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July 28, 2005
The Branch of an Almond Tree

The word of the LORD came to me: "What do you see, Jeremiah?"
"I see the branch of an almond tree," I replied.
The LORD said to me, "You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled."

The footnote in my bible for these verses is very interesting -- the Hebrew for watching sounds like the Hebrew for almond tree.

Further investigation:
The New American Bible has a note on this passage: "The watching-tree: the almond tree, which is the first to blossom in the springtime as though it had not slept. The Hebrew name contains a play on words with 'I am watching.'"

This brings to mind 'first fruits' and the resurrection.

But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.

Jesus Christ is the first fruit through His resurrection. The almond tree becomes a symbol of new life and resurrection. The play on words that the almond tree is a watching tree is neat. This brings to mind Christ's return, and the promise that we will be raised with Him. Christ's return is what we are to be watching and waiting for, to see God's word fulfilled.

Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.

The almond tree -- a symbol of new life, first fruit and resurrection, also of watching for Christ's return and being raised with Him. Joining the Lord to watch and see His word fulfilled. The watching tree.

Wow!

Lord, thank You for Your Word and the treasures You have put there for us to discover. Help us be like the almond tree - the watching tree. Help us each put our hope in the fulfillment of Your word, to look forward and prepare for Your return. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in His word I put my hope.
My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning,
more than watchmen wait for the morning.

Tears may flow in the night, but joy comes in the morning!

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July 2005
Lily of the Valleys

Song of Solomon 2:1     I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys.

Psalm 23:4     Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Look at these words from an old spiritual.

"There's a Lily in the Valley, Bright as the morning Star.
In the valley, In the valley, In the valley ...
Out of the valley, Out of the valley, Out of the valley ..."

The Lord doesn't leave us in the valley by ourselves. He is with us, He will comfort us, He will lead us.

Notice it doesn't say that He leads in the valley ...

God wants us to walk through the valley with Him by our side!

So if you feel like you're in a valley today -- look for the lily -- bright as the Morning Star. The Lord will lead you through to the otherside.

He's the Lily of the Valley,
the Bright and Morning Star,
He's the fairest of ten thousand to my soul.

He will never, never leave me, nor yet forsake me here,
While I live by faith and do His blessed will;
A wall of fire about me, I've nothing now to fear,
From His manna He my hungry soul shall fill.
Then sweeping up to glory to see His blessed face,
Where the rivers of delight shall ever roll.

I have found a friend in Jesus, He's everything to me,
He's the fairest of ten thousand to my soul;
The Lily of the Valley, in Him alone I see
All I need to cleanse and make me fully whole.
-Charles W. Fry

___________

Thank You Lord that You are the lily of the valleys, our good shepherd. Help us each remember this when we find ourselves in a valley. Thank You that You know the way and will lead us each through even the deepest of valleys. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

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July 23, 2005
Evidence of Things Not Seen cont'd

Hebrews 11:1,3 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.

I'm still thinking about 'evidence unseen'. Look again at vs 11:3. 'Things which are seen were not made of things which are visible'.

By the word of the LORD were the heavens made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth.

For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm.

When we look at our world thru human eyes & understanding, alot of evidence, tests/ research can be collected and done. Yet these verses clearly say our world was formed by the word of God and His breath - things unseen. So how can one really expect to completely understand our world by testing things that can be seen?

So if we can't rely on our human eyes & understanding, what can we rely on? Or maybe a better question is who.

Doesn't it make sense to rely on the one who spoke and breathed life into the world to understand the world? To understand the Bible?

It should be no surprise that the Holy Spirit is key to our understanding of truth & faith.

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth.

... Your word is truth.

Thank You Lord for Your word -- Your word is truth. Thank You also for the Wonderful Couselor. Help us always to seek Your truth. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

... And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
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July 22, 2005

My Brother-in-law Allen needs Miracle Healing in his shoulder for it to back in place where it belong they can't aford surgery.
Thanks Melody
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We need prayer for our unborn baby! Our baby has a hole in her heart. It is lethal, and the baby's don't normally make it through pregnancy, or die during birth, or within a year after being born (from what they could tell me).
Thanks Diane & Rick
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Sierra is having heart rate trouble & breathing problems.
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Marcus is getting cathed to try to find exact source of bleeding and if it is cardiac related. Once this is determined, they will proceed on future planning.

For Allen, Diane & Rick(unborn baby), Sierra, Marcus, {others on children list- Zora & Lynette, Ruby & Angie, Zach & Cindy, Clayton, Joshua}
But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings.

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...

Thank You Lord that You are our refuge, that You are full of mercy & compassion. Please pour out Your mercy & love on each, let them find refuge in the shadow of Your wings. Thank You Lord that there is healing in Your wings. Please let Your healing rise in each one. Guide the medical staff as they try to help. Let healing rise quickly on Your wings, so quickly that there can be no other explanation but that You placed each one on Your healing wings. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

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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July 21, 2005
Evidence of Things Not Seen

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.

It's very human to want to rely on what our eyes see, on our own understanding and experience. But this is not what the Bible says. The Bible tells us not to rely on our own understanding (Prov 3:5-6) and to walk by faith not sight (2 Cor 5:7).

The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Lord help us each to remember not to put our hope in what is seen, to put our hope in You & Your Word. Help us each to walk by faith and not sight. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

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July 20, 2005
One Tiny Pebble

For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Have you ever walked along side a lake or pond where the water is perfectly still? If you are like me, you probably won't be able to resist throwing a rock or pebble into the water. Even the tiniest pebble makes beautiful ripples on the still water. Ripples that can be far reaching.

The Lord used this image this morning to remind me that one tiny pebble can be used to create something beautiful. Without the tiny pebble there would be no ripples, no wonderful pattern to see.

Each one of us is like the tiny pebble and still water. Without the tiny pebble there would be no ripples, no wonderful pattern to see.

God has created each one of us for His wonderful purposes, each one of us is needed to play an important part in God's plan. No matter how insignificant we may think our lives are, let's remember that one tiny pebble and the beauty that it helped to create!

P.S.
You guessed it -- I was feeling pretty tiny this morning, the Lord put the above verse on my heart more than once before the one tiny pebble. God is good!

Thank You Lord that You have a place & plan for each of us. Remind us each of the one tiny pebble and the beauty it can create, especially when we feel insignificant. Help us each to accept the plans You have for us and others. Help us also to realise that none of Your plans or purposes are tiny. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

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July 20, 2005
Praise: I just wanted to thank the Lord for just taking care of everything in my life. We are going to Ottawa next week for a reunion with the young woman I gave up for adoption. I had prayed about the finances as we truly don’t have a lot of money and asked the Lord to work this out. Well he did! Yesterday Paul shared this with his boss, who works in the Ottawa area, and they told him to schedule some meetings for Tues and Wed, stay in a hotel and submit the bills for the hotel. I was in awe at this. God worked this out for both Paul because he was trying to juggle his work schedule to accommodate the trip, and blessedly, his boss enabled this to happen. So I just wanted share this with you and just thank the Lord for making this trip and reconciliation go better than we could plan.
Blessings to you.
Linda

Thank You Lord that You have engraved our names on the palms of Your hands. Thank You for Your love -- thank You for showing Your love in this situation. Continue to bless this time as You draw this family together. Thanks be to God! In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 20, 2005
Please pray for co-worker Emily & her husband Ray. Emily has been trying to conceive & will be going for tests tomorrow. May the Lord grant them their desire to have a child.
Thank you.
Ruth

For Emily & Ray
Thank You Lord that You are the one who makes us, who forms us in the womb, help Emily & Ray conceive. Please grant them the desire of their hearts and do not withhold the request of their lips. Glory be to God! In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 20, 2005
I was supposed to have a spinal fusion with metal implants last Wed., however--after the pre-op testing they didn't like the results of the EKG and since the surgery is so extensive and will take up to 6 hrs. I have to get a cardiac release from the cardiologist. This appt. is scheduled for this coming Thurs. at NKCH at 9:30, if they give me the green light I will go directly to surgery which is at NKCH. I need the help of prayer warriors that the results of the EKG are alright and I can get this done as 3 or 4 weeks after this surgery I will have another surgery to replace the 2 lower discs. This surgery won't be as extensive, should take 3-4 hrs. I'm ready to get this process started!! Please keep Don and I in your prayers as we wait to find out what we're facing this week.
Thanks so much, Jan {submitted by Charlene}

For Jan & Don
Thank You Lord that the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick. We bring Jan to You thru our prayers, please give Your healing where it is needed. Guide the medical staff as they try to help, please smooth out all the details with this whole process. Let things go more smoothly than anyone expects. Let the the gracious hand of our Lord Jesus Christ upon Jan & Don's lives be evident to all. Let Jan & Don feel Your mighty hand, help them rest in it, keep their hearts & minds steadfast, steadfast in Your perfect peace. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 20, 2005
Please pray for Marcus. He is going in for a heart catheter on Thursday, I don't have the details of the time. Brigitte is very worried and beside herself, her boy is the world to her and please could keep them in our prayers.
Thanks bunches...
hugs~LauraJ {submitted by Cindy}

For Marcus & Brigitte
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.
Thank You Lord for Your promise to always uphold us and never leave or forsake us. Please help Brigitte & Marcus hang on tight to Your promises, let them feel You with them -- leading them thru this. Also guide the medical staff as they try to help. Please place the right people in the right place at the right times. Thank You Lord that there is healing in Your touch, continue to place Your healing hand on Marcus. Let this situation bring glory to His name. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 19, 2005
Anxious Prayers

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.

Lord, help each heart grow and deepen in trust of You and Your promises. Help us wait for You and Your leading. Thank You Lord that Your timing is perfect, never too early or too late.

Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.
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July 18, 2005
Is Your Heart Hungry?

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?

Is your heart this hungry for Jesus? This is a hunger that only the Lord Jesus Christ can satisfy. The following song expresses this hunger -- this longing for the Lord.

Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."

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

Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty."

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

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

Lord, create within each heart, a hunger a longing for You and Your will. Help each heart come to You Lord, to be satisifed. Help us each taste & see that You are good. Thank You Lord that You are the bread of life and the living water. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 18, 2005
Hello everyone,I am asking for prayer for me and my family.We are leaving in the morning going on a vacation,and I would like prayer that we make it safely to and from.We will be gone until Friday.Please also pray that we are kept safe while we are there,and everyone that isn't going will be safe while we are gone.I'm looking forward to this vacation,but I have a tendency to worry about everything so please pray that I also have peace of mind.
Thank you so much,
God Bless You All,
Love Valerie

For Valerie & family
Thank You Lord that You are our refuge, our safety. Keep Valerie & family safe - both those traveling & those staying home, be a shield about them. Lord please bless this vacation time. If any worry or stress arise, lift each one's head to You and give them Your peace. Thank You Lord that You are our glory and the lifter of our heads.
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July 18, 2005
Please keep my family in prayer. On July 8th, I spoke with my daughter whom I gave up for adoption 27 years ago. She’s a beautiful young woman. This is an exciting time and I’m still in shock. My youngest daughter Cheryl is having some difficulties with our reconnection. My daughter Jessica is great with this but is also experiencing some insecurities as well. It’s been an emotional week as I’ve been talking and email Tasha and I’m really excited to meet her. Paul and I are going to Ottawa on July 26th. Please pray for peace for everyone! Please pray that the Lord will show me how I can assure my family that they are loved and important and that the Lord will give me the words. My hearts desire is to be all God wants me to be, and do all that he wants me to do. Please pray all will go well. Thanks.
Linda

For Linda & family
Thank You Lord for making this meeting between Linda & Tasha possible. Thank You Lord that You are sovereign, please smooth out the details of this meeting and bringing all together as a family. Give each the words to accomplish this. Open each one's heart & mind to fulfill Your purposes. Thank You Lord that Your love endures forever -- surround this family with Your unfailing love.
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July 18, 2005
Paivi needs Prayer her husband died in his sleep last night.

Jeannie just had a baby 2 months ago now she found out she has breast cancer it was a Miracle baby we need to Pray for her Healing and we need to Pray for her husband Robby and baby Lindsey and there family's.

Sheila needs Healing from scleraderma.

Patty husband needs a Healing from glaucoma.

Dale needs a Miracle Healing in his body too.
Thanks Melody

For Paivi, Jeanie & family, Sheila, Patty's husband, Dale
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 as they do this their needs will be supplied according to Your glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
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For all
Lord help each we have lifted up look to You, rely on You. Thank You Lord, that as they look to You, the gracious hand of our Lord Jesus Christ is upon them and their minds will be kept in perfect peace. Keep their minds & hearts steadfast. Glory be to God! In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 16, 2005
I have not been allowd to see my grandboys or call them since Oct. 2004. My grandboys are now 3 & 4. This Tuesday at 9:00 my husband & I stand B4 a judge in a hearing with a petition for to seek grandparent rights for visitation. Please pray for us and that the judge is compassionate and fair and will agree to take our case forward, we were told he can refuse our petition because of certain criteria we have to meet and if he sees we did not show unreasonable deniel of visitation. I also continue to ask for prayer that my daughter softens her heart and does not use her children as pawns any longer and the Lord forgive her for taking our grandchildren away from us.
Love, Peace & Joy - Carol

For Carol, grandboys & family
Thank You Lord that our times are in your hands; that You are our deliverer. Let your face shine on this situation; save each in your unfailing love. Allow Your guidance & wisdom to shine thru on tuesday in court. Soften hearts & heal relationships. Deepen these relationships in the Lord Jesus Christ.
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.
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July 14, 2005
Sis.Julie Macapagal needs Healing from Leukemia.
Thanks Melody

For Sister Julie Macapagal
Thank You Lord that there is healing in Your touch. Please touch Sister Julie where Your healing is needed. Guide the medical staff, family & friends as they try to help. Place the right people in the right places at the right times. Thank You Lord that Your timing is perfect.
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July 14, 2005
Please pray for a woman I know. (Pauline D.) She had a serious drinking problem some years ago. She stopped drinking but her daughter believes that some problems she is now having may be a result(s) of that's going on now. She is in the hospital. Her daughter knows that I am asking for prayer. As far as I know, she is not a believer. Please pray that her recovery will bring Glory to God.
Saundra

For Pauline D.
Thank You Lord that You know what Pauline needs before we ask. Please draw Pauline close, use this situation to bring her & others to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, deepen faith in Jesus. Glory be to God! Please help Pauline approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that she may receive mercy and find grace to help them in her time of need.
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For all
Lord help each look to You, rely on You. Thank You Lord, that as they look to You, the gracious hand of our Lord Jesus Christ is upon them and their minds will be kept in perfect peace. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 14, 2005
Deep Within

There is no one holy [ Or no Holy One ] like the LORD; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God.

Hannah was barren and her husband’s other wife tormented her because of it. In those days, to be barren was to appear to be cursed of God. As she was pouring out her heart to God in anguish at the tabernacle, the priest Eli thought she was drunk. He rebuked her for it, but then heard her explanation. He asked the LORD to grant her request. She promised to give the child back to the LORD. She bore little Samuel. After she gave birth, she sang the prayer in 1 Samuel 2. That prayer includes the above verse. Hannah's song to the Lord shows that she was filled with awe & wonder, her heart was full.

Isn't it wonderful to praise the Lord like this? True praise comes from deep within one's heart, one's soul. When one's heart like Hannah's is so full, you can't help but praise with Your whole being, you can't help but sing -- sing to the Lord!

Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the LORD, O my soul...

Lord fill each of us with the wonder & awe of Your Holiness. Let us praise you with our whole hearts, with all our souls -- with all that is within us! In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

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July 13, 2005
Salt Makes One Thirsty
From http://www.rbc.org/odb/odb-07-13-05.shtml

You are the salt of the earth.

Salt makes one thirsty. Does your life make others thirsty for the water of life?

How could this thirst for the water of life be started?
Look at the example of Paul & Silas.

Paul and Silas, thrown into prison for the gospel's sake, provoked a deep spiritual question in the heart of their jailer. This question was raised not because they had preached a three-point sermon at him but because they prayed and sang hymns to God. When an earthquake opened the prison doors and broke their chains, the jailer was about to kill himself, fearing that he would be put to death if his prisoners escaped. But Paul and Silas stopped him by choosing to stay in prison for his sake. At this he cried out, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" (Acts 16:30).

Lord help each of us be salt and light to others. Help us each live in such a way that others will ask "what must I do to be saved?". In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

http://us.f3.yahoofs.com/users/42906422z56898801/37a0/__sr_/d2a1.jpg?phsDQ1CBD7FKKDCc

If you can't see the above image click below:

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/karen_trustlord/detail?.dir=/37a0&.dnm=d2a1.jpg&.src=ph&.tok=ph6O6SDB8UD5VXPc
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July 12, 2005
Praise the Lord in ALL circumstances! I just want to thank God for all His goodness. Even though my interview w/ the Immigration didn't go well as expected, I know the Lord has better things waiting for me. Only He knows why I was denied to join my husband overseas. Thank you Jesus, may your will be done. Amen.
Joanie.

For Joanie & Husband
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Thank You Lord that You can bring good out of any situation. Thank You for the love You have put in Joanie & husband's hearts, continue to let this love for You deepen & grow, help each hang on tightly to their faith during this period of waiting.
The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O LORD, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.
Lord please fulfill Your purposes for Joanie & husband. Thank You that Your love endures forever. Continue to surround Joanie & husband with Your love in very real ways. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 12, 2005
Please pray for Sierra. She is not well - the medical staff have become negative even sort of "accusing" Sierra's family of "prolonging the inevitable". Please pray for God's guidance & protection.
Thanks Cindy
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July 12, 2005
Marcus will have a procedure done tomorrow at 3 pm hopefully. Please pray that God's hand in on his life. Also that God gives us the strength to face whatever may come in the next few weeks.
Thanks {submitted by Cindy}
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For Sierra & family, Marcus/Bridgette & family, Zora & Lynette, Ruby & Angie, Zach & Cindy, Billy & Nicky, Junior, Zach, Ivy, baby boy (lisa), Clayton, Joshua
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 these children (& families) to You through our prayers. Lord please touch them with Your healing love, let Your love bring what is needed. Let all continue to see Your hand upon each life. Hold them close to Your heart.
Thank You Lord that You will spread your protection over them, that You will surround them with your favor as with a shield.
Thank You Lord that he who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. Help each rest in Your shadow. Thank You that as they trust in You, You will renew their strength, moment by moment, day by day. Keep each heart steadfast, focused on Jesus. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 12, 2005
Thank y'all for safe traveling - all got back home safe.PRAISE GOD!
Melody

Thank You Lord that You are our safety! Thank You for answered prayer.
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July 12, 2005
Please pray for my friend Shelby. She is not very strong in her faith.(If I am wrong, I ask for forgiveness) Shelby has been told by her doctor that she needs surgery on both knees. Please pray for her healing and that she will see that God healed her. Let her healing bring glory to God. I thank God that by His stripes she is healed.
I thank God for all of you.
Saundra

For Shelby
Thank You Lord that by Your holy stripes we are healed. Please draw Shelby close and use this situation to strengthen her faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Let the healing You bring to her also draw others to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus. Glory be to God!
Thank You Lord that as Shelby trust & relys on You, Your unfailing love will surround her. Let her feel Your love in very real ways. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 12, 2005
Zora needs prayer, not sure what's wrong. She's lost 7 to 10 lbs since surgery two weeks ago. She's been having seizures again last few days.
Lynnette (submitted by Cindy)

For Zora & Lynette
Thank You Lord for the surgery two weeks agao. Please allow this surgery to accomplish what it is supposed to. Please continue to protect Zora from infection, relieve any discomfort or pain.
Thank You Lord that he who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. Help Zora & Lynette rest in Your shadow. Thank You that as they trust in You, You will renew their strength, moment by moment, day by day. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 11, 2005
Adversity Quotes

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

These quotes about adversity brought a smile to my face & encouragement. Hope they do the same for you!

• Adversity is the diamond dust with which Heaven polishes its jewels. No pressure, no diamonds.

• If you can find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn't lead anywhere.

• A cloud may overshadow for a time, but a true christian's faith will discern the rainbow in it.

• God may calm the storm around you, but more often He'll calm the storm within you.

• The brook would lose its song if you removed the stones.

• Remember, it is not the burdens of life that weigh us down, it is how we handle them.

• Trials are not enemies of faith but are opportunities to prove God's faithfulness.

• When it gets dark enough, you can see the stars. -- Charles A. Beard

• Flowers smell sweetest after a shower.

• Grace grows better in the winter. -- S. Rutherford

• Storms make oaks take deeper root. -- George Herbert
  Oaks grow strong in contrary winds.
  Good timber does not grow with ease. The stronger the wind the stronger the trees.

• In times of affliction we commonly meet with the sweetest experiences of the love of God. -- John Bunyan
  When the storm blew hardest, the smiles of my Lord were at the sweetest. -- John Cochran
  In the sorest trials God often makes the sweetest discoveries of Himself.

The key to getting through any challenge is faith -- believing what our eyes cannot see.

I believe in the sun even when it's not shining,
I believe in love even when I feel it not,
I believe in God even when He seems silent.

For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has?

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Thank You Lord for Your grace. Help us each remember to fix our eyes not on what is seen and remember things are not always as they appear. Thank You Lord for the hope that is found in our Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 10, 2005
Ruby rolled over!{A special needs child) I felt like I was witnessing a miracle! Thank you Jesus for this wonderful developmental milestone! I am so thankful!

Keep us in your prayers - we will be very busy in the upcoming weeks.
Hugs and love,
Angie and Ruby (Submitted by Cindy)
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My son Marcus is in the hospital for bleeding in his right side lung. He has had many problems with this lung in the past. I have a whole lot on my plate right now but wanted to fill you in.

I am asking for those of who pray to please do so because I am worried. When a mother has seen so much in her child, it's not a good thing when mom is scared. I am sure you know what I mean.
Bridgitte (Submitted by Cindy)
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For Ruby & Angie, Marcus & Bridgitte, Zach & Cindy, Billy & Nicky, Junior, Zach, Ivy, baby boy (lisa), Clayton, Joshua
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 these children (& families) to You through our prayers. Lord please touch them with Your healing love, let Your love bring what is needed. Let all continue to see Your hand upon each life. Hold them close to Your heart.
Thank You Lord that You will spread your protection over them, that You will surround them with your favor as with a shield. In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.
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July 8, 2005
Too Hard?

Sovereign LORD, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for You.

At the very time when the Chaldeans surrounded Jerusalem, and when the sword, famine and pestilence had desolated the land, Jeremiah was commanded by God to purchase a field, and have the deed of transfer legally sealed and witnessed. This was a strange purchase for a rational man to make. There was only a slim chance that Jeremiah could ever enjoy the possession. But it was enough for Jeremiah that his God had commanded him, he knew the power of his God and he reasoned that nothing was too hard for the maker of heaven and earth.

Like Noah who built a ship on dry land, Abraham who offered up his only son, Moses who despised the treasures of Egypt, Joshua who beseiged Jericho seven days, using no weapons but the blasts of rams' horns, they all acted upon God's command inspite of reason. Inspite of how things 'looked'. They each had faith that nothing was too hard for their God.

Thank You Lord that you are sovereign. Let each of us come to a place in our faith where we can boldly say with Jeremiah, that nothing is too hard for the God that created the heavens and the earth. Let us each say this inspite of reason or how things appear. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

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July 6, 2005
Sierra is going to be admitted today to the hospital. Her seizures have not gotten any better, and her doctors have told me we have maxed out on the medications. They want to have her admitted for observation to try to get them under control. Her oxygen level has also dropped, and she is not looking well.
Thanks {Submitted by Cindy}

For Sierra
Sovereign LORD, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for You.
Thank You Lord that You are sovereign, let this truth sink deep into Sierra & families hearts. Please by Your great power, outstretch Your mighty arm to help Sierra. Rebuke these seizures. Guide the medical staff & family as they try to help. Please place the right people at the right places at the right times. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 8, 2005
Please pray for my Fiance Joy. She has fallen in despair for there is a mobile home she wanted to move into but now she hears she needs a rental referrel. She has none for she was living under the rule of a tyrant. She's afaraid if she cant get a home we cant be together and she loses everything. Please pray that God somehow reassures her that she is loved and not to give up.
THanks Jim C

For Joy & Jim
Thank You Lord that You know our needs before we ask. Please help Joy & Jim approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that they may receive mercy and find grace to help them in their time of need. Help them not to give up.
Thank You Lord that Your love surrounds the one who trusts in You. Let this situation deepen Joy & Jim's faith in You. Surround them with Your love. Let Your love bless their engagement & marriage. Let Your love bring encouragement. Thank You Lord that You are faithful, and Your love endures forever. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 8, 2005
I would like y'all to Pray my sister kim and husband lynn and 3 sons hunter, hayden, hyatt and all the rest of there family have safe traveling to there family reunion and safe traveling back to there homes to and would y'all Pray that God would keep his Protected Hands on them evrywhere they go and everywhere there at and that God would keep his Protected hands on them everything they do. I would like y'all to Pray for everyone that travels by land,sea,air they will have safe traveling everywhere they go and safe traveling back where there staying and safe traveling back to there homes when they go home.
Thanks Melody

For Kim & family
Thank You Lord that You will watch over their comings & goings both now & forevermore. Keep them each safe as they travel to & from their reunion. Lord please give Your angels charge over all their ways, pour Your blessings out on this reunion. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 7, 2005
Take Your Time

Then Jesus said, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest."

Ever notice how Jesus was never in a hurry? Even when crowds were 'pressing' in on him? Could it be because He took time to go to a quiet place and rest? Or that He took time to seek the Father's will?

A cute example...
A guy was late for his appointment. He drove around the block two or three times. He couldn't find a parking space. He pulled over into a red zone and left a note saying, "This is an absolute emergency. I promise -- I guarantee -- I'll be back in fifteen minutes." He ran up the stairs, made his presentation, watching his watch the entire time and came back down in twelve minutes flat. There was a ticket on his window. At the bottom the cop had written, "Take your time!"

Have you ever felt like this? Maybe it's time to slow down, seek the Father's will. Maybe it's simply time to rest in His presence.

A tranquil heart gives life to the body

Why is this so important? Maybe it's because things don't always go as 'we' plan.

If you can't see above picture click below:

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/karen_trustlord/detail?.dir=/bf20&.dnm=b277.jpg&.src=ph&.tok=ph.p7QDBaMTwVYPW

Lord help us each remember to come away from the crowds and rest awhile in You. Help each of us be at peace in You, and be willing to give up our plans to follow Yours. Thank You that a heart at peace gives life. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ - Prince of Peace {Isaiah 9:6}.
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July 6, 2005
Please keep Jack Jack & Susie in your prayers. Jack Jack was back in the hospital for 5 days. He had Pseudomonis bacteria down in his lungs on top of the Adnovirus infection in his lungs as well. The docs said that he was lucky that neither one of his lungs collapsed. They are home now, it will take about 2 weeks for him to fully recover.
Thanks Cindy

For Jack Jack & Susie
Thank You Lord for bringing Jack Jack thru this, please continue the healing that You have begun in his body & life. Help him to breathe with Your breath, Your strength.
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July 6, 2005
Could you please pray?
Besides praying that Mario studies regularly with full dedication, also pray that he grows in Christ.

- That my husband Jeff can meet his targets in his job (he has not had a job for nearly 10 years out of his own will) and that he may stay in good health and continues to grow in Christ.

- That my faith in God increases, and that I have a job after I retire in January 2007, and may not get the symptoms of Bipolar ever again.
God bless you and your mission.
Cynthia

For Mario, Cynthia, Jeff
Thank You Lord that Your love endures forever. Please fulfill Your purposes for each, help each grow in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, help deepen their faith. Continue to help Mario in his studies, Jeff & Cynthia at their jobs. Hold them close and keep each safe.
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July 6, 2005

For Bobby Lee & Kevin, Donna W., Jackie
Thank You Lord that our help comes from You, the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. Thank You that You watch over our lives. Help each look to You, rely on You. Thank You that as each does this they will be kept safe and they will find strength to hang on and keep going.
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For all
Thank You Lord that Your unfailing love surrounds the one who trusts in You. Help each turn to You, trust You, and feel Your unfailing love surround them. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 5, 2005
Peace

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.

Peace is
knowing that in the midst of any storm, the one who can calm any storm, the Lord Jesus Christ is with you by your side.

Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, "Peace, be still!" And the wind ceased and there was a great calm.

If you can't see above picture click below:

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/karen_trustlord/detail?.dir=/bf20&.dnm=c911.jpg&.src=ph&.tok=phzoQQDBZe8PfHdZ

Thank You Lord that You are with us wherever we go. Thank You that You can calm any storm - both storms around & within. When faced with a storm, help each of us remember to come to You and listen for Your words "Peace, be still!". Thank You that as we do this we will experience this great calm. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 5, 2005
Dear family in Christ,
Please for God's VICTORY for my husband and I on 7/6/05 (this coming Wednesday) We have a very important interview with the Immigration (INS), which will determine whether I join my husband in his new post in Africa (Guenea Bissau). I know prayer changes things. I need your prayers. May the Lord bless you in Jesus Christ name. Amen Thanks,Joanie

For Joanie & husband
It was not by their sword that they won the land, nor did their arm bring them victory; it was your right hand, your arm, and the light of your face, for you loved them.
Lord bring Your victory to Joanie & husband. Let them feel Your presence in a very real way on 7/6/05. Let them know that You are right there with them, fighting for them. Please smooth out the details regarding this post in Africa.
Let the light of your face shine upon them, O LORD. Thank You Lord that as they trust in You, their hearts will be filled with great joy and the gracious hand of our Lord Jesus Christ will be upon them. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 3, 2005
Would you please continue to pray for me and the job I have at CAA (Canadian Automobile Association). I am still learning but it is at times very stressful. I am praying for success and that I do assist all whom I speak with as a Member Care Counselor for Emergency Road Service. This weekend Ontario has the big concert (Big 8) in Barrie which is an area our office covers….I pray for those who attend this massive concert and for the counselors and drivers who are working with this public….Please pray that I am able to maintain my phone manners, be an active listener and truly address the issue with each person that calls. I worked last week and I had a terrible time with one person that left a mark on me…this person was truly very rude and very incommunicative…also, please pray for all of your family and friends (tell them so too) to always know where they are…we get phone-calls from people who haven’t a clue where they are but expect us to know the minute we pick up the phone so its so important to watch where you are and remember in the event you need Emergency Road Service…I praise God for the opportunity and I am praying for the opportunity to get on the midnight schedule where I would work more hours and they would be consistent. I need God’s hand always and I pray that I feel his presence.
Blessings and thanks!
Linda

For Linda
Lord help Linda remember that You are always with her wherever she is, bring this to her mind especially when she starts to feel stressed. Thank You Lord that You are our calm in the midst of any storm. Let Your presence bring this calm to Linda, let it be evident to others as she does her job. Thank You Lord for providing for Linda, continue to guide her and hold her close.
Lord help Linda continue to look to You, rely on You. Thank You Lord, that as she does this, the gracious hand of our Lord Jesus Christ is upon her and her mind will be kept in perfect peace. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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July 1, 2005
Hope & Refuge

He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

Hope is ...

       knowing where to find refuge.

The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.

My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn {Horn here symbolizes strength.} of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior.

But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.

The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.

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

How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

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...

Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go; give the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress.

The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.

Thank You Lord for the hope You give us thru the Lord Jesus Christ. Let each of us grow strong in this hope. Thank You that as we do this our trust in You will deepen and we will find refuge. Cover each of us with Your feathers, Your care, Your love. Thank You Lord for Your faithfulness. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

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July 1, 2005
Please continue to pray for co-worker Linda. She had surgery for her brain tumor and was able to marry as planned BUT is still "not out of the woods". We all believe she has cancer BUT has not told anyone anything. Financially, she are her new husband are struggling. Please keep her in prayer.
Thank you Ruth

For Linda & husband
Thank You Lord that there is healing in Your touch. Please touch Linda where Your healing is needed. Let Your mercy & love bring what is needed. Thank You Lord that You are our peace & security. Let each experience Your healing and rest in Your peace, Your security. Lord, let Your grace fall upon each of them. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.