As the stock market falls and the news is full of a failed economic recovery we are reminded that this is not Heaven yet. Bank accounts are getting a little thin and the bills are getting thicker. What to do? Stay and fight or turn and run? Trust in God or trust in manna? Not easy choices for anyone let alone one in a battle for their soul.
In our email here at Lily Pad Ministries this morning, was a sad email. A pastor that I have been sharing with online sent me a plea for prayer for he and his community. Here is a short excerpt from that email.
One reason I am writing about storms today is because of a event that happened in our small community just a few days ago and I need your prayers to help me with questions that others have. A young man with a wife and small children took his own life the other day, he had lost his job before Christmas, bills were piling up and he must have thought their was no other way out.
Sadly this is only one of thousands of stories happening across this country and the world at this very moment. Please join us in pray for this family and their pastor and the community. Many will be watching and we know that God will use this situation to bring glory to His kingdom.
Please pray for churches all across the world because we can always use a little more faith. God will not let the prayers of the believer go unanswered. Intercession. Jesus interceded for us by dying on the cross. For us to intercede we just need to hit our knees.
I could give you tons of scripture for a time like this, but that is not always the answer. I could tell you what I would do but I am me and you are you. Our relationship with Jesus is as unique and individual as we are. God made us that way on purpose so that we would have to seek Him for the answers unique to us. There are days when I am calling out to Him literally with every breath. He always meets us when we call out to Him.
He loves us, He gave His only Son for us and He gives us the Holy Spirit to guide us. That has told me over the years that I can believe the Word of God completely and unconditionally.
There have been times when I had to hang on to the faith of those around me to survive. That is what you and I are here for. To come alongside those that are troubled and are in need of someone to to be there “with” them. The secret is the word with. With out judgment or condemnation but with love and compassion. Sometimes just talking to a borother or sister in the faith is enough for us to see that our faith is stronger than we thought.
2Pe 3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
FullyRelyingOnGod
Friday, January 15, 2010
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Asking Why
As I got on the Internet today, the first news I saw was of the earthquake numbers from Haiti. Over 100,000 dead with the local government saying the number could easily reach 500,000. The quake struck at 4:53 p.m., and was centered 10 miles (15 kilometers) west of Port-au-Prince at a depth of only 5 miles (8 kilometers), the U.S. Geological Survey said. USGS geophysicist Kristin Marano called it the strongest earthquake since 1770 in what is now Haiti. full article (http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D9D718703&show_article=1)
Having just been in the Caribbean last month, and from what I saw then, God has a very strong part in their lives. May we all please find time to meet these people in prayer. Contact the International Red Cross (http://www.icrc.org/) and, or your churches to find out what you can do to help in this moment of need.
These are the moments that test our faith. This is when we find it easy to ask God, Why?
So if you want to know why, ask God. Be honest with Him about how you are feeling. Then ask Him to show you His answer. Again remember 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.
He was told us that we will experience many things in our life that we will totally fail to understand. That is why we have the Gospel. The Good News. Because God knows that this world is godless. So He sent us the Holy Spirit to guide us as we pass through this live to eternity with Him. To help us understand the path that God has prepared for each of us.
We read in God’s word, “Heb 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” No matter what, He is with us.
So if you want to know why, ask God. But honest with Him, and yourself.
A lot of people got to go be with the Lord and the rest of us get to continue to be blessed daily by our Father in Heaven.
FullyRelyingOnGod
Having just been in the Caribbean last month, and from what I saw then, God has a very strong part in their lives. May we all please find time to meet these people in prayer. Contact the International Red Cross (http://www.icrc.org/) and, or your churches to find out what you can do to help in this moment of need.
These are the moments that test our faith. This is when we find it easy to ask God, Why?
So if you want to know why, ask God. Be honest with Him about how you are feeling. Then ask Him to show you His answer. Again remember 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.
He was told us that we will experience many things in our life that we will totally fail to understand. That is why we have the Gospel. The Good News. Because God knows that this world is godless. So He sent us the Holy Spirit to guide us as we pass through this live to eternity with Him. To help us understand the path that God has prepared for each of us.
We read in God’s word, “Heb 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” No matter what, He is with us.
So if you want to know why, ask God. But honest with Him, and yourself.
A lot of people got to go be with the Lord and the rest of us get to continue to be blessed daily by our Father in Heaven.
FullyRelyingOnGod
Thursday, December 17, 2009
What is Life Without Family?
Hey there folks, long time no news. Sometimes life can get a little busy.
In the last 6 months we have had Lisa in for brain surgery, successfully and no cancer. We have a new Grand daughter Gabby born in July. The next day our very dear friend Richard, whom we had been caring for for the last 7 years, went to be with the Lord.
Life is precious and short.
Lily Pad Ministries had the pleasure of traveling to Jamaica for rest, relaxation, God’s Word and some soul searching. But what I would like to share with you right now is something that happened on the way back from Jamaica that I believe needs our thoughts and prayers.
Our flight from Montego Bay Jamaica to Miami was delayed for 2.5 hours to begin with and we had been up since 4 am. We finally get to board and we meet this gentleman on crutches boarding our plane. I did’t give it to much thought other than Lord please watch over this man but I could sense he was troubled. When we arrive in Miami we deboarded, disembarked or deplane or what ever they call it this week.
Now when we travel we have the airline provide my wife with a wheel chair for various health reasons. Normally they meet you at the curb or plane and escort you thru all the necessary locations. In Miami they had 1 wheel chair and 4 handicap so they started playing leap frog to move folks. We are talking about 1.4 miles one way. All fine and good but we were at about the farthest gate from customs and only 2 hours to preform tasks that normally take 3+ hours.
But, believe it or not, that isn’t the story. During this comedy of errors we had a chance to chat with the man on crutches. A man who had been raise with repect and honor as part of his personality. Turns out his name is Alex and his is a native if Jamaica. He had just gotten married in August only to receive a phone call from Mom in September letting him know she had cancer. This will also the first Christmas Alex will be spending away from home as he and his wife live in the New York area. A great recipe for depression. But
Please add him to your prayers as well as any other people you can think of who will be away from family. Jamaican families are tight nit. Alex was taking it pretty hard. Being the bashful type, I asked him if we could pray with him and we called upon the Lord. I shared for a little while and then I gave him one of our Ministryweb’s business cards and invited him to visit this site. When he caught on to the “FROG- Fully Relying On God” he smiled and then laughed on of the healthiest, happiest laughs I have heard in years. God had taken Alex, if only for a few moments, to a place where he could let go and let God take his burden.
When Alex was finally taken to the gate he needed he was smiling and our group of 3 looked at each other in agreement as I thanked God for delaying our morning. We proceeded on to our tasks with plenty of time for lunch before we continued on to San Francisco.
We can see God’s hand in all things if we but look with expectation. There is a great hymn that has be re-released by a group called Secret Garden, “You Raise Me Up”. That he does each and every moment of our lives. I do so love my Lord. Thanks for visiting us.
FullyRelyingOnGod
In the last 6 months we have had Lisa in for brain surgery, successfully and no cancer. We have a new Grand daughter Gabby born in July. The next day our very dear friend Richard, whom we had been caring for for the last 7 years, went to be with the Lord.
Life is precious and short.
Lily Pad Ministries had the pleasure of traveling to Jamaica for rest, relaxation, God’s Word and some soul searching. But what I would like to share with you right now is something that happened on the way back from Jamaica that I believe needs our thoughts and prayers.
Our flight from Montego Bay Jamaica to Miami was delayed for 2.5 hours to begin with and we had been up since 4 am. We finally get to board and we meet this gentleman on crutches boarding our plane. I did’t give it to much thought other than Lord please watch over this man but I could sense he was troubled. When we arrive in Miami we deboarded, disembarked or deplane or what ever they call it this week.
Now when we travel we have the airline provide my wife with a wheel chair for various health reasons. Normally they meet you at the curb or plane and escort you thru all the necessary locations. In Miami they had 1 wheel chair and 4 handicap so they started playing leap frog to move folks. We are talking about 1.4 miles one way. All fine and good but we were at about the farthest gate from customs and only 2 hours to preform tasks that normally take 3+ hours.
But, believe it or not, that isn’t the story. During this comedy of errors we had a chance to chat with the man on crutches. A man who had been raise with repect and honor as part of his personality. Turns out his name is Alex and his is a native if Jamaica. He had just gotten married in August only to receive a phone call from Mom in September letting him know she had cancer. This will also the first Christmas Alex will be spending away from home as he and his wife live in the New York area. A great recipe for depression. But
Please add him to your prayers as well as any other people you can think of who will be away from family. Jamaican families are tight nit. Alex was taking it pretty hard. Being the bashful type, I asked him if we could pray with him and we called upon the Lord. I shared for a little while and then I gave him one of our Ministryweb’s business cards and invited him to visit this site. When he caught on to the “FROG- Fully Relying On God” he smiled and then laughed on of the healthiest, happiest laughs I have heard in years. God had taken Alex, if only for a few moments, to a place where he could let go and let God take his burden.
When Alex was finally taken to the gate he needed he was smiling and our group of 3 looked at each other in agreement as I thanked God for delaying our morning. We proceeded on to our tasks with plenty of time for lunch before we continued on to San Francisco.
We can see God’s hand in all things if we but look with expectation. There is a great hymn that has be re-released by a group called Secret Garden, “You Raise Me Up”. That he does each and every moment of our lives. I do so love my Lord. Thanks for visiting us.
FullyRelyingOnGod
Friday, September 26, 2008
A Friend and His Dog
Several years ago there walked into the Visitor’s Center a man and his dog. The dog caught my eye first, an Aussie named Alex. And he was walking this guy who looked like he just stepped off the defensive line of any pro team. Just a wisp of a guy. They were taking pics of the Oregon Coast and loving life. Steve wasn’t sure how long they were going to be in the area and that was 3 years ago.
Needless to say, Steve and Alex and I became very good friends. We worked on some fantastic windsurfing photo and slide show presentations. Enjoyed alot of good old rock and roll music. Steve was a part of our home. Then last Sunday evening Steve passed away in his sleep. He knew he was sick but it hit him too fast. Gone in a breathe. But God granted Steve his last wish, and that was to die in his sleep.
It was great to have someone to talk to who knew and lived the world I grew up in. I was fortunate to have been able to share God and life and music and politics and good dark chocolate with a man who appreciated it all. He will be missed but he will be fondly remembered. Good dark chocolate…..when ever he would come over he knew that I would have some exotic dark chocolate to munch on.
I have had friends who’s first question to me after finding out that Steve had died was, did he know Jesus? I know now that he had a very personal relationship with Jesus. But we all should have asked that question a while ago. What about your own friends and family? Sometimes we make our relationship more important than their salvation thru no ill intention of our own. We have time for that later….
Does it matter now? All that matters now is that we remember that it can all be over in an instant. Are you ready? How do you tell if you are ready? Trust me you will know. If you have questions find the answers. Seek out fellow believers, read the Word, Pray, you know the drill.
But most of all enjoy life. All of it. Relish each moment. God made them all for you. Look for the good in all things and you will be blessed exceedingly abundantly. May there be a friend with a dog in your life.
Dedicated to
STEVEN MICHAEL PRUITT
A memorial service will be held October 11, 2008 at the Rock on Pistol River Beach at 2:30 pm followed by a wake at the Panther Den in Gold Beach at 5: pm. All who knew him are invited.
If you want, sign in and leave a comment.
FullyRelyingOnGod
Needless to say, Steve and Alex and I became very good friends. We worked on some fantastic windsurfing photo and slide show presentations. Enjoyed alot of good old rock and roll music. Steve was a part of our home. Then last Sunday evening Steve passed away in his sleep. He knew he was sick but it hit him too fast. Gone in a breathe. But God granted Steve his last wish, and that was to die in his sleep.
It was great to have someone to talk to who knew and lived the world I grew up in. I was fortunate to have been able to share God and life and music and politics and good dark chocolate with a man who appreciated it all. He will be missed but he will be fondly remembered. Good dark chocolate…..when ever he would come over he knew that I would have some exotic dark chocolate to munch on.
I have had friends who’s first question to me after finding out that Steve had died was, did he know Jesus? I know now that he had a very personal relationship with Jesus. But we all should have asked that question a while ago. What about your own friends and family? Sometimes we make our relationship more important than their salvation thru no ill intention of our own. We have time for that later….
Does it matter now? All that matters now is that we remember that it can all be over in an instant. Are you ready? How do you tell if you are ready? Trust me you will know. If you have questions find the answers. Seek out fellow believers, read the Word, Pray, you know the drill.
But most of all enjoy life. All of it. Relish each moment. God made them all for you. Look for the good in all things and you will be blessed exceedingly abundantly. May there be a friend with a dog in your life.
Dedicated to
STEVEN MICHAEL PRUITT
A memorial service will be held October 11, 2008 at the Rock on Pistol River Beach at 2:30 pm followed by a wake at the Panther Den in Gold Beach at 5: pm. All who knew him are invited.
If you want, sign in and leave a comment.
FullyRelyingOnGod
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Old Beginnings, New Directions
Hey there folks. It has been a busy week for Lily Pad Ministries. We are happy to announce that we have procured the domain name www.lilypadministries.org. Over the next several months we will begin to fashion the site into a real aid to seeking believers.
As we talk to folks from all over the planet about our ministry here, we find a continuing central need. Life application discipleship. We no longer live in a world without reference. We have the Bible and it is available in almost every language and dialect on Earth. But that is only the beginning.
Once a person has a Bible, it becomes our duty to help them see practical and daily reasons why they should use it. As we develop our on-line community, our desire is to create a portal where this is the central theme. Doesn't Paul tell us that "Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. Rom 10:17"? But does that mean that everyday I must read the Bible? And how much is enough?
Remember that the only thing that Jesus told us we must do is Believe on Him.
(John 3:15) That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
(John 3:16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
(John 3:17) For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
(John 3:18) He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
No where does it say that we have to do anything else. But as we develop that personal relationship with Christ, we are going to want to know more and since He has provided us with ways to get to do that, what do you think you will want to do. Whether you read the Word, or go to Church or listen to Christian talk radio, you will hear and He will write His Word on our heart so that when we need strength the Holy Spirit will help us to remember. But you can't remember if you haven't heard.
We saw that in the days of youth of Jesus, He was about His Father's business and studying with the wise men of the Temple. As we are seeking and available, the Holy Spirit guides us in directions that will give us the potential to grow in our faith and service to the Lord.
As we build our web presence, our desire is to provide a safe and educational site for the whole family and their walk with God. Please feel free to leave us comments and suggestions.Your walk is a witness to the folks around.
A young man had just bought a used car and was out driving around town Sunday morning, just as happy as could be with his new purchase. But the strange thing was that people would honk at him as the would pass him. He looked down at his speedometer and saw that he was doing the speed limit. He used his signals to turn but people would still honk as they went by. What was even stranger was that when they would pass and make eye contact, they would wave and smile. This was to much for our young man so he pulled over to the side of the road and got out of the car. Walking around the car he could see no outward reason for people honk. Then he noticed on the rear left bumper a old and faded sticker. In bold letters it said "Honk if you Love Jesus". Our driver's first thought was, I don't even know this Jesus guy, so why are they honking?
The people who were honking were believers who by their actions towards this young man were trying to let him know that they loved Jesus also. Because of his outward appearance people made a judgment about this young man. What are the stickers on our bumpers. Do people see stickers on us that don't really reflect what is in the heart? Or are afraid to show the world what is in our heart?
We invite you and yours to travel with us and explore what God has for all of us, a life full of blessings even in trials. A life of closeness with the Saviour.
FullyRelyingOnGod
As we talk to folks from all over the planet about our ministry here, we find a continuing central need. Life application discipleship. We no longer live in a world without reference. We have the Bible and it is available in almost every language and dialect on Earth. But that is only the beginning.
Once a person has a Bible, it becomes our duty to help them see practical and daily reasons why they should use it. As we develop our on-line community, our desire is to create a portal where this is the central theme. Doesn't Paul tell us that "Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. Rom 10:17"? But does that mean that everyday I must read the Bible? And how much is enough?
Remember that the only thing that Jesus told us we must do is Believe on Him.
(John 3:15) That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
(John 3:16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
(John 3:17) For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
(John 3:18) He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
No where does it say that we have to do anything else. But as we develop that personal relationship with Christ, we are going to want to know more and since He has provided us with ways to get to do that, what do you think you will want to do. Whether you read the Word, or go to Church or listen to Christian talk radio, you will hear and He will write His Word on our heart so that when we need strength the Holy Spirit will help us to remember. But you can't remember if you haven't heard.
We saw that in the days of youth of Jesus, He was about His Father's business and studying with the wise men of the Temple. As we are seeking and available, the Holy Spirit guides us in directions that will give us the potential to grow in our faith and service to the Lord.
As we build our web presence, our desire is to provide a safe and educational site for the whole family and their walk with God. Please feel free to leave us comments and suggestions.Your walk is a witness to the folks around.
A young man had just bought a used car and was out driving around town Sunday morning, just as happy as could be with his new purchase. But the strange thing was that people would honk at him as the would pass him. He looked down at his speedometer and saw that he was doing the speed limit. He used his signals to turn but people would still honk as they went by. What was even stranger was that when they would pass and make eye contact, they would wave and smile. This was to much for our young man so he pulled over to the side of the road and got out of the car. Walking around the car he could see no outward reason for people honk. Then he noticed on the rear left bumper a old and faded sticker. In bold letters it said "Honk if you Love Jesus". Our driver's first thought was, I don't even know this Jesus guy, so why are they honking?
The people who were honking were believers who by their actions towards this young man were trying to let him know that they loved Jesus also. Because of his outward appearance people made a judgment about this young man. What are the stickers on our bumpers. Do people see stickers on us that don't really reflect what is in the heart? Or are afraid to show the world what is in our heart?
We invite you and yours to travel with us and explore what God has for all of us, a life full of blessings even in trials. A life of closeness with the Saviour.
FullyRelyingOnGod
Thursday, June 28, 2007
The Gentle Storms of Summer
Yesterday the sun was shinning and the wind was calm and life was of paradise quality in Gold Beach. The rain that was forcasted for last Sunday never materialized and the fisherman were happy. Them this morning the sleepy little fishing village awoke to the peace and quite of a very low cloud laying down a warm blanket of precipitation on every thing in sight. Beautiful, unless you had plans outside . Now its a storm.
When was your last storm? And what was it that made you call it a storm? Was it a rainy day in June , a snowy day in November or the flat tire on the way to that job interview you were so waiting for. Did the river overflow from the rain upstate, or did you come home to find out that you had a bill go to court for collection.
From the perspective of the participant, all of these events are considered storms. A storm is an unexpected event that causes unexpected results that force a change in the status quo. And we ain't always just talking the weather. No matter how well one may think one has it all figured out, change happens. Weather, health, finances, plans, they all change and most often without notice.
But great news. Everyday is change but everyday is as God has ordained them to be. For Him there are no surprises. There are now unexpected factors. Why else would Christ tell us to trust Him? Walk with the guy with the biggest umbrella and you stay a whole lot dryer. And if the umbrella carrier has a flashlight as well, then you are good to go day or night.
Well, God has all the tools and they are listed in the Bible. He tells us to not lean unto our own understanding but to lay our burdens at His feet and H will take care of them. It will mean that you will be growing up in some area of your life. Growth is good but not always as easy as we would like but more rewarding then we realize. Remember how as children we couldn't wait to grow-up but when it comes time to we kick and scream and cry foul. The last storm taught me how to tie my deck chairs down rather then extract them from the neighbor's yard.
This storm gave our little village (and about 70 miles of the coast) a nice soothing watering which helps to maintain the green beauty of Southern Oregon and shows us how God has it all figured out. He's driving and everyone is welcome aboard.
FullyRelyingOnGod
When was your last storm? And what was it that made you call it a storm? Was it a rainy day in June , a snowy day in November or the flat tire on the way to that job interview you were so waiting for. Did the river overflow from the rain upstate, or did you come home to find out that you had a bill go to court for collection.
From the perspective of the participant, all of these events are considered storms. A storm is an unexpected event that causes unexpected results that force a change in the status quo. And we ain't always just talking the weather. No matter how well one may think one has it all figured out, change happens. Weather, health, finances, plans, they all change and most often without notice.
But great news. Everyday is change but everyday is as God has ordained them to be. For Him there are no surprises. There are now unexpected factors. Why else would Christ tell us to trust Him? Walk with the guy with the biggest umbrella and you stay a whole lot dryer. And if the umbrella carrier has a flashlight as well, then you are good to go day or night.
Well, God has all the tools and they are listed in the Bible. He tells us to not lean unto our own understanding but to lay our burdens at His feet and H will take care of them. It will mean that you will be growing up in some area of your life. Growth is good but not always as easy as we would like but more rewarding then we realize. Remember how as children we couldn't wait to grow-up but when it comes time to we kick and scream and cry foul. The last storm taught me how to tie my deck chairs down rather then extract them from the neighbor's yard.
This storm gave our little village (and about 70 miles of the coast) a nice soothing watering which helps to maintain the green beauty of Southern Oregon and shows us how God has it all figured out. He's driving and everyone is welcome aboard.
FullyRelyingOnGod
Sunday, June 24, 2007
God Looks at the Heart
Looking out over the neighbors below I can see the Pacific ocean about 1000 yards away. Ever moving and ever changing. Both the ocean and the view. On some occasions the Lord brings the world even closer. As I was talking to my son in Kentucky this morning, a osprey flew by my window with a fish in his talons. Obviously flying back to the nest to feed a young one. Neat thing about the way the osprey carry a fish when they are flying. They align the fish head forward so as to minimize drag. It allows them to carry fish often heavier then they are. His Creation is amazing and perfect.
Now when man looks at himself he does not see the way God does. In Proverbs 21:2 we read " Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts". Here we go with the looking without the eyes. God looks at the heart. The real motivation and conviction. Where was the the heart of Peter when he denied Christ?
The same place we all are in our walk with Christ. At a moment of total conflict and fear. I could just hear Peter. I love my Lord and I have pledged my life to Him but does He want me to really not be afraid? They will not talk to me anymore and I won't be able to sell my fish and they might even want kill me. His heart was still given over to Christ but his flesh was still vulnerable to the world. He denied Christ three times. Every time we sin we are denying Christ. We are turning from Him. Peter knew the minute he hear the bird that he had let his Master down. His heart was struck deeply by his be a man. Thats why Jesus came, to let us know that He knows what we are going through and what we can expect from our decisions.
And the good new is that we are already forgiven and we have but to stay focused on Him. As the choices of life come our way we know in our heart what is right and what is of God. Just remember to go for what is of God and not what looks right. Remember our verse? " Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts" Prov 21:2. We are easily deceived but God cannot be. With Him dwelling in your heart there is no room for the world.
And the really awesome thing is that as you read the Bible you realize more and more how full you are with the Presence of God. Every cell of your being is in image of Him. Perfect in design and perfect in forgiveness. Great is the Grace of God. All created so that you to may enjoy God in all His Glory. Eternity is forever.
FullyRelyingOnGod
Now when man looks at himself he does not see the way God does. In Proverbs 21:2 we read " Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts". Here we go with the looking without the eyes. God looks at the heart. The real motivation and conviction. Where was the the heart of Peter when he denied Christ?
The same place we all are in our walk with Christ. At a moment of total conflict and fear. I could just hear Peter. I love my Lord and I have pledged my life to Him but does He want me to really not be afraid? They will not talk to me anymore and I won't be able to sell my fish and they might even want kill me. His heart was still given over to Christ but his flesh was still vulnerable to the world. He denied Christ three times. Every time we sin we are denying Christ. We are turning from Him. Peter knew the minute he hear the bird that he had let his Master down. His heart was struck deeply by his be a man. Thats why Jesus came, to let us know that He knows what we are going through and what we can expect from our decisions.
And the good new is that we are already forgiven and we have but to stay focused on Him. As the choices of life come our way we know in our heart what is right and what is of God. Just remember to go for what is of God and not what looks right. Remember our verse? " Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts" Prov 21:2. We are easily deceived but God cannot be. With Him dwelling in your heart there is no room for the world.
And the really awesome thing is that as you read the Bible you realize more and more how full you are with the Presence of God. Every cell of your being is in image of Him. Perfect in design and perfect in forgiveness. Great is the Grace of God. All created so that you to may enjoy God in all His Glory. Eternity is forever.
FullyRelyingOnGod
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
The Hearing Ear and the Seeing Eye
One of the things that I do as daily as I can, is to read the Proverb of the day. For some reason there are 31 Proverbs. Works out great. Even after all these years, I still get something new and wonderful with each reading.
But I digress. Look in the mirror at your face. Think about what you see. First off we see a face staring back at us. Notice it's design. Eyes, nose, mouth, ears, and for some of us, hair in various locations. Proverbs 20:12 The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made even both of them. God wants us to use our ears and eyes. So much so that he gave us two of them. We have the ability thru our binocular vision to see depth. To determine distance, which is very important when you reach for something. Our hearing also allows us to determine distance as well. Helps to tell which direction the ice cream truck is coming from.
Look at the order the psalmist mentions them. Ears then eyes. Listen then look. Our hearing is harder to fool then our eyes. God spoke to Abraham. God spoke to Noah. God spoke to Jeremiah. Why, because God knows that we are often ruled by our eyes. When God called Moses He used the burning bush to get the attention of Moses. God know that just a disembodied voice was not going to be enough. Moses was educated in the world when he grew up in Egypt and God needed to cut through that thinking to get his attention. The fact that the bush was not consumed by fire definitely got Moses's attention.
After we hear the call of God, His Holy Spirit lets us see Him in all that we observe. How can you look at anything without seeing the wonderment of God? I know that it is difficult at times but when we look for God we will always find Him. He does not hide because He desires that none should perish but that all would come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
But what about that mouth on your mug. is that how you will be remembered, as the talker or the listener, always watching and learning? Proverbs 20:12 tells us we are to listen and to observe. And it is from these practices that we will acquire the abilities we need to live in this world. God has given us His Word and in that rests my confidence and through His presence in my life grows my faith. Romans 10:17 Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.
FullyRelyingOnGod
But I digress. Look in the mirror at your face. Think about what you see. First off we see a face staring back at us. Notice it's design. Eyes, nose, mouth, ears, and for some of us, hair in various locations. Proverbs 20:12 The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made even both of them. God wants us to use our ears and eyes. So much so that he gave us two of them. We have the ability thru our binocular vision to see depth. To determine distance, which is very important when you reach for something. Our hearing also allows us to determine distance as well. Helps to tell which direction the ice cream truck is coming from.
Look at the order the psalmist mentions them. Ears then eyes. Listen then look. Our hearing is harder to fool then our eyes. God spoke to Abraham. God spoke to Noah. God spoke to Jeremiah. Why, because God knows that we are often ruled by our eyes. When God called Moses He used the burning bush to get the attention of Moses. God know that just a disembodied voice was not going to be enough. Moses was educated in the world when he grew up in Egypt and God needed to cut through that thinking to get his attention. The fact that the bush was not consumed by fire definitely got Moses's attention.
After we hear the call of God, His Holy Spirit lets us see Him in all that we observe. How can you look at anything without seeing the wonderment of God? I know that it is difficult at times but when we look for God we will always find Him. He does not hide because He desires that none should perish but that all would come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
But what about that mouth on your mug. is that how you will be remembered, as the talker or the listener, always watching and learning? Proverbs 20:12 tells us we are to listen and to observe. And it is from these practices that we will acquire the abilities we need to live in this world. God has given us His Word and in that rests my confidence and through His presence in my life grows my faith. Romans 10:17 Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.
FullyRelyingOnGod
Friday, June 15, 2007
Whose Choice....
When the motors start, all three of them, and you begin to feel the sensation of motion, you also begin to question why you are in the boat in the first place. I think it was back when you heard a bunch of people talking about the trip they just took up the Lower Rogue River and you just had to try it. Hey everyone else sure seem to like it. But no, you first checked out for yourself as to the safety of the boats, accident records for the last 20 years, by week, you did your homework. So why the panic? Could it be your still don't trust them?
Tomorrow you have to decide whether you are going to come clean to your boss about who did you know what to the thing in the other room. You know what is right because you can feel what is not. Taking three days makes you look sorta guilty already. The Holy Spirit assists us in applying Christ's principals to our life. As we read and hear and share we learn more of Christ's character which in turn allows us to more easily follow in His footsteps. As we experience His care we become more reliant on Him.
When we make a decision and find our selves still fearful of failure, chances are we need to talk to Christ about it some more. Thats where we will find God the quickest. Trust that map you got from that travel company? Okay. Who created everything? Think then He knows whats going to work best for us? Trust Him.
You have made the toughest decision you will ever make when you accepted Christ as your personal Savior. And you were not alone when you made that decision. God gave you the amount of faith nessecary to make that decision. So, He will give you all the faith you need for any decision when you seek Him in what you are doing.
A rule of thumb that we use working with young people is to tell them that "when in doubt, don't". Talk it over with Christ, your best friend, your pastor. Our Father desires that we live a life that brings Him, praise, honor and glory.
FullyRelyingOnGod
Tomorrow you have to decide whether you are going to come clean to your boss about who did you know what to the thing in the other room. You know what is right because you can feel what is not. Taking three days makes you look sorta guilty already. The Holy Spirit assists us in applying Christ's principals to our life. As we read and hear and share we learn more of Christ's character which in turn allows us to more easily follow in His footsteps. As we experience His care we become more reliant on Him.
When we make a decision and find our selves still fearful of failure, chances are we need to talk to Christ about it some more. Thats where we will find God the quickest. Trust that map you got from that travel company? Okay. Who created everything? Think then He knows whats going to work best for us? Trust Him.
You have made the toughest decision you will ever make when you accepted Christ as your personal Savior. And you were not alone when you made that decision. God gave you the amount of faith nessecary to make that decision. So, He will give you all the faith you need for any decision when you seek Him in what you are doing.
A rule of thumb that we use working with young people is to tell them that "when in doubt, don't". Talk it over with Christ, your best friend, your pastor. Our Father desires that we live a life that brings Him, praise, honor and glory.
FullyRelyingOnGod
Thursday, June 14, 2007
God, Grandchildren and Grounders
Every day is a lesson of expectation. I live in the expectation of hearing from God in a personal way everyday. And the Father is faithful, and has never let me down. But I do have a confession to make. He has never met me where I was expecting Him to be , but He has always met me when I have sought after Him.
One of my grandsons is just a totally bundle of pure energy. Flame on and lets save the world. This last couple of months he has been playing T-ball. And his dad is one of the coaches. How do you harness that much energy long enough to teach them the basics of baseball? How did my son find the inner strength to work with a group of these young firebrands?
It takes a foundation. A base of knowledge gained either thru your own experiences or the experiences of those around you. But we all know that the best lessons stung the most. Remember to put your foot down when the motorcycle comes to a stop. Don't lick a frozen pole in winter. Little things that cause us to be more observant. My son has six wonderful children and so he has a foundation for coping with highly motivated children. My grandson has a foundation of disciple in order to interact with others socially. These are all skills acquired over time and sometimes with less then desired results.
So as we make our way thru this life we know that if we follow God's Word He will guide my way. So should I expect Him to meet me when and where of my choosing or can I rest in the knowledge that when ever and where ever I turn to Him I will find Him waiting for me.
Our being grounded in the word is not unlike the grounder in t-ball. All the kids can hit a grounder but are looking for that high fly to left field. We have begun with salvation and now we seek to live a life to the utmost of what God has provided us with.
FullyRelyingOnGod
One of my grandsons is just a totally bundle of pure energy. Flame on and lets save the world. This last couple of months he has been playing T-ball. And his dad is one of the coaches. How do you harness that much energy long enough to teach them the basics of baseball? How did my son find the inner strength to work with a group of these young firebrands?
It takes a foundation. A base of knowledge gained either thru your own experiences or the experiences of those around you. But we all know that the best lessons stung the most. Remember to put your foot down when the motorcycle comes to a stop. Don't lick a frozen pole in winter. Little things that cause us to be more observant. My son has six wonderful children and so he has a foundation for coping with highly motivated children. My grandson has a foundation of disciple in order to interact with others socially. These are all skills acquired over time and sometimes with less then desired results.
So as we make our way thru this life we know that if we follow God's Word He will guide my way. So should I expect Him to meet me when and where of my choosing or can I rest in the knowledge that when ever and where ever I turn to Him I will find Him waiting for me.
Our being grounded in the word is not unlike the grounder in t-ball. All the kids can hit a grounder but are looking for that high fly to left field. We have begun with salvation and now we seek to live a life to the utmost of what God has provided us with.
FullyRelyingOnGod
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