Hits & Misses

Hits & Misses 2316 14Feb2012

2012-02-14T16:13:00.000-08:00

Telling the truth

God reminds us that our words and the way we use our speech greatly influence the quality of life we enjoy.

Evil speech and lies we tell - they set loose a force of deception and damage that we cannot control. This unleashed power not only damages those about whom and to whom we speak, but they eventually bounce back and come back and bring their deadly effect back into our own lives. Let us speak what is right, good, wholesome, holy, true, and a blessing. (Ephesians 4:20-5:12)

Psalm 34:12-13
Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies.

Hits & Misses 2316 14Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2315 13Feb2012

2012-02-13T16:12:00.000-08:00

Faith

Some aspects of faith are beyond description: they can only be experienced and known by doing them.
Taste the Lord.
Sample his goodness.
Lean on his grace.
Take protection in his care.

We are blessed to find him near and take our protection from life's greatest dangers and death's greatest fears.

Psalm 34:8

Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who
takes refuge in him.

Hits & Misses 2315 13Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2314 12Feb2012

2012-02-12T16:12:00.000-08:00

Who do you trust ?

This is an important question.

Pay close attention to my answer,

To trust Him whose
power will never be worn out,
love will never decrease,
kindness will never change,
faithfulness will never fail,
wisdom will never be confused,
perfect goodness can never be diminished

You will be a happy man if these are your trust.

Isaiah 36:5
"Now on whom dost thou trust?"

Hits & Misses 2314 12Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2313 11Feb2012

2012-02-11T16:11:00.000-08:00

Help one another

Psalm 34:6
This poor man called, and the LORD heard him; he saved him out
of all his troubles.

So few hear the cry of the poor or respond to the troubles of the underprivileged. If we are going to be true children of God, His values must become our own, His lost sheep must become our search.

Let's help others around us who are in need.

Hits & Misses 2313 11Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2312 10Feb2012

2012-02-10T16:11:00.000-08:00

Tithing

When you tithe, you give God the legal right to
intervene in your financial affairs,
to bless you richly, and
to defend you against the destruction the devil brings.

When you tithe, you
lay a foundation for success and abundance
establish deposits with God you can draw on when you need them.

Malachi 3:11-12
And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts. And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land.

Hits & Misses 2312 10Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2311 09Feb2012

2012-02-09T16:10:00.000-08:00

Comfort

God comforts us because

we are heartbroken
we need a blessing
God loves us.

We are comforted to comfort others.

There is something about comfort that cannot be fully realized until it is shared with someone else.

It is that final step in the healing process of grief, disappointment, hurt, and loss. Until we share the comfort we have received, until we pass it on to another, our comfort is weak and shallow and limited.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

Hits & Misses 2311 09Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2310 08Feb2012

2012-02-08T16:11:00.000-08:00

His Promise

God not only buys us out of our bondage and debt to sin, but he also promises us that he will provide protection for those who trust in Him. Our future is tied to Him and not to our ability to provide and protect what we need.

Psalm 34 : 22
The LORD redeems his servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in him.

Hits & Misses 2310 08Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2309 07Feb2012

2012-02-07T16:10:00.000-08:00

Wait for the result

Many people do not have the patience to wait for the result to happen.
They will pray for others or lay hands on someone and pray for healing or deliverance and then, when they do not see any immediate, outward change taking place, they will withdraw their faith and assume nothing has happened.

Next time you're tempted to evaluate what God is doing by the looks of things, do not do it. Remember instead that it is faith, not appearances, that makes miracles happen. It's the only real evidence that you need!

Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hits & Misses 2309 07Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2308 06Feb2012

2012-02-06T16:09:00.000-08:00

How to be nourished, blessed and sustained

While even the fiercest hunters cannot ensure their security and nourishment, those whose hunger is for God will find themselves nourished, blessed, and sustained.

Psalm 34 : 10
The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the LORD
lack no good thing.

Hits & Misses 2308 06Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2307 05Feb2012

2012-02-05T16:08:00.000-08:00

Our hope

Our hope in Christ for the future is the mainspring and the support of our joy here. It will animate our hearts to think often of heaven, for all that we can desire is promised there.

Here sin is a constant grief to us,

we
are weary and toil worn,
are always in the field of battle;
are so tempted within,
are so molested by foes without,

that we have little or no peace;

Colossians 1 : 5
The hope which is laid up for you in heaven.

Hits & Misses 2307 05Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2306 04Feb2012

2012-02-04T16:07:00.000-08:00

Are you terrified ?

How does the devil see you? Does he see you as a terrifying and mighty warrior of God...or does he see you as a wimp he can whip in a minute?

How you want the devil to see you depends on you.

If you're not strong in the Lord in your own sight, you need to change that. You need to get so full of God's Word and so full of the Holy Ghost that you walk around like a spiritual giant. Turn the tables on the devil and let him find out what it feels like to be a grasshopper for a change.

Numbers 13:33
And we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight

Hits & Misses 2306 04Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2305 03Feb2012

2012-02-03T16:06:00.000-08:00

To be mastered

To have a master means that there is
one who knows me better than I know myself,
one who is closer than a friend,
one who fathoms the remotest abyss of my heart and satisfies it,
one who has brings me into the secure sense and
one who solves every perplexity and problem of my mind.

To have a master is this and nothing less

Our Lord never enforces obedience;

In the Bible obedience is based on the relationship of equals, that of a son with his father. Our Lord was not God's servant, He was His Son.

John 13 : 13
You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord', and rightly so, for that is what I am.

Hits & Misses 2305 03Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2304 02Feb2012

2012-02-02T16:03:00.000-08:00

Surrender

Let us seriously look into our hearts and surrender those things that hold us back from fully following and serving God. We know what they are.

Jesus comes to us with his nail-scarred hands and reminds us that He gave up everything to redeem us. He now wants us to surrender to the Cross the things that hold us back.

Matthew 10 : 38-39
And anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.

Hits & Misses 2304 02Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2303 01Feb2012

2012-02-01T16:02:00.000-08:00

Love is an action

Love is much more than a feeling or an attitude: love is an action.

When we love, we show it by our deeds. Our love is shown by our obedience to the things Jesus taught. Obedience brings an incredible blessing -- Jesus reveals himself to those who obey him!

John 14:21
[Jesus said] "Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him."

Hits & Misses 2303 01Feb2012

Hits & Misses 2302 31Jan2012

2012-01-31T16:01:00.000-08:00

Freedom

This is the great reminder that sin is no longer our master and no longer our choice. We choose to live for God with every fiber of our being and dislike the life of sin that once held us in bondage to death and defeat.

Romans 6:15
What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means!

Hits & Misses 2302 31Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2301 30Jan2012

2012-01-30T16:01:00.000-08:00

What to surrender

Have you "renounced the hidden things of dishonesty"

Renounce it as soon as it springs up; renounce the whole thing until there is no hidden thing of dishonesty or craftiness about you. Envy, jealousy, strife - these things arise not necessarily from the nature of sin, but from the make - up of your body which was used for this kind of thing in days gone by (see Romans 6:19 and 1 Peter 4:1-2).

Maintain a continual watchfulness so that nothing of which you would be ashamed arises in your life.

2 Corinthians 4:2
But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty.

Hits & Misses 2301 30Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2300 29Jan2012

2012-01-29T16:00:00.000-08:00

Do you pray ?

Do not set as your motive the desire to be known as a praying man.

Pray where no one knows you are praying
Have no other motive than to know God.
It is impossible to conduct your life as a disciple without definite times of secret prayer.

Prayer is not simply getting things from God, that is a most initial form of prayer.
Prayer is getting into perfect communion with God

Matthew 6:6
But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Hits & Misses 2300 29Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2299 28Jan2012

2012-01-28T16:00:00.000-08:00

Boasting

What do we have in which we can boast ?

We have no basis to boast in our own might.

We can't
preserve our lives.
determine the future or change the past.

We are living proof of God’s grace and mercy –
He saved us when we didn't deserve it,
He rescued us from sin and death when we had no power to preserve our lives.

God saves
the sinner,
raises up the disheartened, and
mends the broken.

Praise the LORD for his glory. Praise the LORD for his grace.

Psalm 34:2
My soul will boast in the LORD; let the afflicted hear and
rejoice.

Hits & Misses 2299 28Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2298 27Jan2012

2012-01-27T15:59:00.000-08:00

Praise

Consistently praise
God to keep our life on track
God to keep our hearts surrendered to His will and His work
God with songs.

Let us
give Him thanks for all that He has done for us.
praise Him always.

Psalm 34:1
I will extol the LORD at all times; his praise will always be on my lips.

Hits & Misses 2298 27Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2297 26Jan2012

2012-01-26T15:59:00.000-08:00

Power in Unity

There's power in unity.

The devil takes the differences between us, differences God put there to make us stronger, and tries to use them as a wedge to drive us apart. It's the differences combined that make us strong!

Do not let the devil use those differences to drive you apart. Thank God for them!

Let us learn how to appreciate them. Let Him show you just how powerful you can be... together!

Ecclesiastes 4:12
If one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold
cord is not quickly broken.

Hits & Misses 2297 26Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2296 25Jan2012

2012-01-25T15:58:00.000-08:00

His mercy

God's mercy endures forever!

He is still operating in the earth.
His mercy never runs out.
Neither has it decreased or weakened.
His mercy continues to reach you day after day.
He is still generous in mercy onto those that call upon Him.
Stretch your faith to take in the boundless mercy of God.

Psalm 136:1
"O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth
forever."

Hits & Misses 2296 25Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2295 24Jan2012

2012-01-24T15:58:00.000-08:00

Seek Him

Have you sought the LORD lately?

Many of us had committed our lives to Him.
Have you made that commitment?

God promises wisdom to those who ask and do not doubt.

Let us ask for wisdom.
Let's join our hearts together, and with the Spirit's help, let's seek our Father so that we can honor and glorify him, finding our blessing in his presence.

Psalm 34 : 4
I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.

Hits & Misses 2295 24Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2294 23Jan2012

2012-01-23T15:57:00.000-08:00

The fountain

It is not possible to put any trash in the mouth of a flowing fountain ! The force of its own outflow protects it and keeps it clear of any impurities from the outside. Well, the spiritual fountain within you works the same way.
When you are allowing the forces of love and joy and peace and gentleness and all the others to flow out, the devil can not get any of his junk in.
How do you keep the Spirit flowing?
Keep your heart full of the Word of God that the forces of eternal life start bubbling out. Just a little at first...and then stronger and higher.

John 4:14
Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of
water springing up into everlasting life.

Hits & Misses 2294 23Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2293 22Jan2012

2012-01-22T15:57:00.000-08:00

Wisdom

What are the greatest riches in life?

They are not silver and gold. Of infinitely greater value is wisdom, which helps us understand what is valuable, what is true, what is worthy of our heart, and what is not.

Proverbs 16:16
How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver!

Hits & Misses 2293 22Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2292 21Jan2012

2012-01-21T15:56:00.000-08:00

Poor words and bad timing

How many times have you said just the "wrong" thing?

Jesus words on this topic are indeed convicting :
"Out of the abundance of the heart does the mouth speak."

In other words, poor words and bad timing in our speech are more issues of our heart than issues of social skills and decorum.

Let us ask God to purify, mend, and re-focus our heart on his will and passions.

Proverbs 10:32
The lips of the righteous know what is fitting, but the mouth of the wicked only what is perverse.

Hits & Misses 2292 21Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2291 20Jan2012

2012-01-20T15:54:00.000-08:00

Be encouraged !!

Courage comes from trusting God. It comes from believing what God says regardless of what the circumstances look like. Courage comes from faith!

Discouragement comes from fear and unbelief.

It comes when you listen to the devil's lies about what God is not going to do for you.
We must shake off discouragement and rise up with courage! We must quit looking at our own abilities and failures and limitations and start looking to God. We must rise up in the Name of Jesus and the power of His Spirit and establish the kingdom of heaven upon earth.
If you've been discouraged lately, stop listening to Satan's lies. Stop receiving evil reports.
Once you begin to realize who you are and what you've been given by the power of God, you'll quit letting the devil run all over you.

God commands that you be strong and courageous.

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

Hits & Misses 2291 20Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2290 19Jan2012

2012-01-19T15:54:00.000-08:00

The powerful Word

God's word

is a light to our dark path in a morally uncertain world.
is our standard for right and wrong, righteousness and evil.
delivers us from all sorts of destructive practices that can ruin our lives.

Psalm 119:133
Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me.

Hits & Misses 2290 19Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2289 18Jan2012

2012-01-18T15:53:00.000-08:00

The wicked and the righteous

The wicked fear
the triumph of goodness, holiness, and righteousness.
not being in control.
death's overtaking them.

The righteous
desire the triumph of goodness, holiness, and righteousness.
offer their lives to be controlled by the Holy Spirit of God.
recognize death is an enemy, but one that has been conquered by their Savior.

Proverbs 10:24
What the wicked dreads will overtake him; what the righteous desire will be granted.

Hits & Misses 2289 18Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2288 17Jan2012

2012-01-17T15:52:00.000-08:00

Anger and foolishness

Responding quickly to aggravation, threat, insult, or difficulty suggests strength to many folks today. However, responding hastily out of anger is foolish. This response seldom produces the desired long term effect and nearly always compounds the problems that need to be addressed. Patiently dealing with frustrating and painful situations shows understanding and is nearly always more fruitful in the long run.

Proverbs 14:29
A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly.

Hits & Misses 2288 17Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2287 16Jan2012

2012-01-16T15:52:00.000-08:00

Trust

Faith is as much the rule of temporal as of spiritual life.

It is only as we learn to trust in God for the supply of all our daily need that we shall live above the world.

We are not to be idle, that would show we did not trust in God.
We are not to be imprudent or rash; that were to trust chance, and not the living God
We are to rely simply and entirely upon the Lord at all times.

Trusting in God always

Be you a man with living principles within; never bow to the varying customs of worldly wisdom.

Walk in your path of integrity with steadfast steps, and show that you are invincibly strong in the strength which confidence in God alone can confer.

We have no care, for he careth for us; we have no troubles, because we cast our burdens upon the Lord.

Psalms 62:8
Trust in him at all times.

Hits & Misses 2287 16Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2286 15Jan2012

2012-01-15T15:51:00.000-08:00

Hits & Misses 2285 14Jan2012

2012-01-14T15:51:00.000-08:00

World without God

So often, those of us who have received the blessings of faith and the guidelines of the Word of God do not fully appreciate them.

Can you imagine what it is like to try to define one’s worth, clarify one’s values, and establish one’s sense of purpose without a standard of truth?
Imagine what it would be like to be lost without a map and without a compass?

Remember what it was like to wake up in an unfamiliar place as a child in the pitch black darkness totally disoriented? We don't have to worry about that now, do we?

God's Word light our dark paths and show us the way home!

Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.

Hits & Misses 2285 14Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2284 13Jan2012

2012-01-13T15:50:00.000-08:00

HE is still working !!

Think of the incredible diversity of earth's wonders. Look at your own life and see the fingerprints of God's work in your own experience (Rom. 8:28). As Jesus said, our Father is working still (John 5:17). Yes, it does make us glad to know that we are not alone in working our own life (Psalm 139; Phil. 2:13).

There is a deep-seated joy at knowing that the LORD, Creator of the universe is at work in us and for us. No wonder singing praise is such a natural response for us!

Psalm 92:4
For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for joy at the works of your hands.

Hits & Misses 2284 13Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2283 12Jan2012

2012-01-12T15:49:00.000-08:00

Integrity

Be a person of integrity.

When someone finds out your secrets, you can feel secure knowing that you have lived for godliness. However, a perverse and deceitful person has to constantly worry that someone will find him out. There is no security or assurance in crooked paths, only the certainty of getting tripped up and caught. When the secrets of evil that have been whispered in dark places get shouted from the rooftops, those who have lived for the Lord can be secure, knowing that what gets shouted about them is said with the voice of God: "Well done, good and faithful servant!"

Proverbs 10:9
The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.

Hit & Misses 2283 12Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2282 11Jan2012

2012-01-11T15:49:00.000-08:00

God’s word

What is the greatest tool to repair the human heart?

It is the Word of God !!!

You see, while the modern scientific techniques can be of great aid to the physical heart of people, God's tool for heart surgery is His Word. This sharp scalpel can reach the soul and spirit as well as being a physical blessing.

As you open God's Scripture, as you hear the message of God preached, why not ask for the Holy Spirit's help to help you understand, apply, and put into practice what is being taught?

Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Hits & Misses 2282 11Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2281 10Jan2012

2012-01-10T15:47:00.000-08:00

Seek the real answer

God quenches the thirst and satisfies the hunger of those who seek him. So often we try to soothe the ache in our soul and fill the emptiness in our heart with what is only a temporary satisfaction that only God's presence can fill. Let's refuse every false satisfaction and seek the LORD!

Psalm 107 : 9
For he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.

Hits & Misses 2281 10Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2280 09Jan2012

2012-01-09T16:20:00.000-08:00

A varied life

A river is victoriously unrelenting, it overcomes all barriers.

The obstacle is a matter of indifference to the river which will flow steadily through you if you remember to keep right at the source.

The Spirit of God overcomes all obstacles. Never get your eyes on the obstacle or on the difficulty.

Never allow anything to come between yourself and Jesus Christ, no emotion, or experience; nothing must keep you from the one great sovereign Source.

John 7 : 38
Rivers of living water.

Hits & Misses 2280 09Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2279 08Jan2012

2012-01-08T16:19:00.000-08:00

Getting ahead in this world

The only real secret to getting ahead in this world is to put the Word of God first place in your daily life.
The Bible is not just a textbook, a storybook, or a history book.
It's a handbook for living.
It's the wisdom of Almighty God written down so that you can apply it to your everyday circumstances.
Invest your time in the Word first and that investment will soon be paying off in every area of your life.

Proverbs 4:7-8
For skillful and godly Wisdom is the principal thing.... Prize Wisdom highly and exalt her, and she will exalt and promote you; she will bring you to honor when you embrace her.

Hits & Misses 2279 08Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2278 07Jan2012

2012-01-07T16:19:00.000-08:00

Grace

What is Grace ???

Grace is not about excuses for our sins. It is about a deep-seated thanksgiving for pardon. It is a life-changing commitment to say "No!" to all that is evil, corrupt, and wicked no matter how attractive or how persistent they may be in our culture.

Titus 2:11-12
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age...

Hits & Misses 2278 07Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2277 06Jan2012

2012-01-06T16:18:00.000-08:00

Languages of nature

Think of the majestic order of the universe and its obedience to unchanging law.

The language of

order,
beauty,
perfection and intelligence

speaks of the existence of God

There is

(a) certainty and regularity of the seasons
(b) precision of the movements of the sun, the moon and the stars
(c) regular coming of the night and day
(d) balance between man’s consumption of life-giving oxygen and its production by the plant-life of the earth

Psalm 19 : 1-3
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard.

Hits & Misses 2277 06Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2276 05Jan2012

2012-01-05T16:18:00.000-08:00

Happiness

The secret of happiness is
not to do what you like to do but to learn to like what you have to do.

Happiness is not found by seeking. It is not an end in itself

Pots of gold are never found at the end of the rainbow. Gold is mined from the ground or panned laboriously from a stream.

The Pharisees were not happy. They were nervous, tensed and frustrated. They were full of resentments, bitterness, prejudices and hatred. The reason was that they had lost sight of God’s idea of the pure in heart. The Pharisees thought that as long as they kept the letter of the law that was enough. But God looks deeper that the outside actions. He searches and ponders the heart. He looks to the motives, thoughts and intents of the heart.

1 Timothy 5 : 22
Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure

Hits & Misses 2276 05Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2275 04Jan2012

2012-01-04T16:17:00.000-08:00

Heart

The heart pumps blood and it is the central and vital organ of the body. It is also used metaphorically when we speak of affections and feelings. The Bible speaks of heart as the well-spring of life. Hence, it is also used closely with ‘life’. When you are asked to give your heart, it does not mean to cut out our actual hearts. It means that we are to give lives, our all.

When we come to Christ, we give our intellectual assent with our minds and we also believe in our hearts – means that the will, the emotion, and the intellect are surrendered.

Romans 10 : 9
That if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Hits & Misses 2275 04Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2274 03Jan2012

2012-01-03T16:16:00.000-08:00

Selfish lifestyle

Self-centeredness is the basic cause of much of our distress in life. Our loves, our interests and our energies are too often focused upon ourselves. Many of us live selfishly.

Matthew 19 : 21
If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.

Here in this verse, Jesus wants us to be released from selfishness and its destructive effect on our personality and life.

John 3 : 30
He must become greater; I must become less.

Hits & Misses 2274 03Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2273 02Jan2012

2012-01-02T16:16:00.000-08:00

How to be rich

There are two ways of being rich – have a lot or want very little

The latter way is the easiest for most of us. Many people make themselves miserable by wanting more than they can ever have. They can never get enough of the insatiable desire for more, better and newer things.

We need not learn how to get more but how to get along with what we have got, and get on with the business of really living.

Luke 12 : 15
Then he said to them, Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions

Hits & Misses 2273 02Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2272 01Jan2012

2012-01-01T16:15:00.000-08:00

Be truthful

HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!!!

The purity of our conduct comes from truthfulness. We should be truthful in our representation of ourselves. We should avoid hypocrisy. We should be truthful in speaking of our past achievements. A lie is anything that opposes the naked truth !!

Psalm 51 : 6
Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place.

Hits & Misses 2272 01Jan2012

Hits & Misses 2271 31Dec2011

2011-12-31T16:15:00.000-08:00

Lonely

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!!!!

Loneliness is no respecter of persons
It invades the palace as well as the humble hut.

Loneliness causes many

to turn to drinking
to lose their sanity
to commit suicide

Moses was not alone in the Midian Desert when God came to comfort him and call him to a wider ministry
Elijah was not alone at the cave when God came near and spoke to him
Paul and Silas were not alone in the Philippian jail

Deuteronomy 3 : 16
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

Hits & Misses 2271 31Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2270 30Dec2011

2011-12-30T16:14:00.000-08:00

What is peace ?

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!!!!

Peace is - To be able to sleep in the storm.
Peace is - The storm rages, but our hearts are at rest
Peace is - To be relaxed, and at peace in the midst of the confusions, bewilderments and perplexities of life.

Psalm 39 : 7
But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you.

Hits & Misses 2270 30Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2269 29Dec2011

2011-12-29T16:13:00.000-08:00

Victorious living

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!!!!

Is there any secret formula for victorious living?
If there is any phrase that could describe it, it could be surrender and devotion.

Nothing can take the place of a daily devotional life with God. Your quiet time, your prayer time, the time you spend reading the Bible, is absolutely essential for a happy Christian life. You cannot be a happier, more dynamic and powerful person apart from a daily walk with God. It will make the difference

(a) between success and failure in your spiritual life.
(b) between being helped and helping others.
(c) in your habits, in your prayer life, in your Bible reading, in your giving, in your testimony and in your active life in church.

Psalm 63 : 1
O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirst for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.

Hits & Misses 2269 29Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2268 28Dec2011

2011-12-28T16:12:00.000-08:00

Lying

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!!!!

Lying can be so easy.
It often seems like the best way to avoid a sticky problem or to protect ourselves from the results of other bad choices.
Lying always backfires.

Proverbs 13 : 5
The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked bring shame and disgrace

Hits & Misses 2268 28Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2267 27Dec2011

2011-12-27T16:12:00.000-08:00

L O V E

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!!!!

Long hidden resentment finally comes to the surface as pretenses drop away.

Home that are not built on love are destined to crumble and fall

Love is a binding force that holds a family together. True love contains an element of spiritual mystery. It has loyalty, reverence and understanding. Love calls for a tremendous responsibility on all members of a family.

True love never fails

It loves despite personality defects, physical blemishes and mental quirks. It is deep, abiding and eternal. It brings a sense of security into the home.

Whether in marriage or in our relationship with fellow mankind, resentment and separation are to sure to surface if love is insincere. Instead of presenting a ‘look of love’, let us take seriously the challenge to ‘let love be without hypocrisy’ (Romans 12 : 9)

A happy Christian home is where love is practiced.

1 Corinthians 13 : 8
Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.

Hits & Misses 2267 27Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2266 26Dec2011

2011-12-26T16:11:00.000-08:00

Angry - good or bad ???

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!!!!

To be angry with the right person, to the right degree, at the right time, for the right purpose, and in the right way, is not easy !!!!

If anger is mingled with malice, it becomes sinful. If it is associated with a holy disposition, it is safe and good.

Becoming angry with someone because of personal resentment or envy is sinful.
Anger, aroused by injustice or evil, and accompanied by a sincere desire to see God’s will performed, is both healthy and effective.

Ephesians 4 : 26-27
In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.

Hits & Misses 2266 26Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2265 25Dec2011

2011-12-25T16:11:00.000-08:00

Getting into trouble

MERRY CHRISTMAS !!!!!

When our tongue is out of work – not being used for constructive and useful purposes – we are more likely to get in trouble with it. We find it so easy to say the kinds of things that are disrespectful, slanderous, cruel, or immoral.

Proverbs 21 : 23
He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.

Hits & Misses 2265 25Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2264 24Dec2011

2011-12-24T16:10:00.000-08:00

Terms of obedience

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!!!!

Regardless of how painful the surrender of our will may seem, obedience to God saves us from unhappy loss in this world and irrecoverable loss in the world to come.

Proverbs 14 : 12 reminds us that a sinful insistence on self-will can be self-destructive.

Trustful obedience to God’s way brings blessing both now and forever.

King Saul blatantly disobeyed God’s instructions, then told Samuel the priest, “I have performed the commandment of the Lord” (1Samuel 15 : 13). When Samuel challenged him, Saul declared his innocence. God saw it differently and removed Saul from the throne of Israel because of his willful disobedience.

When you identify yourself as a citizen of God’s kingdom, you must follow His definitions without tailoring them to suit your own ideas. That is obedience.

1 Samuel 15 : 22
To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.

Hits & Misses 2264 24Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2263 23Dec2011

2011-12-23T16:10:00.000-08:00

The Great Wall of China

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!!!!

The people of ancient China built a massive wall to protect themselves from the barbaric hordes that swept down from the north The wall was too high for the enemy to climb, too thick to tear down and too long to go around. Yet during the first 100 years of the wall’s existence, China was invaded three times.

The enemies simply bribed a gatekeeper and then marched easily through a gate.

The fatal flaw in this defense system lay in spending its wealth to build a wall but paying much less to build the character of the gatekeepers.

Proverbs 14 : 34
Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people

Hits & Misses 2263 23Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2262 22Dec2011

2011-12-22T16:09:00.000-08:00

Faith

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!!!!

Faith is spoken of in the Bible, under the emblem of all the senses.

Sight: Look unto me and be ye saved.
Hearing: Hear, and your soul shall live.
Smelling: All thy garments smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia; thy name is as ointment poured forth.
Touch: By this faith the woman came behind and touched the hem of Christ's garment, and by this we handle the things of the good word of life.
Taste: Except a man eat my flesh," saith Christ, "and drink my blood, there is no life in him."

Song of Solomon 2 : 3
His fruit was sweet to my taste.

Hits & Misses 2262 22Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2261 21Dec2011

2011-12-21T16:09:00.000-08:00

Conceited ???

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!!!!

The most difficult person to deal with is the one who has the conceited satisfaction of an experience to which he can refer back, but who is not working it out in practical life.
Beware of any belief that makes you self-indulgent; it came from the pit, no matter how beautiful it sounds.
Continually bring the truth out into reality; work it out in every field, or the very light you have will prove a curse.

John 12 : 35
Then Jesus told them, You are going to have the light just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. The man who walks in the dark does not know where he is going.

Walk while you have the light before darkness come upon you.

Hits & Misses 2261 21Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2260 20Dec2011

2011-12-20T16:08:00.000-08:00

Good virtues

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!!!!

Character is measured by the love and faithfulness we genuinely show in our daily lives. These are not simple virtues that we can fake.

We show merciful love when we have power over another but choose to treat them with kindness and genuine concern.

Faithfulness is being a person of truth -- genuine and trustworthy in word and deed.
These virtues need to be a part of our everyday lives and permeate our very identity. When they do, others will notice and God will be pleased.

Proverbs 3 : 3-4
Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.

Hits & Misses 2260 20Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2259 19Dec2011

2011-12-19T16:08:00.000-08:00

Trust

No matter how terrifying things around you seem to get, trust God.

He will
always be faithful
never be out doing something else when you need help
be right there to deliver you from any problem
be right there to deliver you from any catastrophe
be right there to deliver you from any kind of devastation

No other can deliver like Him!

Psalm 91:7-10
A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. If you make the Most High your dwelling— even the LORD, who is my refuge—then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent.

Hits & Misses 2259 19Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2258 18Dec2011

2011-12-18T16:07:00.000-08:00

Humility

What is your source of significance?

Humility and association with the lowly and oppressed are valued by God. Abusive power and arrogance are not. God sent us his Son to demonstrate it. Now if we can only learn to live it.

Jesus does give us the opportunity to demonstrate it when he says, "Follow me!"

Proverbs 16:19
Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.

Hits & Misses 2258 18Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2257 17Dec2011

2011-12-17T16:07:00.000-08:00

Fear

Could you live without fear?

Fear is not just a reaction to external circumstances.
It's a spiritual force. It begins inside a person. And it is totally destructive.

In fact, fear is Satan's primary weapon. He moves in response to fear, the way God moves in response to faith. He challenges the promises of God with it.

The Word of God is the sword of the Spirit. Use it to fight Satan every time he comes against you. Hold up your shield of faith and quench all of his fiery darts. Speak words of faith and fear will depart.

2 Timothy 1:7
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

Hits & Misses 2257 17Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2256 16Dec2011

2011-12-16T16:06:00.000-08:00

Care for others

To get,
we must give

To accumulate,
we must scatter

To make ourselves happy,
we must make others happy

To become spiritually vigorous,
we must seek the spiritual good of others.

In watering others, we are ourselves watered.

Proverbs 11 : 25
A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

Hits & Misses 2256 16Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2255 15Dec2011

2011-12-15T16:06:00.000-08:00

Fear

What are we to do when faced with fearful, distressing circumstances?

We should first remind ourselves of the One with the ultimate power and capability

To God alone will someday every knee bow and tongue confess (Philippians 2:10-11).

Our faith in the One with the ultimate power gives us strength to move forward through whatever may come our way. Habakkuk is just one of countless millions who can testify to this spiritual fact.

Strengthen yourself in God. Live by your faith in God who is greater than all others. Your reverence for Him will empower you to face whatever may come in your life.

Habakkuk 3 : 16
A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet, on Shigionoth.
When I heard, my body trembled; my lips quivered at the voice; rottenness entered my bones; and I trembled in myself, that I might rest in the day of trouble. When he comes up to the people, He will invade them with his troops.

Hits & Misses 2255 15Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2254 14Dec2011

2011-12-14T16:05:00.000-08:00

Mercy

Mercy of God is tender and loving
It heals the broken in heart and binds up wounds

God’s mercy is infinite – you cannot measure it and it is so great that it forgives great sins and gives great favour and great privileges. It also gives great enjoyments.
It is undeserved mercy.

Psalm 52 : 8 The mercy of God
But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever.

Hits & Misses 2254 14Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2253 13Dec2011

2011-12-13T16:05:00.000-08:00

Our Will

The profound thing in man is his will, not his sin. – Oswald Chambers

All the unhealthy and wrong choices we have made were decisions that ignored His ways and His principles

Our deliberate acts of selfishness will all be covered over and forgiven when we confess them to Him.

Let the words of Scripture help you focus on God and His hope as you chose, with an act of your will, to lift your eyes off yourself and your circumstances. Your perspective will change as you ask His Holy Spirit to help you make this your prayer today.

Hits & Misses 2253 13Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2252 12Dec2011

2011-12-12T16:04:00.000-08:00

Undecided ???

What happens when you hesitate to do something God has told you to do?

The devil gets the jump on you.
If you want to live by faith, hesitation is one of the most hazardous habits you could ever have.
A person who is hesitant is "unstable and unreliable and uncertain about everything he thinks, feels, and decides".

When God speaks, do not waste a moment. Step right out in faith. By doing this, you can always keep the devil a step behind you!

James 1:6-8
But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.

Hits & Misses 2252 12Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2251 11Dec2011

2011-12-11T16:04:00.000-08:00

I am in debt

We should feel an obligation to pass along to others the kindness shown to us.

We are indebted to God for everything. And the least we can do is to show our appreciation by telling others about Him.

Whether it is a smile to a stranger, an unexpected gift of money to the poor, a helping hand, a word of encouragement or witness, do it for Jesus’ sake.

Galatians 6 : 10
Do not hesitate to do good to all

Hits & Misses 2251 11Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2250 10Dec2011

2011-12-10T16:02:00.000-08:00

When do we need help ?

There are times when we need help . It's not a weakness or a fault; it's simply part of life.

*Sometimes it will be physical needs money, a job, a car or toys for the kids.

* It may be a need to be left alone.

* You may need emotional stability where there is challenge or change.

* You may need wisdom and insight when you face confusion or question marks in life.

* You may need patience when you face some circumstance in your life.

God gives us a simple tool to use in times of need in our own lives. He says we are simply to praise His name. It's important to intentionally bring our focus to Him.

Praising His name helps us focus on what His name means to us.
It is the source of life to our hearts in the midst of trying times.

Philippians 4 : 19
My God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in Christ Jesus

Hits & Misses 2250 10Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2249 09Dec2011

2011-12-09T16:02:00.000-08:00

Discipline

Discipline is considered troublesome, exasperating, and unnecessary. We want freedom and no direction because it might conflict with what we want to do.

God disciplines out of love to bless us. It is a sign of His delight. Why?

He is not content to leave us unchanged, unmotivated, and disinterested. He wants to move us closer to Him!

Proverbs 3 : 11-12
My son, do not despise the LORD's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.

Hits & Misses 2249 09Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2248 08Dec2011

2011-12-08T16:01:00.000-08:00

Words and Actions

Words

We can tell people that we love them. We can explain how precious they are to us.

Actions

When we sacrifice our preferences for another, we show our respect and affection.

When we sacrifice ourselves, our wishes, and our preferences for a friend, we give the greatest of all gifts and prove our love beyond any doubt.

John 15 : 13
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends

Hits & Misses 2248 08Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2247 07Dec2011

2011-12-07T16:01:00.000-08:00

Be truthful

Love has its delights.
One of those delights is in what is authentic and genuine -- TRUTH!
Let us not be deceitful, manipulative, or coercive in our relationships.
Instead, we must be transparent, intimate, and honest.
Why?

Because true love delights in truth.
1 Corinthians 13 : 6
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth

Hits & Misses 2247 07Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2246 06Dec2011

2011-12-06T16:00:00.000-08:00

T R U S T

There are times in our lives when we face challenges far too big for our own resources and strengths.
The real question that each of us must face is very simple:

Where do we place our trust?
What is the source of our confidence?

Is it
our abilities ?
our skills ?
our insight
our strength ?

Or is it God's?

Zechariah 4:5-6
'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty."

Zerubbabbel faced such a challenge.

God sent a prophet to remind him, and us through him, that our greatest victories will not be won by our power and might. Greatest victories will occur when we trust that God's power is greater than our weakness and God's might is greater than our insufficiencies.

Hits & Misses 2246 06Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2245 05Dec2011

2011-12-05T16:00:00.000-08:00

What is the source of our strengths ?

There are times in each of our spiritual lives when we face challenges far too big for our own resources and strengths.
The real question that each of us must face is very simple:

Where do we place our trust?
What is the source of our confidence?

Is it
our abilities ?
our skills ?
our insight
our strength ?

Or is it God's?

Zechariah 4:5-6
'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty."

Zerubbabbel faced such a challenge. God sent a prophet to remind him, and us through him, that our greatest victories will not be won by our power and might. Greatest victories will occur when we trust that God's power is greater than our weakness and God's might is greater than our insufficiencies.

Hits & Misses 2245 05Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2244 04Dec2011

2011-12-04T15:59:00.000-08:00

Meaning and purpose of life

People alone cannot provide this spiritual guidance.

Many learned men do not even attempt to explain the meaning and purpose of life and other serious spiritual questions. If they do try, they cannot prove their views are right or wrong, and they often contradict one another.

Jeremiah 10:23
I know, O LORD, that a man's life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps.

Isaiah 55 : 8-9
Woe to you who add house to house and join field to field till no space is left and you live alone in the land.
The LORD Almighty has declared in my hearing: Surely the great houses will become desolate, the fine mansions left without occupants.

Hits & Misses 2244 04Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2243 03Dec2011

2011-12-03T15:59:00.000-08:00

Are you happy with what you are doing ?

You may be successful in your profession, having taken steps to advance in your fields, and had found your work gratifying. There may be times when you become frustrated and angry and complained of doing work that does not bring you any satisfaction.

Spend some time each day with God and ask Him to look into every aspect of the job adds new life and meaning to what you are doing. Very often we seek satisfaction in the wrong places.

Isaiah 55
Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy?

Hits & Misses 2243 03Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2242 02Dec2011

2011-12-02T15:58:00.000-08:00

My vision

When you go up higher, the temptation is greater. When the devil puts in on a higher place, the lure of the worldly things and comfort render you poised and you dare not move. When God puts you on a higher place, you sit comfortably on a stable plane without fear of falling.

Growth in grace is measured not by the fact that you have not regressed, but that you have an in sight into where you are spiritually

Revelation 4:1
After this I looked, and there before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.

Hits & Misses 2242 02Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2241 01Dec2011

2011-12-01T15:57:00.000-08:00

Waiting patiently

We do not like to wait. Yet God blesses those who do. (Proverbs 8:34)

Act calmly
We must not complain and grumble. God will help us achieve this.(Galatians 5:22)
We must have trust. God likes those who are steadfast in seeking HIM. We must be obedient and live our lives according to His plan and purpose.

Anticipate
We must expect that God will do what He has promised. He always keeps His word.

Be patient
If the answer does not come soon enough as expected, we are to remain calm. We must continue to remain calm, if we are placed in a situation when an opportunity is about to pass us by, or the pressure to respond seems almost too great. We need courage to fulfill this commitment.

Psalm 130:1 - 8
Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD; O Lord, hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy. If you, O LORD, kept a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness; therefore you are feared. I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I put my hope. My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning. O Israel, put your hope in the LORD, for with the LORD is unfailing love and with him is full redemption. He himself will redeem Israel from all their sins

Hits & Misses 2241 01Dec2011

Hits & Misses 2240 30Nov2011

2011-11-30T17:03:00.000-08:00

HE knows everything

God always know everything.

God knows everything - all things possible, everything actual; all events and all creatures of the past, the present, and the future. Nothing escapes His notice. You cannot hide anything from God

We need not have to be concerned whether God hears our prayers because He knows our thoughts and the intent of our hearts. He is capable of giving the same attention to our prayers as to the million individuals who are praying to Him. He knows everything.

Ezekiel 11:5
For I know the things that come into your mind, every one of them.

Psalm 139 : 1 - 5
O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit or stand. When far away you know my every thought. You chart the path ahead of me, and tell me where to stop and rest. Every moment you know where I am. You know what I am going to say before I even say it. You both precede and follow me, and place your hand of blessing on my head.

Hits & Misses 2240 30Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2239 29Nov2011

2011-11-29T17:02:00.000-08:00

In times of difficulties

When difficulties arise, mediate on the Lord’s sufficiency and His will, and you will be strengthened and refreshed. Always focus your mind and spirit on God is a good discipline for all believers to follow. Call on God and draw on His help and claim victory to your problems.

Our main resource for mediation is God’s Word. David has a trusting relationship with God He drew on God’s past and present delivering power to help him in his fight with Goliath (1 Samuel 17:37) When he encountered King Saul’s threats and advances, he believed on God’s protection as he called upon God as his refuge and fortress (Psalm 91:2) He called upon God’s presence and comfort to fill his mind and heart when he experienced loss of his loved ones (1 Samuel 30:3 - 6)

Psalm 145:1 - 13
I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever. Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no-one can fathom. One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts. They will speak of the glorious splendour of your majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful works. They will tell of the power of your awesome works, and I will proclaim your great deeds. They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made. All you have made will praise you, O LORD; your saints will extol you. They will tell of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might, so that all men may know of your mighty acts and the glorious splendour of your kingdom. Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations.

Hits & Misses 2239 29Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2238 28Nov2011

2011-11-28T17:02:00.000-08:00

Free from sins

We can be forgiven of our sins and can be purified of any stains of sin!! We can be made clean and new again. That is God’s grace and perfect sacrifice for our sins

Let us now ask God to forgive us of any lack of passion to love and to forgive others. Ask God to teach us how to forgive others in the same way He has so graciously forgiven us.

1 John 1 : 9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Hits & Misses 2238 28Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2237 27Nov2011

2011-11-27T17:01:00.000-08:00

What is faith ?

You have faith in your friends or colleagues because they have demonstrated themselves to be trustworthy. How much more should you have faith in God who has demonstrated His faithfulness and trustworthiness many times over ??

However, God promises can only become a reality only when we act upon them and claim them in faith. Be assured that God’s promises are faithful and true.

Hebrews 11 : 1
What is faith? It is the confident assurance that something we want is going to happen. It is the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us, even though we cannot see it up ahead

Hits & Misses 2237 27Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2236 26Nov2011

2011-11-26T17:01:00.000-08:00

Facing uncertain times

Everyday we try hard to maintain some degree of control in our day and in our plans. This measure of control can be shaken at times. God knows we will face uncertainty in our lives. HE offers encouragement and instruction. In order not to be shaken, we have to bring God into focus daily as we begin each day. Walk with Him step by step through whatever our day holds. His presence will not only enrich our ordinary steps today, but will also hold us steady through the uncertain steps of the days ahead.

Psalm 16 : 7 - 8
I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken

Hits & Misses 2236 26Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2235 25Nov2011

2011-11-25T17:00:00.000-08:00

The way I live my life

Every person gives evidence to personal beliefs and priorities by the way he or she lives. As Christians, we should be like salt and light, which simply cannot be ignored.

It is like adding salt to soup, the improved taste is obvious, and when we bring light into a darkened room, we shall see the difference.

Our character, conduct, and conversation should make a statement about the importance of God, the necessity of Jesus Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit.

To achieve that we begin by reading and studying the Word of God. Through His Word, God reveals Himself and this will affect the way we lead our daily lives.

Matthew 5: 13 - 16
You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

Hits & Misses 2235 25Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2234 24Nov2011

2011-11-24T16:59:00.000-08:00

In difficult times

When I go through a hard time, my experience is both physical and spiritual. And it is during this period of hardship that I must remember that God always cares for me.

If you experience physical suffering, it is difficult to see the hand of God. We need to offer praise to God, believing that “all things do work together for our good if we love God and are called according to HIS purpose”. By believing and trusting God, we increase our faith.

If you experience spiritual suffering, trace your steps back to the point in time when you wondered away from God and believe that “Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

Whatever you may be experiencing, go to God for HIS blessing and be assured that HE cares for you.

Psalm 37 : 19
He cares for them when times are hard; even in famine, they will have enough

Hits & Misses 2234 24Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2233 23Nov2011

2011-11-23T16:59:00.000-08:00

The tests

Many of the struggles in our lives are not simple accidents! Many of them are not put there by God. Our challenges often come from Satan. He always stalks about looking for the best scheme to knock us out of our commitment to and relationship with God . Placing ourselves firmly in the hands of the Lord and using his tools of warfare will help us defeat our enemy who has already been humiliated by Jesus and the cross.

Let us ask God to strengthen us and help us to stand against our foe

Ephesians 6 : 10 - 11
Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.

Hits & Misses 2233 23Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2232 22Nov2011

2011-11-22T16:58:00.000-08:00

The three Treasures

Do you know there are treasures easily within our reach in our home, in our office, or even in our drawer and briefcase ?

What is this treasure?
It is the Bible. The words of God are a priceless treasure. That is the first treasure.

Within this treasure, read Isaiah 33 : 6, the second treasure.
Wisdom and knowledge will be the stability of your times, and the strength of salvation; the fear of the LORD is His treasure.

There is yet one more treasure that you may not have realized that you possess.
It is inside of you. As the apostle Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 4:7-11,
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed- always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus' sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh.

If you know Jesus as your personal Savior then through the Holy Spirit you have the
life of Jesus being "manifested" in your body.

Psalm 119 : 161 - 162
Princes persecute me without a cause, but my heart stands in awe of Your word. I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great treasure. I hate and abhor lying, but I love Your law.

Hits & Misses 2232 22Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2231 21Nov2011

2011-11-21T16:58:00.000-08:00

HE is my source

I can not do anything without God.

HE offers me peace in the midst of chaos.
HE offers me strength when it feels like I have nothing left to offer.
HE offers grace beyond what I deserve.
HE offers everything I need for every situation I may encounter.
HE feeds my soul.

John 15 : 5
I am the vine; you are the branches ... apart from me you can do nothing.

Hits & Misses 2231 21Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2230 20Nov2011

2011-11-20T16:57:00.000-08:00

Wait on HIM

When we have committed ourselves to wait on the Lord, there are several things that we have to observe.

Being impatient and decide to follow our own plans apart from God’s leads us directly outside of HIS will.
Ignore pressure from outside sources. Remember that only God’s viewpoint alone is relevant to you.
Do not fear that you will not succeed. Trust God and wait patiently on HIM is your only solution.

Psalm 25:1 - 5
I lift up my soul; in you I trust, O my God. Do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me. No-one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame, but they will be put to shame who are treacherous without excuse. Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Saviour, and my hope is in you all day long.

Hits & Misses 2230 20Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2229 19Nov2011

2011-11-19T16:57:00.000-08:00

Everything is OK

You can find peace, joy and contentment when you focus on God instead of your circumstances. Believe in God's sovereignty. It enables you to view life differently, because no matter what happens around you... everything is well.

Galatians 5 : 22 - 23
But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Hits & Misses 2229 19Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2228 18Nov2011

2011-11-18T16:56:00.000-08:00

Trust.

Yes we can trust in God. The Lord is really faithful.

As we look at history and we know God to be intensely faithful to His people. We are now assured and can launch out into the future with confidence because God is always there !

Jeremiah 17 : 7 - 8
Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought.

Hits & Misses 2228 18Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2227 17Nov2011

2011-11-17T16:56:00.000-08:00

Recipe for success

Be encouraged and never give up!

Proverbs 3 : 5 - 6
Trust the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. But in all your ways acknowledge Him

Hits & Misses 2227 17Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2226 16Nov2011

2011-11-16T16:55:00.000-08:00

Do not judge others

Very often we allow our personal preference, peer pressure and concerns affect our relationship with our family members and friends. We should not let our personal opinion or position to influence them. Most important of all, we must not judge others. We should always bear in mind to always please God and honour Him in ways we feel are appropriate.

Let us ask God to guide us and help us not to judge others based on human observations and our preference about those conclusions. Ask God to help give us courage to honor Christ according to our convictions, but also to give us the wisdom to do so in ways that bless God’s people.

Romans 14 : 5
One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.

Hits & Misses 2226 16Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2225 15Nov2011

2011-11-15T16:54:00.000-08:00

Be obedient

Whenever things become difficult, who do you blame ?

The right attitude must be one of complete reliance on God. When once we get there, there is nothing easier than living the saintly life; difficulty comes in when we want to take over the authority of the Holy Spirit for our own ends.

Whenever you obey God, you will enjoy peace. Whenever the peace does not come, tarry till it does or find out the reason why it does not.

You have doubts whenever you cease to obey. When you have obeyed God, the problems never come between you and God. Any problem that comes between God and yourself springs out of disobedience.

John 14 : 27
Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: . . Let not your heart be troubled.

Hits & Misses 2225 15Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2224 14Nov2011

2011-11-14T16:54:00.000-08:00

Continue to grow

We know something is horribly wrong when a child is not making progress in his or her growth and maturation. Arrested development is a cause of great concern. The same is true of our spiritual lives. God wants us to progress and mature spiritually. HE wants us to continue to grow.

Let us thank God for loving us and saving us. Ask God to help us to mature, as we seek to follow HIS habits and fill ourselves spiritually with the things that will help us to grow. Let us acknowledge that true growth can only come from God.

1 Peter 2 : 2 - 3
Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.

Hits & Misses 2224 14Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2223 13Nov2011

2011-11-13T16:53:00.000-08:00

Turning our weakness into strengths

We have the power of the Holy Spirit to fight against our sense of inadequacy. We can turn our weaknesses into victories!!

We have to acknowledge our weaknesses. We have to acknowledge our fears.
We need to pray for strength. Ask God to teach you , to give you knowledge and wisdom
We need to act in faith.

Colossians 1:9 - 12
For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.

Hits & Misses 2223 13Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2222 12Nov2011

2011-11-12T16:52:00.000-08:00

Our real needs

To receive God’s promises we must trust Him and seek His wisdom. To achieve this obedience is important. This shows that we know God cares about us and we care about Him

“Every need Adam had was attended to, but he disobeyed God by falling to a temptation he was warned to avoid.”

Man has continued to seek other pleasures and ignored what God offers freely – His love and devotion. The same love He gave to Abraham, Isaac, David, Mary and the disciples.

God provides all your needs !!

Lamentations 3:22 - 26
Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him. The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.

Hits & Misses 2222 12Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2221 11Nov2011

2011-11-11T16:52:00.000-08:00

HE will be there to help me

Imagine you a little fish swimming in a huge river. Are you apprehensive of drinking the whole river dry ?

Imagine you are stranded in a cave high up in the mountain and there is no hope that help will come to you. Are you afraid you might exhaust all the oxygen in the atmosphere ?

"My grace is sufficient for thee."

On many occasions, under all kinds of circumstances, God’s promise always comes true. It has happened in your lives as well as those of many others.

What kinds of needs do you have today?
Are they needs for which God is not able to provide ?
Do you trust Him?

2 Corinthians 12:9
But he said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

Hits & Misses 2221 11Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2220 10Nov2011

2011-11-10T16:51:00.000-08:00

Do you have the Holy Spirit ?

You may have been given all sorts of ways to know whether or not you have the Holy Spirit. There is only one simple answer : by their fruit you will know them.

What is the definition of fruit ?

Paul gives us the definition of holy fruit

LOVE, JOY, PEACE, PATIENCE, KINDNESS, GOODNESS, FAITHFULNESS, GENTLENESS and SELF-CONTROL.

Galatians 5:22-23
The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Hits & Misses 2220 10Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2219 09Nov2011

2011-11-09T16:51:00.000-08:00

A life of faith

Do you live a life of faith ?
Or do you live a life based on intellect and reason ?

The root of faith is the knowledge of the Person leading you, the assurance that you are safe with Him. A life of faith changes your character. There are many stages in the change of your character, as each time you pray you experience the blessing of God and change takes place in you. A life of faith is a life of experiencing the love of God and His blessings. You will experience many situations where your faith will be tried and proved and it will stand the test. You will live a life of tried faith built on a real God.

Hebrews 11:8
He went out, not knowing whither he went.

Hits & Misses 2219 09Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2218 08Nov2011

2011-11-08T16:50:00.000-08:00

Tithing.

Christians should be excited about tithing if only we understand how to do it properly.
Scriptural tithing rouses our faith. It activates the power of God in our lives when we do it in appreciation and joy.

Deuteronomy 26:1-2
When you have entered the land the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance and have taken possession of it and settled in it, take some of the first fruits of all that you produce from the soil of the land the LORD your God is giving you and put them in a basket. Then go to the place the LORD your God will choose as a dwelling for his Name

Hits & Misses 2218 08Nov2011

Hits & Misses 2217 07Nov2011

2011-11-07T16:50:00.000-08:00

Look ahead

Life can be very tough.

In the process of living, we face some very difficult circumstances and experience some awful pain.. The pain and inconvenience are only temporary. The things that cause our pain are temporary. All these things that we have seen and experienced are passing.
Our eternal glory, our indescribable bliss, that wonderful future that we cannot yet see, is eternal ... forever ... incorruptible ... and reserved for us

Let us ask God to be with us during the painful and difficult passages of our life. Ask God to help keep our hearts fixed on what is unseen.

2 Corinthians 4 : 17
For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Hits & Misses 2217 07Nov2011