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Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Wordless Wednesday: No Christmas Without Christ!
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Monday, October 22, 2012
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Wordless Wednesday: How We Should Live
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Stay Encouraged And Be Blessed!
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Reading God's Word Will Let You Know All About Pure Religion
Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. James 1:27 NKJV
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Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Sign Of The Times
I am going to do things differently. There has been a lot going on in the news, and I've been saddened by it all. It is in times like these when besides prayer, I look to the Bible for guidance. And this story came to my remembrance. I'm going to break it down.
Now early in the morning He came again into the temple, and all the people came to Him; and He sat down and taught them. Then the scribes and Pharisees brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. John 8:2-3a NKJV
Because Christ knew what He was talking about, and He was healing folks and feeding them, when He entered the temple, people naturally flocked to him. He taught them. He explained the scriptures to them, and I get the feeling, it was a lot less condemning than what they were used to hearing. Temple officials and the Pharisees were not happy. Who are the Pharisees? They held the belief of strict adherence to Judaic law.
Jesus accused the Pharisees of being outwardly religious and hypocritical. He warned the disciples, in Matthew 16:6, of this group and the Sadducees. The Sadducees did not believe in heaven or resurrection.
While Jesus teaches, the Pharisees bring in a woman caught in adultery. Basically she was either cheating on her husband or the man was cheating on his wife. Sleeping with someone other than your spouse makes you an adulterer. Though you may be single, having sex with someone who is married makes you an adulterer.
And when they had set her in the midst, they said to Him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in adultery, in the very act. John 8:3b-4 NKJV
So she was taken out of the bed (and this is an assumption they were in bed, but what the verse boils down to is she was having sex when she was apprehended), and dragged to the temple. She is an adulterer so I doubt they spared her from any embarrassment. She is thrown in the midst of the group. They questioned Jesus.
Now Moses, in the law, commanded us that such should be stoned. But what do You say?” This they said, testing Him, that they might have something of which to accuse Him. But Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger, as though He did not hear. John 8:5-6
As usual the temple officials and the Pharisees are trying to see how Jesus would answer and what He would do. He ignored them. He wrote on the ground. A minister once said he believed that Jesus wrote "where is the man?" but we don't know what he wrote down. It could have been a bunch of doodles.
So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.” And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. John 8:7-8
They pestered Him until he spoke. He who is without sin among you, throw the first stone. Basically, you who have been the most obedient, throw the first stone. You who have never sinned, throw the first stone. If you are pure, go ahead and throw a stone at her. Then he went back to writing on the ground.
Then those who heard it, being convicted by their conscience, went out one by one, beginning with the oldest even to the last. And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. John 8:9
No one threw a stone at the woman. So guilty were they that not one of the temple officials or Pharisees threw a stone. Oh, I am sure somebody picked up a stone, but they didn't throw it. They couldn't. They were guilty. We are all guilty.
When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, “Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” John 8:10-11a
All that talk and braggadocio and the temple officials and Pharisees fled the scene. Guilty of being impure. Guilty of sinning. James 2:10 says when we break one commandment, we break them all. If you lie, you have not only broken that commandment, but you put other gods before God; you did not keep the Sabbath Day holy; you coveted your neighbor's man servant, and you committed adultery. Christ's clean life without sin, His death and resurrection is what purifies us. It's what saves us from sin and death.We are guilty of breaking commandments and failed miserably at keeping the law.
And Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.” John 8:11b
Jesus who could have thrown a stone and killed this woman, did not condemn her. Her saw her at her worst, and chose to lift her up. He did not hold her sin against her , BUT he told her to sin no more. She had to stop the sinning. And we must do the same. When it's another Christian, speak to them about the error of their ways in love and get them back on track. An unsaved soul, still no condemnation, but preach Christ. Get them on the path. Being evil, critical, condescending and judgmental will not do it. And we as Christians need to follow Christ. And if you can't, pray about it and seek His word.
This division is not helping the kingdom. And being mean and nasty when God wants you to gracious and merciful is not getting you any brownie points in His eyes.
Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. Matthew 7:1-2 NKJV
(I've been away because of work. I hope to post a bit more in the future.)
Stay Blessed and Be Encouraged
Now early in the morning He came again into the temple, and all the people came to Him; and He sat down and taught them. Then the scribes and Pharisees brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. John 8:2-3a NKJV
Because Christ knew what He was talking about, and He was healing folks and feeding them, when He entered the temple, people naturally flocked to him. He taught them. He explained the scriptures to them, and I get the feeling, it was a lot less condemning than what they were used to hearing. Temple officials and the Pharisees were not happy. Who are the Pharisees? They held the belief of strict adherence to Judaic law.
Jesus accused the Pharisees of being outwardly religious and hypocritical. He warned the disciples, in Matthew 16:6, of this group and the Sadducees. The Sadducees did not believe in heaven or resurrection.
While Jesus teaches, the Pharisees bring in a woman caught in adultery. Basically she was either cheating on her husband or the man was cheating on his wife. Sleeping with someone other than your spouse makes you an adulterer. Though you may be single, having sex with someone who is married makes you an adulterer.
And when they had set her in the midst, they said to Him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in adultery, in the very act. John 8:3b-4 NKJV
So she was taken out of the bed (and this is an assumption they were in bed, but what the verse boils down to is she was having sex when she was apprehended), and dragged to the temple. She is an adulterer so I doubt they spared her from any embarrassment. She is thrown in the midst of the group. They questioned Jesus.
Now Moses, in the law, commanded us that such should be stoned. But what do You say?” This they said, testing Him, that they might have something of which to accuse Him. But Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger, as though He did not hear. John 8:5-6
As usual the temple officials and the Pharisees are trying to see how Jesus would answer and what He would do. He ignored them. He wrote on the ground. A minister once said he believed that Jesus wrote "where is the man?" but we don't know what he wrote down. It could have been a bunch of doodles.
So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.” And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. John 8:7-8
They pestered Him until he spoke. He who is without sin among you, throw the first stone. Basically, you who have been the most obedient, throw the first stone. You who have never sinned, throw the first stone. If you are pure, go ahead and throw a stone at her. Then he went back to writing on the ground.
Then those who heard it, being convicted by their conscience, went out one by one, beginning with the oldest even to the last. And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. John 8:9
No one threw a stone at the woman. So guilty were they that not one of the temple officials or Pharisees threw a stone. Oh, I am sure somebody picked up a stone, but they didn't throw it. They couldn't. They were guilty. We are all guilty.
When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, “Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” John 8:10-11a
All that talk and braggadocio and the temple officials and Pharisees fled the scene. Guilty of being impure. Guilty of sinning. James 2:10 says when we break one commandment, we break them all. If you lie, you have not only broken that commandment, but you put other gods before God; you did not keep the Sabbath Day holy; you coveted your neighbor's man servant, and you committed adultery. Christ's clean life without sin, His death and resurrection is what purifies us. It's what saves us from sin and death.We are guilty of breaking commandments and failed miserably at keeping the law.
And Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.” John 8:11b
Jesus who could have thrown a stone and killed this woman, did not condemn her. Her saw her at her worst, and chose to lift her up. He did not hold her sin against her , BUT he told her to sin no more. She had to stop the sinning. And we must do the same. When it's another Christian, speak to them about the error of their ways in love and get them back on track. An unsaved soul, still no condemnation, but preach Christ. Get them on the path. Being evil, critical, condescending and judgmental will not do it. And we as Christians need to follow Christ. And if you can't, pray about it and seek His word.
This division is not helping the kingdom. And being mean and nasty when God wants you to gracious and merciful is not getting you any brownie points in His eyes.
Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. Matthew 7:1-2 NKJV
(I've been away because of work. I hope to post a bit more in the future.)
Stay Blessed and Be Encouraged
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| ©Public Domain |
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Wordless Wednesday: If You Fall, Get Back Up!
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| ©naturalcurioisities.com
[F]or though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again, but the wicked stumble when calamity strikes. Proverbs 24:16 NIV
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Friday, June 8, 2012
Watch What You Say!
Death and life are in the power of the tongue. Proverbs 18:21a
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 NKJV
A few days ago, I was handed a printout called "My Never Again List." I found it an interesting read, and was going to reproduce it here, but then I remembered it was probably copyrighted somewhere. So I Googled it, and lo and behold, the list was written by Don Gossett of Don Gossett Ministries. Here is the link to the page.
Disclaimer: Seeing as all I did was find this particular piece, this is no endorsement of Mr. Gossett's ministries, nor am I against his ministry. I just did not take the time to go through his website. Plus, I liked what I read.
We've all done it before. And most time we don't know we've done.
"I'm such a ditz."
"I just can't do anything right."
"I don't have the strength to do it.
"I can't get hired in that position."
We make these confessions about ourselves, not knowing the power of our spoken words. Sure, enough of us only think these things, but enough of us actually speak these things. I usually correct people when they call themselves dumb or stupid. But I've been known to call myself stupid every now and again.
What we speak is incredibly powerful, and we need to get our acts together, and watch what we say, both to other people and ourselves. That's why confession of our faith is truly powerful. Confessions of sins, too.
But a few of us just confess the wrong things. Calling yourself stupid for one measly mistake? Stop. I don't care if you've never gotten something right in your life, if you don't change what you say, you never will. It's because of what you are saying that you've never gotten anything right. Get it?
On Don Gossett's list, he wrote, "Never Again will I confess weakness for "The Lord is the strength of my life," and "The people that know their God shall be strong and do exploits."
I thought because of my physical ailment, I was down for the count. I had made an attempt and found it to be exhausting. But I stopped that train of thought, and said, with God all things are possible. First, the reason why it was exhausting was because it was too soon. And secondly, so what? Just cause it was exhausting doesn't mean I should give up. Whatever you are allowing to hold you up, stop letting it get the best of you.
I just gave you two verses you need to make your mantra when you are feeling weak. Christ showed us how to defeat the negativity. When the devil tried to tempt him, he always countered with God's Word. We need to do the same.
The list on Don Gossett's site, can help too. And if that's not enough, open your bible and find something for your situation. Exercise that faith, and confess God's word over your life. Don't speak negative into your life, only speak positive for you and others. You have the power!
What have you been telling yourself that is hindering you? What have you been saying that have helped you overcome your negativity?
Stay Encouraged and Be Blessed!
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 NKJV
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| ©sippakorn FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
A few days ago, I was handed a printout called "My Never Again List." I found it an interesting read, and was going to reproduce it here, but then I remembered it was probably copyrighted somewhere. So I Googled it, and lo and behold, the list was written by Don Gossett of Don Gossett Ministries. Here is the link to the page.
Disclaimer: Seeing as all I did was find this particular piece, this is no endorsement of Mr. Gossett's ministries, nor am I against his ministry. I just did not take the time to go through his website. Plus, I liked what I read.
We've all done it before. And most time we don't know we've done.
"I'm such a ditz."
"I just can't do anything right."
"I don't have the strength to do it.
"I can't get hired in that position."
We make these confessions about ourselves, not knowing the power of our spoken words. Sure, enough of us only think these things, but enough of us actually speak these things. I usually correct people when they call themselves dumb or stupid. But I've been known to call myself stupid every now and again.
What we speak is incredibly powerful, and we need to get our acts together, and watch what we say, both to other people and ourselves. That's why confession of our faith is truly powerful. Confessions of sins, too.
But a few of us just confess the wrong things. Calling yourself stupid for one measly mistake? Stop. I don't care if you've never gotten something right in your life, if you don't change what you say, you never will. It's because of what you are saying that you've never gotten anything right. Get it?
On Don Gossett's list, he wrote, "Never Again will I confess weakness for "The Lord is the strength of my life," and "The people that know their God shall be strong and do exploits."
I thought because of my physical ailment, I was down for the count. I had made an attempt and found it to be exhausting. But I stopped that train of thought, and said, with God all things are possible. First, the reason why it was exhausting was because it was too soon. And secondly, so what? Just cause it was exhausting doesn't mean I should give up. Whatever you are allowing to hold you up, stop letting it get the best of you.
I just gave you two verses you need to make your mantra when you are feeling weak. Christ showed us how to defeat the negativity. When the devil tried to tempt him, he always countered with God's Word. We need to do the same.
The list on Don Gossett's site, can help too. And if that's not enough, open your bible and find something for your situation. Exercise that faith, and confess God's word over your life. Don't speak negative into your life, only speak positive for you and others. You have the power!
What have you been telling yourself that is hindering you? What have you been saying that have helped you overcome your negativity?
Stay Encouraged and Be Blessed!
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| ©Public Domain |
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
I Totally Forgot! One Year Anniversary Time!
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| ©digitalart FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
My first post went up on May 25, 2011. And I forgot. I've been busy, thanks to God's grace and favor. As I did on my other blog, I'll go over the highs and lows.
My most popular blog was about international forgiveness day and forgiveness. I was really surprised at that. I expected it would take years for this blog to grow.
I was also shocked that my post on bitterness was also popular. I hope you all struggling with it, are actively trying to get the root of it out of you. It blocks everything, and the person who caused the hurt either doesn't care or they have (or may) realized, you don't want to forgive them. I simply cannot stress how holding on to bitterness is unbecoming a Christian. Let it go. You don't have to be BFFs, but it is so satisfying when you are able to help those who have hurt you, and in doing so, you become a doer of God's word and become like Him, which should be all Christians' goal. You want to go to heaven, then let go of the bitterness.
What are my plans for the next year?
Write more.
Wrap up the Friendship series.
And we'll see after that. I have a couple of things I want to do, but I also have to get the work that pays the bills done, too, and that is taking a lot of time.
And not to leave you without some word, here's my all-time favorite scripture that I am still gaining wisdom from:
It is better to trust in the Lord
Than to put confidence in man.
Psalm 118:8 NKJV
Be Blessed and Stay Encouraged!
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
God Is Your Hope: Wordless Wednesday
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| ©Public Domain Image/Words Added |
For You are my hope, O Lord GOD;
You are my trust from my youth.
By You I have been upheld from birth;
You are He who took me out of my mother’s womb.
My praise shall be continually of You.
Psalm 71:5-6 NKJV
Stay Encouraged and Be Blessed!
Monday, May 21, 2012
What's Stopping You From Being Thankful?
And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Colossians 3:17 NKJV
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| ©Grayson's Groovy on Tumbler |
Friday, May 18, 2012
Monday, May 14, 2012
Everybody Needs A Praying Mama
The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16b NIV
(©africa FreeDigitalPhotos)
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Are You Friendly? Part 1b of Friendship Series
A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24 NKJV
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Wordless Wednesday: No Worries!
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. Matthew 6:34 NKJV
(I know I've been quiet. Work takes precedence over blogging, but please Stay Encouraged! After all, you are Blessed!)
Image: © Scripture.org
(I know I've been quiet. Work takes precedence over blogging, but please Stay Encouraged! After all, you are Blessed!)
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Wordless Wednesday: The Start Of Lent
But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. 1 John 1:7
As we start this Lent season, be encouraged that because Christ chose to die on a cross for our sins, we have the gift of eternal life through our compliance with God's ways.
Be Blessed and Stay Encouraged!
As we start this Lent season, be encouraged that because Christ chose to die on a cross for our sins, we have the gift of eternal life through our compliance with God's ways.
Be Blessed and Stay Encouraged!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Your Best Valentine Evah!
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Wordful Wednesday!
I was about to hunt for a great picture, when I thought I should do the opposite. So, here are some scriptures that I hope will encourage your soul on this day.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
![Vicki Nunn (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons](http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hands4_Overlaying.jpg){kind=link}
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Saturday, January 14, 2012
New Year's Resolutions And Committing To God
Commit your way to the Lord,
Trust also in Him.
And He shall bring it to pass.
He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light,
And your justice as the noonday.
Psalm 37:5-6 NKJV
Trust also in Him.
And He shall bring it to pass.
He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light,
And your justice as the noonday.
Psalm 37:5-6 NKJV
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Wordless Wednesday: God Doesn't
Grabbed from Teresa Vandetkooi @ Pinterest. I'm loving that site!
I'll return later this week with a written post. Promise.
Be Blessed and Stay Encouraged!
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