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August 31, 2005
By the Waters of Bitterness

Then Moses led Israel from the Red Sea and they went into the Desert of Shur. For three days they traveled in the desert without finding water. When they came to Marah, they could not drink its water because it was bitter. (That is why the place is called Marah (bitter)) So the people grumbled against Moses, saying, "What are we to drink?"

Then Moses cried out to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a piece of wood. He threw it into the water, and the water became sweet.

There the LORD made a decree and a law for them, and there he tested them. He said, "If you listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians,

... for I am the LORD, who heals you."

Then they came to Elim, where there were twelve springs and seventy palm trees, and they camped there near the water.

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When the experiences of life are bitter, what can make them sweet?

Only the cross of Christ.

Some see the above passage as a prophetic picture of Christ's sacrifice for our sin. Moses "cried out to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a tree. When he cast it into the waters, the waters were made sweet" (v.25).

The New Testament uses "the tree" as a metaphor to describe the cross on which our Savior died.

He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.

God's love is the same today. As we embrace all that the cross means, we can find healing in the transforming power of God's love thru the Lord Jesus Christ. The cross of Christ can turn the bitterest waters of life sweet.

Come, won't you cast the tree of Christ into your bitter waters?

Thank You Lord for the tree of Christ. Help each of us come and embrace the cross. Help us cast this tree into our own bitter waters. Thank You that as we do this, God's transforming love will sweeten our hearts.
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August 30, 2005
Please add my sister Grace, her husband Asiedu and her two boys to your devotional/prayer list. Her two boys have never spoken a word since birth -- they just make sounds with their voices. Cliffy is 8yrs old and Mickie is 7yrs. Pls keep them in your prayers. I hope they will be blessed by this group as I have been.
Thanks Joanie

For Grace, Asiedu, Cliffy & Mickie
Lord, we bring Cliffy & Mickie to You thru our prayers. Thank You that You are a Lord that makes the deaf hear and the mute speak. Please touch and say to Cliffy & Mickie "Ephphatha!" "Be opened!". Let their ears be opened and their tongues loosed. All Glory be to God! In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Thank You Lord that as this family trusts in You, the gracious hand of our Lord Jesus Christ is upon them. Let the light of your face shine upon them, fill each with the joy of the Lord.
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August 30, 2005
I'm requesting for prayer for God give me the understanding and give strength that I need to over come this trials.
Thanks Nita

For Nita
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Lord please strengthen and guide Nita thru whatever trial she is facing. Let her feel Your presence in a very real way walking right beside her. Let this trial reveal to Nita just how much You love her. Let her glimpse just how wide, how long, how high, how deep the love of Christ is for her. Let her see Christ's love like never before - that it fills her to overflowing. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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August 30, 2005
Can you keep praying for the sale of our apartments
Thank You Jackie

For Jackie
Thank You Lord that you've told us to always pray and not give up. Lord we lift this whole situation of the apartments up to You. We ask for Your wisdom, Your guidance, Your mercy. Please show Jackie clearly what to do. We love You Lord. Thank You that You are a Lord who works all things for the good of those who love Him.
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August 30, 2005
We want to take this time to thank all our friends and family for all your care, concern and support and prayers you have given and shown us in our fight for grandparents rights to see our grandsons Joshua & Adam. Thank you to all!!

Prayers answered!!!!! The judge gave us the green light to go forward. We now have a chance to be in the judicial system and have our case heard. We are doing all of this on behalf of Joshua & Adam's well being.

Please continue to keep us in your prayers.
Love, Peace & Joy - Carol

For Carol, Joshua & Adam & family
Thank You Lord for answered prayer. We are still crying out to you in this battle. Help each to continue to trust You and Your wisdom, Your guidance Your love.
Thank You Lord that You are a Lord that forgives. Please bring healing to all these relationships. Help them bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances they may have against one another. Help them to forgive as the Lord forgives. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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August 29, 2005
Only God Can See

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:

Thank You Lord that You are 'all seeing', 'all knowing'. Help us each discover & trust Your plans, for only You alone can see & know all.

O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD. You hem me in—behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.
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August 29, 2005
It breaks my heart to see everyone scurrying around down here at the beach. They issued a mandatory evacuation for our area but because I am at a business they are not making us close yet so I'll be around for a few more hours. Please send prayers to everyone on the Gulf Coast...this one looks bad!!!! All the people that evacuated New Orleans to our area are now being evacuated from our coastline. I feel for these families that face losing everything at home and now don't have a place to stay tonight except hudddled into a shelter. My street & my house has been evacuated because I live real close to the water. So I will be staying with a friend tonight who lives a little further inland. Please friends send prayers to the many mothers who do not have enough money to evacuate. (like me) Thanks so much--I'll keep in touch as much as I can,
love,
Susan and Andy
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August 29, 2005
My brother Kenny just got out of the hospital from contracting Viral Meningitis the doctors are saying that it came from a MISQUITO bite.

I wanted everyone to know (especially those with kids) so you can take precautions against to avoid getting bitten up to much the remainder of the summer.
Cindy
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August 29, 2005
Please pray for Shanika's mom
they were in the car stopped at a red light and this lady runs in the back of them. So they said that my mom had a sprain and they gave her so pain meds. This is like the third car accident she had been in, well the third one since I have been born. The first on left her a paraplegic 19 years ago so it is important for her to go to the hospital to make sure there was no hidden damage. Please keep her your prayers. (Also Shanika's mom lives in Miami where most of Hurricane Katrina's rain ended up but was in a different state when it happened but doesn't know if her home is damaged or not.)
Thanks! (submitted by Cindy)
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August 29, 2005
Can we please pray for Kathy who has been getting over a virus and has been having a lot of personal /family issues going on and she is requesting prayers for strength to get her through it all.
Thanks! (submitted by Cindy)

For Susan/Andy (hurricane), Kenny, Shanika's mom, Kathy
Thank You Lord that You know what they need before we ask. Please help them approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that they may receive mercy and find grace to help them in their time of need. Thank You that You are Sovereign LORD, You have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for You.
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August 27, 2005
Please add me to the prayer request. I need physical healing from many health problems and a financial blessing to save my home. Because I cannot work due to my health, I'm unable to pay my delinquent real-estate bills. Please also pray for my husband; he cannot keep a job and help me with the bills. Thanks and God Bless you.
Love in Christ,
Donna

For Donna & husband
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.

Thank You Lord for Your mighty hands, that in Your strength we are upheld. Please uphold Donna & husband thru this difficult time. Let Your hand strengthen and help each. Let Your hand clearly guide and provide healing where needed. Remind each of how great Your love is - each is engraved on the palm of Your hand. Let them rest in Your mighty hands. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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August 25, 2005
Please pray for my brother Kenny he was admitted to the hospital today with possible Viral Meningitis which is contagious he was sick on Monday and we saw him on Saturday, could we also pray that I or Zack does not get it this would not be a good thing at all.
Thanks. Cindy

For Kenny, Cindy & Zach
Thank You Lord that there is healing in Your touch. Please touch Kenny where Your healing is needed, rebuke this illness. Guide the medical staff as they try to help. Please also place your protective hand on Cindy & Zach. Spread your protection over all of them, surround them with your favor as with a shield. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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August 26, 2005
I am asking for prays on behalf of a friend of mine. Sandy's husband lost his job. She is fearful and experiencing much stress. Could you please pray for her. And pray that her husband takes the initiative to find a new job.
Thanks. Irene

For Sandy & husband
Thank You Lord that through prayer and thanksgiving, the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Help them both be open to your leading. Help Sandy's husband find another job more quickly than expected. Keep their minds steadfast, set on Christ.
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August 26, 2005
Just wanted to give you an update. Scott is moving to Florida. He is leaving tonight to go to North Carolina then on to Florida. He said he has another job to go to. It is very hard to let him go. I called him earlier this evening and said a prayer over the phone for him. That was the first time I ever prayed for him like that. Please keep him in your prayers.
Thank you. Jodi

For Scott
Thank You Lord that You watch over our comings & goings both now & forevermore. Please keep Scott safe as he travels to his new job. Help Jodi rest in the knowledge that You are watching over him.
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August 25, 2005
Pleasing God

First he(Christ) said, "Sacrifices and offerings, burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not desire, nor were you pleased with them" (although the law required them to be made). Then he said, "Here I am, I have come to do your will."

Here it states that not only does God not desire sacrifices and offerings, He is not pleased with them. So what pleases God?

Consider the story of a woman who took a vial of precious perfume and emptied it on Jesus’ head as He reclined at the table (). There is no record of any great results coming from this loving gesture. No lives were saved, no converts were made, and nothing measurable was obtained. Worse still, the woman was roundly scolded for her actions. Her efforts were viewed as extravagant, unreasonable, and irresponsible.

Jesus, however, thought otherwise. The Lord’s commendation for this loving sacrifice was astonishing. In His mind, it deserved to be memorialized for ages to come.

Has this ever happened to you? Have you ever expressed your love to Jesus only to be misunderstood, even ridiculed? I've often heard statements like this made about singing to the Lord.

Singing to the Lord has no obvious result to measure, afterall we need workers - teachers, nursery workers, building & grounds workers, missionaries, etc... We really don't need very many singers - we need workers.

Maybe if we encouraged more people to express their love to the Lord, their love of Jesus would grow, their hearts would be full, and out of the fullnes of the love of Christ in their hearts - works would follow.

Maybe by encouraging seemingly wasteful acts of love to the Savior, workers and visible results would then follow and abound.

Above all the Lord desires our heart and love. Sacrifice, offering and work without the love of the Lord is meaningless.

Lord help us always to first give You our heart. Show us ways to express our love of Jesus. Thank You that as we do this, any work that You have for us will flow out of this love. Like the above woman, let each of us one day hear that we have done a beautiful thing to You.

I will praise God's name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving. This will please the LORD more than an ox, more than a bull with its horns and hoofs.
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August 24, 2005
Pierced Ears

Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare.
Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but my ears you have pierced; burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require.
Then I said, "Here I am, I have come— it is written about me in the scroll.
I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart."

Look at verse 6 - "Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but my ears you have pierced ..." Some versions used pierced and some use opened. Either way, I didn't get the connection - what do offerings have to do with pierced ears?

Looking in the concordance:
, the law controlling slaves when slavery was a fact among the Israelites. There was a time limit of six years. After that, the slave was to go free. Then comes verse five; "But if the slave declares, 'I love my master ... and do not want to go free', then his master must take him before the judges ... and pierce his ear ... then he will be his servant for life." The pierced ear became a symbol (sign) of permanent possession. After that there would never be any doubt as to whose he was and whom he served.

So it seems that the psalmist is saying in effect that the Lord does not desire our gifts and services. He desires us. He desires us to commit ourselves whole heartedly to Him because we love him and want to belong to Him.

He in turn would have us desire Him, not just His gifts or what He can do for us. Our gifts to Him, and His to us, follow love. For without love, all gifts are meaningless.

Here we are, Lord, help us each desire to do Your will; write your law within each heart. Help us each love You with our whole hearts.
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August 23, 2005
Reach Out Your Hand in Faith

Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.

As a child did you ever have to walk by a scarey place at night?

When I was growing up there was an old abandoned church near the end of our street. It was overgrown with brush and trees - even in the daylight it looked a little like a big haunted house. At night in the dark it really seemed to come to life - especially if there was a breeze to move the trees. I was always afraid to walk by this old church by myself.

One night my father and I were walking home, as we approached the church I could feel the fear rise inside of me. I immediately moved closer to my father and reached out my hand. He took my hand in his and led me safely past the old church. As soon as I felt my hand in his I felt secure and unafraid.

Isn't it comforting to know that Jesus is always there? That there is no place we can go where His hand can not reach us? So next time you feel the fear rising within, reach out for Jesus with your hand of faith. As He takes your hand in His and holds you fast, let your fear melt away and rest securely in His love.

Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.

Thank You Lord that there is no place we can go that Your hand can not reach us. Help each of us reach out with the hand of faith. Thank You that as we do this we'll feel Your hand holding us fast.
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August 22, 2005
I would like to request a prayer for myself. I have submitted a pre-approval loan application to try to finance a home. My credit is not great, but I have faith that if it is meant to be, that God will make a way for me to somehow be approved. I am asking for the Lord to help me with my finances, and to help me get a good APR% rate with a reasonabel monthly rate. That of course, if it is HIS will for me right now. If you could please help me in prayer. I would also like to keep my name anonymous as I am very, very nervous about this whole process. Thank you so much, God bless you.

For anonymous
Thank You Lord that You are a Lord that provides, You know what each needs before we ask. Please guide this whole process of finding a house and the finances/details that go along with it. Show anonymous which way to go. Please place the right people in the right place at the right time.
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August 22, 2005
Hi, for the next 9 days and of course for a while after that Jack Jack and I need some strong thoughts and prayers sent our way if you can. He is scheduled to have his trach taken out on Aug. 26th. He has had it since he was 7 months old. I want it out so bad, but at the same time am scared to death.
Thanks Susie and Jack (submitted by Cindy)

For Jack & Susie
Thank You Lord that You said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. " We bring Jack to You through our prayers. Lord please touch him with Your healing love, let Your love bring what is needed. Let this trach removal proceed smoothly. Thank You Lord that You are a God of details. Smooth out every detail, let all see Your hand upon Jack's life.
Help Susie & Jack continue to trust in You, the Lord Jesus Christ. Let them feel Your presence near, hold them close. Thank You that as they trust You Lord they will feel Your perfect peace. Please keep their hearts and minds steadfast.
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August 22, 2005
It is my understanding that it is 140 degrees in Iraq right now. Our troops need our prayers for strength, endurance and safety. If it be God's will, beg this war to end.

Prayer: "Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen." {Psalm 5:11-12}

Of all the gifts you could give a US Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine & others deployed in harm's way, prayer is the very best one.
Thanks Melody
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August 19, 2005
Please pray for cousin Camille & her daughter, Dana. Dana has been having severe emotional problems & is staying with friends rather than go back home to her Mom. I can see where BOTH are wrong in their thinking which prevents them from communicating. May the rift be solved between the both of them & may Dana become well. Thank you. Ruth

For Camille & Dana
Thank You Lord that You forgive us. Please help them bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances they may have against one another. Help them to forgive as You forgive. Let this forgiveness bring healing to their relationship.
Thank You Lord that You are all-knowing. Teach each knowledge and good judgment. Lord give them each hearts of wisdom. Help each turn to You and rely on Your guidance. Let Your wisdom bring healing where neeeded. Let each feel Your peace. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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August 18, 2005
Roadblocks, God is Faithful
From     http://www.christianitytoday.com/holidays/mother/features/surprises.html

God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.

Have you ever felt a calling from God and tried to obey only to be met with bumps and roadblocks? I've been feeling like this especially recently. What do you do when this happens? Give up? Persist? Doubt you heard God's call? Go around the roadblock? Get irritated?

I'm afraid too often I doubt, get irritated and try to go around the roadblock. I was feeling this way today when I read the following from the above devotion about a 4th of July parade.

Since a parade can't very well be held amidst traffic, the townspeople simply block off the road—which also happens to be State Highway 26. When the parade ends, the roadblocks are removed, and traffic is finally allowed to drive through town. Every year we clap and cheer for each car, as if they, too, are part of the parade.

Most travelers enjoy participating in this unexpected slice of Americana. They'll give us their best beauty-pageant wave as we cheer. Some, however, irritated over the delay, pointedly ignore us.

One year, when an unusually grumpy couple drove through, my brother tossed several pieces of his collected candy into their rolled-down window, startling the couple with an unexpected treat. A few moments later, they grinned sheepishly and returned our waves. From then on, tossing candy to travelers became a family tradition.

As I look forward to another Fourth of July in Dayville, I think of the travelers whose holiday plans will take them down Highway 26—and the annual roadblock. Will they relax and enjoy the unexpected experience—or will they be so concerned with their schedule they'll miss the quaint pleasure of a small-town celebration?

This somehow encouraged me that when a roadblock appears in your path it doesn't always mean you are on the wrong road. Also that God is faithful and He is in the business of removing roadblocks, He is in control.

It also seemed to ask the question, "How do you react to roadblocks? Are you like the grumpy couple or are you willing to wait for God to remove the roadblock, sit back, relax and enjoy the parade?"

Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret...

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

Thank You Lord that You are faithful. Please teach us how to wait patiently for You. When unexpected roadblocks appear, help us not to fret, but to relax and enjoy the parade, confident that the roadblocks will be removed in Your time. Show us how to rest in Your shadow.

I for one desparately need this prayer!
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August 18, 2005
Praise: God is good. He answered my prayers. I asked for a house that is all one floor, and that it be affordable and this is what I received. It needs a lot a work, but it is ours. Thank the Lord! I am so grateful.
Thanks Jeanette

Thank You Lord for answered prayer. Thank You for the fullness of Your grace. Please continue to bless Jeanette and her husband in this house.
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August 18, 2005
I have a friend Marian that needs our prayers. Monday she will be haveing a mestectomy,she is on her way to the doctor at 1:30 for fear of infection,she has no family and needs christian family to hold her to our Lord. we all love her so much she is a joy to be around. Love and God Bless Charlene

For Marian
Thank You Lord that You are our help, our strength. Please help and strengthen Marian. Guide the medical staff as they try to help. Uphold her with Your healing hand. Let her know that You are with her, surround her with Your presence.
Lord, let Marian feel the gracious hand of our Lord Jesus Christ upon her today & always. Thank You that as she continues trusts in You she'll be surrounded by Your unfailing love. Let her rest secure in Your unfailing love. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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August 16, 2005
Please pray for my daughter Cheryl and her baby Joshua. The father of Joshua, Khalid, located Cheryl and has begun court proceedings against her for a paternity test and custody. He has also threatened to have Cheryl charged with harassment rehashing the charges that were already thrown out of court. I am in shocked at the amount of the lies this man has stated and is proceeding to try and prove in a court of law. In the mean time, my daughter is afraid, scared and stressed. I have been praying that the Lord will protect Cheryl and Joshua. Joshua has become an unknown victim as well and we believe a pawn by his father. Please pray the truth will shine brightly on the lies created. Please pray that the Lord will work in this man’s heart and soul and it will be softened.
Your prayers will help and I thank you for standing with me in prayer.
Linda

For Cheryl, Joshua & family
Thank You Lord that Cheryl & Joshua's times are in your hands. Please lift them up above those who would rise up against them, deliver them. Let your face shine on this situation; save them in your unfailing love. Please soften Khalid's heart, let the light of Christ pierce thru the darkness in his heart.
A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his law the islands will put their hope.

Thank You Lord that You are faithful! Please bring forth Your justice in these court proceedings. Continue to help this family turn to You, hope in You. Make You guidance, Your will clear to all involved. In the name of Jesus Christ our sovereign Lord.
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August 15, 2005
Beautiful Scars

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.

Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." And with that he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven."

Jesus kept His scars, He showed His scars, He bears His scars throughout eternity.

Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing in the center of the throne ...

Why did Jesus keep the scars, show the scars, why does he through eternity keep those scars? Jesus as the son of God could completely heal those scars, why bear them?

One reason may be that the scars tell a story - His story. His scars were proof that He was the same Jesus, the son of God, who died for our sins and rose again. Notice in the above passage it's Jesus' scars that lead the disciples to believe and then receive the Holy Spirit.

Think about just how beautiful those scars are to us. Jesus' scars show His & the Fathers great love for us.

The Lord can also make beautiful scars out of your wounds. Beautiful scars that point to belief in the Lord Jesus Christ, His resurrection and the receiving of the Holy Spirit.

Won't you come to Him?

Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.

Thank You Lord for Your son Jesus Christ who died and suffered for each of us. Thank You for His beautiful scars, scars that tell His story. Help each of us come to You with our wounds and allow You to turn our wounds into beautiful scars, scars that point to the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, Healer, Redeemer.

I shall know Him, I shall know Him,
And redeemed by His side I shall stand,
I shall know Him, I shall know Him,
By the print of the nails in His hand.
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August 14, 2005
I wanted to get everyone to pray for my son Chad. Today, Sunday, I got a call from the Army that my son had been shot in the head. I am asking for all your prayers. He was in a Humvee going through Falujah fighting and a gang of militia fighters fired on the Humvee and hit Chad in the head. The driver got him out of the city and took him to Baghdad. He was in fatal condition, but now has been upgraded to stable critical.

His dad and I are on standby to fly to Washington then on to Germany as soon as the military calls us to go. The Army is trying to stabilize him enough to fly to Germany and at that time we will leave.. Please pray that my son will not have brain damage and that he will be restored and healed by the blood of Jesus, and the grace of God. I ask for you to pass this prayer request on so there will be many prayer warriors praying for him.

Thank you so much and I will try to keep you updated on his condition.
God Bless Vicky

For Chad

Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings...

But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings.

Thank You Lord for Your great mercy and compassion. Thank You that You are our refuge. Lord have mercy on this family, provide them each refuge under the shadow of Your wings. Thank You that there is healing in Your wings. Surround each Your unfailing love as they trust in You. Please raise Chad up on Your healing wings. Lord we also lift up other soldiers and familys needing Your love and proctection, please keep them safe in the shadow of Your wings. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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August 14, 2005

My dad Bob is going to WA he is leaving tonight and said he is not coming back for a month! he is disabled, I should be happy but I am worried to death about him and also worried he wont come back LOL can we pray for my dad's safety. I guess even though I am a mother and "old" LOL I am still daddy's little girl.

Thanks Everyone! btw Zack is doing well and having a good summer!
Cindy

For Bob
Thank You Lord that You will watch over Bob's comings & goings both now & forevermore. Please keep him safe & help Cindy not to worry. Please spread your protection over them, surround them with your favor as with a shield.

Praise: Thank You Lord that Zack is doing well, please continue to watch over him and let him enjoy the summer. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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August 14, 2005
Follow Me

"Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." At once they left their nets and followed him.

"Follow me," he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him.

I'm always amazed when I think of Jesus calling His disciples. He gives a simple command - 'Follow me' and somehow immediately the disciples leave what they are doing and follow Christ.

Have you ever thought you knew where you were going, but then found out you didn't go the right way after all?

This happens to me all the time - when I go somewhere by myself - especially if I park in a big parking lot with alot of cars. Often when I return I have to think where my car is. Sometimes I have to look and look for where I left it. This is frustrating. Then I think I finally see it and quickly go over to it and find it's not mine at all - only a car that looks like mine.

It's interesting this never seems to happen when I go along with my husband. He always seems to know the way back to the car. When I go with him, I never even give any thought to finding the car - I simply follow my husbands lead and trust that he knows the way.

Doesn't this same type of thing happen sometimes when we follow Christ? Sometimes we trust our own instincts, get lost, and can't find our way. Sometimes we think we see the way - like when I think I see my car - only to find that we are mistaken. It is only when we trust the one who knows the right way and follow His lead that we can be sure we are on the right path. He sees clearly. We just have to follow.

Thank You Lord that You know the way, that You see clearly. Help each of us trust You completely in every area of our lives. Help us to be quick to follow Your lead. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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August 11, 2005
The Lamb, The Throne and the River of Life

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.

The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life.

After looking at the image of worship that John paints in Revelation 5, this phrase - ‘The Center of the Throne’ really caught my attention. The center of the throne is where God dwells, it’s where the slain Lamb stands, it’s where the praises of God’s people are directed and focused. The center of the throne can also be seen in this passage - Revelation 22 - the River of Life. The throne is where this river of life flows from.

Look at this River of Life - it flows from the throne of God, it’s of the Lamb and it flows down the middle of the city. We see from Psalm 46 that this city is where the Most High dwells.

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells.

Also look at the invitation, the Spirit, the bride and whoever hears, are saying "Come!". This invitation is for whoever is thirsty, for whoever wishes, it’s a free gift of the water of life.

How wonderful! So how do we find this river of life, this holy place where the Most High dwells? How do we hear and accept the invitation to drink of the water of life?

For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water.

Let the Lamb, the Lamb at the center of the throne lead! The Lamb will lead whoever follows to the river of life, to the holy place where the Most High dwells, to the place where God inhabits the praises of His people!

How appropriate that it would be the Lamb, for Jesus the Lamb of God paid the price for us all. Jesus the Lamb of God is the reason that there is a free gift of the water of life.

So what are we waiting for? Let’s seek the Lamb and follow Him, seek and accept the invitation, seek and follow with our whole hearts.

Thank You Lord for Your Son, Jesus, the Lamb of God. Help each of us follow His lead. Help each of us accept His invitation and drink, drink the free gift of the water of life.
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August 11, 2005
Sierra & family are still having a tough time. Please keep them in your prayers.
Thanks

For Sierra, Suzanne, grandmother & family
Lord we bring this family to You thru our prayers. Please help them approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that they may receive mercy and find grace to help them in their time of need. Hear their crys, help them to cast all their cares upon You. Thank You that You will sustain them, You will uphold them. Let Your love and mercy bring what is needed in each situation. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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August 11, 2005
I need prayers!!! I just talked to the section 8 lady today and she said I am # 18 on the list (was # 56) at that it should be about 3-6 more months then I should get sect 8 either the voucher or this one bldg that just opened up 1 year ago (with HA apts) their leases are coming up and they may have openings there....
Thanks! Cindy and Zack

For Cindy & Zack
Thank You Lord that You are a Lord that provides and cares for His people, You are the good shepherd. Help Cindy and Zach continue to seek You, trust You and rely on Your guidance. Thank You that You will continue to provide for them.
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August 9, 2005
The Potter and The Clay

...O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.

Have you ever seen a potter shape a vase or vessel out of clay on a potter's wheel? The wheel turns and turns, the potter pats, smoothes and molds the wet clay until it takes a form he likes.

What really caught my attention one time was when the potter looked as if he was almost finished, but he suddenly stopped. A small stone or pebble had somehow lodged in the side of the vessel, seemingly ruining the potter's work.

The potter did not throw the vessel aside, instead he removed the stone or pebble, crushed the clay into a ball, wet his hand and began to mold the clay anew. In a little while the vessel was completed - perfect this time.

There are times when I look at my efforts to reflect the image of Christ and realize I’ve failed. Though I try to be what Christ wants, at times anger, hatred, envy or greed fly into my thoughts and out my mouth before I can stop. But Jesus doesn’t give up on me. With patience and love He removes my sin and begins to reshape me anew. Thank God that He never tires, for the process must be repeated every day (sometimes more than once}.

Thank You Lord that we all are the work of Your hand. Father, there are so many flaws in me. Thank You Lord that You have provided Your Son Jesus to remove my sins and allow the process of molding me to begin anew. Father, please mold me again and again in Your image. Thank You Lord that You never tire, and that Your love endures forever.

And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O LORD, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.

He shielded him and cared for him; He guarded him as the apple of his eye, like an eagle that stirs up its nest and hovers over its young, that spreads its wings to catch them and carries them on its pinions.

Have you ever been startled suddenly? Did you jump? Did you insticntively raise your hand to protect your eyes? This seems to be a 'built in' reaction - a reflex - to protect our most vulnerable or treasured parts.

Look at God's care in the above verses. We are the apple of His eye - He cares for us like the eagle cares for its young. We are His children. He hovers over us with protective wings. If His children are threatened, He instictively raises His hand (wings) to protect them. What a wonderful image of God's love, care and protection!

Show the wonder of your great love, you who save by your right hand, those who take refuge in you from their foes. Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.

Thank You Lord for the wonder of Your great love, for Your protective care of Your children. When we feel threatened, help us each remember that we are the apple of Your eye, help us each seek refuge under the shadow of Your mighty wings.
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August 8, 2005
Please pray for David he is very ill, he has Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and has other health issues so the recovery is not going well.
Thanks, Terri (submitted by Cindy)

For David & family
Lord rebuke this illness, let it leave quickly. Thank You Lord that You are with us, that You are our help & strength. Let David & family feel Your mighty hand upholding them, let them rest calmly in Your hand, help them not to worry. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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August 6, 2005
Sierra is has had another tough week. On Monday she was paleand her oxygen, and heart rate were not right. Then yesterday her legs started swelling. Today she is going to the pediatrician, and tomorrow morning first thing for blood levels to see if her seizure med's are in line. Please keep her and her family in your prayers. Her mom Suzanne is running out of personal days and may need to take vacation or FMLA. They also have a grandmother in critical condition - kidney dialisis. Thanks {submitted by Cindy)

For Sierra, Suzanne, grandmother & family
Lord we bring this family to You thru our prayers. Please help them approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that they may receive mercy and find grace to help them in their time of need. Hear their crys, help them to cast all their cares upon You. Thank You that You will sustain them, You will uphold them. Let Your love and mercy bring what is needed in each situation. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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August 4, 2005
The Lamb, The Throne and The New Song

Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing in the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders.

And they sang a new song:
"You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth."

Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they sang:
"Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!"

Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, singing:
"To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!" The four living creatures said, "Amen," and the elders fell down and worshiped.

Look closely at this passage, in particular look at the 'new song'! The new song is sung around the throne of God with the Lamb at the center of the throne. The Lamb is also the center of the new song - the Lamb's sacrifice the subject of the song.

The new song of praise has a direct connection with the salvation of mankind. The sacrifice of the Lamb, the blood sacrifice of Christ for mankind is at the center of the new song. Salvation of mankind has a direct connection with the new song. This message can be seen & heard when the new song is sung.

When we praise and worship the Lord Jesus Christ, when we magnify His blood sacrifice for our sins, we lift Him up for all to see. Jesus can then use our worship, our praise to draw others near to Him. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD (Psalm 40:3).

Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day.

The other neat thing to notice about this passage - God's throne, God's dwelling place - where He rests, is encircled by the praise and worship of the Lamb's sacrifice.

What a wonderful image of God dwelling in an atmosphere of the praise of His people, enthroned with the Lamb in their midst.

Thank You Lord for the Lord Jesus Christ the Lamb of God. Help each of us keep the Lamb in the center of our worship. Help us each sing this new song a song that proclaims salvation. Help us proclaim this new song with our whole heart, with all that is within us.

The LORD has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.

Praise the LORD, you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, who obey his word.

Praise the LORD, all his heavenly hosts, you his servants who do his will.

Praise the LORD, all his works everywhere in his dominion. Praise the LORD, O my soul.

Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name.
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August 3, 2005
Standing on the Rock

I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.
He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.

Until recently I didn't connect these 3 things - standing firmly on the rock, singing a new song and seeing God's glory.

Then the LORD said, "There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by."

... for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ.

From these verses we see that you must be standing on the rock to catch a glimpse of the Lord's Glory, and this rock is the Lord Jesus Christ.

Look at these verses from Psalm 40:1-3.

'Wait on the Lord' - Hope in Him, Trust Him, seek him with your whole heart - you'll find Him(Jeremiah 29:13)

He will lift you up out of your darkness & place your feet on a rock - the Rock of Christ! A firm place to stand.

Look what else happens while standing firmly on the Rock. A 'new song' is sung!

For a while I thought the 'new song' might not literally mean singing, it could mean the new life you're given when you put your trust in Jesus Christ and give Him your heart -- or it could mean a new direction in ministry ... there are probably more possible meanings. Look at the following verses about 'singing to the well'.

The Lord said to Moses, "Gather the people together and I will give them water. Then Israel sang this song: "Spring up, O well! Sing about it!"

The people were thirsty in the desert with no water in sight. Look what the Lord instructs -- gather together. What do the people do? Sing! Sing while they are still thirsty - before they see any water, any results. Singing while thirsty is an act of faith -- being certain in spirit before any evidence is detected by normal senses (John 20:29).

You really can't miss that this well has living water. This is the water the people are singing for, the living water that one can drink from the Rock!

So...
1. Let's gather together
2. with our feet planted firmly on the Rock of Christ
3. and let the Lord put a new song in our mouthes, a song of praise
4. Sing this new song with all that is within us (Psalm 103:1)
5. surely the living water will flow and all can drink
6. and we will catch a glimpse of the Lord's glory for now (psalm 100 - come into His presence)
7. and then when He returns we'll see Him face to face!!!!(1 Corinthians 13:10,12)

Thank You Lord for the Rock of Christ, a firm place to stand. Thank You that as we put our trust in Christ, You will lift us out of our darkness, place our feet firmly on the Rock and give us a 'new song' to sing. Thank You Lord that we can drink the living water of Christ. Help us gather together and sing a song of praise - that many may come to drink and find a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.

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August 2, 2005
Show Me Your Glory

Then Moses said, "Now show me your glory."

Have you ever felt like this? Do you long for the Lord's return? Have you ever felt the Lord's presence so close, so near, touching you deep within your soul?

Once you've experienced the Lord's presence like this you don't want it to end. The following lyrics express this feeling.

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This was my prayer until I read the following.
From: http://www.justworship.com/onworship/thegloryofgod.pdf

Early one morning around 5:00 o'clock I was sitting on the love seat in our living room having a time worship and prayer. During my prayer time I was intensely praying for God to show me his glory. Just as I got the words out of my mouth the room lit up with a bright light. My heart felt like it would explode from the force of the pressure. I could feel it beating rapidly in my throat. Fear gripped me as I sat frozen to the love seat. Never in my life have I been so afraid. It is almost indescribable.

Almost as soon as the fear gripped me I began to feel very foolish. I realized that just as I had prayed those words that a car pulled out from the road across from our house and the headlights had shown through the window and illuminated the room. As foolish as I felt it still took several minutes for my heart to get back to normal.

God spoke to me, "Do you still want to see my glory?" I answered, "I'm not sure if I am ready to see your glory. If the headlights of a car scare me that bad I can't imagine if it had really been you." I changed my prayer that morning from, "Lord, I want to see your glory." to "Lord, help me get ready to see your glory." That light, even though it came from a car, exposed the condition of my heart. I think God set me up.

This morning I read the following passage.

Verses 21 & 22 really jumped out.
Then the LORD said, "There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by.

This makes it clear that we need to be standing on the rock when the Lord's glory passes by. The Lord will protect us if we are standing on the rock. Who is the rock?

... for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ.

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I think I'll change my prayer from "Lord, show me Your glory, I want to see your glory." to "Lord, help me get ready to see your glory."

Thank You Lord for the rock of Christ, show us each how to stand on this rock. Lord, help each of us prepare our hearts to meet You, to see Your glory, to see You face to face.

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but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
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August 1, 2005
HI, Please keep Junior in your prayers, he is running a fever, having seizures and crying if he is not sleeping. His o2 sats are okay for now, but he is breathing hard and his heart rate is way up(right at 180, fever is causing most of it). We see the doctor this afternoon, with him crying so much and acting like he is in pain they think it could be an ear infection. I am just praying it stays out of his lungs. Also pray he recovers quickly, my family is flying in, in just over two weeks for my sisters wedding.
Love,Heidi & Junior

For Junior & Heidi
Lord rebuke this illness, let it leave Junior at once. Breathe Your breath of life into Junior, help him breathe with Your breathe. Let this bring glory to Your name.
Thank You Lord for the fullness of Your grace. Please bless this whole family out of this fullness. Let this especially be true as they gather together for this wedding. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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August 1, 2005
BrokenWings

How long, O LORD ? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?

How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?

Look on me and answer, O LORD my God. Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death;

my enemy will say, "I have overcome him," and my foes will rejoice when I fall.

But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.

I will sing to the LORD, for He has been good to me.

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It takes courage to try to keep flying with broken wings. The only way to do this is by trusting in the Lord's unfailing love and the knowledge that He is walking with you by your side.

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.

The only way it is possible to keep flying at all with broken wings is through the Lord's grace & power.

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.

Others will see the Lord's grace & power in your flight & song (Psalm 13:6). The Lord will use you to bring comfort to others. But first you must receive the Lord's comfort for yourself.

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.

So keep putting your hope & trust in the Lord. He lift you up and you will soar - high like an eagle!

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.

Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;

but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

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Lord teach us to continue flying with broken wings, use our flight and song to touch others, that they may know You also. Thank You Lord for Your grace and power, for Your compassion.
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August 1, 2005
Marcus Update:They found the collaterals but they were too small to do anything for and could not find anymore bleeding...They did find out that his Inferior Vena Cava was occluded and had to put a stent in it which is a small cylander to keep it open...

After Cardiac Cath that they did on him they conference the whole Cardiology Team and deemed it best to wait on any major surgery....considering his quality of life as to great to risk at this point.

All in all we are all very nervous still that he will cough and he will bleed so we are keeping a close eye on him
Thanks {submitted by Cindy}

For Marcus
Thank You Lord for Your mighty hand, please keep upholding Marcus. Let Your healing hand bring what is needed, renew Marcus & family's strength. Hold them close to Your heart. Thank You Lord that You will help them. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.