Sunday, November 28, 2010
Jesus Is The Reason For The Season 2010!
I'm increasingly seeing commercials where everyone is talking about "holiday" events. I'm hearing about more "holiday parties" everywhere I go. People I cross paths with are increasingly wishing me a "Happy Holiday(S)". I have only one thing to say about this.
ENOUGH ALREADY!!!!
Listen-I was born into a Jewish family. We didn't talk about Jesus, nor did we mention His Name. Quite a few of my friends were Catholic, or other Protestant denominations. When they wished me a "Merry Christmas", I was never offended. When I was in their homes at a sleep-over, or having a meal, I wasn't offended at the sight of a Christmas tree. I don't seem to remember anyone saying "Happy Holidays" to me. I even remember taking part in a Christmas pageant in PUBLIC elementary school. Nobody got offended.
Brothers & Sisters, this whole political correctness/we don't want to offend anyone/let's take "God" out of everything movement, is what offends me. I say-let's take a stand for Jesus Christ, the reason for the season.
If you are at work and somebody says "Happy Holidays", then you need to look them in the eye and say "Merry Christmas". If your un-saved relatives are saying that presents and doing good are the reason for Christmas, you need to tell them that the real reason for Christmas is the birth of a Savior who can forgive them of their sins, and in whom they can experience eternal life.
Now-I'm not saying to purposely offend any of your Jewish or non-Christian friends or co-workers. We all know that it's Hanukkah and Kwanza around the same time, and I think that it's OK to say the appropriate greeting to them. At that point, I think that it's OK to take a step of faith, and maybe ask them what their respective "holidays" are about. That can be an opening to share about Jesus Christ, the Son of God! Remember to always do this in love.
Don't let the enemy take God out of the Christmas season. The Devil will use whatever tools are at his disposal to help the world forget the true reason for the season-Jesus Christ.
I've posted (in a separate blog entry) a video from Fox News which features Ben Stein (a JEW) talking about how stupid this whole thing about taking "Merry Christmas" out of Christmas season is.
Luke 2:11
For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
And by the way-MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
ENOUGH ALREADY!!!!
Listen-I was born into a Jewish family. We didn't talk about Jesus, nor did we mention His Name. Quite a few of my friends were Catholic, or other Protestant denominations. When they wished me a "Merry Christmas", I was never offended. When I was in their homes at a sleep-over, or having a meal, I wasn't offended at the sight of a Christmas tree. I don't seem to remember anyone saying "Happy Holidays" to me. I even remember taking part in a Christmas pageant in PUBLIC elementary school. Nobody got offended.
Brothers & Sisters, this whole political correctness/we don't want to offend anyone/let's take "God" out of everything movement, is what offends me. I say-let's take a stand for Jesus Christ, the reason for the season.
If you are at work and somebody says "Happy Holidays", then you need to look them in the eye and say "Merry Christmas". If your un-saved relatives are saying that presents and doing good are the reason for Christmas, you need to tell them that the real reason for Christmas is the birth of a Savior who can forgive them of their sins, and in whom they can experience eternal life.
Now-I'm not saying to purposely offend any of your Jewish or non-Christian friends or co-workers. We all know that it's Hanukkah and Kwanza around the same time, and I think that it's OK to say the appropriate greeting to them. At that point, I think that it's OK to take a step of faith, and maybe ask them what their respective "holidays" are about. That can be an opening to share about Jesus Christ, the Son of God! Remember to always do this in love.
Don't let the enemy take God out of the Christmas season. The Devil will use whatever tools are at his disposal to help the world forget the true reason for the season-Jesus Christ.
I've posted (in a separate blog entry) a video from Fox News which features Ben Stein (a JEW) talking about how stupid this whole thing about taking "Merry Christmas" out of Christmas season is.
Luke 2:11
For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
And by the way-MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Reach Out to a Salvation Army Person Today!
Have you reached out to a Salvation Army Soldier today?
I was walking into Stop & Shop on Wednesday night, when I spotted 2 Salvation Army "volunteers". One, a woman was ringing the bell behind the donation kettle, while the other, a man-stood by. I'm not sure why, but I HAD to stop, put some money in the collection kettle, and ask them this question: What can you tell me about salvation? I wasn't prepared for their response.
The woman looked at the man, and the man looked at the woman and smiled, then me and smiled. He then went on to tell me that " Salvation comes through Jesus Christ-the Son of God alone".
God is SO good to me! I love it when He throws me a bone!
Going back a few years, I know of Brothers in Christ who have witnessed to Salvation Army Volunteers. These volunteers accepted Jesus as their savior in front of department stores, or on the streets of NY and Long Island. Apparently, having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ is not a prerequisite to sit behind the collection kettles around Christmas Time. As a matter of fact, here's what The Salvation Army's website states about their core beliefs:
Salvation
The Salvation Army was founded as an evangelical organization dedicated to bringing people into a meaningful relationship with God through Christ. Its doctrinal basis is that of the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition. It is composed of persons who are united by the love of God and man, and who share the common purpose of bringing others to Jesus Christ. The word salvation indicates the overall purpose of the organization—to motivate all people to embrace the salvation provided to them in Christ.
The word army indicates that the organization is a fighting force, constantly at war with the powers of evil. Battles are effectively waged through an integrated ministry that gives attention to both body and spirit. It is a total ministry for the total person. The Army cooperates with churches of all denominations to meet the needs of the community. Those who have drifted away from God and those estranged from their own religious affiliations are often attracted to The Salvation Army.They are first urged to seek Christ for pardon and deliverance from sin. Then they are encouraged to return to active membership in their
Active Service
Christianity is synonymous with service for the Salvationist. The distinguishing feature in the religious life of The Salvation Army is active participation by its members.
Corps community centers are the focus of the spiritual work and are organized in a military manner, using military terms throughout. The corps building is sometimes known as the “citadel.” The pastor serves as an “officer.” Members are “soldiers.” This sphere of activity is known as the “field.” Instead of joining The Salvation Army, members are “enrolled” after signing the “Articles of War.” When officers and soldiers die, they are “Promoted to Glory.”
Soldiers are disciples of Jesus Christ and are expected to accept responsibility in the work of The Salvation Army. Whenever possible, they participate in Army meetings. Soldiers may teach Sunday-school classes, play musical instruments, join the band, assist the corps officer in visitation among the poor and sick, or aid in general social work. Soldiers abstain from the use of alcoholic beverages, drugs and tobacco.
Here's what their website states about their "Volunteers":
From its inception, The Salvation Army has relied heavily on volunteers who support it's programs.
Often referred to as "the army behind The Army," volunteers play a crucial role The Salvation Army's ability to provide quality social services for the entire community.
Volunteers are valuable assets in The Salvation Army's efforts to meet the changing needs of our world. Through the skills and experience they bring to The Army, volunteers make significant contributions to society by positively impacting the lives of those they assist. Salvation Army volunteers change lives, uplift families and support communities throughout our nation everyday.
Discover the joy of giving back to your community: become a Salvation Army volunteer TODAY! Thank you for exploring the many opportunities to help those in need and enhance your community as a volunteer within The Salvation Army.
I always ask these volunteers to tell me about Salvation. If they can't, I witness to them and ask them if they have a personal relationship with Jesus. Hopefully, the words that God gives me won't fall on deaf ears.
When you see these men and women working, ask them to tell you about salvation. God may open a door to be used by Him to bring someone into the kingdom, or He may use one of these volunteers to encourage you!
If you have testimonies, please feel free to share them as comments on this blog post.
I'm waiting for some AMEN's and Hallelujah's!!!!
...and don't forget to correct them if they say "Happy Holidays" to you. Enough is enough already!
I was walking into Stop & Shop on Wednesday night, when I spotted 2 Salvation Army "volunteers". One, a woman was ringing the bell behind the donation kettle, while the other, a man-stood by. I'm not sure why, but I HAD to stop, put some money in the collection kettle, and ask them this question: What can you tell me about salvation? I wasn't prepared for their response.
The woman looked at the man, and the man looked at the woman and smiled, then me and smiled. He then went on to tell me that " Salvation comes through Jesus Christ-the Son of God alone".
God is SO good to me! I love it when He throws me a bone!
Going back a few years, I know of Brothers in Christ who have witnessed to Salvation Army Volunteers. These volunteers accepted Jesus as their savior in front of department stores, or on the streets of NY and Long Island. Apparently, having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ is not a prerequisite to sit behind the collection kettles around Christmas Time. As a matter of fact, here's what The Salvation Army's website states about their core beliefs:
Salvation
The Salvation Army was founded as an evangelical organization dedicated to bringing people into a meaningful relationship with God through Christ. Its doctrinal basis is that of the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition. It is composed of persons who are united by the love of God and man, and who share the common purpose of bringing others to Jesus Christ. The word salvation indicates the overall purpose of the organization—to motivate all people to embrace the salvation provided to them in Christ.
The word army indicates that the organization is a fighting force, constantly at war with the powers of evil. Battles are effectively waged through an integrated ministry that gives attention to both body and spirit. It is a total ministry for the total person. The Army cooperates with churches of all denominations to meet the needs of the community. Those who have drifted away from God and those estranged from their own religious affiliations are often attracted to The Salvation Army.They are first urged to seek Christ for pardon and deliverance from sin. Then they are encouraged to return to active membership in their
Active Service
Christianity is synonymous with service for the Salvationist. The distinguishing feature in the religious life of The Salvation Army is active participation by its members.
Corps community centers are the focus of the spiritual work and are organized in a military manner, using military terms throughout. The corps building is sometimes known as the “citadel.” The pastor serves as an “officer.” Members are “soldiers.” This sphere of activity is known as the “field.” Instead of joining The Salvation Army, members are “enrolled” after signing the “Articles of War.” When officers and soldiers die, they are “Promoted to Glory.”
Soldiers are disciples of Jesus Christ and are expected to accept responsibility in the work of The Salvation Army. Whenever possible, they participate in Army meetings. Soldiers may teach Sunday-school classes, play musical instruments, join the band, assist the corps officer in visitation among the poor and sick, or aid in general social work. Soldiers abstain from the use of alcoholic beverages, drugs and tobacco.
Here's what their website states about their "Volunteers":
From its inception, The Salvation Army has relied heavily on volunteers who support it's programs.
Often referred to as "the army behind The Army," volunteers play a crucial role The Salvation Army's ability to provide quality social services for the entire community.
Volunteers are valuable assets in The Salvation Army's efforts to meet the changing needs of our world. Through the skills and experience they bring to The Army, volunteers make significant contributions to society by positively impacting the lives of those they assist. Salvation Army volunteers change lives, uplift families and support communities throughout our nation everyday.
Discover the joy of giving back to your community: become a Salvation Army volunteer TODAY! Thank you for exploring the many opportunities to help those in need and enhance your community as a volunteer within The Salvation Army.
I always ask these volunteers to tell me about Salvation. If they can't, I witness to them and ask them if they have a personal relationship with Jesus. Hopefully, the words that God gives me won't fall on deaf ears.
When you see these men and women working, ask them to tell you about salvation. God may open a door to be used by Him to bring someone into the kingdom, or He may use one of these volunteers to encourage you!
If you have testimonies, please feel free to share them as comments on this blog post.
I'm waiting for some AMEN's and Hallelujah's!!!!
...and don't forget to correct them if they say "Happy Holidays" to you. Enough is enough already!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Abraham Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation-It's ALL About Thanking The Lord!!!
Proclamation Establishing Thanksgiving Day
October 3, 1863
The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God. In the midst of a civil war of unequalled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union. Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested the plough, the shuttle, or the ship; the axe had enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years, with large increase of freedom.
No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.
Done at the city of Washington, this third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the independence of the United States the eighty-eighth.
A. Lincoln
Have a Happy and Joyous Thanksgiving! Remember to Thank The Lord for ALL He has given to you!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Have You Cried Out to The Lord Lately?
Psalm 30
I will extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up,
And have not let my foes rejoice over me.
O LORD my God, I cried out to You,
And You healed me.
O LORD, You brought my soul up from the grave;
You have kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit.
Sing praise to the LORD, you saints of His,
And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name.
For His anger is but for a moment,
His favor is for life;
Weeping may endure for a night,
But joy comes in the morning.
Now in my prosperity I said,
“I shall never be moved.”
LORD, by Your favor You have made my mountain stand strong;
You hid Your face, and I was troubled.
I cried out to You, O LORD;
And to the LORD I made supplication:
“What profit is there in my blood,
When I go down to the pit?
Will the dust praise You?
Will it declare Your truth?
Hear, O LORD, and have mercy on me;
LORD, be my helper!”
You have turned for me my mourning into dancing;
You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness,
To the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent.
O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever.
I will extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up,
And have not let my foes rejoice over me.
O LORD my God, I cried out to You,
And You healed me.
O LORD, You brought my soul up from the grave;
You have kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit.
Sing praise to the LORD, you saints of His,
And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name.
For His anger is but for a moment,
His favor is for life;
Weeping may endure for a night,
But joy comes in the morning.
Now in my prosperity I said,
“I shall never be moved.”
LORD, by Your favor You have made my mountain stand strong;
You hid Your face, and I was troubled.
I cried out to You, O LORD;
And to the LORD I made supplication:
“What profit is there in my blood,
When I go down to the pit?
Will the dust praise You?
Will it declare Your truth?
Hear, O LORD, and have mercy on me;
LORD, be my helper!”
You have turned for me my mourning into dancing;
You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness,
To the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent.
O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Confess Jesus Christ Before Men!
Luke 12:8-9 (Amplified Bible)
And I tell you, Whoever declares openly [speaking out freely] and confesses that he is My worshiper and acknowledges Me before men, the Son of Man also will declare and confess and acknowledge him before the angels of God. But he who disowns and denies and rejects and refuses to acknowledge Me before men will be disowned and denied and rejected and refused acknowledgement in the presence of the angels of God.
Were you ever in a situation where God placed you with someone that didn't know Jesus as his or her Savior? You're at work, at lunch, on a train, and you somehow get drawn into a conversation where a person brings up comments or questions about God? You either blow it off, or try to stumble your way through the conversation. You let the fear of man direct your thoughts. You wish you had a Bible because you need some scripture verses, but cannot recall them. Worst yet-you avoid talking about God all together. Let me give you a short testimony to illustrate my point.
About 8 years ago, I was getting out of my car at the Babylon LIRR station. I was running late, and if I wanted to make my 11AM appointment in Manhattan, I would need to get on the 8:58AM train. I pulled into the parking lot, and I noticed that the parking attendant, Ralph was talking to a guy who looked like he was a homeless person. At that point, I had known Ralph personally, a brother in Christ who used to stand in the parking lot and preach The Gospel and sing hymns. Anyway, Ralph looked like he was in control of the conversation. I got out of my car, and I was about to run over to Ralph to pay him for parking when I felt the presence of The Holy Spirit upon me. It was so strong, that I could hear The Lord telling me to go back to my car, get a Bible, and give it to the man that Ralph was sharing with. I knew that I would NOT make my train, and after a short "struggle" with my flesh, I obeyed the Voice of Jesus whispering in my ear. I went back to my car, grabbed a bible from my ample supply, and went over to where Ralph and this man were talking. I placed my hand on this man's shoulder, handed the man the Bible, and explained to him that God told me to give it to him.
Then the really cool part happened. Scripture verses began to come to me. At that point in my walk, I really couldn't recite many scripture verses because I was still a "babe" in Christ. I shared The Gospel with this man, and all the verses I needed to recite were given to me by The Holy Spirit. After some time, I noticed Ralph standing off to the side praying. I asked this man if he felt that God would let him into heaven if he were to die today. He began to to bawl like a baby, and I asked him if he would like to accept Jesus Christ as his Lord & Savior. He said yes. As I began to pray, Ralph came over and layed hands on this man. People were parking their cars, and trying to offer Ralph money, but Ralph knew where he was needed. This was a beautiful moment, only to be interrupted by Satan as a HUGE bug landed on my neck and bit me. I tried to swat it away as we prayed, but it kept coming back. Finally, Ralph swatted my neck, and killed the bug from the pit of hell, just as we finished praying with this man. The angels in Heaven were now rejoicing, as the weight of sin came out of this man. I then hugged him, said goodbye to Ralph, and made my way into Manhattan. Funny thing-my appointment ended up being delayed, as the person I was meeting with was stuck in his previous meeting. Is God AWESOME, or what.
So here's my point. I truly believe that Jesus ordained all that happened that morning. He spoke to my heart, had me turn around to get a Bible out of my car, He had me give it to that homeless man, and He used me to lead him to Christ. He gave me ALL the scripture verses that were needed to soften this man's heart and help lead him to repentance. He even allowed me to reschedule my appointment in Manhattan without me even being involved!
If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, SURRENDER to The Holy Spirit. He will lead you and guide you in ALL things. You steps, your words, and you actions will be orchestrated by GOD! All you will have to do is be a willing servant!
Luke 12:11-12 (NKJV)
Now when they bring you to the synagogues and magistrates and authorities, do not worry about how or what you should answer, or what you should say. For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.
I'm anxiously awaiting your testimonies. Let Jesus use you for HIS GLORY!!!!
\O/ AMEN?
And I tell you, Whoever declares openly [speaking out freely] and confesses that he is My worshiper and acknowledges Me before men, the Son of Man also will declare and confess and acknowledge him before the angels of God. But he who disowns and denies and rejects and refuses to acknowledge Me before men will be disowned and denied and rejected and refused acknowledgement in the presence of the angels of God.
Were you ever in a situation where God placed you with someone that didn't know Jesus as his or her Savior? You're at work, at lunch, on a train, and you somehow get drawn into a conversation where a person brings up comments or questions about God? You either blow it off, or try to stumble your way through the conversation. You let the fear of man direct your thoughts. You wish you had a Bible because you need some scripture verses, but cannot recall them. Worst yet-you avoid talking about God all together. Let me give you a short testimony to illustrate my point.
About 8 years ago, I was getting out of my car at the Babylon LIRR station. I was running late, and if I wanted to make my 11AM appointment in Manhattan, I would need to get on the 8:58AM train. I pulled into the parking lot, and I noticed that the parking attendant, Ralph was talking to a guy who looked like he was a homeless person. At that point, I had known Ralph personally, a brother in Christ who used to stand in the parking lot and preach The Gospel and sing hymns. Anyway, Ralph looked like he was in control of the conversation. I got out of my car, and I was about to run over to Ralph to pay him for parking when I felt the presence of The Holy Spirit upon me. It was so strong, that I could hear The Lord telling me to go back to my car, get a Bible, and give it to the man that Ralph was sharing with. I knew that I would NOT make my train, and after a short "struggle" with my flesh, I obeyed the Voice of Jesus whispering in my ear. I went back to my car, grabbed a bible from my ample supply, and went over to where Ralph and this man were talking. I placed my hand on this man's shoulder, handed the man the Bible, and explained to him that God told me to give it to him.
Then the really cool part happened. Scripture verses began to come to me. At that point in my walk, I really couldn't recite many scripture verses because I was still a "babe" in Christ. I shared The Gospel with this man, and all the verses I needed to recite were given to me by The Holy Spirit. After some time, I noticed Ralph standing off to the side praying. I asked this man if he felt that God would let him into heaven if he were to die today. He began to to bawl like a baby, and I asked him if he would like to accept Jesus Christ as his Lord & Savior. He said yes. As I began to pray, Ralph came over and layed hands on this man. People were parking their cars, and trying to offer Ralph money, but Ralph knew where he was needed. This was a beautiful moment, only to be interrupted by Satan as a HUGE bug landed on my neck and bit me. I tried to swat it away as we prayed, but it kept coming back. Finally, Ralph swatted my neck, and killed the bug from the pit of hell, just as we finished praying with this man. The angels in Heaven were now rejoicing, as the weight of sin came out of this man. I then hugged him, said goodbye to Ralph, and made my way into Manhattan. Funny thing-my appointment ended up being delayed, as the person I was meeting with was stuck in his previous meeting. Is God AWESOME, or what.
So here's my point. I truly believe that Jesus ordained all that happened that morning. He spoke to my heart, had me turn around to get a Bible out of my car, He had me give it to that homeless man, and He used me to lead him to Christ. He gave me ALL the scripture verses that were needed to soften this man's heart and help lead him to repentance. He even allowed me to reschedule my appointment in Manhattan without me even being involved!
If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, SURRENDER to The Holy Spirit. He will lead you and guide you in ALL things. You steps, your words, and you actions will be orchestrated by GOD! All you will have to do is be a willing servant!
Luke 12:11-12 (NKJV)
Now when they bring you to the synagogues and magistrates and authorities, do not worry about how or what you should answer, or what you should say. For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.
I'm anxiously awaiting your testimonies. Let Jesus use you for HIS GLORY!!!!
\O/ AMEN?
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Bring The Rain!
Do you ever have a time where The Lord just ministers directly to your heart? It could be through a Brother or Sister in Christ, through a sermon, through a book, through God's Word, or through a song. Well-today, The Lord ministered to my soul through a song while I was on the LIRR going into Manhattan.
I arrived at the Babylon station with about 15 minutes to spare before my train. I purchased my ticket, picked up a new schedule, then I walked towards the newspaper booth, where I usually pick up the morning paper. I hesitated, because something in my spirit told me to skip it this morning. I turned away from the newspaper stand, walked upstairs to the platform, and hopped on the train.
God just blessed me with a new iPod Nano Touch, which I managed to immediately fill with worship music, and The MP3 Bible. I listened to Matthew 1-7, then switched to a worship playlist I created for when I travel. The song "Bring The Rain from MercyMe came on. Somehow-I never really heard the whole song before. Here are the lyrics:
"Bring The Rain"
I can count a million times
People asking me how I
Can praise You with all that I've gone through
The question just amazes me
Can circumstances possibly
Change who I forever am in You
Maybe since my life was changed
Long before these rainy days
It's never really ever crossed my mind
To turn my back on you, oh Lord
My only shelter from the storm
But instead I draw closer through these times
So I pray
Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings You glory
And I know there'll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to praise You
Jesus, bring the rain
I am Yours regardless of
The dark clouds that may loom above
Because You are much greater than my pain
You who made a way for me
By suffering Your destiny
So tell me what's a little rain
So I pray
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
The part just keeps going on over and over again:
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty......
After listening to this in its entirety for the first time, the words ministered to my soul. At this point in time, I happen to be going through some trials, and as some of us do, I sometimes lose my focus on Jesus when things get intense. I focus on the situation, then I lose my peace & joy...The chorus is what spoke to my heart, and brought me back to the Throne of Jesus:
Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings You glory
And I know there'll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to praise You
Jesus, bring the rain
The second verse almost had me in tears:
I am Yours regardless of
The dark clouds that may loom above
Because You are much greater than my pain
You who made a way for me
By suffering Your destiny
So tell me what's a little rain
So I pray
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
God's Word is explicit, in that it commends us to bless The Lord at all times (Psalm 34:1). The Hebrew word "all" here means something VERY SPECIAL-it means-ALL! Not just when we're being blessed-at "ALL TIMES"!
This verse brought me right in to the throne room of God:
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
I happen to be reading Revelation in my daily Bible reading, and this just reminded me of Revelation 4, when The Apostle John is describing the throne room of Heaven, while the angels cry out "Holy, Holy, Holy". IS ANYONE ELSE GETTING EXCITED HERE??!!
After the 7th or 8th time listening to this song, God brought me back to His throne of grace & mercy. His peace and my joy were restored. He reminded me that He is in control, and that I need to trust in Him. God is greater than my trial. I also need to remember that Jesus suffered more that I will ever know while He died on the cross, so He knows what I'm going through. If I believe that God spoke the universe into existence, and I believe that God raised Jesus from the dead, then I also need to completely trust and believe that that same God can take me through these trials! Praise His Holy Name!!! I have to confess, I was in tears by the time I got to Penn Station, and I was encouraged and strengthened in my faith through this worship tune.
I'm going to include a link to this song. I hope you are blessed by it, and it ministers to your heart as it did mine.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVnfAWJCito
I will also post the video on this blog in a separate entry. BE BLESSED!
I am praising The Holy Name of Jesus Christ, and I proclaim that His Word is faithful and True!!! Trust Him!
Can I get an AMEN?
\O/
I arrived at the Babylon station with about 15 minutes to spare before my train. I purchased my ticket, picked up a new schedule, then I walked towards the newspaper booth, where I usually pick up the morning paper. I hesitated, because something in my spirit told me to skip it this morning. I turned away from the newspaper stand, walked upstairs to the platform, and hopped on the train.
God just blessed me with a new iPod Nano Touch, which I managed to immediately fill with worship music, and The MP3 Bible. I listened to Matthew 1-7, then switched to a worship playlist I created for when I travel. The song "Bring The Rain from MercyMe came on. Somehow-I never really heard the whole song before. Here are the lyrics:
"Bring The Rain"
I can count a million times
People asking me how I
Can praise You with all that I've gone through
The question just amazes me
Can circumstances possibly
Change who I forever am in You
Maybe since my life was changed
Long before these rainy days
It's never really ever crossed my mind
To turn my back on you, oh Lord
My only shelter from the storm
But instead I draw closer through these times
So I pray
Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings You glory
And I know there'll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to praise You
Jesus, bring the rain
I am Yours regardless of
The dark clouds that may loom above
Because You are much greater than my pain
You who made a way for me
By suffering Your destiny
So tell me what's a little rain
So I pray
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
The part just keeps going on over and over again:
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty......
After listening to this in its entirety for the first time, the words ministered to my soul. At this point in time, I happen to be going through some trials, and as some of us do, I sometimes lose my focus on Jesus when things get intense. I focus on the situation, then I lose my peace & joy...The chorus is what spoke to my heart, and brought me back to the Throne of Jesus:
Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings You glory
And I know there'll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to praise You
Jesus, bring the rain
The second verse almost had me in tears:
I am Yours regardless of
The dark clouds that may loom above
Because You are much greater than my pain
You who made a way for me
By suffering Your destiny
So tell me what's a little rain
So I pray
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
God's Word is explicit, in that it commends us to bless The Lord at all times (Psalm 34:1). The Hebrew word "all" here means something VERY SPECIAL-it means-ALL! Not just when we're being blessed-at "ALL TIMES"!
This verse brought me right in to the throne room of God:
Holy, holy, holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
I happen to be reading Revelation in my daily Bible reading, and this just reminded me of Revelation 4, when The Apostle John is describing the throne room of Heaven, while the angels cry out "Holy, Holy, Holy". IS ANYONE ELSE GETTING EXCITED HERE??!!
After the 7th or 8th time listening to this song, God brought me back to His throne of grace & mercy. His peace and my joy were restored. He reminded me that He is in control, and that I need to trust in Him. God is greater than my trial. I also need to remember that Jesus suffered more that I will ever know while He died on the cross, so He knows what I'm going through. If I believe that God spoke the universe into existence, and I believe that God raised Jesus from the dead, then I also need to completely trust and believe that that same God can take me through these trials! Praise His Holy Name!!! I have to confess, I was in tears by the time I got to Penn Station, and I was encouraged and strengthened in my faith through this worship tune.
I'm going to include a link to this song. I hope you are blessed by it, and it ministers to your heart as it did mine.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVnfAWJCito
I will also post the video on this blog in a separate entry. BE BLESSED!
I am praising The Holy Name of Jesus Christ, and I proclaim that His Word is faithful and True!!! Trust Him!
Can I get an AMEN?
\O/
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
The Kingdom Proclaimed!
Revelation 11:15-18 (NKJ)
Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!” And the twenty-four elders who sat before God on their thrones fell on their faces and worshiped God, saying:
“ We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty,
The One who is and who was and who is to come,
Because You have taken Your great power and reigned.
The nations were angry, and Your wrath has come,
And the time of the dead, that they should be judged,
And that You should reward Your servants the prophets and the saints,
And those who fear Your name, small and great,
And should destroy those who destroy the earth
\O/
Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!” And the twenty-four elders who sat before God on their thrones fell on their faces and worshiped God, saying:
“ We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty,
The One who is and who was and who is to come,
Because You have taken Your great power and reigned.
The nations were angry, and Your wrath has come,
And the time of the dead, that they should be judged,
And that You should reward Your servants the prophets and the saints,
And those who fear Your name, small and great,
And should destroy those who destroy the earth
\O/
Tuesday, November 02, 2010
The Race of Faith!
Hebrews 12:1-2 (AMPLIFIED Bible)
THEREFORE THEN, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who have borne testimony to the Truth], let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us,
Looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith [giving the first incentive for our belief] and is also its Finisher [bringing it to maturity and perfection]. He, for the joy [of obtaining the prize] that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising and ignoring the shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Another translation reads:
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (NKJV)
Can I PLEEAASSEE get an AMEN???
\O/
THEREFORE THEN, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who have borne testimony to the Truth], let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us,
Looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith [giving the first incentive for our belief] and is also its Finisher [bringing it to maturity and perfection]. He, for the joy [of obtaining the prize] that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising and ignoring the shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Another translation reads:
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (NKJV)
Can I PLEEAASSEE get an AMEN???
\O/
Monday, November 01, 2010
God is FAITHFUL!!!
Hebrews 10:19-23 (Amplified Bible)
Therefore, brethren, since we have full freedom and confidence to enter into the [Holy of] Holies [by the power and virtue] in the blood of Jesus,
By this fresh (new) and living way which He initiated and dedicated and opened for us through the separating curtain (veil of the Holy of Holies), that is, through His flesh,
And since we have [such] a great and wonderful and noble Priest [Who rules] over the house of God,
Let us all come forward and draw near with true (honest and sincere) hearts in unqualified assurance and absolute conviction engendered by faith (by)that leaning of the entire human personality on God in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness), having our hearts sprinkled and purified from a guilty (evil) conscience and our bodies cleansed with pure water.
So let us seize and hold fast and retain without wavering the hope we cherish and confess and our acknowledgement of it, for He Who promised is reliable (sure) and faithful to His word.
The last verse spoke to me this morning. Another translation says: "...for He who promised is faithful". (NKJ)
God is faithful in all His promises to us. When we go through trials, we tend to forget about those promises. We take our eyes off of Jesus, and focus on the trial itself.
I believe that we also need to have faith in all things, no matter how impossible they may seem. Jesus says that "if you have faith as a mustard seed, you can move mountains" (paraphrased by me). How many times in the Gospels did Jesus heal people based on their small measure of faith alone? Answer-every time!!!!
You may be in a trial that seems like it's an impossible situation. Something you'll never get out of. Well I have some good news for you-He (Jesus) is FAITHFUL!
-You may be in a health crisis right now. Doctors are not helping, or you're undecided on what to do. You may have been suffering for many days, months, or years. You see no end in sight. You may be in physical pain, or distress, with no relief in sight. Nothing you do works. Turn to Jesus-He is FAITHFUL!
-You may be wrestling with some sin. Whether it's an addiction, adultery, or something else-it doesn't matter. Jesus can set you free from that bondage. You need to read God's Word, believe that He can deliver you, and get some brothers to lay hands on you and in Jesus' Name-cast those demons out of you! Turn to Jesus-He is FAITHFUL!
-You may have lost your job. Things are looking grim, and the prospects are looking dark. Your bills are piling up, and there seems to be no way that you can dig yourself out of this. Turn to Jesus-He is FAITHFUL!
-You're being attacked because of your faith while you're at work. People are tormenting you, and even making fun of you. You may have been overlooked for a raise or promotion because you're not as "aggressive" as the others. You want to follow Jesus, but you seem to be losing out on all the "extras" that everyone else is being rewarded with. You become discouraged, even to the point of looking for another job. Turn to Jesus-He is FAITHFUL! PRAY!!!
-Someone offended you, and you cannot seem to get past it. You cannot let go of that offense and release the offender from it. Turn to Jesus-He is FAITHFUL!
Brothers & Sisters-If we look to ourselves, we cannot help but fail. God's Word says multiple times, that "with man, this is impossible, but NOT with God" (paraphrased by me). If nothing is impossible with God, why do we still lean on ourselves to get out of these situations. Look what happened to the Israelites when they took their eyes off of God after the exodus from Egypt? Does wandering around in the desert for 40 years sound appealing to you? I think it's funny that most of us trust God for the small things, but when it comes to the really large things, we cannot trust God-the One who spoke the universe into existence, for them. Think about that. Also-don't forget: "...faith comes by hearing, and hearing by The Word of God".
\O/
By this fresh (new) and living way which He initiated and dedicated and opened for us through the separating curtain (veil of the Holy of Holies), that is, through His flesh,
And since we have [such] a great and wonderful and noble Priest [Who rules] over the house of God,
Let us all come forward and draw near with true (honest and sincere) hearts in unqualified assurance and absolute conviction engendered by faith (by)that leaning of the entire human personality on God in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness), having our hearts sprinkled and purified from a guilty (evil) conscience and our bodies cleansed with pure water.
So let us seize and hold fast and retain without wavering the hope we cherish and confess and our acknowledgement of it, for He Who promised is reliable (sure) and faithful to His word.
The last verse spoke to me this morning. Another translation says: "...for He who promised is faithful". (NKJ)
God is faithful in all His promises to us. When we go through trials, we tend to forget about those promises. We take our eyes off of Jesus, and focus on the trial itself.
I believe that we also need to have faith in all things, no matter how impossible they may seem. Jesus says that "if you have faith as a mustard seed, you can move mountains" (paraphrased by me). How many times in the Gospels did Jesus heal people based on their small measure of faith alone? Answer-every time!!!!
You may be in a trial that seems like it's an impossible situation. Something you'll never get out of. Well I have some good news for you-He (Jesus) is FAITHFUL!
-You may be in a health crisis right now. Doctors are not helping, or you're undecided on what to do. You may have been suffering for many days, months, or years. You see no end in sight. You may be in physical pain, or distress, with no relief in sight. Nothing you do works. Turn to Jesus-He is FAITHFUL!
-You may be wrestling with some sin. Whether it's an addiction, adultery, or something else-it doesn't matter. Jesus can set you free from that bondage. You need to read God's Word, believe that He can deliver you, and get some brothers to lay hands on you and in Jesus' Name-cast those demons out of you! Turn to Jesus-He is FAITHFUL!
-You may have lost your job. Things are looking grim, and the prospects are looking dark. Your bills are piling up, and there seems to be no way that you can dig yourself out of this. Turn to Jesus-He is FAITHFUL!
-You're being attacked because of your faith while you're at work. People are tormenting you, and even making fun of you. You may have been overlooked for a raise or promotion because you're not as "aggressive" as the others. You want to follow Jesus, but you seem to be losing out on all the "extras" that everyone else is being rewarded with. You become discouraged, even to the point of looking for another job. Turn to Jesus-He is FAITHFUL! PRAY!!!
-Someone offended you, and you cannot seem to get past it. You cannot let go of that offense and release the offender from it. Turn to Jesus-He is FAITHFUL!
Brothers & Sisters-If we look to ourselves, we cannot help but fail. God's Word says multiple times, that "with man, this is impossible, but NOT with God" (paraphrased by me). If nothing is impossible with God, why do we still lean on ourselves to get out of these situations. Look what happened to the Israelites when they took their eyes off of God after the exodus from Egypt? Does wandering around in the desert for 40 years sound appealing to you? I think it's funny that most of us trust God for the small things, but when it comes to the really large things, we cannot trust God-the One who spoke the universe into existence, for them. Think about that. Also-don't forget: "...faith comes by hearing, and hearing by The Word of God".
\O/
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