May 2005 Log

********************************************************
********************************************************
May 31, 2005
Following Close

John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

Have you ever noticed that you seek Jesus more or try to follow Him more closely during a trial?

I read an email today that compared this to driving thru the fog. In the fog you can't see clearly, you can't see very far in front of yourself. So you must slow down.

This email pointed out an interesting thing. The signs on the side of the road seem to leap out as headlights hit them in the fog. There is no way you can miss the exit signs and in the fog you are going slow enough to make the turn off.

Trials are like driving thru the fog. You are desperately “groping for the light” and trying to find your way. You feel panicked because it seems no doors are opening before you.

Consider this, maybe the Lord wants you to learn to continue on in faith, placing your trust in Him like a little child, even though you can’t see the road. Maybe He wants you to follow closely so you don't miss a specific 'door' or exit sign He wants you to take. Just like the exit sign hightlighted in the fog, you can't miss it. After a while of continuing along, not knowing where to go or what to do, when the exit sign comes up it will be so obvious you will not be able to miss it.

Hope this thought encourages you as much as it did me! It never occurred to me that the Lord could use trials this way.

So follow the Lord even closer as you enter the fog,
you may risk losing your way at times,
but if you reach for Christ's hand and hang on tight,
He'll uphold you and show You the right door to go thru.
He is the way!

For Saundra; Sam; Ruth; Gloria; Melody; Jeanette; Grace; Glen; Evelyn; Cindy; Chris; Bryony; Gina; Charlene ; Phil; Karen; Valerie; Ian; Irene; Linda; Nubia; Brenda; Frances; Maggie; Samantha; Lynn; Joanie; Sylvia; Juanita; Robert

Carol B., Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol C., Donna W.

Thank You for the Lord Jesus Christ who is the way. Help each of us to remember to follow close. When we enter a trial help us to remember that Jesus knows the way and is preparing the right 'exit' and that we will be upheld.

********************************************************
********************************************************
May 28, 2005
Season of Singing

Song of Solomon 2:10-12 My lover spoke and said to me, "Arise, my darling, my beautiful one, and come with me. See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land. "

The flowers are singing of the goodness of the Lord to counter "hope deferred makes the heart sick" (Proverbs 13:12).

The Lord is ushering us into the season of praise - at this time when darkness looms over the earth, and the threat of terrorism/war is very real. Yet there is a beat, a step, a rhythm, a song that Heaven is sending down to us, and we are to move in sync with it, for it is a mighty weapon of praise that will counter the assignment of death.

Ecc 3:1,4 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:
a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance,

Isaiah 60:1-2
The Glory of Zion
Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you.

Psalm 99:2-3,5,9 Great is the LORD in Zion; he is exalted over all the nations.
Let them praise your great and awesome name— he is holy.
Exalt the LORD our God and worship at his footstool; he is holy.
Exalt the LORD our God and worship at his holy mountain, for the LORD our God is holy.

Carol B., Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol C., Donna W.

Lord, help each of us to remember to 'sing' of the goodness of the Lord. Thank You that as each does this the glory of the Lord will rise and counter any darkness. Praise the Lord - He is Holy. In the neame of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Psalm 121:5-8 The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life;
the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

********************************************************
********************************************************
May 26, 2005
Eagles Arise!

Isaiah 40:31 But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.

Psalm 27:14 Wait for the LORD ; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.

I love the image of an eagle with it's wings spread out waiting in anticipation, waiting for the air/wind to lift him higher. The way an eagle soars seems effortless all the lifting power & strength come from the wind.

This image of the eagle together with these verses seem to say, wait on the Lord, spread Your wings and in the Lord's timing, step out into your destiny, claim your God - given gifts. By the Lord's strength & power, by the very breath of God you will soar.

Carol B., Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol C., Donna W.

Thank You Lord for the strength and hope that come from waiting on You. Help each of us be an eagle who spreads its wings and waits for Your timing to step out and soar in Your strength and power. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Psalm 106:1 Praise the LORD. {Hallelu Yah} Give thanks to the LORD , for he is good; his love endures forever.
Thank You Lord for answered prayer! Please bless Melissa in her new job, continue to guide her steps.

********************************************************
I have another request for ANOTHER co-worker - Linda. She became sick at work last night & was taken to a local hospital by ambulance.She is also scheduled to be married in 2 1/2 weeks (June 11) Right now she does not recognize anyone & preliminary tests show a brain tumor. She is going to be transferred to another hospital for further evaluation as soon as possible. May she have divine total healing & be able to marry as planned.
Thank you Ruth

For Linda & family
Jeremiah 29:11-13, Matthew 19:26 Thank You Lord that You know the plans You have for each, plans to prosper and not to harm, plans to give hope and a future. Let Linda & family get a glimpse of Your plans for each of them. Thank You Lord that You are a God who heals. We bring Linda to You thru our prayers, let Your healing hand on Linda be evident to all - Glory be to God! Please give Linda a clear mind and protect the plans for Linda's marriage. Thank You Lord that Your timing is perfect and all things are possible with You.
Romans 5:1-2 Thank You Lord that we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ by faith! Let each one's faith in Jesus Christ bring the peace of the Lord.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 25, 2005
Nathan's surgery is scheduled for this Friday at 12:00 please pray that everything is ok and that this will be it for a while. I will let everyone know how the surgery went on Friday evening. Love to all.
AliciaMarie

For Nathan & family
James 5:15, Luke 6:19 Thank You Lord that the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick and that there is healing in Your touch. We bring Nathan before You thru our prayers, please touch him - he despatrately needs Your healing touch upon his life. Please allow the surgery to go smoothly on friday, place the right people in the right place at the right time. Let Your healing touch on Nathan be evident to all and draw many to a closer relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.
Ezra 8:21-23; Isaiah 26:3 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. Help keep their minds steadfast. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

********************************************************
********************************************************
May 24, 2005
No Eye Has Seen

1 Corinthians 2:9 No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him.

Philippians 4:19 And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

Isaiah 64:4 Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.

Philippians 3:8 What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord...

I love idea of linking the image of a butterfly emerging from it's cocoon and taking flight to No Eye Has Seen.

Spending time in the cocoon waiting may seem like nothing is happening -- but a transformation occurs -- the at the right time the butterfly emerges and takes flight!

Be who you are in Jesus Christ and step into your destiny. In the Lord's timing come out of the cocoon and be a beautiful butterfly. Let your relationship with Christ, your love of Christ transform you into the beautiful butterfly Christ has prepared you to be.

Carol B., Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol C., Donna W.

Thank You Lord for the gift of knowing and loving the Lord Jesus Christ. Let this relationship and love transform each of us. Let us each fulfill our destinies and become who we are in Jesus. Thank You that the more we know Christ, the more our love for Him and others grows and also the more we are transformed. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

********************************************************
********************************************************
May 23, 2005
Abundance

2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

Ephesains 1:7-8 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.

Ephesians 3:20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,

2 Corinthians 12:9 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.

Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 5:5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

1 Thess 3:12 May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.

Carol B., Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol C., Donna W.

Thank You Lord for Your abundance of grace, power, joy, peace, hope and love. Please pour out Your abundance on each of us thru Your Holy Spirit. In the name of the Lord Jesus Chrsit.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 21, 2005
Praise: I just wanted to say THANK YOU! I was offered and accepted the Member Care Counselor (Inbound Call Centre) with CAA. I begin training on May 30th. I'm really excited. This is a great opportunity for learning and for growth and I'm really thankful for all that you have done. Though I have excellent customer service skills (lots of practice) and my computer skills are good, being in a call centre is something I've never done before and I hope and pray I do really well. Again,you are all truly awesome.

Thinking of you this wonderful May weekend and hope everyone has a great one.
Linda D.

1 Chronicles 16:34 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
Thank You Lord for this opportunity for Linda. Please bless her as she starts her new job. Let all see Your peace, joy, love shine thru Linda in her work at the center. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Colossians 1:18 He is the head of the body, the church, . . . that in all things He may have the supremacy.

Worship was on my mind. There are alot of things that might distract during worship: children needing attention, other people talking, hitting the right notes {or the wrong ones}, sound equipment, video equipment etc....

Then I read "Single Focus" the above link from the daily bread. The example of the photo with more than one focus really highlighted how having more that one focus affects the picture. When more than one focus is present it's hard to decide what the subject of the photo is - what the purpose of the picture is. When there is a single focus in the center of the photo - the subject and purpose of the photo become clear.

If Christ is to be seen clearly in our worship or our lives, He must be our single focus in the center of 'the photo'.

Carol B., Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol C., Donna W.

Lord help each of us make Jesus the center, the single focus of our lives. Thank You that as each does this the Lord Jesus Christ will be seen & known more clearly.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 19, 2005
Praise: Thank you for your prayers...I went for the interview and I was very relaxed throughout. I felt the interview went truly very well. My references are being called and I should know by Friday. I praise and thank the Lord for this interview. It was truly enjoyable and I so felt the Lord's presence. If I don't get the position, then I know it's not what God wants and another door shall open. If I do get this position, I praise and thank the Lord for the opportunity. God truly is awesome.
Blessings and peace to you,
Linda

Ezra 8:21-23; Isaiah 26:3 Thank You Lord for Your hand upon Linda. Continue to guide her in this job search. Thank You for continuing to provide her the peace that passes all understanding.
********************************************************
May 19, 2005
I went to the doctor today the plan is medication and if not better by Friday MRI and then they will decide if I need surgery.... I have complete faith God is going to make this all ok... the last 5 days with this back has been very humbling... it really showed me how vulnerable me and Z are to me being able to care for him and it gave me a sense of appreciation that even though it's hard sometimes caring for him, that this is the only thing I want to do is to keep my baby with me....
Thanks for all your prayers
Cindy

For Cindy & Zach
Deuteronomy 32:4 He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.
Lord, thank You that Cindy & Zach are in Your hands, You are their security and You are faithful. We lift up hte care of Cindy & Zach to You. Please heal Cindy's back. Thank You that You will continue to show Cindy how to care for Zach. Let them both feel the peace of Your presence carrying them thru. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ our healer & redeemer.
********************************************************
May 19, 2005
Praise: I got the letter from the Bureau of Consumer Affairs with the State, that I've been accepted to 'retire' my vehicle and receive $1,000 for it!! I just have to get some paperwork from DMV and take it to one of their designated car dismantlers. For this good news, I am extremely grateful! That $$ is going towards the purchase of a newer car, God willing, very soon. Please continue to pray for God's will to remove any and all barriers to this process. Thanks! Lynn

Genesis 22:14, Matthew 6:8, Isaiah 48:17 Thank You Lord that You are a Lord that provides, You know what each needs before we ask. Thank You for this provision of money towards a car for Lynn. Continue to show her which way to go in this car search. Thanks be to God!

********************************************************
********************************************************
May 19, 2005
Delight in the Lord

Psalm 37:4-6 Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.

Psalm 22:8 He trusts in the LORD; let the LORD rescue him. Let him deliver him, since he delights in Him.

1 Samuel 2:1 Then Hannah prayed and said: "My heart rejoices in the LORD; in the LORD my horn [ Horn here symbolizes strength] is lifted high. My mouth boasts over my enemies, for I delight in your deliverance.

Our hope is in the LORD, both now & in the future! He is the basis of our security and the reason for our joy! This joy, this delight in the Lord is our strength.

Philippians 4:4-5 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

Carol B., Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol C.

Lord, help us each rejoice in You always, in good times and in bad. Remind each of us that this delight in the Lord is our strength.

Psalm 5:11 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.

********************************************************
********************************************************
May 18, 2005
Jesus is My All in All

Philippians 4:19 And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

Jesus is My All in All, He is:
Strength to the Weak	Isaiah 40:29	He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Rest to the Weary	Matthew 11:28	Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Sight to the Blind	Psalm 146:8	the LORD gives sight to the blind, the LORD lifts up those who are bowed down, the LORD loves the righteous.
Hope to the Hopeless	1 Peter 1:3	Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
Comfort to the Mourning	Matthew 5:4	Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Peace to the Troubled	John 16:33	I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
Feet to the Lame	Isaiah 35:6	Then will the lame leap like a deer
Ears to the Deaf	Isaiah 35:5	Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped.
Food to the Hungry	John 6:35	Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry..."
Water to the Thirsty	John 4:13-14	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."
Light to those in Darkness	John 8:12	I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.
Shepherd to His Sheep	John 10:11	I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

Carol B., Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol C.

Thank You Lord for the glorious riches found in the Lord Jesus Christ. Open each of our hearts to see the many blessings You have given us. Fill our hearts with joy and our mouthes with praise! In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Psalm 28:7 The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.

"To the angel of the church in Laodicea write:
These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God's creation. I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."

Isaiah 60:1-2
Arise, shine; For your light has come!And the glory of the LORD is risen upon you.
For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, And deep darkness the people;
But the LORD will arise over you, And His glory will be seen upon you.

Haggai 2:6-9
“For thus says the LORD of hosts: ‘Once more (it is a little while) I will shake heaven and earth, the sea and dry land; and I will shake all nations, and they shall come to the Desire of All Nations, and I will fill this temple with glory,’ says the LORD of hosts. ‘The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine,’ says the LORD of hosts. ‘The glory of this latter temple shall be greater than the former,’ says the LORD of hosts. ‘And in this place I will give peace,’ says the LORD of hosts.”

2 Corinthians 3:7-18
Now if the ministry that brought death, which was engraved in letters on stone, came with glory, so that the Israelites could not look steadily at the face of Moses because of its glory, fading though it was, will not the ministry of the Spirit be even more glorious? If the ministry that condemns men is glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry that brings righteousness! For what was glorious has no glory now in comparison with the surpassing glory. And if what was fading away came with glory, how much greater is the glory of that which lasts!

Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold. We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to keep the Israelites from gazing at it while the radiance was fading away. But their minds were made dull, for to this day the same veil remains when the old covenant is read. It has not been removed, because only in Christ is it taken away. Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflectthe Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

Colossians 3:11
... Christ is all in all.

Ephesians 1:22-23
And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.

As the dark becomes darker and the light becomes lighter -- those in the light will have a better understanding of what it means for Christ to be their all in all. They will be filled with more and more of His presence -- His glory. The kingdom of men will fall - under the feet of the kingdom of Christ.

Revelation 21:1-4, 22-27

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."

...

I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life.

Wings & Waves of Glory:
https://www.angelfire.com/jazz/karen_trust/PrayerLog/Sep2006.html#WingsGlory

Matthew 6:8, Phil 4:19, Ephesians 3:16-21 Thank You Lord that You know what each needs before we ask. Thank You that our needs are supplied thru the glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Touch each heart with what is needed today & always. Let each be strengthened out of Christ's glorious riches so that Christ may dwell and grow stronger within each heart through faith. Let this faith in Christ be visible to others, let the fullness of God fill & shine thru each life. Thank You that as each is touched with the fullness of God - there will be salvation, healing, guidance, comfort & joy - the fruit of the Spirit will be evident to all. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Galatains 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

********************************************************
********************************************************
May 17, 2005
Waiting On the Lord
From "Standing in the Storm" -- by Dr. Charles Stanley

Sunday April 17, 2005
Standing in the Storm
Psalm 62

One of the most prevalent challenges of the Christian walk is the charge to wait upon the Lord. It sometimes seems to tear against our every fiber to step back and choose not to act on our own in the midst of a storm. Amid your trouble, do you wait on the Lord, or do you quickly act to alleviate the pressure?

David had to learn to wait upon the Lord. As his enemy, King Saul, hunted him down, David waited for the better part of 15 years while hiding out in caves and living in the wilderness. Yet he penned Psalm 62 amid his troubles, and God has preserved it as wonderful instruction for us today.

No matter how harsh your storm or how deep your grief or trouble, God is in control, and all He asks is that you trustfully wait upon Him. David even said that he would do so in silence, not moaning, not begging. Just trusting. This is not standing idly by; rather, it is a pro-active choice to wait in expectation that God will equip and sustain you during the storm and ultimately deliver you in whatever manner He chooses.

You may want to mark Isaiah 64:4 in your Bible. In moments of struggle, turn to this passage and Psalm 62 as reminders that God, in your patience, is diligently working for you.

There is no other God besides Him, who acts in behalf of the one who waits for Him.

Isaiah 64:4 Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.

The Lord is still working on me in the area of waiting on Him. Waiting sounds simple but is very difficult for me. Most of the time that I get discouraged - it's because I get tired of waiting. So why is waiting so hard?

Sunday the Lord really showed me one answer to this question. I read "Standing in the Storm", a devotion in the above link. It was all about how to stand in a storm -- guess what it boiled down to -- waiting on the Lord. It contained this question: "Amid your trouble, do you wait on the Lord, or do you quickly act to alleviate the pressure?" I'm afraid I try to handle things myself - anything to alleviate the pressure. For me the hard thing is to give up control. Waiting means you have to give up control. You can only give up control if you TRUST the one who you give control to. This is what was impressed on my heart -- TRUST inspite of how things appear, and also that God IS in control. These thoughts and the above verse really gave me peace.

I went to church right after this. The first thing I read when I looked at the bulletin: We fulfill our destinies when we do our part and wait on the Lord to do His. This seemed to that my part for right now is to TRUST. TRUST even though most often when in the middle of a storm - it feels like you are falling. TRUST that those 'everlasting arms' are underneath and will catch you no matter what!

Deuteronomy 33:27 The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms...

Carol B., Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol C.

Lord, thank You for those 'everlasting arms'. Help us each continue to TRUST You to catch us when we feel like we are falling. Continue to remind us that You never fail and You will never leave us. Let us feel the comfort and security of Your 'everlasting arms' underneath today & always. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
May 16, 2005
Hi...I have a job interview for an inbound call centre position on Wednesday at 9:30 am. Please pray for success and peace. I get really nervous at interviews and I am being tested for computer skills, a map resource test and a behavioral test (to see how I handle things). I thank the Lord for the opportunity and rejoice that I am getting responses to my resumes.
Thanks and blessings.
Linda

Ezra 8:21-23; Isaiah 26:3 Lord continue to help Linda look to You, rely on You in her job search. Thank You Lord, that as she looks to You, the gracious hand of our Lord Jesus Christ is upon her and her mind will be kept in perfect peace. Keep her mind steadfast. Thank You for this interveiw, help Linda shine & make Your guidance clear. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************

Numbers 6:24-26 Thank You Lord that You will bless & keep them, that your face will shine upon them & be gracious to them; that you will turn your face towards them & give them peace. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 14, 2005
Everlasting Arms

2 Chronicles 32:7 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him.

How do you encourage yourself in the Lord? When you feel overwhelmed, how do you find strength and courage for your heart?

This question has been on my heart latelty -- probably because I find myself tempted to give in to discouragement. If you are alive, at some time you will face discouragement too. There are times of life when things just press in on us and we're prone to discouragement. Being discouraged means to be broken, to be afraid or confounded, to be alarmed, in fear, in despair, to be crushed.

I try to go to God's word. A search on the word discourage yeilded some interesting results. There are at least 10 places where the Scripture says in the same verse, "Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged."

Being afraid is linked with being discouraged. Another phrase seems to be present in these verses too, the command: "Be strong and courageous."

How can we do this? These verses have a clue. We can be strong in the Lord because He is with us, it is His strength that supports us. We are not supported in our own strength -- "Underneath are the everlasting arms."

This is what was impressed upon my heart as I read thru those 10 verses - the "everlasting arms" -
    the promise of God’s everlasting presence & help -
    the everlasting strong, steady support that never fails -
    the everlasting comfort and love in God's arms.

Deuteronomy 33:27 The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms...

EVERLASTING ARMS
Karen Holland

Lord hold me
in your everlasting arms
Enfold me
in your everlasting arms.

Lord draw me close,
let striving cease,
that I may come to rest.
My heart steadfast, secure,
in perfect peace,
renewed and truly blessed.

Everlasting love for me,
found only in your everlasting arms.

***********************************

Psalm 94:18-19 When I said, "My foot is slipping," your love, O LORD, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul.

Psalm 121:1-3 I lift up my eyes to the hills— where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber;

FALL INTO HIS EVERLASTING ARMS
Karen Holland

Is your heart heavy, burdened, weighed down with care?
Is anxiety building, great within?
Do you feel your foot slipping?

Don't be afraid to fall,
for underneath are His everlasting arms.
Fall into His everlasting arms.
Let His everlasting arms hold you,
His everlasting love enfold you.

Let His arms draw you close,
let your striving cease,
secure in His unfailing love, come to rest.
Your heart steadfast, fixed,
held in perfect peace,
renewed and truly blessed.
Held in arms of love that never sleep.

Fall ...

Sink Deep ...

into His everlasting arms, arms to hold you,
everlasting love to enfold you.

Held in arms of love that never sleep.
Trust him in perfect peace.

Fall ...

Sink Deep ...

***************************************

Jeremiah 31:3 I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness.

1 Peter 5:6-7 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Romans 8:38-39 Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Psalm 32:10 ... the LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him.

Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.

Facing Discouragement Scriptures Do Not Be Discouraged Or Afraid

Deuteronomy 1:21 See, the Lord your God has given you the land. Go up and take possession of it as the Lord , the God of your fathers, told you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

Deuteronomy 31:8 The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

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

Joshua 8:1 Then the Lord said to Joshua, "Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Take the whole army with you, and go up and attack Ai. For I have delivered into your hands the king of Ai, his people, his city and his land."

Joshua 10:25 Joshua said to them, "Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Be strong and courageous. This is what the Lord will do to all the enemies you are going to fight."

1 Chronicles 22:13 Then you will have success if you are careful to observe the decrees and laws that the Lord gave Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged.

1 Chronicles 28:20 David also said to Solomon his son, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished."

2 Chronicles 20:15 He said: Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's'.

2 Chronicles 20:17 You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.

2 Chronicles 32:7 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him.

Carol B., Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol C.

Lord, when each of us faces discouragement, help us remember Your everlasting arms - outstrectched underneath, ready to support, comfort and encourage each of Your children. Thank You that Your everlasting arms are ever-present.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 13, 2005
Praise:I praise God for the healing of my breathing....... and my tests are going good.... By His stripes I am healed! Also I go to a Eye specitist tomorrow, due to lines....in my eye. Please keep me in prayer. Your all in Mine!!!!!!! The Lord Jesus Christ is my strength of my Life Psalm 27:1 My Healer!!!!!
God be the Glory Gloria

For Gloria
Isaiah 42:5, Isaiah 53:5 Thank You Lord that You who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and all that comes out of it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it, care for each of us. Thank You that by Your stripes we are healed. Thank You for the healing Gloria has already experienced. Thank You for continuing to care, love and provide for her needs. Please be with her as she seeks help for her eyes. Please put the right people in the right place at the right time to help.
Mark 8:25 Thank You Lord that when You touch someone's eyes they are opened, sight is restored and everything is seen clearly. Please touch Gloria's eyes. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
May 13, 2005
Please lift up this young women Cindy who just had a kidney pancreas transplant. I just spoke with her mother Jay, and she was a little distressed that her daughter is not doing to good. Cindy is a believer of our Lord and Savior and has been educating others about this disease and has a strong faith. So, please be in agreement with me that Cindy is covered by the blood of Christ and will be healed by the stripes of Jesus! Please anoint all the Doctors and hospital staff involved in caring for Cindy. That there is a speedy recovery and Cindy will be standing up testifying about our Father! We know Father you are in control. We thank you right now for what going to do. Let Jay have rest and peace given back in place of worrying. We know you love Cindy. She is your precious daughter. We trust your will.
Thank you,
RoseMary G. {submitted by Maggie}

For Cindy & family
Psalm 121:1-2 Thank You Lord that our help comes from You, the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth! Help each lift up their eyes to You. Thank You that Cindy is already witnessing for Jesus Christ. Lord, continue to use Cindy and this situation to let all see Your healing hand upon her life. Let this healing bring Glory to You and many to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. Please provide Your strength, comfort and healing to Cindy & family. Keep their eyes on You, O Lord. Thank You Lord that You are watching over them both now & forevermore. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************

For all
Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5; Psalm 9:10 Thank You Lord that each will trust in Your name. Thank You Lord that You are with us always; You will never leave or forsake us! Help each feel Your arms carrying them today & always, surround each with Your love. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 12, 2005
God's Will

John 6:28-29 Then they asked him, "What must we do to do the works God requires?"
Jesus answered, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent."

Carol B., Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol C.

Lord, help each of us spend time seeking to know You and Your will, before we 'work'. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 11, 2005
Strength For Today And Bright Hope For Tomorrow

1 Corinthians 1:8-9 He will keep you strong to the end, ... God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.

There are two great requests we constantly make to God, for ourselves and for others. We ask him for a living hope for the future, and also we ask for daily strength to press on towards that hope. Just like that line in the hymn, "Great is Thy faithfulness" which speaks of "strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow."

We all need strength for today and living hope for tomorrow -- isn't it wonderful to know God is faithful?!

His Faithfulness is Declared to be:
Great	Lam 3:22-23	Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Established	Psalm 89:2	I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you established your faithfulness in heaven itself.
Incomparable	Psalm 89:8	O LORD God Almighty, who is like you? You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you.
Unfailing	Psalm 89:33	... but I will not take my love from him, nor will I ever betray my faithfulness.
Infinite without limit	Psalm 36:5	Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies.
Everlasting	Psalm 119:89-90	Your word, O LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens. Your faithfulness continues through all generations...

Carol B., Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol C.

Thank You Lord for Your great faithfulness and your promises of strength for today and a bright living hope for tomorrow! Let each of us continue to grow in our understanding of these promises. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 10, 2005
Wrinkles

James 1:2-4 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.

Did you ever try ironing clothes with a 'cold' iron? Nothing much happens -- the iron must be hot and the person holding the iron must apply pressure or the wrinkles will not come out.

Trials are like the iron you use on your clothes. The iron employs heat and pressure to smooth out the wrinkles. Aren't you glad the iron is in God's capable hands?

Carol B., Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol C.

Thank You Lord that You hold the iron, You are in control of all of the trials we face. Next time we find ourselves in the midst of a trial, please remind us of the 'finished work'. Help each of us be open to how You are working to complete our faith in the Lord Jesus, help us each persevere. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

For Maggie's family & Oscar
Isaiah 45:8, 2 Tim 2:10 Lord let salvation that is in Christ Jesus, spring up within them.
Revelation 22:5, 2 Corinthians 4:6, John 12:46, Psalm 91:11 Thank You Lord that You said 'Light shall shine out of darkness'. Let Your light shine in each heart to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. Clothe each with Your light. Please give Maggie Your words and patience to share the gospel. Thank You that Your light dispels darkness. Spread Your protection on each, give Your angels charge over each in all their ways. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 9, 2005
God Whispers

1 Kings 19:11-12 The LORD said, "Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by." Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.

Look how the Lord appears and to Elijah. The LORD responds with a strong wind, an earthquake, and a fire to show His Power, but He chooses to speak through "a still small voice". This still applys today!

Isaiah 30:15 In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength...

Carol, Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B., Carol

Lord, help each of us make time to listen in expectant stillness, for Your gentle whisper. In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 8, 2005
Praise: We wanted to thank the Lord with all our hearts we were approved for the loan which has reduced our monthly debts ALOT and for this we are truly grateful. We now have one loan payment! This has eased my worries and will enable Paul and I to truly manage our finances which were really out of control. I thank the Lord for his wisdom too and the wake up call we received that we were out of control. Believe me, if it weren't for the Lord, I just wouldn't know how to survive!
Linda

Psalm 9:1-2 I will praise you, O LORD , with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High. Thank You Lord for Your wisdom, mercy, guidance & grace!!! Glory be to God!
********************************************************
May 8, 2005
My daughter Cheryl was invovled with a violent man - Khalid. He is again trying to ivolve himself with Cheryl & her son Joshua. We have always prayed for his salvation and change of heart. Please pray for protection for Cheryl & Joshua and that Guardian Angels will surround both. Pray that Khalid will just let go and he will leave Cheryl alone. Please pray for his lawyer, Paul R that he will understand the violence and threats made towards Cheryl are very real and will advise his client to let this go. Pray for a peaceful resolution to this situation. Thanks for praying. I believe we need to stand firm in prayer for this wonderful Mother and Child. Blessings and praise to all.
Linda

For Khalid / Paul R
Revelation 22:5, 2 Corinthians 4:6, John Thank You Lord that You said 'Light shall shine out of darkness'. Let Your light shine in each heart to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. Let Your light lead to salvation and a peaceful resolution to this situation.
Romans 8:28 Thank You Lord that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Please bring Your good out of this situation.

For Cheryl & Joshua
Psalm 18:48, Psalm 5:11-12, Psalm 91:11 Thank You Lord that You are our protector. Please lift Cheryl & Joshua out of this situation, rescue them from Khalid. Lord, please spread your protection over them, surround them with your favor as with a shield. Please send Your angels to minister to them, give Your angels charge over them in all their ways. Keep them safe. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
May 8, 2005
Please continue to keep Junior in your prayers. He had a very rough night. Though the fever is staying down it was all I could do to keep his oxygen sats up high enough. He has been on 2-3 liters of oxygen all night, and I lost count of the number of times I got up to try to move him around and get his sats to go up, turn up the o2 and start breathing and vest treatments. Hey I guess this is what mothers day is all about. I am so blessed to have my little guy and very thankful to be home today and not in the hospital.
Hugs to all, Love, Heidi & Junior

For Junior & Heidi
Luke 6:19, Job 12:10, Job 33:4, Gen 2:7 Thank You Lord that there is healing in Your touch. Please touch Junior where Your healing is needed. Thank You Lord that in Your hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind. Please help Junior breathe with Your breath -- the breath of life.
Psalm 29:11, Deuteronomy 33:25 Thank You Lord that You give strength to Your people and this strength will equal our days. Please renew each one's strength. Thank You also that You bless Your people with peace. Please bless Junior & Heidi. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 6, 2005
Listen & Wait

Matthew 6:28 See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.

Well, I have to admit I was sitting here at the computer this morning - worrying. Worrying about my life -- I was looking at job adds.

This spoke volumes to me, here I was finding my own solution -- earlier in the week the Lord put this verse on my heart.

Lamentations 3:25 The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him.

This is extremely difficult for me to do! I need the Lord's help and He is faithful. He is always trying to speak to us -- He even uses email, if we would just stop - listen & wait. (With no worrying) :)

Carol, Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B.

Thank You Lord that You are faithful and You are continually trying to speak to each of us. Help us each wait and listen for Your voice. Help our prayer be the same as Samuel's. Help us also to obey. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Samuel 3:10 ... Then Samuel said, "Speak, for your servant is listening."
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 6, 2005
Praise: Wanted to let you know that sally just came out of surgery and they feel they got all the cancer and she will need no chemo, we will know more when the test comes back,thanks be to the awesome God we serve. Thanks to all for the prayers. God Bless
Char
********************************************************
May 6, 2005
Dear Prayer Warriors, I requested prayer in my job search. Well, when I got my check today I was told to come back to work Sunday. Also I may have another job that starts next Monday( that will pay more. I thank God and I thank Him for you all.
Saundra

Psalm 68:34-35 Proclaim the power of God, whose majesty is over Israel, whose power is in the skies. You are awesome, O God, in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. Praise be to God!
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 5, 2005
The Mountain of the Lord

Genesis 22:14 So Abraham called that place The LORD Will Provide. And to this day it is said, "On the mountain of the LORD it will be provided."

Isaiah 2:3, 5 Many peoples will come and say, "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths." The law will go out from Zion, the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.

Isaiah 30:29 And you will sing as on the night you celebrate a holy festival; your hearts will rejoice as when people go up with flutes to the mountain of the LORD, to the Rock of Israel.

LORD OF THE MOUNTAIN
LORD OF THE SEA
LORD OF THE STARRY NIGHT
GLORIOUS MYSTERY

LORD OF THE AGES
SON WHO WAS RAISED
HEAVEN DECLARES YOUR JOY
FOREVER YOU'LL BE PRAISED

I will go up, to the mountain of the Lord
Drink of the spring, from the Saviour of my soul
Come let us bow, to our Maker and our God
Cling to the cleft, of our refuge and our rock

I will go up, to the mountain of the Lord
Find wings again, on the eagle of His word
Come let us fly, to the glory of the Son
Stand on the rock, resting on the work He's done

The mountain of the Lord is definitely a good place to go! Notice how this mountain is probably a pretty 'high' place. The closest you can get to God on earth?

I find it extremely interesting that you get there by humbling yourself before God - by making yourself as low as possible.

1 Peter 5:5-7 God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Carol, Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B.

Thank You Lord that You give grace to the humble. Help us each come to the mountain of the Lord by humbling our hearts before You, O Lord. Thank You that as we do this we each will be lifted up in due time. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 4, 2005
I would like y'all to Pray my brother-in-law Eric and his friend John have safe traveling where there going and safe traveling back to there homes tonight.
Thanks Melody

For Eric & John
Psalm 121:8, Psalm 5:11-12 Thank You Lord that You watch over us each both now & forevermore, please watch over their comings & goings. Keep them safe. Spread your protection over them, surround them with your favor as with a shield. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
May 5, 2005
Dear Friends,
I was working for a temporary agency and was "laid off" last night. Please pray that I find another job soon. I am again desperate. I thank God in advance for answered prayers. I thank God for you guys.
Saundra

For Saundra
Psalm 138:8, John 14:8 Thank You Lord that Your love, O LORD , endures forever and You have a purpose for each of us. Please guide Saundra, reveal Your purpose to her, make Your direction clear to her as she looks for another job. Thank You that You are a God who provides. Surround Saundra with Your love, comfort her. Thank You that You have promised not leave us comfortless: You will come to us. Please come to Saundra, let her feel Your love, Your comfort, Your presence surround her. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 4, 2005
We need prayer for my sister-in-law, she has cancer and they are doing a hestomey thursday morning, they are hopping that this will get it all, also need prayer for a friend of my granddaughter she is haveing knee surgery also tomorrow.
thanks char

Psalm 57:1 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...

Malachi 4:2 But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings.

Psalm 32:10 ... but the LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in Him.

Thank You Lord for Your great mercy and compassion. Thank You that You are our refuge. Lord have mercy on each person & their family, provide them each refuge under the shadow of Your wings. Thank You that there is healing in Your wings. Surround each with Your healing, and Your unfailing love as they trust in You. Let Your love bring what is needed. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 4, 2005
Fragile? Set the Lord before.

Psalm 16:1, 8-9, 11 Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge.
I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure.
You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

There are many things that can trouble our lives, and at times we seem very fragile. What do you do when you find yourself in a 'fragile' state? How do you keep going?

This psalm gives us a clue. Look what the psalmist does -- the first thing is to 'take refuge in the Lord'. The psalmist does this by 'setting the Lord before', by pointing his heart towards Jesus as Lord and focussing his hope on the Lord's return -- 'eternal pleasures'. If Jesus is our Lord, then all of life's greatest blessings lie ahead of us and He will let nothing rob us of this coming glory!

Hebrews 12:2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith...

Carol, Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B.

Thank You Lord that You are our refuge, our hope. Show each of us how to 'set the LORD always before' our hearts & minds. Thank You that as we each do this, will not be shaken, and we will rest secure, safe in Your hands. Lord, You are worthy of all our honor & praise. We lift up your name, O Lord, and place it above every name. Fill each of us with joy in Your presence as we look ahead to the future. Help each of us remember that our greatest blessings lie ahead! In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

For all
John 1:16 Thank You Lord for the fullness of Your grace for all of Your blessings. Continue to bless this family out of Your abounding grace. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

********************************************************
********************************************************
May 3, 2005
Fragrance
From http://www.hosannalc.org/pages/wwjstues.html

Ephesians 5:1-2 Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

There is a fragrance made from a special blend you can choose to use each day. Take a bit of love and blend it in mercy and grace. Make sure you filter out your pride. Be sure to carry this sweet scent with you wherever you go. Throughout your day offer your kind words and smiles to others. Bite your tongue and hold your judgment. Let these scents rise up to the Lord as incense – a fragrant offering.

2 Corinthians 2:14 But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him.

John 12:3
Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.

Look at this fragrant offering given to Jesus. The fragrance was poured on to Jesus -- it also 'filled' the whole house and surely remained on Mary's hair. A sweet scent to all who were present at it's offering.

Carol, Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B.

Thank You Lord for the fragrant offering of the Lord Jesus Christ. Enable each of us by the power of Your Holy Spirit to spread this fragrant offering everywhere we go. Let us each leave behind a scent pleasing to You, O Lord. Thank You that as we each try to do this we will become more Christ like.
In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
********************************************************
********************************************************
May 2, 2005
God is Our Peace
From Guideposts by Mary Jane Clark

This guidepost has a neat idea in it. It's the idea that God gives us peace—it’s a gift, not a feeling that can be manufactured for oneself. It's a gift you can receive from the Lord in spite of the unexpected turns of life.

God Is Our Peace
Mary Jane Clark

As I reach for the light switch, the narrow strip of paper with the pink typing catches my eye: "Your life will be peaceful and fulfilling." When I first pulled it out of a Chinese fortune cookie more than a year ago, my response was, "Yes! I like my life! I feel happy, peaceful, fulfilled." And so I tucked it into a corner of my bathroom mirror where I glance past it every day, mostly not noticing. But this morning it gets my attention and I have to ask, "Can I still say this about my life?"

These last few months have been full of painful surprises. In late January I was diagnosed with melanoma. Because it’s such an aggressive cancer and in a very unusual site, we opted to go to a large cancer center in Texas for treatment. By mid-February I was back home, recovering from major surgery. The day after we got home we watched in horror as the surgical wound slowly opened up, stitch by stitch. The doctors assured us that sometimes this happens and not to worry, but we panicked. After many weeks it did heal up, and in early April we returned to Houston for a course of radiation therapy. A bladder infection complicated that recovery experience. It was easy to admit that often in these last months my life has felt anything but peaceful and fulfilling.This morning I used my Bible concordance to find verses about peace. I was surprised that most refer to God giving us peace—it’s a gift, not a feeling I can manufacture for myself.

These past months have been filled full of unexpected, often frightening and painful adventures. My illusions about my own good health have been shattered, along with any ideas that I have any real control over the events of my life. But even in the midst of this I see glimpses of God’s peace. And that’s a gift.

Loving Father, in spite of the unexpected turns my life may take, help me to receive Your gift of a peaceful heart.

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Romans 5:1-2 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.

John 16:33 I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

2 Thessalonians 3:16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.

Carol, Beth Anne, Bob & Betty, Pam, Jodi & Scott, Bobby Lee, Mary & Jay T., Jolene, Gloria B.

Colossians 3:15 Thank You lord for Your gift of peace, let each of us receive this gift from You. Let the peace of Christ rule in each of our hearts. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.