV). Today's Encounter was written by: VeronicaB. <:))))>< , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Determined to Do God's Will But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.1 Although Daniel lived as a captive in Babylon, he resolved in his heart not to violate the law of God. What motivated this young man to fulfill such a promise? Devotion to God. Daniel determined that he would not disobey God or defile himself. Dedication to God means choosing to focus our attention on Jesus, our hearts will overflow with thankfulness, and we will be motivated to stand firm. A clear direction. If Daniel had flatly refused to eat the royal food, he might have been killed. The Lord gave him and his friends the wisdom they needed to develop an alternative plan, and He also gave them the courage to ask permission to carry it out. Notice that there was no loud demand, argumentation, or rebellious spirit. Their behavior was characterized by trust in God and dependence on Him. Through daily prayer and meditation on the Word of God, we can keep our eyes on Christ, our ears attentive to His voice, and our hearts motivated to obey. Then, we will be able to commit ourselves wholeheartedly as Daniel did. So ask yourself: How eager am I to do the will of God? Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I ask for Your help to have a fervent devotion to You. Lord God, just like Daniel, I want to be eager to do Your will. Help me to have full confidence in You and to depend completely on You, at all times and in all situations. I pray in Jesus Christ's name, Amen. 1. Daniel 1:8 (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. =========================================================== >-->From Archives InspiredBuffalo: , _ )\ __`9) _,/^`^(G)-' < \(\a a ) / ) `(v__/` ,_ (_, ) mic `U) _,) )-(_/ (_/ (_/ >A Sweet Flower On The Ground I rescued a puppy yesterday She was so small and helpless Only four weeks old and cast away. She had been placed in a dreadful, cardboard box No food or water to be found, Sad and alone, Left to cry on the cold, cold, ground. I took her from this dreadful box And held her in my arms, Soon captivated by all her many charms. What A sweet little Jazmine Flower. I put her in a nice warm bath, fed and watered her while feeling such wrath... How could anyone stoop so low, to abandon This tiny little life and cause her to suffer so? I took her to a rescue, her future to be told Instead her life was ended at one month old. Despite my hopes for Jazmine's tomorrow, all my Heart feels now is sorrow. Those whom I trusted to give her life a healthy start, Instead gave Jazmine an injection to stop her little heart. It hurts me so to have been a part, of the stopping of this little One's heart, how can I trust again? Barbara J. Ervin-Weymouth Copyright, April 21, 2004 All Rights Reserved -<>- .-=========-. \'-=======-'/ _| .=. |_ ((| {{1}} |)) \| /|\ |/ \__ '`' __/ _`) (`_ jgs _/_______\_ /___________\ >AND THEN SOME How wonderful it would be if there were a simple formula for success! "Follow these steps and you will be successful in business, as a parent, as a student, in your vocation or in any endeavor you attempt." I think of the man who was honored as "Businessperson of the Year." At the presentation dinner, a newspaper reporter asked him, "To what do you owe your great success and prosperity?" "Five things contributed to my success," said the man. "First, I always treated people fairly. Second, I always offered a fair price. Third, I was always honest. Fourth, I was always generous to my employees. And fifth, my Aunt Edna died a few years back and left me two and a half million dollars." Certainly, the top four items on his list are well worth following, though they are no guarantee of success. For a variety of reasons, some of which are outside our control (like Aunt Edna), our lives are filled with successes and failures, all of which contribute to our growth. But some of the sagest advice I've heard on the subject of success comes from Professor Richard Weaver, who taught at Bowling Green State University, Ohio. He says that what often sets a successful person apart from others are three simple words: "and then some." Those people who tend to achieve what they want from life do what is expected of them -- and then some. They are thoughtful to others; they are considerate and kind -- and then some. They meet their obligations and responsibilities fairly -- and then some. They are good friends to their friends -- and then some. They can be counted on in an emergency -- and then some. By going beyond the expectations of others, they demonstrate every day their desire to do their best and to be their best. They, too, fail and blunder, but in the end, they can be counted on to pick up the pieces and move forward. Those are three words worth remembering. Count on them to help build a quality life -- and then some. -Steve Goodier -<>- __ HH HH BBB HH ,z. === .___. HH %%%% .o. ,zZZZ> BBB | | HH 838 \\\\ EEE AAAAA ,0X0' ,zZZZ" BBB |<<<| HH 838 %%%% EEE ## DDDDD ,0X0' ,zZZZ" BBB | E | HH 838 %GR% +++ ## AAAAA ,0X0' ,zZZZ" BBB | M | HH 838 %%%% EEE ## <> ,0X0' ,zZZZ" BBB | C | HH 838 %%%% EEE ## AAAAA ,0X0',zZZZ"HH$HHHHHHHDDHH$HH === |<<<| HH 838 //// EEE ## AAAAA.0X0;zZZZ" EE$EEEEEEEDDEE$EE BBB |___| HH 838 %%%% EEE ## AAAAA'"0' "Z" HH$HHHHHHHDDHH$HH Evan M Corcoran >"INSIGHT FOR SOUL" By: Georgewaters Ojeigbe Lagos Nigeria gojiegbe@jhplc.com "Wisdom is profitable to direct". It says also that, "if any man lack wisdom he should ask of it from God." 1. Life tends to go in the direction of ones most predominant though. 2. Falling is not failure but ones refusal to rise is failure 3. Visionaries are pioneers 4. Those who pay the price gain the price 5. The fear you are not willing to challenge will always be a threat to your life 6. Courage is the shield against failure 7. The day you stop thinking is the day you start to shrink. 8. One without desire is like a ship minus the captain 9. Decide to do what others will not do today so that you can have what others will not have tomorrow 10. Leave the crowed for the mountain peak where you can be seen --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...True James 1: [5] If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. That verse means that if anybody - man, woman, child, - any one of any faith or religion, - any one of any race or gender - asks God about something they don't understand or know - God will answer them. Pretty cool, huh? Simple actually. Think about it. Most people do not succeed either because they lack the wisdom to achieve their goal or they lack the courage to reach their goal. God takes care of our lack of wisdom by telling us to ask. _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` Jesus summed it up nicely here: Matt.7: [7] Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: [8] For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. What do we also need to do? Jesus says to not have doubt. Matt.14 [31b] O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? Mark 11: [23] For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. Luke 12: [29] And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. Doubt is fear - negative belief - you need to trust God and have no doubt or fear... 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. 1 John 4: [16] And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. God is Love. So if you are in God and God in you, then you are without fear or doubt like Jesus. -<>- -''--. _`> `\.-'< _.' _ '._ .' _.=' '=._ '. >_ / /_\ /_\ \ _< / ( \o/\\o/ ) \ >._\ .-,_)-. /_.< jgs /__/ \__\ '---' >Faces of America: The Stories of Sadie Evans as told to B.J. Cassady Mark Twain, President Hoover and The Confederacy I grew up in Missouri and attended Stevens College. I remember as a young girl visiting my cousin, who upon occasion had Mark Twain or Sam Clemens come by and tell us stories at night. I have little memory of him other than his stories. I remember as a young lady dancing at a ball and having a man dressed in a confederate uniform dance with me. He was a colonel in the army of the South. Our school took a trip to Washington D.C. and we toured the White House with our teachers. I played the piano, and in the White House was a beautiful white piano. I just looked at it. A worker asked if I played the piano and I answered in the affirmative. A few minutes later, the president of the United States, president Hoover entered the room and asked me to play. Play I did. He asked my teacher and I if we would be interested in attending a social event that night. A limo picked us up and took us to a building where on the roof was an orchestra and many people, senators, and the power brokers of the country were mingling and dancing. I never forgot that event. Note from BJ:! I was assigned to her and her husband as they adjusted to a nursing home. I attended their 65th wedding anniversary. He soon died afterwards and about a year later, five years ago, Sadie followed him to their eternal home. Rest well Sadie and I hope you have a piano in your mansion. B.J. Cassady Guthrie, Oklahoma -<>- .--. ." o \__ _.-" ,( ` _.-" ,;;| _.-=" _," ,,;;;' .-"`_.-"``-..,,;;;;:' `"'` `\`\ jgs /^\\\ >Little Robin and Mr.Bluebird in the Cherry Tree RONNIE LEVINER COPYRIGHT1990 Little Robin told Mr.Bluebird This is such a lovely tree I wished all men could see it As you and me. It's limbs that we sit upon Are so straight and strong With the breeze blowing softly through it I could sit here all day long. Mr.Bluebird looked at Little Robin And said such beauty in its flowers I could sit for hours. Its petals are so soft and pink God made such a beautiful tree All things He made in life He made for you and me. Let's go and get the man we know So all this beauty we can share And when he looks upon it He'll know God really cares. The man thanked Mr.Bluebird And of course Little Robin too He said I'd soon bring my kids So they can meet you. I'll share the beauty of the tree With all my family soon And someday when you have one I'll meet your family too. With hopes for all they said good-bye And pray we'll meet again Whatever life may have in store We will always be your friends. -<>- >Links for Your Enjoyment :) Beautiful Rare Flowers!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/rareflowers.html Animal Moms 7!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/animalmoms7.html Dogs!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/dogs.html Kid Lessons!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/kidlessons.html Why God Gave Us Pets!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/gpets.html Rich Vs Poor!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/richvspoor.html Hummingbirds!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/humming.html Pay It Forward!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/payitforward.html Animal Friends!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/animalfriends3.html Think Happy Thoughts!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/happythoughts.html It's A Dog's World!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/dogsworld.html Bibi's Rescue!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/dogrescue.html Ricochet The Surf Dog!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/ricochet.html Suryria And Roscoe!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/orang2.html Friends: Lion, Tiger and Bear!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/liontigerbear.html Best Playmate!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/playmate.html Pets Left Home Alone 2!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/petshome2.html Small Thoughts!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/smallthoughts.html Why God Gave Us Puppies!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/whypuppies.html Our Valuable Anchor!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/BibleStudy/ouranchor.html You Are The Only You God Has!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/BibleStudy/onlyyougodhas.html Bible Study Menu!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/BibleStudy/BibleStudy.html Mother's Day INDEX! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/momsanddadsindex.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 ========================================================== >-->From God'sDailyWord: , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Intended For Good Joseph's life was filled with one difficult situation after another. By the time he was a teenager, his brothers had developed an intense hatred toward him which led to an attempt to take his life. But rather than kill him, they sold young Joseph into slavery (Genesis 37). And then, as a slave, Joseph was falsely accused of rape and thrown into jail (Genesis 39). It's never really explained how Joseph learned to trust God, but he did! He could have become very discouraged when he became a slave, but somehow Joseph adjusted to his circumstances and thrived; "The Lord was with Joseph and he prospered" (Genesis 39:2). When tempted with s%xual sin by Potiphar's wife, he kept himself pure because he did not want to "sin against God" (Genesis 39:9). But false accusations still sent him into prison. Even after spending several years in jail, Joseph continued to place his complete trust in God. When asked to interpret Pharaoh's dreams, Joseph risked his freedom and rightly gave all the glory and praise to God rather than take credit for himself; "I cannot do it, but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires" (Genesis 41:16). Joseph was rewarded with much more than his freedom; he was placed in charge of the entire land of Egypt during a great famine. He was also reunited with his family and able to keep them from certain starvation. Several years later, after their father died, Joseph's brothers came and fearfully asked for his forgiveness. Joseph could have taken great revenge, but he continued to demonstrate his understanding of how God cares for His children. Genesis 50:19-20 "Joseph said to them, 'Don't be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.'" When Joseph was sold into slavery, he had no idea of God's awesome plan. All he could do was continue to trust and draw nearer to God. Joseph would spend many years in jail before receiving even a hint of God's purpose. But God is ALWAYS at work in the lives of those who love Him. Joseph's life must encourage us to draw ever closer to God during times of hardship - to continue trusting and honoring Him in all we do... no matter what our circumstances! We all go through "dungeon" seasons when life seems to take unplanned and seemingly "unfair" turns. We all, at times, feel abandoned and alone: "Has God forgotten me? Does He no longer care?" We may not understand why things happen the way they do, but if we will continue to love Him with all our heart and consistently trust Him in and through all our trials, we can be certain (and one day we will truly see) that God's work in every situation is truly intended for good. Have a Christ Centered Day! Steve Troxel God's Daily Word Ministries **** Reading Plan **** Judges 7:1-8:16; Luke 23:11-43; Psalm 97:1-98:9; Proverbs 14:7-8 --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...Trust Trusting God for the best is the key - no doubts or fear. God said it... So it is true Rom.8: [28] And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. We just have to believe and not doubt God so that... 2 Cor.9: [8] And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: Eph.3: [20] Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` Keep in mind that last part 'according to the power that worketh in us' - that is what we have to do - trust in God. See this great teaching: Trust In The Lord http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/Trust_In_The_Lord.htm <:))))>< , , /////| ///// | ///// | |~~~| | | |===| |/| | B |/| | | I | | | | B | | | | L | / | E | / |===|/ jgs '---' >Continue To Seek As Jesus was speaking to a Pharisee named Nicodemus, He said, "no one can see the Kingdom of God unless he is born again" (John 3:3). He then explained being "born again" as a spiritual birth which occurs when we believe; "whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). EVERYONE who will spend eternity in the Presence of God must be born of the Spirit - it is impossible to be a Child of God without being "born again." This spiritual birth is part of the New Covenant through faith in Jesus and was revealed over 500 years before Christ through the prophet Ezekiel; "I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put My Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees" (Ezekiel 36:26-27). Paul referred to the spiritual birth as becoming "a new creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17), but it is most often referred to simply as being saved; "He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit" (Titus 3:5). The process of spiritual birth is relatively easy to explain: God reaches down and transforms our heart by the power of His Spirit. However, the exact events which lead to the spiritual birth (and when the birth actually occurs) remain somewhat a mystery. On one hand, God's Word is very simple and clear; "Whoever believes will be saved." But understanding what it means to really believe can be difficult. We can talk about submission, obedience, sacrifice, love, or the basic faith of a child, but these will always fall short of an adequate definition of belief. Only God can save: only He is fit to judge, and He alone can look into the innermost part of our heart and determine true belief. All we can do is seek Him with all our heart... and trust He will be found. Matthew 7:7-8 "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." Our Salvation was initiated by God when Jesus came to earth and died as a perfect sacrifice for our sin. He chose us for an intimate and eternal relationship when His Holy Spirit began to call us near. And, if we will but answer the call and begin to seek His face, He will be found. In an instant, which He alone determines according to His perfect timing, He will transform our heart and adopt us as His Child. We may not be able to explain or even fully understand true belief, but if there is any call of God on our heart, we CAN ask, seek, and knock. God never hides or runs away; "He is not far from each one of us" (Acts 17:27). He is waiting for us to reach out and call on His Name. Today, let's trust He will be found as we give Him all our heart and continue to seek. Have a Christ Centered Day! Steve Troxel God's Daily Word Ministries **** Reading Plan **** 1 Samuel 18:5-19:24; John 8:31-59; Psalm 112:1-10; Proverbs 15:12-14 --- _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` ...Salvation? Follow these teachings: 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 ========================================================== >-->From CupO'Cheer: .---. .---. ,';' `.';' `.. f :Bo. ` d88: `\ /d88P' `\ ; /d888P' `. ',d8&8P' : ;d8&7' | :8: | qx >MAY GOD BLESS YOU THIS DAY...TO KNOW LOVE! To my surprise I've recently discovered that I'm slowly losing my mind. No, no. It's true. On the surface I may appear incredibly wise, calm, cute and cuddly, but for the last several months I've fallen victim to FBS, or more commonly known as "Father of the Bride Syndrome". You see, my one and only daughter, Mallory, will soon be marrying her beau, Jon. FBS comes with an assortment of conflicting emotions and experiences as the battle rages in the War of "More & Less". There are more details, meetings and choices, as well as more harried days with an anxious daughter (and with her mother, too, but we wont go there). Followed by less patience, sleep and money, as well as less time with my little girl. Did I mention less money? But somewhere in the midst of all this craziness, I've had a time or two to stop, collect my thoughts, and ponder, What does it take to succeed in a love relationship? And I mean really succeed, not simply have a relationship out of convenience or because others feel you should. When all is said and done, what lies at the very heart of such a relationship? What is the key element? On March 18, 1978, Beverly and I were married in a small church in what at the time was a small town just outside Atlanta, Georgia. But it was more than just tradition, ritual or ceremony. We weren't simply getting married. We were marrying each other. See the difference? Specific, individual choices were made. I chose Beverly and she chose me. And yet, it was even more than that. I chose to love, honor and protect her, just as she chose to love, honor and protect me. Binding all that together was a level of commitment and devotion that, even with all the vows, I'm sure we didnt fully understand. It can be difficult at times to understand even now. We use words like commitment and devotion, we say our vows, we talk of eternal love...but what is the bottom line in a deep, true love relationship? I believe it comes down to how two people answer this: Is the other person more important that what "I" want for me? If both can honestly answer, Yes, then they have a deep, true love relationship. God has called us to that same relationship with Him. Remember the greatest command? Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. (Mark 12:30) He wants us to love Him with our entire being...just as He has loved us! He created the stars, planets and this world for us. He has literally moved Heaven and Earth. He is always by our side. He gave up the human will to survive so that we might live. And He wants us to be with Him forever. Sounds like a deep, true love, doesnt it? But is there a relation- ship? Does God receive as He has given? Or when He calls to us to spend some time with Him, maybe just to walk and talk a while, do we tell Him we dont have the time, there are things to do, places to be, people to see? Do we ever tell Him, You are more important that what I want for me? And if so, do we mean it? If I could give my children any advice, it would be this: In marriage and friendship Love as though your love is of great value Be committed as though such a thing matters Show devotion as though it can heal Honor the other as though it will lift that person to Heaven Because it is, it does, it can, it will...and you'll know even more deeply the love and friendship of God. The War of "More & Less" rages on. But I've discovered something interesting. The more I love God, the less I require. The more I love others, the less I demand. And the more I love Beverly, the less I care about the things of this world. Take care & be God's, Chuck Christ Is Lord Of All . . . Ciloa as seen in A Note of Encouragement -<>- _ _|_|_ ,|_| |_|_ || | | |_| || | | | | || | | | | _|| | | | | ||)\ ^ ^ ^ | || | | || | | || | | \\ | \\ / ejm )\ ( / \ \ / \ \ \ \ >WHAT YOU WILL BE -Author Unknown As I gazed up at the mountains, I was awed by their majesty; I bowed my head and asked myself, "Why should He care for me? I am not great like the mountains that tower so high above, What is there about me that God can find to love?" "Father, I am not strong like the wind that makes your tall trees sway, I cannot sing sweetly like your birds; will you love me anyway? But most of all, I am simply me, and often have cause to fear, In spite of all my weaknesses, do you promise to be near?" With eyes closed tight against my tears, I wished He could hear me pray. Then I felt His Spirit tell me, "Child, look up, I have something to say. "You are simply you, the spirit I love, a part of my great plan. I put you here to learn of life and to return to me again." "You are more beautiful to me than the loveliest mountain I made, And your strength exceeds that of the wind's, so do not be afraid. I love you not for what you are, but for what I know you will be. I am always beside you watching you grow, you are very special to me." A smile touched my lips - I knew it was true, my Father had always been there - giving me comfort and blessings and love and my own special talents to share. So I do my best to make Him proud. I am not afraid, for you see, He loves me not for what I am, but for what He knows I will be. as seen in Food For Thought -<>- .-..-. (-o/\o-) /`""``""`\ \ /.__.\ / \ `--` / `) (' , /::::\ , |'.\::::/.'| _| ';::;' |_ (::) || (::) _. "| || |" _(:) '. || .' /::\ '._||_.' \::/ /::::\ /:::\ \::::/ _\:::/ /::::\_.._ _.._ _.._ _.._/::::\ \::::/::::\/::::\/::::\/::::\::::/ jgs `""`\::::/\::::/\::::/\::::/`""` `""` `""` `""` `""` >MORE BOOKS AND AUTHORS WE'D LIKE TO SEE How to Prevent Animal Poisoning, by Ann Thrax. Droopy Drawers, by Lucy Lastic. Irish Flooring, by Lynn O'Leum. Do-It-Yourself Housing, by Bill Jerome. Holmes Does It Again, by Scott Linyard. The Most Famous Works of Leo Tolstoy, by Warren Peace. French Cooking, by Sue Flay. Wind in the Willows, by Russell N. Gleaves. Springtime! by Theresa Green. [with thanks to Monday Fodder via Wit and Wisdom] as seen in Mark's Musings -<>- .---. .---. ,';' `.';' `.. f :Bo. ` d88: `\ /d88P' `\ ; /d888P' `. ',d8&8P' : ;d8&7' | :8: | qx >CHOICES? (I'll choose LOVE) I stand upon the threshold of a brand new, spotless, day And ponder all the choices that surround me as I pray. Because of my redemption and my gift from God above, Today I'm free to choose and I've decided I'll choose LOVE. For no occasion justifies my hate or bitterness, And love can cure a multitude of ills that cause distress. Today, I'll choose to dwell in PEACE and quickly will forgive Imagined hurts and wrongful acts, so I might fully live. I'll choose to act with PATIENCE, as I go about my day, And, even though the wait be long, I'll use that time to pray. I'll choose to show true KINDNESS to each person that I see And pray that they will see the love of Christ alive in me. Today, I'm choosing FAITHFULNESS to promises I make And I will be trustworthy, and the truth I'll not forsake. My choice is also GOODNESS and I'll strive for honesty, In every action that I take, with true humility. Today, my choice is GENTLENESS in every action done, So I'll have no regrets to feel at setting of the sun. I'll strive, today, for SELF-CONTROL in thought, and word, and deed ~ And choose the pure and noble things on which my soul can feed. If I have been successful with the choices I have made And sleep tonight with conscience free, secure, and unafraid ... I'll praise my precious Lord, above, Who gives abundantly His peace (that money cannot buy) and love beyond degree. But, if I fail to live, today, the way I know I should And find I've chosen what is wrong, instead of what is good ... In true repentance, I will bow before my Savior's feet And I'll find grace and His forgiveness at the Mercy Seat. by Betty Jo Mings -<>- |><|~|><| /(((9)))\ //) -_- (\\ (((( ._. )))) ))))---(((( ((((`---')))) (___|xXxXx|___) \ | | / / ^ ^ ^ \ / \ (_._._._._._) \ | / ( | ) | | | hjw |-|-| /`-^-'\ (__,^.__) >THE LITTLE LADY WHO CHANGED MY LIFE She was four years old when I first met her. She was carrying a bowl of soup. She had very, very fine golden hair and a little pink shawl around her shoulders. I was 29 at the time and suffering from the flu. Little did I realize that this little lady was going to change my life. Her mom and I had been friends for many years. Eventually that friendship grew into care, from care into love, to marriage, and marriage brought the three of us together as a family. At first I was awkward because in the back of my mind, I thought I would be stuck with the dreaded label of "stepfather." And stepfathers were somehow mythically, or in a real sense, ogres as well as an emotional wedge in the special relationship between the child and the biological father. Early on I tried hard to make a natural transition from bachelor- hood to fatherhood. A year and a half before we married, I took an apartment a few blocks away from their home. When it became evident that we would marry, I tried to spend time to enable a smooth changeover from friend to father figure. I tried not to become a wall between my future daughter and her natural father. Still I longed to be something special in her life. Over the years, my appreciation for her grew. Her honesty, sincerity and directness were mature beyond her years. I knew that within this child lived a very giving and compassionate adult. Still, I lived in the fear that some day, when I had to step in and be a disciplinarian, I might have it thrown in my face that I wasn't her "real" father. If I wasn't real, why would she have to listen to me? My actions became measured. I was probably more lenient than I wanted to be. I acted in that way in order to be liked, all the time living out a role I felt I had to live - thinking I wasn't good enough or worthy enough on my own terms. During the turbulent teenage years, we seemed to drift apart emotionally. I seemed to lose control (or at least the parental illusion of control). She was searching for her identity and so was I. I found it increasingly hard to communicate with her. I felt a sense of loss and sadness because I was getting further from the feeling of oneness we had shared so easily in the beginning. Because she went to a parochial school, there was an annual retreat for all seniors. Evidently the students thought that going on retreat was like a week at Club Med. They boarded the bus with their guitars and racquetball gear. Little did they realize that this was going to be an emotional encounter that could have a lasting impression on them. As parents of the participants, we were asked to individually write a letter to our child, being open and honest and to write only positive things about our relationship. I wrote a letter about the little golden- haired girl who had brought me a bowl of soup when I needed care. During the course of the week, the students delved deeper into their real beings. They had an opportunity to read the letters we parents had prepared for them. The parents also got together one night during that week to think about and send good thoughts to our children. While she was away, I noticed something come out of me that I knew was there all along, but which I hadn't faced. It was that in order to be fully appreciated I had to plainly be me. I didn't have to act like anyone else. I wouldn't be overlooked if I was true to myself. I just had to be the best me I could be. It may not sound like much to anyone else, but it was one of the biggest revelations of my life. The night arrived when they came home from their retreat experience. The parents and friends who had come to pick them up were asked to arrive early, and then invited into a large room where the lights were turned down low. Only the lights in the front of the room were shining brightly. The students marched joyously in, all dirty-faced as though they had just come back from summer camp. They filed in arm-in-arm, singing a song they had designated as their theme for the week. Through their smudgy faces, they radiated a new sense of belonging and love and self-confidence. When the lights were turned on, the kids realized that their parents and friends, who had come to collect them and share their joy, were also in the room. The students were allowed to make a few statements about their perceptions of the prior week. At first they reluctantly got up and said things like, "It was cool," and "Awesome week," but after a few moments you could begin to see a real vitality in the students' eyes. They began to reveal things that underscored the importance of this rite of passage. Soon they were straining to get to the microphone. I noticed my daughter was anxious to say something. I was equally anxious to hear what she had to say. I could see my daughter determinedly inching her way up to the microphone. Finally she got to the front of the line. She said something like, "I had a great time and I learned a lot about myself." She continued, "I want to say there are people and things we sometimes take for granted that we shouldn't, and I just want to say... I love you, Tony." At that moment my knees got weak. I had no expectations, no anticipation she would say anything so heartfelt. Immediately people around me started hugging me, and patting me on the back as though they also understood the depth of that remark- able statement. For a teenage girl to say openly in front of a room full of people, "I love you," took a great deal of courage. If there was something greater than being overwhelmed, I was experiencing it. Since then the magnitude of our relationship has increased. I have come to understand and appreciate that I didn't need to have any fear about being a stepfather. I only have to concern myself with being the real person who can exchange honest love with the same little girl I met so many years before - carrying a bowl full of what turned out to be kindness. ~By Tony Luna~ as seen in Inspiration Plus 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: "What can be more foolish than to think that all this rare fabric of heaven and earth could come by chance, when all the skill of science is not able to make an oyster?" - Jeremy Taylor .---. ___ /_____\ /\.-`( '.' ) / / \_-_/_ \ `-.-"`'V'//-. `.__, |// , \ |Ll //Ll|\ \ |__// | \_\ /---|[]==| / / \__/ | \/\/ /_ | Ll_\| |`^"""^`| | | | | | | | | | | | | L___l___J jgs |_ | _| (___|___) ^^^ ^^^ >Make Room for One More (Author Unknown) Isaiah 58:6-7 "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to... share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter?" Recruits in the army have been told, "Always dig your foxholes big enough for two." It takes more effort to do this, but it could save one more life. Making room for one more person in your life is a good principle. The Bible states it like this: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Isaiah teaches us what this means in practical ways: "Is it not to share your food with the hungry and provide the poor wanderer with shelter -- when you see the naked, to clothe him?" (Isaiah 58:7). One plus one: this sets a goal within reach. If you were told to help all mankind, you would say, "How can I? How can I possibly make room in my life for billions of people?" But, to make your proverbial foxhole big enough for two -- big enough for one more -- that you can do. In bearing Christian witness we can "each one, reach one." That is how it worked among the first disciples. Andrew brought his brother Peter to Jesus, and Philip brought Nathanael. This kind of disciplining starts right in our own families or friendship circles. When someone leads a brother or a sister to Christ, salvation comes to that house, to that neighborhood. Save the world? For one person that is mission impossible, but to reach out to one near and dear is mission possible. During their training period the disciples went out two by two. The apostle Paul often made room in his ministry for a traveling companion and fellow missionary -- at times Barnabas, or Silas, or Timothy. Moreover the one-plus-one formula involves more than companionship; it involves the power of prayer. As Jesus said, "If two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by My Father" (Matthew 18:19). Jesus always made room in His kingdom for one more: for the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well, for Zacchaeus in Jericho, for the penitent thief on the cross, also for you and me -- because He died for us all. PRAYER: Dear God, give me an increase of love so that I may care for one more needy person through my Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. -<>- "Twenty years ago, the question: 'Does television shape our culture or merely reflect it?' held considerable interest for many scholars and social critics. The questions have largely disappeared as television has gradually become our culture." - Patrick Michele .-""-._ / ___/ \ _&_ _.--""|/ `\| // \\ .' ( ^/ ^ )'. / / \ \ / | _ | \ // / \ \\ | _\____/ | /_/_/_\_\_\ | .' \____/-._ | .-"-. | / `; /# \ | / / _|_.---\ | | |.-.; :--.-(_/.____/.-""\___/"-. / \ / ~~/ /\ \{"=.______.="} /--. ; /___/_~~/ ; .--\"=...__...="} / \-/ `\______|/ \-.______..-; | /`| | \ | |||| || | /_ | |_______/ | |||| || | \_/| |-------' |--'||'--._|| | | | | || |> |______| |____________|._ || _..-;| | [___] | `||() || |______ |\/|____________|jgs|| () (__) \__/ (__) () >T-R-A-V-E-L (Author Unknown) Inmate Mitchell King had a visitor -- his wife. King was serving a six-year jail term in Auckland, New Zealand for armed robbery. But his wife didn't want to be away from him for that long. So they held hands. And they stuck. She'd rubbed her palms with Super Glue. Their new-found closeness was short-lived. And their separation painful. Her technique is not one I'd recommend for a closer relationship. But if you want more closeness; if you desire relationships that are deeper and broader, more meaningful and longer-lasting, then remember the word "travel." T is for TRUST Trust is the glue that holds people together (not Super Glue). A relationship will go nowhere without it. R is for RESPECT "Do not save your loving speeches for your friends till they are dead; do not write them on their tombstones, speak them rather now instead," writes Anna Cummins. It's about respecting others and letting them know that you value them. A is for AFFECTION Love - genuine love and care is a key. V is for VULNERABILITY Though we may feel afraid to let another too close, no relationship will go anywhere without risking vulnerability. Entrepreneur Jim Rohn says, "The walls we build around us to keep out the sadness also keep out the joy." And the love. E is for EMOTIONAL INTIMACY Learn to be open. Learn to communicate freely. What kinds of relationships you make are largely determined by how openly you have learned to communicate. L is for LAUGHTER Victor Borge got it right when he said, "Laughter is the shortest distance between two people." It's also the most enjoyable. For relationships that can really go somewhere, just remember the word "travel." Make sure the relationship is one that God wants for you. Then enjoy the trip! 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 ========================================================== ,(()). ,;;;;. __ ________ _____ ___ ((_ _));'_`'_( _| __ __ __ _| _| _| __ __ () \ /)\ ) / (_|__ _|-_| _(_|(_|(_|__ _|-- ((\ O(() \ O / _____(_|(_|_____________(_|_ SSt >-->"No Fear" by Jon Reddick I got enemies at every side It ain't looking good, I ain't gonna lie Arrows flying, devil's trying To make me think I'm going down this time You might think that I'd be afraid Running scared with a shaken faith But the God I know says it ain't over The God I know is gonna make a way Yea, though I walk through the valley I will have No fear, no fear The mighty power of Jesus Is fighting for me here No fear, no fear The light of the world Makes the darkness disappear No fear Not over my life, not over my life, not over my life No fear Not over my life, not over my life, not over my life No fear when I'm walking through the fire 'Cause I know who's walking me through No fear when the floodwaters rise If I got my eyes on you No fear, no fear The mighty power of Jesus Is fighting for me here No fear, no fear The light of the world Makes the darkness disappear No fear Not over my life, not over my life, not over my life No fear Not over my life, not over my life, not over my life Not over my family, not over my future Not over my life, God's over my life Not over my battles, not over my struggles Not over my life, God's over my life Not over my family, not over my future Not over my life, God's over my life Not over my battles, not over my struggles Not over my life, God's over my life Yea, though I walk through the valley I will have No fear, no fear The mighty power of Jesus Is fighting for me here No fear, no fear The light of the world Makes the darkness disappear No fear Not over my life, not over my life, not over my life No fear Not over my life, not over my life, not over my life No fear Not over my life, not over my life, not over my life No fear Not over my life, not over my life, not over my life NO FEAR! by Jon Reddick https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iuRyo5SyLcg >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 **********************************************************************